Øresund Bridge Connects Sweden and Denmark with £3.4 Billion Link

The Øresund Bridge, a remarkable structure connecting Sweden and Denmark, has been operational since July 2000. With a construction cost of approximately £3.4 billion, this 8-kilometre bridge serves as a crucial dual railway and motorway link across the Øresund Strait. Managed by Swedish state company Svedab and Danish state company A/S Øresundsforbindelsen, it facilitates the daily transit of around 70,000 individuals.

The bridge begins near the Swedish city of Malmö and extends to the artificial island of Peberholm, located in the heart of the strait. From Peberholm, a tunnel completes the journey to the Danish island of Amager, where Copenhagen Airport is situated, bringing the total travel distance to approximately 16 kilometres.

Construction of the Øresund Bridge commenced in 1995, with the opening for traffic occurring five years later. Its significance was recognized shortly after its completion when it received the IABSE Outstanding Structure Award in 2002. The design not only showcases engineering prowess but also incorporates functionality, as Peberholm features an exit from the motorway and a helicopter pad designated for emergencies.

Toll fees for crossing the Øresund Bridge vary based on vehicle type. Motorcyclists are charged £25.68, while passenger cars incur a fee of £50.77. Larger vehicles, such as vans or motorhomes, pay up to £178.55. The revenue generated from these tolls is expected to recoup the construction costs by 2037.

The Øresund Bridge is the second-longest in Europe, falling short only to the 18.1-kilometre Kerch Bridge, which spans the Kerch Strait between Russia and Crimea. This ambitious project not only enhances connectivity between Sweden and Denmark but also promotes regional economic integration and tourism, reflecting the collaboration between the two nations.

For many commuters, the bridge represents more than just a means of transportation; it symbolizes the strong ties between Sweden and Denmark, fostering cultural exchange and economic synergy. As it continues to facilitate daily travel, the Øresund Bridge remains an essential artery for both countries.