Italy has cleared the way to build the world’s largest suspension bridge linking the Italian mainland with Sicily.

After decades of discussion, Italy has finally approved a $15.6 billion project to build the world’s longest suspension bridge. Reportedly, the Straight of Messina suspension bridge is expected to connect Sicily to the Italian mainland region of Calabria.

Italy has finally approved a €13.5bn (£12bn) plan to build the world’s longest suspension bridge from the mainland to Sicily – an idea first envisaged by the ancient Romans – despite concerns funds will be siphoned off by the mafia.