The proposed construction of the Norwich Western Link Road, including a viaduct crossing the River Wensum SAC, poses serious threats to the riverine ecosystem and its diverse wildlife.

Construction activity and disturbance of the riverbed and banks could lead to the loss or damage of essential plants, animals, and habitats. This could be the result of the release of fine sediments and other pollutants into the water, which can smother or poison plants and animals and their habitats. The deposition of sediment can also reduce flow capacity and increase flood risk.

Construction traffic will be required during works to construct the road infrastructure, access roads, and approach viaducts for the bridge. These are very likely to disturb areas used by Barbastelle Bats and other wildlife. 

Crossings can also prevent the movement of fish and mammals up and down the river catchment, reducing or leading to the loss of populations. Water voles, which depend on a healthy river ecology and riparian habitats, may also face obstacles and barriers that prevent them from reaching essential feeding grounds, establishing populations elsewhere, and crossing roads.

Moreover, there is potential for an increase in traffic noise to lead to the avoidance of the area by birds during their daily activities.

During operation, the risk exists for run-off containing pollutants, such as fuels, oils, lubricants, and salt, to enter the surface waters draining the river area, potentially causing significant harm to the ecosystem.

In summary, the  Norwich Western Link Road if it goes ahead will not only cause harm to the River Wensum SAC but also affect the wildlife and habitat surrounding the entire riverine ecosystem.

Protecting the river's unique ecosystem, biodiversity, and the wildlife's fundamental needs of natural functions and processes should be a top priority and one which can only be fulfilled with any certainty by cancelling the project.   

In 2016 both Natural England and the Environment Agency concluded that the a crossing over the River Wensum was an impossibility.   We ask ourselves what has changed?