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

The government says the road and rail link will create jobs and lift the region’s economy, but critics are concerned about the environmental and social impact.

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.