There’s a strong case indeed for an NI–GB tunnel or bridge

It is positive news that Sir Peter Hendy has been commissioned to do a review into UK transport including a Belfast fixed link (a bridge or a tunnel across the sea).
By Alex Kane
Published 15th Oct 2020, 07:00 BST
Updated 15th Oct 2020, 14:18 BST
A map showing proposed routes for a proposed bridge linking Scotland and Northern IrelandA map showing proposed routes for a proposed bridge linking Scotland and Northern Ireland
A map showing proposed routes for a proposed bridge linking Scotland and Northern Ireland

The great advantage of a fixed link is a deeper and more dynamic UK internal market, complete with more employment as Belfast becomes directly linked by rail to Glasgow, Edinburgh, Manchester, Birmingham and London – with all the convenience for freight and passengers alike.

And a bigger UK logistics sector.

Freight of the Irish Republic destined for continental Europe could be taken to a secure rail freighter terminal in Belfast and then proceed direct by freight train non-stop to continental Europe.

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Letter to the editor

Good for the environment as more freight from road to rail.

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Also the EU would prefer the security of such an arrangement.

Finally a fixed link will also necessitate the reinstatement of the much-missed Port Road line in south west Scotland to facilitate directness between Belfast, London and Europe.

John Barstow, Pulborough, West Sussex

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Related topics:BelfastEuropeLondonBirminghamManchesterEdinburghGlasgow