The feasibility of building a bridge or tunnel between Northern Ireland and Scotland is to be examined as part of a national review of transport connections across the UK.
Downing Street said yesterday the review, led by Network Rail chairman Sir Peter Hendy, will explore the “cost, practicality and demand” for a fixed link, which some critics have already dismissed as impractical and a waste of money.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has mooted the bridge idea several times and the Government confirmed earlier this year it was being discussed by officials.
The transport study will set out advice on a “wide range of possible options” to improve the quality and availability of links across the UK, Downing Street said.
The review comes after Mr Johnson, in a speech in July on how to kick-start the economy following the coronavirus pandemic, pledged £100 million on 29 road projects.
Mr Johnson said: “The United Kingdom is the greatest political partnership the world has ever seen and we need transport links between our nations that are as strong as our historic bonds.”
Sir Peter added: “Improving links across the UK on the basis of the wider economic benefits that increased investment will deliver will be of benefit to everyone in the UK.”
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