After persistent efforts over 2 and a half years, a long-awaited dropped kerb has been installed in Osbaston by Monmouthshire County Council to assist residents like Stewart Ross who lives with a severe Muscular Dystrophy with a sub group Inclusion Body Myositis and has been struggling for years to access his local bus service as it was making it nearly impossible for him to safely access the vehicle.

Osbaston Ward County Councillor Jane Lucas said, “Rob, our incredible caring and compassionate local bus driver, has gone above and beyond by picking Stewart up directly from the road, as there was previously no accessible kerb. This new addition will make a big difference in Stewart’s daily life, and it’s been frustrating that it took so long to deliver. It highlights the challenges faced by disabled residents in accessing essential services. This should have been resolved sooner, but I’m relieved to see it finally done”

Stewart has also faced other significant challenges. Last year, he was unable to use the local leisure centre for weeks because of a broken lift. This not only prevented him from accessing the building but also stopped him from using a specialized machine critical for maintaining his arm strength. Accessibility issues like these highlight the ongoing need for improvements across our community.

Another critical issue is the closure of Vauxhall/Inglis Bridge, which Stewart previously used regularly to access the hospital at Rockfield. This closure has been a severe blow to him, other Osbaston residents, and Osbaston School families, who have lost a key route.

A petition to repair the bridge has now gathered 1,875 signatures, and Councillor Lucas is urging everyone to add their support.

She said “ While there is currently no funding allocated for this work, we must keep up the pressure on the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and other relevant authorities. The estimated cost of repairing the bridge is £375,000, with a temporary bridge solution costing even more. The MoD is listening, and with enough public support, we can ensure this issue remains a priority.”

Sign the petition at Change.org and search for Inglis Bridge