The budget to build the new campus of the University of Macau on Hengqin Island has soared by 50 percent to MOP9.8 billion (US$1.2 billion).

The price includes the tunnel connecting Macau to the campus.

The secretary for public works and transport, Lao Si Io, made the announcement.

According to Mr Lao, the budget increase is due to changes in the campus’ design, inflation and the appreciation of the renminbi.

The government pledged in a press release that there wouldn’t be any new increases in the budget.

The new campus is expected to be ready by December 20, 2012.