The action over the period 2003 to 2008 will free the Mont from the stranglehold of the surrounding salt marshes, rid it of its unsightly parking area, and of the causeway tying it to the mainland and obstructing the ramparts.

The most spectacular feature will be the return to a marine setting. Once the current parking lots have been demolished, 15 hectares of strands will be restored to their natural state. The combined forces of the sea and the Couesnon will flush the sediment out to sea away from the Mont. The Mont approaches will be permanently cleared of salt marshes, with 50% of the end result to be achieved within two years and 80% within 8 years of commissioning the dam.

The various modifications are intended to be barely noticeable and so produce a pleasing effect by blending in as neatly as possible with the site, without spoiling its appearance or accessibility.

Visitors will see the "Archangel's Rock" rid of the unsightly causeway and parking on the beach. As they complete their approach, with Tombelaine and the inner bay gradually coming into view, they will discover the Mont surrounded by nothing but sand and ramparts.

Visitors will start out on a redesigned causeway, where the final kilometre will have made way for a pedestrian bridge curving westward and coming to a halt 300 m short of the ramparts. There will be a slipway gently sloping down to an earth platform, with a ford to help visitors over the last few yards to the Porte de l'Avancée.

Computer-generated images give an idea of the effect of the works when seen from close-up or from a distance.

Removing traffic from about 2 km of road between the Mont and the mainland will also mean no more exhaust fumes. Today at peak periods, the causeway is taken by 1000 vehicles an hour each way.
The new shuttle will offer silent, zero emission transport. It will bring an end to noisy, smelly cars and coaches.
Visitors will at last be able to enjoy nature undisturbed.

-> Project