Addressing an estimated shortage of 2,000 student housing units in the Toulon area, Olivier Dubrou, president of GGL group's entity 200, brought the Campus Gasquet project to fruition. The idea stemmed from his personal experience, witnessing his stepson struggle to find a studio for his studies in Toulon. After two years of planning and collaboration with municipal services and stakeholders, the residence was inaugurated at the end of September, two years after the first stone was laid.
The residence, which opened its doors at the end of July, boasts a 94% occupancy rate, with its 93 units nearly all taken by students and young professionals. At the inauguration, Josée Massi, mayor of Toulon, praised the project's speed and quality, noting that the accommodations are "pleasant to live in for young professionals."
Managed by social housing provider Unicil, the apartments, ranging from 18 to 30 m², are designed for individuals or couples. They feature a living area with a desk, an equipped kitchen, and a bathroom, and are fitted with air circulators to combat high temperatures. Common areas include coworking and social spaces, bicycle storage, and a laundry room to facilitate residents' daily lives. Some parking spaces have also been created, although Johann Franchi, Unicil's CEO, emphasized the company's goal of building properties "near public transport."
The Association of residences for students and young people (ARPEJ), which manages Campus Gasquet, aims to help those under 30, whether active or students, to take flight in a territory they have chosen. Anne Gobin, ARPEJ's CEO, stated that "housing should not be a barrier," noting that 17% of students forgo their studies due to lack of accommodation.
Josée Massi reiterated her ambition to make Toulon a student metropolis, highlighting the city's rich educational offerings, including three campuses, thirty-five higher education institutions, and thirty research laboratories. She concluded that housing is "the first brick" for the future of young people choosing to settle and build their lives in Toulon.
With this new residence, Toulon strengthens its university appeal and its commitment to its youth.
