The Danish parliament has voted overwhelmingly in favour of a crossing of the Fehmarn Belt between Denmark and Germany. There were just three votes against the project, and 104 in support.

Transport minister Lars Barfoed welcomed it as an historic decision. A bridge is the preferred option for the 19km scheme, which is expected to carry two rail tracks and four traffic lanes. Construction is due to begin in 2012 and be completed in 2018.