Gap - France

Gap, nestled in the picturesque region of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur in Southeastern France, stands as a beacon of urban livability and a testament to sustainable development. As the prefecture of Hautes-Alpes and the most populated city within this department, Gap boasts a population of 40,631 residents as of 2019. Located at an impressive altitude of 750 meters above sea level and positioned south of the majestic Écrins Massif, it holds the title of France's highest prefecture. This unique geographical setting contributes to its distinct quality of life and offers breathtaking vistas that captivate both locals and visitors alike. Gap shines in several areas, beginning with its commendable amenities score (A-), which reflects a strong array of services and facilities enhancing residents' daily lives. The city's robust public transit system, highlighted by an A-rated commute score, ensures seamless accessibility throughout the region. This efficient network supports sustainable urban planning efforts and makes Gap particularly appealing for those seeking ease in their everyday commutes. The cultural vibrancy of Gap is also noteworthy, with a culture and entertainment score of B+. The city's rich tapestry of arts and events is further evidenced by its recognition as the sportiest city in France in 2013, a title awarded by L'Équipe. This accolade underscores the dynamic lifestyle that Gap offers, fostering community engagement through various sporting activities and cultural events. In terms of education and childcare, with a score of B, Gap provides adequate facilities to support families. The presence of reputable educational institutions complements its efforts in nurturing the next generation within this thriving community. However, like any vibrant city, Gap faces certain challenges that present opportunities for growth and development. A notable area for improvement is indicated by its NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) score of D-, which reflects some resistance to new developments or changes perceived as disruptive by residents. Additionally, the noise score of D suggests a need for strategies aimed at reducing urban noise levels, potentially through enhanced land zoning and sustainable urban redevelopment initiatives. Despite these challenges, Gap's commitment to sustainable development is evident in its active participation in the Alpine Town of the Year Association, which promotes the implementation of the Alpine Convention. This dedication was rewarded when Gap earned the title of Alpine Town of the Year in 2002, reinforcing its role as a leader in achieving sustainable urban growth and enhancing overall livability. Gap's health score (B-) highlights access to quality healthcare services, with ongoing efforts aimed at improving this aspect to ensure better health-related quality of life for its residents. Continuous investments in healthcare infrastructure will likely contribute positively to the city’s future rankings on various livability indices. In conclusion, Gap stands as a model of urban planning and sustainable development within France's Alpine region. With its strong emphasis on quality of life, excellent public transport, and vibrant cultural scene, it provides an attractive environment for residents and visitors alike. While there are areas to address, such as community attitudes towards new developments and noise reduction, the city’s potential for growth is undeniable. As Gap continues to evolve, its commitment to improving urban livability positions it well to climb higher in global liveability rankings, promising an even brighter future for all who call it home.

Gap

Country: France

Population: 40656

Elevation: 745.0 metre

Area: 110.43 square kilometre

Web: https://ville-gap.fr

Overall score

Total

C-

Amenities

A-

Childcare & Education

Commute

Culture & Entertainment

B+

Health

B-

NIMBY

D-

Noise