Uncertainty over Montparnasse Tower renovation costs

Paris officials announced that the long‑delayed overhaul of the 1973 Montparnasse Tower still lacks a firm budget, with the latest estimate hovering around 800 million euros. The uncertainty matters because the tower houses thousands of office workers and remains a prominent feature of the city skyline. The skyscraper, France’s first high‑rise built in the post‑war era, has been criticised for its stark design but also praised for its central location. A renovation plan unveiled last year seeks to upgrade insulation, replace outdated elevators and add renewable‑energy systems to meet EU climate targets. City documents show that the project will be financed through a combination of municipal funds, state subsidies and private investment, yet exact contributions have not been disclosed. Critics note that the cost could swell if construction delays occur, a risk that has plagued other French infrastructure works. Tenants, local businesses and Paris taxpayers are watching closely, fearing higher rents or tax levies if the budget overruns. The municipal council is expected to vote on the financing package in the coming weeks, and the timeline for work to begin remains unclear.