Residents accuse French authorities of prioritising luxury properties during Gironde wildfires

Residents of the French commune of Le Porge have accused authorities of prioritising the protection of wealthy areas over ordinary neighbourhoods during devastating wildfires in the Gironde department, according to The Times.

The residents claim that firefighting resources were concentrated on the upscale Cap Ferret peninsula, while their own community was left vulnerable as flames approached.

Nearly 200 homes were reportedly destroyed in Le Porge, leaving many people without housing. Local residents say they received insufficient evacuation warnings and that firefighters were not present when the fire reached the settlement.

According to The Times, authorities focused on protecting high-value properties on Cap Ferret, where numerous luxury villas are located. The decision has sparked anger among residents, who have turned to social media to demand explanations and accountability.

Local officials rejected calls to assign blame at this stage, saying that efforts should remain focused on containing the fires and protecting affected communities.

Meanwhile, police have launched checks in the evacuated areas after reports of looting. Authorities are working to identify individuals entering the disaster zone and investigate cases involving abandoned homes.