My name is Anthony Betty, and I have lived locally in Othery my whole life. I am standing to be your Councillor for the King Alfred Division in 2027.
Over the past few months, I have spent time speaking with residents across Ashcott and Walton about the issues that matter most to them. One concern keeps coming up time and time again: the need for a bypass through both villages.
Every day, thousands of vehicles pass through Ashcott and Walton, bringing congestion, noise, pollution and increasing concerns about road safety.
Our villages were not designed to carry the volume of traffic they experience today. Residents, pedestrians, cyclists and local businesses are all affected by the growing number of vehicles using our communities as a through-route.
I believe the time has come for Somerset Council and the Government to seriously consider a bypass for Ashcott and Walton.
By signing this petition, you are calling for:
✅ A full feasibility study into an Ashcott and Walton Bypass.
✅ An assessment of current and future traffic levels.
✅ Improved road safety for residents, pedestrians and cyclists.
✅ Reduced congestion and pollution in our villages.
✅ Proper investment in transport infrastructure for future generations.
This petition is not asking for a route to be chosen today. It is asking decision-makers to recognise the challenges facing our communities and begin the work needed to find a long-term solution.
Traffic volumes are increasing, new developments continue to place pressure on local roads, and residents deserve to have their concerns heard.
As someone who lives locally and wants to represent our communities, I believe residents deserve a genuine conversation about the future of our roads and infrastructure. A bypass may not be the only answer, but it is an option that deserves proper consideration and assessment.
If you believe Ashcott and Walton deserve safer roads, less congestion and a better quality of life, please add your name today.
Together, we can make our voices heard and secure a better future for Ashcott and Walton.
Anthony Betty
Prospective Candidate for King Alfred Division – 2027