Financial arrangement for the bridge linking Hong Kong, Zhuhai and Macao had been decided – and construction would start no later than 2010, it was announced today. The project will be financed by the Central Government, together with the governments of Guangdong, Macao and Hong Kong. Macao will be responsible for RMB 1.98 billion, Hong Kong for RMB 6.75 billion, with the Central and Guangdong governments for RMB 7 billion, making a total of RMB15.73 billion, comprising 42 per cent of the total cost for the main bridge construction. The balance will be financed by loans, details of which will be further discussed. Each respective government will be responsible and pay for infrastructure and ancillary works for the project within their own area. Announcing this today, Macao’s task force to co-ordinate the work on the bridge said government financing would ensure that the project would get off to a timely start, and decision such as the toll rate will be decided by the governments. Macao completed its studies on the concept of an artificial island off Macao and will continue to study on the design of the related terminals. The bridge will help integrate the economies of the Pearl River Delta and boost industries in the region, the task force said.
