A BY-ELECTION will take place next Thursday (September 6) to fill a vacant seat on Alton Town Council’s Amery ward.

Called following the resignation in July of Mike Dicker, the by-election has attracted three candidates:

* Liberal Democrat candidate Amanda Durley explained her reasons for standing as the Amery ward representative on Alton Town Council.

She said: “I am married, a mother of two and a trainee teacher. Previously, I have worked as a communications officer for the police.

“My family has been involved with Bushy Leaze Child and Families Centre, the last such resource in East Hampshire, so I am aware of its need for support as Hampshire County Council threaten cuts.

“Lib Dems continue to strongly support the Preserve Treloar Meadows Campaign. It is vital that we prevent the developers from destroying this rare ecological site in favour of a ‘country park’.

“I have already met hundreds of people in Amery and I am well aware of their concerns: lack of affordable housing, supporting our town centre, and pop-in parking top the list. People want more local decision making.

“I am proud to live in a community that works together to protect our assets and, if elected, I will listen and work hard on your behalf.”

* Conservative candidate Robert Saunders says of his bid: “It is a great privilege to serve the Greenfields estate as your local Conservative district councillor, and I really appreciate the warm welcome I always receive from local residents.

“Those residents who have contacted me with a problem or question tell me they have always felt that I have done my best to help and to act in the best interests of our town.

“Local residents have always been clear about what they want to see done in the local area - clean and safe streets free from litter, pavements and highways that are maintained, a sense of community spirit, vibrant town centre, and value-for-money services from the council - these are your priorities and mine.

“The key themes of my campaign are to protect our cherished open spaces, be proactive in providing more services for young people, and fighting to stop further cuts to council services and public transport.”

* Labour candidate Barbara Tansey said: “I consider myself very lucky to live in Alton. However, Alton currently faces the double challenges of local and national austerity cuts and rapid development. Many of us feel frustrated at these changes, and the affect on our high street and amenities.

“I am standing because I know that Labour’s policies would have a direct impact on well-being locally. As your representative I will be vocal in ensuring that our infrastructure keeps pace with new development, our buses and public transport truly serve the people of Alton, and that issues important to Altonians are addressed.

“On a national level, Labour’s policies will provide free bus travel for young people and a fully integrated transport system. Our policies will ensure that local businesses are able to fill empty properties to create a thriving town centre.

“I welcome this opportunity to listen to your concerns and to represent our community.”

For those living in Amery Ward and who are registered to vote next Thursday, the polling station, at Alton Community Centre, on Amery Street, will be open from 7am-10pm.