To paraphrase in the 1993 film Jurassic Park, the often-used cliché "Nature finds a way," is frequently invoked to dismiss environmental concerns about large construction projects like the Norwich Western Link.

Much like the famous film, where human meddling causes catastrophic consequences, we're witnessing the effects of human-made climate change on both a global and local scale.

From devastating wildfires in places like Crete and California to the alarming erosion of our coastlines from Hunstanton to Hemsby, countless lives and livelihoods hang in the balance.

So do the habitats themselves. To suggest that "nature finds a way" in the face of such crises is not only irrelevant but callous.

Unlike animals, humans have more of an ability to relocate and adapt. However, two questions that come from this are: how long can we endure the consequences of our own actions?

And, when are we going to stop making the same mistakes that cause so much harm?

The challenges we face today are unprecedented and extend far beyond the bounds of the natural cycles that the Earth goes through.

Climate change, driven by human activity, is pushing our planet to the brink. So, how does this relate to the threats to the Wensum Valley that the NWL poses? Well, advocates for unchecked development often argue that bats, newts, birds, and other wildlife can simply relocate when construction begins – a notion akin to "nature finding a way."

Yet, a closer examination of the unique ecosystem of the Wensum reveals complex factors that have evolved over tens of thousands of years. For example: the river itself, the surrounding vegetation, and the delicate balance of biodiversity all contribute to the richness of this habitat. To assume that these species can thrive elsewhere in a different ecosystem is naive at best and dangerous at worst.

Some nature might find a way, but at what cost?

“But…” I hear someone say, “there will be mitigation!” Proposals for so-called "green bridges" and the like seen in the NWL plans also lack scientific rigor. Again, they serve as yet more attempts at greenwashing.

Previous projects like the Broadland Northway (NDR) have already demonstrated the adverse effects of infrastructure development on local wildlife. In fact, the more traffic and pollution increases, the worse the effects become.

It is therefore imperative that we rely on the expertise of qualified ecologists and scientific evidence when making decisions that impact our environment. It is why we must listen to the likes of Norfolk Wildlife Trust and every other environmental group that has grave concerns about the new road.

Furthermore, our current reliance on cars and ever-widening highways is unsustainable. Instead of the outdated and disproven logic of constructing the NWL, we must explore alternatives that prioritise sustainability and mobility for all.

This includes expanding public transportation options, upgrading existing infrastructure, and implementing innovative technologies to reduce congestion and pollution. Recently, the Greens have reignited calls for additional railway stations to serve the south of Norwich and I also have my own proposal for a Thickthorn Park & Ride (or ‘Norwich Parkway’) Railway Station.

On a more concerning note, the future of investment in the Park & Ride service has also been in the news.

By investing in alternative transportation and prioritising environmental conservation, we can create a more equitable and sustainable future for all.

Better public transport means better education and job opportunities, better health, less strain on the NHS and much more. It's time for our elected officials to rethink short-term schemes like the NWL. They must heed these calls and prioritise the long-term health and well-being of our communities – and our planet.

Stephen Pearson-Jacklin