Approximately 1500 miles of oil and gas pipelines are set to be built in the North Sea by 1980, with 6 lines planned in the British sector. Construction has already begun on projects like the gas line from Ekofisk to Emden, Germany. Several large pipeline projects are scheduled to start soon, including a 32-inch line from the Frigg gas field to Scotland. A proposal for a 500-mile oil transportation system is being considered, but Scotland may oppose it due to existing onshore facilities. The rapid increase in North Sea discoveries has led to a surge in onshore activity to support the petroleum industry's needs. Overall, the pipeline construction and maintenance costs are estimated to be around $1.411 billion by 1980.