Rail works on Nice-Vintimille line: Insufficient concessions from SNCF Network

A meeting was held to discuss the upcoming rail works on the Nice-Vintimille line and the proposed substitution plan during the service disruptions. The session brought together Céline Caron-Dagioni, Monaco’s Minister of Infrastructure, Environment, and Urban Planning, Jean-Pierre Serrus, Vice President of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region responsible for transport, as well as representatives from SNCF Voyageurs, SNCF Réseau, and regional and Monegasque officials.

The works, set to begin shortly, focus on improving accessibility for persons with reduced mobility (PRM) at Villefranche-sur-Mer station, updating the overhead lines between Beaulieu-sur-Mer and Monaco, repairs in the Saint-Laurent tunnel near Èze, and the creation of a multimodal exchange hub at Beaulieu-sur-Mer station. These projects will lead to nighttime rail service interruptions from 21:00 to 06:00, from Sunday to Thursday on the Nice-Vintimille line.

SNCF Réseau has proposed a substitution plan to maintain transport services during the construction period. However, both the Monaco government and regional authorities expressed dissatisfaction with the current plan, as it does not meet the expectations of travellers or local officials. Concerns were also raised about the impact of these disruptions on sporting events, particularly on football match nights.

Monaco and the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region requested SNCF Réseau to delay the start of the works, adjust the scheduled hours, and offer alternative solutions for commuters. Despite these requests, SNCF Réseau refused to postpone the start date, confirming that work will begin on September 15. They have, however, agreed to push back the start of nightly work from 21:00 to 22:45 for a few days, reducing the need for transport substitutions to just one at 23:30. This concession, while helpful, falls short of Monaco’s broader demands.

The Monaco government and regional authorities remain committed to finding a solution. A follow-up meeting is scheduled for Monday, September 16, in Monaco to continue discussions.