The UK has started a review on the feasibility of building a bridge linking Northern Ireland and Scotland.

THE FEASIBILITY OF building a bridge or tunnel between Northern Ireland and Scotland will be examined as part of a UK national review of transport links in the UK.

Downing Street said today that the review, led by Network Rail president Sir Peter Hendy, will explore the “cost, practicality and demand” of a fixed link, which some critics have already dismissed as impractical and a waste of money. that it would be better to spend elsewhere. .

Boris Johnson has discussed the idea of ​​the bridge several times, and the government confirmed earlier this year that it was being discussed by officials.

The transport study will offer 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 Johnson, in a speech in July on how to revive the economy after the coronavirus pandemic, promised £ 100 million on 29 road projects.

Downing St said Hendy’s review will also look at the feasibility of other options designed to boost links to Scotland and Wales, including improving major roads like the A1.

In announcing the review today, Johnson said: “The UK is the largest political association the world has ever seen and we need transport links between our nations that are as strong as our historic ties.”

Sir Peter, who led London’s transport network during the 2012 Olympics, said: “Improving links in the UK based on the broader economic benefits that increased investment will bring will be beneficial to everyone in the UK. , very happy to lead this work. “

It is expected to publish its recommendations next summer.

Politicians in Scotland and Northern Ireland told Transport Secretary Grant Shapps in March that the billions of pounds it would cost for a fixed link across the Irish Sea could better be spent on vital infrastructure projects.