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<h1>Agen Breaks Ground on €15 Million Sustainable Technical Center, Saving Architectural Landmark</h1>

<p><b>Agen, France –</b> In a significant win for both sustainability and architectural preservation, the city of Agen has officially greenlit a €15 million project to construct a new Technical Center, incorporating a stunning, historically significant hall featuring a 70-meter span of curved glued laminated timber. This <b>breaking news</b> development, announced today, promises a modern, eco-friendly facility while honoring the region’s architectural heritage.  This project is poised to become a model for sustainable municipal development, and is already attracting attention for its innovative approach to resource management and community integration.</p>

<h2>Preserving a Legacy: The Glulam Hall's Second Life</h2>

<p>The heart of this project lies in the decision to repurpose an existing hall, originally designed by local architect Jean-Claude Donnadieu.  Rather than demolition, the structure – celebrated for its impressive 70-meter curved glulam span – will be integrated into the new Technical Center, housing the offices of the Agglomeration and the city of Agen.  “We opted to preserve the hall,” explains Marine Marudai, architect at Pila Architecte, part of the François de La Serre group. “It’s a beautiful example of timber engineering and deserves to be showcased.” Glued laminated timber, or glulam, is a fascinating material – incredibly strong, lightweight, and a renewable resource, making it a cornerstone of modern sustainable building practices.  Its use here isn’t just about preservation; it’s a statement about Agen’s commitment to a greener future.</p>

<h2>A Self-Sufficient Hub: Energy and Water Efficiency</h2>

<p>The 11,000 square meter facility isn’t just about preserving the past; it’s about building for the future. The design prioritizes self-sufficiency, with plans to cover the roofs and parking areas with photovoltaic panels, generating enough electricity to meet the center’s needs.  Furthermore, a gray water recovery system will recycle water from sinks, showers, and washbasins, reducing the demand on local water resources.  This commitment to sustainability has already earned the project the prestigious Nouvelle-Aquitaine Sustainable Building label.  This focus on renewable energy and water conservation aligns with a growing global trend towards circular economy principles in urban development.</p>

<h2>Addressing Community Concerns & Future Planning</h2>

<p>The project isn’t without its logistical challenges.  Mayor and Agglo President Jean Dionis addressed concerns regarding the area’s frequent use by traveler caravans, assuring residents that the new activity on the site will deter future encampments.  Solutions are also being sought for driving schools who currently utilize the large parking area for training.  “We are in the process of making proposals to them,” officials stated.  The project team is also committed to using low-carbon concrete throughout the construction, leveraging the region’s readily available resources.  Studies are slated for completion throughout 2026, with construction expected to be fully operational by the end of 2028.</p>

<p>Christian Delbrel, a key figure in the project, confidently stated, “It’s a done deal, we won’t go back.”  The new Technical Center will ultimately serve as the central hub for the Agglomeration’s transport services and buses, consolidating operations and streamlining efficiency.</p>

<p>Agen’s ambitious Technical Center project demonstrates a powerful synergy between respecting architectural heritage and embracing innovative, sustainable practices.  It’s a blueprint for how cities can evolve – not by erasing the past, but by building a greener, more resilient future upon it.  Stay tuned to archyde.com for continued coverage of this exciting development and other groundbreaking projects shaping the future of sustainable architecture and urban planning.  Explore our <a href="https://www.archyde.com/sustainable-architecture/">sustainable architecture section</a> for more inspiring examples and expert insights.</p>

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<img src="placeholder-image.jpg" alt="Rendering of the Agen Technical Center">