Alongside other nature conservation bodies and experts, we have warned many times since the development was first proposed that the Norwich Western Link would have an unacceptable impact on Norfolk’s wildlife and landscape, and would not get planning permission. Unfortunately, the Council chose to proceed with the application at vast expense.

Our primary concern has always been the devastating effect the road would have on the last remaining colonies of the rare and legally-protected barbastelle bat. Their very existence depends on the nearby ancient woodland, as well as hedgerows and riverside meadows. We fully support Natural England whose role it is to uphold the law and have done so consistently.

With the road looking likely not to go ahead, these vital habitats can remain undisturbed and continue to provide homes, not just for bats but also badgers, owls, linnet, yellowhammers and other wildlife.

CEO, Eliot Lyne states: ‘This is great news and shows that by working together to speak up for nature and backed by sound evidence, we can defend and protect Norfolk’s incredible wildlife.

‘However, it remains disappointing that Norfolk County Council’s process and application to build the road did not avoid unacceptable harm to wildlife in the first place.

‘We appreciate that there are transport congestion issues in the west of Norwich which need a resolution. We now call upon Norfolk County Council to find a solution which supports nature’s recovery in Norfolk, because when nature thrives, so does the economic and social prosperity of our county. This was clearly not the case with the proposed Western Link – and we’re glad that this has finally been realised.

‘Thank you to everyone who supported our campaign over the last five years, sending a strong message to the council that there was strong opposition to the road across the county and beyond.’