Tent on parapet outside Woodlands Hospital should not be permitted

Dear Editor,

I have observed an unusual development in front of the Woodland’s Hospital which I would like the city council authorities to take note of.

In a display of total disregard for the law and for patrons of the hospital, a vendor has now erected a large tent on the parapet. When any vendor can take the liberty of erecting a shed on any street, pavement or parapet, it raises the question of the effectiveness of the law-enforcement agency of the city council, and whether there is any law regulating the conduct of citizens in the city.

Unless I am unaware of any amendment to the by-laws, vending and/or encumbrances are offences. Here, an offender is allowed to occupy a large area and also to prevent vehicles from parking there whilst patrons visit the hospital. I do not presume that the management of the hospital can authorize him to vend there, but if they do, then it means vending takes precedence over the patrons of the hospital.

Yours faithfully,
David E. Scott