A long-delayed and debated span linking the Italian mainland with Sicily cleared a major hurdle Wednesday, allowing work to begin on what would be the world's longest suspension bridge.

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.

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.