If the government rejects Norfolk County Council's request it could leave the authority having to borrow money or dip into reserves to cover those costs.

The Conservative-controlled council has spent £55.5m on the scheme, which would have connected the A47 to the A1067 west of Norwich.

Plans for the Norwich Western Link were withdrawn (Image: Newsquest)

But it withdrew plans for the 3.9-mile road after Natural England's objections because of environmental concerns, including the presence of protected barbastelle bats.

While the

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