Øresund Bridge: A £3.4 Billion Link Between Sweden and Denmark

The Øresund Bridge, a remarkable infrastructure project costing approximately £3.4 billion, has served as a crucial connection between Sweden and Denmark since its opening in July 2000. Spanning 8 kilometres across the Øresund Strait, this dual railway and motorway bridge facilitates the daily commute of around 70,000 people.

The bridge is a collaborative endeavor between state-owned companies, Svedab of Sweden and A/S Øresundsforbindelsen of Denmark. It stretches from near the city of Malmö in Sweden to the man-made Danish island of Peberholm. The bridge connects to a tunnel that continues to the island of Amager, where Copenhagen Airport is located, bringing the total travel distance to roughly 16 kilometres.

Construction and Design Features

Construction on the Øresund Bridge commenced in 1995 and was completed just five years later. Upon its opening, it was recognized with the prestigious IABSE Outstanding Structure Award within two years, highlighting its engineering significance. The island of Peberholm plays a vital role as a transition point between the bridge and tunnel. It is exclusively accessible to authorized vehicles and is equipped with a helicopter pad for emergencies.

The bridge’s design not only addresses transportation needs but also incorporates safety features. An exit from the motorway on Peberholm facilitates efficient traffic flow, while strict regulations prohibit unauthorized access to the island.

Toll Structure and Economic Impact

Crossing the Øresund Bridge involves toll fees that vary by vehicle type. Motorcyclists pay £25.68, passenger cars are charged £50.77, and larger vehicles, such as vans and motorhomes, incur a toll of £178.55. These fees contribute to the funding of the bridge’s construction costs, with projections suggesting that the total investment will be recouped by 2037.

As the second-longest bridge in Europe, only behind the 18.1-kilometre Kerch Bridge in Russia, the Øresund Bridge stands as a testament to modern engineering and international cooperation. Its strategic importance not only enhances connectivity between two nations but also supports economic activities across the region. The bridge represents a significant achievement in infrastructure, promoting travel and trade while embodying a shared vision for cross-border collaboration.