They're hiding in alleys across the city and only now have they come to the attention of politicians and others.

Skating rinks behind people's homes are growing in popularity and they're now garnering attention after city workers went to destroy a couple in Villeray following a complaint by a neighbor.

Resident Fanny Hebert says her 9-year-old son loves to come home from school, strap on his skates and go into the backyard to play some hockey or skate with other kids in the neighborhood.

"It's a safe environment for him to come, there are no cars, no strangers, and he is very close to home," she explains. 

There are four skating rinks just in the alley between Casgrain avenue and St-Dominique in Villeray. Residents have been building and tendering to the rinks for several winters now. Vision Montreal and Official Opposition leader Louise Harel says she supports the outdoor initiative 100%.

"It's sure that we need rules for safety and security," she says, "but this is a great way to get kids to go outside."

It is also a great way to keep families in Montreal, she says. Harel will table a motion at city council on February 25th showing her support and calling for a set of safety guidelines for families who wish to make the most of their outdoor space.