Norfolk County Council faces rising costs for Western Link alternatives

The cost to develop alternatives for the scrapped Norwich Western Link has increased to £2.6 million, up from an original estimate of £1.4 million. Following months of delays, the Department for Transport has released funds to Norfolk County Council to explore new routes after the previous 3.9-mile link road project was withdrawn due to environmental concerns, including impacts on protected barbastelle bats.

Norfolk County Council will contribute £1 million toward the project, which is £300,000 more than previously agreed. Council officials stated the cost increase is due to inflationary pressures, programme delays, and the need for additional work to strengthen the evidence base and reduce delivery risks. A shortlist of potential road options is expected to be released for public consultation early next year.