Environment NGO Din l-Art Ħelwa has expressed concern over proposals for the building of a bridge to link Malta and Gozo.

The government announced yesterday that a Chinese company will conduct a 15-month feasibility study costing €4 million.

"A bridge between Malta and Gozo would have enormous visual impact and would destroy one of the most scenic, traditional and beautiful views of the Maltese Islands so important if we are to retain our island quality and sense of identity," Din l-Art Ħelwa said.

The Gozo University Students' Association said it welcomed the prioritisation of alternative forms of accessibility between Gozo and Malta.

It backed the Government's intention to issue calls for expression of interest for the operation of a scheduled air service and a catamaran service between Malta and Gozo.

On the other hand, GUG expresses its concern regarding a feasibility study for a bridge or tunnel between the islands, which should not only consider the viability of these in terms of their economical and environmental effects but

also take note of their social and cultural effect.

"GUG believes that priorities should be retained, such as the air link and the fast boat, while it believes that the feasibility studies should also focus on the situation of Gozo after the introduction of these services and that the need for a tunnel or bridge is still to be considered.