7 days ago
- Business
- Irish Independent
Narrow Water Bridge set to begin ascent over Carlingford Lough
An Taoiseach Micheál Martin and James Browne TD, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, received a progress update during a visit to the construction site on Thursday, 12th June.
The event featured a presentation from the project team and a guided site walk on the southern embankment, offering a close-up view of the major engineering works which are now well underway.
The Narrow Water Bridge, a flagship Shared Island Project, is set to unlock new tourism and connectivity potential in the east border region and is expected to drive local economic development by boosting employment and visitor footfall. It will be a critical link in the cross-border active travel and recreation network, supporting greenways, mountain bike trails, walking routes and access to the region's stunning natural amenities.
When complete, the 195-metre cable-stayed bridge will link County Louth and County Down at Narrow Water near Warrenpoint in County Down, providing a direct connection between the Mourne Mountains and the Cooley Peninsula. Designed to accommodate vehicular, cycle, and pedestrian traffic, it will connect the A2 Newry to Warrenpoint dual carriageway with the R173 Omeath. The bridge will also feature a movable bascule span to allow ships to pass through to the Newry Canal.
The visit was also attended by Erin McGreehan TD, Cormac Devlin TD (Dún Laoghaire) and Chair of the Oireachtas Good Friday Agreement Committee, Senator Alison Comyn, as well as representatives from the main contractor BAM Civil Ltd and Roughan & O'Donovan, Louth County Council's employer representative.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: 'I am delighted to return to the site of the Narrow Water Bridge, which is now under construction and a true embodiment of the Government's Shared Island Initiative. This bridge is a tangible symbol of our vision and commitment to deepening connections across this island. Once complete, the bridge will enhance connectivity, unlock new opportunities for tourism and active travel, and support long-term economic development across the Carlingford Lough region, strengthening the ties that are so important for our shared future.'
James Browne TD, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, said: 'I was delighted to view the progress at the Narrow Water Bridge site. It reflects the enduring strength of all-island collaboration. This project stands as a landmark example of what can be achieved through shared vision and partnership. I wish to acknowledge the pivotal role of Louth County Council in driving this initiative forward with my Department, alongside our colleagues in Northern Ireland. Their dedication and leadership continue to be instrumental in delivering this transformative infrastructure for the region.'
Cllr Kevin Callan, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: 'The Narrow Water Bridge is more than a piece of infrastructure; it is a symbol of connection, opportunity, and a shared vision for our future. We are proud to show the tangible progress being made and to reaffirm our commitment to delivering a project that will benefit generations to come. We are especially pleased to welcome the Taoiseach back on site and deeply appreciate the strong support he has personally shown in helping to bring this landmark initiative to fruition.'
Thomas McEvoy, Deputy Chief Executive of Louth County Council, added: 'The Narrow Water Bridge project demonstrates what can be achieved through meaningful cross-border collaboration and long-term planning. Louth County Council is exceptionally proud to lead on the delivery of such a landmark project, and we are pleased with the progress to date and grateful for the continued support of our partners and stakeholders across both jurisdictions.'
Alasdair Henderson, Executive Director of BAM Ireland, said: "The Narrow Water Bridge project represents a vital investment in Ireland's infrastructure, and BAM is proud to partner with Louth County Council to bring it to life. This transformative development will enhance connectivity, promote tourism, and encourage active travel, fostering lasting opportunities for local communities and the country. By driving long-term economic growth, the project ensures that this investment delivers meaningful and lasting benefits to society."
The Taoiseach had been in the Carlingford Lough area for a briefing on the implementation of the Shared Island Shared Destinations projects.
The Shared Destinations Project will see initiatives in Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark; Carlingford Lough; and Sliabh Beagh each receive funding for the development of cross-border trails, enhanced amenities and wayfinding and interpretation to improve the visitor experience and encourage more domestic and international visitors to explore these regions, driving economic benefits for the local communities.
