THE Bargate is a Grade I listed building and also a scheduled monument situated at the southern end of the precinct in Southampton. It is also a tourist attraction.

Many people come to the city to see our heritage, along with cruise passengers visiting Southampton.

Why then do the city council permit such obstructions as market stalls (and on a couple of occasions) a huge pantechnicon from which the owner was selling meat?

I have even seen city council vehicles parked in front and at the side and other vehicles doing a business promotion, all of which completely spoil the view.

Surely the custodians should be aware of this travesty and if not, I suggest they have a look sometime, particularly on a Thursday, and get the practice stopped.

It is a disgrace.

MICHAEL CLEMENTS, Totton.