| News

Treehouse in a public tree on Summerhill Avenue – Children’s safety first: awaiting Hydro-Québec’s recommendations

The City of Pointe-Claire is concerned about children’s safety due to a homemade treehouse in a tree situated on public property on Summerhill Avenue, close to electrical lines.

After an emergency inspection, Hydro-Québec found that the treehouse is situated close to low- and medium-voltage electrical lines. Hydro-Québec indicated that a committee of experts will examine the situation early next week and will issue its recommendations to the City.

Municipal by-laws allow outdoor recreational installations for children to enjoy on public property, but they must comply with existing by-laws to guarantee children’s safety. This applies to any type of installation, regardless of its nature, scope or purpose.

The  location of the treehouse, on public property, also raises the issue of civil liability that involves the City as well as, in this specific case, Aéroports de Montréal. This tree is located on land owned by the City of Pointe-Claire, and partially on land belonging to Aéroports de Montréal and no other owner.

“We care about safety and the sound development of our city in accordance with existing by-laws, while allowing citizens to carry out projects they hold dear. We are in discussions with Hydro-Québec and Aéroports de Montréal to come up with solutions that will allow children to continue to have fun, while ensuring safety,” said Pointe-Claire Mayor Tim Thomas.

 

Information: 514-630-1200, communications@pointe-claire.ca