The Salle Philippe Rapeneau, located halfway between the Citadelle and downtown Arras, is much more than just a sports facility. It bears the name of a man who was passionate about his region and dedicated to improving the quality of life of the people of Arras. Inaugurated in honor of Philippe Rapeneau, former president of the Communauté Urbaine d’Arras, the hall embodies not only his commitment to the region, but also his ambition to make the ecological transition a concrete reality for the city. This venue, deeply rooted in local community and sporting life, is today an essential meeting point for numerous events and activities in the Arras region.
A tribute to Philippe Rapeneau, a committed CUA member
Philippe Rapeneau left his mark on Arras during his term as President of the Communauté Urbaine between 2011 and 2018. Described by his peers as a demanding elected official with deep roots in the Arras region, he has managed to reconcile rigor and passion for his territory . His attachment to rural values and his commitment to ecological transition have guided his actions throughout his political career. The inauguration of the sports hall in his name in June 2019 was therefore the occasion for a vibrant tribute to his vision for Arras. In the presence of his family, local councillors and many residents, the event was an opportunity to celebrate the legacy he leaves behind. According to Fabien Sudry, former Prefect of Pas-de-Calais, “as long as politics is exercised by men of this calibre, it will remain great”. The site, designed to high ecological standards, reflects Philippe Rapeneau’s aspirations for a sustainable and resilient city.
A meeting place for Arrage’s associations
The Salle Philippe Rapeneau is not only a symbolic building; it’s also a nerve center for Arras’ associations and clubs. Every year in September, the village des associations takes place in this space, bringing together dozens of local structures to offer the public a showcase for the diversity of activities on offer. Whether you’re passionate about dance, theater, science or sports, the Salle Philippe Rapeneau hosts a multitude of events throughout the year. During the village des associations, visitors can discover demonstrations of contemporary dance, country music or theatrical performances on original themes.This venue enables associations to come together, exchange ideas and develop their activities, creating a strong social bond between the inhabitants of Arras. In addition to these annual events, the hall also hosts workshops, fitness classes and sports activities for all ages. Open every day of the week, it is a real dynamo for the town, offering both a meeting place and a place to practice for sports enthusiasts and families alike.
The village des assos takes place at the Salle Philippe Rapeneau in September
Infrastructure for the ecological transition
One of the outstanding features of the Philippe Rapeneau hall is its commitment to the environment.
In keeping with the vision of the former president of the Communauté Urbaine, the building has been designed to meet the highest standards of energy transition. Solar panels, water management systems and eco-friendly building materials are just some of the initiatives implemented to minimize the structure’s environmental impact. This ecological dimension is fully in line with the sustainable policy advocated by Philippe Rapeneau. Arras, like many other cities, must face up to the challenges posed by climate change. By equipping the city withmodern, environmentally-friendly infrastructures, Philippe Rapeneau has enabled Arras to stay one step ahead of these challenges, while offering citizens high-quality facilities. The commitment to ecological transition is also reflected in the events organized at the hall. Activities such as cardiac massage initiations and scientific workshops, often focusing on ecology and discovery, show that this space goes far beyond sport. It’s also about raising awareness of good environmental practices and the importance of solidarity.
The location of the Rapeneau hall in Arras
Salle Philippe Rapeneau is strategically located in Arras, on the former lands of the bishopric. This makes it easily accessible from many of the city’s dynamic and historic districts. In particular, it is close to the Cours de Verdun, an area renowned for its large parking lot on the boulevard Carnot, offering the people of Arras a place to park their cars free of charge. This proximity to a quiet, central location contributes to the appeal of Salle Rapeneau, which fits perfectly into this pleasant environment. Heading slightly east, you’ll soon reach the Victor Hugo’s square another of Arras’ landmarks. Known for its local events and weekly market, this square is the lively heart of the district, where residents regularly gather. This proximity makes Salle Philippe Rapeneau an ideal venue for associative activities, with the possibility of extending outings or events around these lively squares.
Map to locate the rue Sainte Claire gym in this attractive Arras district :
Not far away, you’ll also find the Tételin gym another popular sports center in Arras. Although older than the Salle Philippe Rapeneau, Tételin remains a popular venue for sports enthusiasts, creating a strong sporting dynamic in this part of town. The complementary nature of these two facilities offers residents a wide choice of physical activities, consolidating Arras as a city where sport occupies a central place in daily life. Also just a few minutes’ walk away is the Lycée Robespierre is just a few minutes’ walk away, as is the Lycée Robespierre, a historic and renowned educational establishment that contributes to the district’s youth and activity. The lycée, with its constant flow of students and school events, reinforces the lively, energetic atmosphere of the surrounding area. This proximity to such varied venues as green spaces, sports facilities and educational institutions makes the Salle Philippe Rapeneau a veritable crossroads of activity for Arras residents and visitors alike.
R.C.
