researchers from the Institut Curie, in Paris, defend the destruction of the Pavillon des Sources

A new research laboratory is to be built on the Institut Curie site in Paris. To do this, the Sources pavilion must be destroyed, which heritage defenders denounce. However, researchers explain that this building is “radioactive”.

The demolition of the Sources pavilion, located in the heart of the Institut Curie in the 5th arrondissement of Paris, is due to begin on Monday January 8. This place, which served as a repository for radioactive waste linked to the work of Marie Curie, must make way for an innovative laboratory in the fight against cancer. But this project, planned for a long time, is being called into question by heritage defenders. An opposition that worries researchers at the Institute, this cancer research and treatment center.

The most emblematic of the opponents of this destruction, Stéphane Bern, called on Thursday January 4, on France Culture, Emmanuel and Brigitte Macron to intervene so as not to demolish this building. “It is a symbolic, memorial heritage”, did he declare. The message seems to have been heard since a last minute meeting was organized on Friday January 5 at the Ministry of Culture.

A twist which provokes the anger of researchers who consider that this site has no historical value. “It is a building in which Marie Curie stored radioactive raw materials and waste,” explains Raphaël Rodriguez, team leader at the Institut Curie.

“It’s a laboratory that has never been used to carry out research work.”

Raphaël Rodriguez, researcher at the Institut Curie

at franceinfo

He also points out that the building is condemned. “It is barricaded because it is radioactive and therefore unusable. No one goes there, no one is even allowed to walk too close to this building. No one can experience it, no one can visit it”, indicates the researcher.

In its place, a research laboratory unique in the world must see the light of day: “We are going to mix chemistry, biology and medicine. We have to know what we want in life. Do we want to treat suffering patients? Or do we want to protect an unsanitary building at the expense of the French taxpayer?. More than 100 international cancer researchers are expected to work in this building soon.