Call for footpath

A Umina grandmother has called for a footpath and safety crossing to assist her wheelchair-bound grandson get to and from school safely.

Ms Colleen Giles said she was concerned over her grandson's safety and would love to see him travel to and from school independently but feared the current condition of roads near his Woy Woy home prevented him from doing so.

"Liam currently attends Brisbane Water Secondary College Umina Campus but will be moving to the Woy Woy Campus next year to complete his senior years of schooling," Ms Giles said.

"Liam's family have lived in Woy Woy for the past nine years so they know the area very well and how busy this particular street is as a main road and thoroughfare for patrons of the local bowling club.

"The elderly patrons that attend the club would also benefit from a footpath in this street for their safety and convenience too."

Ms Giles said a proposed footpath would allow Liam to travel along the road safely before continuing down Rawson Rd where a safety crossing island would need to be installed to allow him to cross the road safely.

"A footpath and safety crossing island would give Liam to have a safe route to and from school every day as well as some independence," Ms Giles said.

"Liam's family are a very loyal and community-based family.

"Liam was awarded the Inspiring Young Person of the Year award at the 2007 International Day for People with a Disability while his two older brothers have achieved outstanding levels within the local surf life saving community."

Letter, 1 Mar 2010 Colleen Giles, Umina