A judge has denied an application for an injunction to stop the Saskatoon Fire Department from removing a west-side encampment.

The City of Saskatoon issued a statement acknowledging the judge’s decision and says it will continue follow established encampment response processes which focuses on connecting individuals with available supports and services while “addressing health and safety concerns for people staying at the site, the nearby school, neighbouring residents, businesses and the broader community.”

Last week the Saskatoon Fire Department was set to start the cleanup and fencing process in the 20th Street West and Avenue K South areas. Crews had arrived Thursday morning when protesters encircled their vehicles and began shouting while others climbed atop the fencing materials. The SFD says most of the protesters were not homeless encampment occupants.