Monday 8 December 2014

A bridge too far?

THE possibility – or impossibility – of a fixed link between Malta and its smaller sister island Gozo has been a topic of on-off debate and controversy on both isles since the 1970s. 

The argument has been revived now, following a bridge feasibility study presented to Malta’s government by a Chinese construction company.

The study concluded that a bridge from Malta to Gozo – four miles across the water – would cost almost €1 billion (£793.3 million) to build and €4 million (£3.17 million) a year to maintain. The proposal has been attacked by critics who say it would a) damage marine life around the islands b) end up costing far more than the estimates given in the study and c) produce no benefits for tourism businesses on both islands.

The government – which seems likely to shelve the bridge study – has meanwhile confirmed plans for the construction of an airfield in Gozo. It has also commissioned a feasibility study for a tunnel.

Go Holiday editor David Kernek comments: The only way – currently – for holidaymakers to get from Malta to Gozo is by ferry. It’s a delightful journey in the summer months. That the sea channel has protected Gozo’s quiet, small-island charm is also a point worth making.


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