Amsterdam officials have agreed in principle to build a bridge for pedestrians and cyclists over the IJ waterway which bisects the city in two, in an effort to reduce mounting congestion on the ferries.

In addition, the number of ferries between the main railway station and Noord will be expanded immediately. A new metro station may also be built on the northern banks of the river.

The bridge from Java island to the north of the city will have an opening to allow ships with tall masts to pass on their way to the IJsselmeer lake.

The cost of the link is put at more than €100m and the finances still have to be properly worked out. The full city council will vote on the plans this summer.