After an 18-year wait, a Leroy-Merlin DIY store near Saintes, Charente, has finally received authorization to open, having invested 25 million euros and hired 104 employees. The project, initiated in 2008, faced significant delays due to objections from competitors, Mr. Bricolage and Bricomarché, who cited issues with the drive-through area's size and soil artificialization regulations. Leroy-Merlin addressed these concerns by reducing the parking area by 1154 m² and reclassifying the merchandise pickup zone as a "pro space" for local artisans. The Commission nationale d’aménagement commercial granted its approval on February 19th, allowing the store to open in the coming days, a development welcomed by the mayor of Saintes as beneficial for local rehabilitation efforts following recent floods.