The formalization fell at the end of the afternoon.
In accordance with the announcements made by Jean Castex on Thursday, a prefectural decree taken this Friday strengthens the measures taken in Val-d'Oise to curb the Covid-19 epidemic.
Among the main novelties, the closure of sales stores (such as DIY stores) and shopping centers of more than 10,000 m².
An obligation which has so far concerned establishments of more than 20,000 m² such as 3-Fontaines, in Cergy, since January 31.
Spared so far due to the counting of empty premises, Art de Vivre, in Eragny-sur-Oise, must this time lower the curtain.
Just like Quai des Marques, in Franconville, with its 19,000 m².
Only the Kusmi Tea and Jeff stores in Bruges can, if they wish, remain open.
“We had already taken extra precautions due to being in the red zone, but we knew that could happen,” explains the director of the center, Cécile Cordier.
"We wonder how long it will last"
At the beginning of the afternoon, the traders awaiting the official decision hesitated between despondency and resignation.
“We suffer, we sigh in a women's clothing store.
We expected a lockdown on the weekend, but not at all that.
"
"Rumors were circulating, we slip on the side of Descamps, a brand specializing in household linen.
We were even based in Nice, with 5,000 m².
Either way, that's how it is.
If we have to go through it ... But above all we wonder how long it will last.
"
For Ulysses, from the Hellocoton shirt shop, this closure is synonymous with “third confinement”.
“It's a hard blow,” says the seller.
For his colleague from a store specializing in leather, “it's a disaster”.
The decision also angered most customers.
"They are fed up," rebel two friends from L'Isle-Adam.
It's nonsense, we are put under cover!
However, you can take public transport.
It's metro-work-sleep.
It was the only center open in the area.
In addition, the traders had made arrangements to ensure that the distances were respected.
"
For customers, "the choice is still reduced"
Cindy, who had some shopping to do for the weekend, moved her shopping forward by one day.
“Normally I go to 3-Fontaines because I'm in Cergy,” breathes the young woman.
There, the choice is still reduced.
"
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The Usines center in Gonesse is also forced to close its doors for a while this Friday evening.
The site had the confirmation of the prefectural decision Friday in the middle of the afternoon.
Covering an area of 17,000 m2, the closed-door complex is subject to restrictions, despite the significant health measures implemented recently, such as the creation of a one-way traffic direction.
"We regret it as traders, but we understand it as citizens", we admit to the marketing department of the group.
“We remain at the disposal of the prefecture.
"
