By Belinda Nolan
A KEILOR resident has claimed a victory for Brimbank’s disabled community, after successfully campaigning for improvements to local footpaths.
Following a two-year campaign Peter James convinced the council to fund upgrades to footpaths along Green Gully Rd to make them more accessible for people with a disability.
Mr James suffers from Multiple Sclerosis and Osteoporosis, debilitating conditions which restrict his mobility.
Despite his condition, Mr James still manages to get around with the aid of a motorised scooter, trike and wheelchair.
But the asphalt steps and footpath along Green Gully Rd proved an insurmountable obstacle, robbing him of his ability to travel from his home in Keilor Village to Keilor Downs.
“I couldn’t get down the steps with my scooter because it would have been very unsafe,” Mr James said.
“It was very frustrating because I’ve got friends over that way and I couldn’t get across to visit them because there was just no way for me to navigate the path.
“It took away my independence because I’d have to wait for my wife to take me in the car.”
Mr James began lobbying the council to make the area more accessible for people with a disability and after some hard work much to his surprise his campaign was successful.
The council has now replaced the existing asphalt steps and foothpath with concrete ramps, making it possible for Mr James and other disabled residents to pass through with a scooter or wheelchair.
The improvements will allow bike riders to cycle down Green Gully Rd and access the reserve.
Mr James was at the site last week to test drive the new ramp and was overjoyed with the new conditions.
“I’m very pleased that the council has listened to my concerns, not only for myself but for the other disabled people in the community,” Mr James said.
“It has given me back my independence.”
