A light concept: a reduced budget for the tenants, a small accommodation and a very limited environmental impact since the buildings can be dismantled. Here is the “hamlet light”, principle developed by an association of the same name, which aims to support communities in the “creating eco-hamlets that are financially accessible, to allow everyone to live in a sustainable and united way”, as she explains on her site. Currently, the association has about twenty projects in various stages of progress (from study to completion), a good part of which are located in Brittany and in the Pays de la Loire. Among the most advanced: Saint-André-des-Eaux (Côtes d’Armor), Plessé (Loire Atlantique), Commana (Finistère) and the Pays de Mormal (North).
The principle also appeals to the Jura mountains, as shown This initiative of the commune of La Pesse (Haut-Jura) spotted by France 3. Like other countries, the place struggles to attract new inhabitants. But rather than these places that no longer attract anyone and gradually disappear, La Pesse is a victim of its own success. Between its living environment, nearby ski slopes and hiking trails, it is a popular vacation spot. Result: 39% of the houses in the village are second homes and it is very difficult to find a house for less than 400,000 euros in the area.
200 m² of garden
That is why the municipality was looking for a cheaper solution for everyone. The country of light could attract new inhabitants without forcing the country to artificialize the land. He could make the land available but he could recover it later, without any construction. For the moment, the reflection trips concern an accommodation that would not be more than 40 m² but with a spacious garden of 200 m², all for a rent of 100 to 250 euros per month. A first information meeting on the subject was held on April 30, attracting about a hundred curious people, including residents and potential renters. After a six-month feasibility study and six additional months to find candidate tenants, the project could lead to the creation of 5 to 10 houses by 2026.
Beyond the approach low cost and the project to revitalize the countryside, the defenders of these villages of light put into motion a form of common living. In order to participatory habitats, the future tenants are called to create their association and establish the rules to live together on the ground, before their installation. A way to guarantee everyone’s involvement and respect for the rules that have been chosen together.