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

Italy's decision to approve the construction between Sicily and the mainland of what would be the world's longest single-span bridge has set the stage for a legal battle that could further delay a project first conceived by the ancient Romans.

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.