Briançon Page 4 of 4 The newer area of Briançon is located on the valley floor and now contains the major residential, retail and industrial areas. Between 1863 and 1933 a silk mill was operational in the south of the town. The railway link to Gap was opened in 1884. During recent years many changes have taken place in the lower town with specific attention being given to town centre and transport development. The valley floor now has a central shopping area, surrounding residential areas and a large industrial zone for light industry. View of lower town from the fort showing railway, silk mills and industrial area Unlike Serre Chevalier, tourism plays a less important part in the economy of Briancon, especially the lower town. Quite a few people still travel from Briancon to work in the winter in nearby ski-resorts, since there are not usually enough people to fill all these jobs. There are plans to build a large cable-car in Briancon to link the town for skiing with Serre Chevalier - this might make tourism more important in the town.  | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Page 4 of 4