Italy has given final approval for the construction of what would be the world's longest single-span bridge, connecting Sicily to the mainland, a decision that immediately sets the stage for a potential legal battle.

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

Italy's government gave final approval on Wednesday to the construction of what will be the world's longest single-span bridge, linking Sicily to the mainland, despite environmental, financial and other concerns that have delayed it for decades.