Ambitious proposals to build a massive bridge linking the Italian mainland with the island of Sicily moved into top gear this week with the news that the government has launched a tender for its construction.
The BBC News website reports that building firms have until the end of July to submit their proposals for the huge project. Work on the bridge, which is reportedly expected to cost some £3.1 billion, is due to start towards the end of 2005 and will last more than six years.
The BBC states that the 3.6-kilometre bridge will rise 64 metres above sea level and will carry a double six-lane highway along with four tracks for a high-speed railway line.
Report by Tim Gillett, News From Abroad
