Construction Commences on €100m Cable-Stayed Bridge Linking Louth and Down Counties

Construction has officially begun on the €100m Narrow Water Bridge, a cable-stayed bridge connecting Cornamucklagh near Omeath, County Louth, with Narrow Water near Warrenpoint, County Down. The 195-meter bridge will feature lanes for vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians, and is designed to open for ship passage to the Newry Canal.

The project is fully funded by the Government's Shared Island Unit, with an allocation of over €102 million plus VAT. This significant investment aims to enhance tourism and connectivity in the east border region, promoting local economic development and increasing employment levels.

This bridge construction has significant implications for the economic development and connectivity of the east border region, promoting local growth and job creation. The project's completion is expected to enhance tourism and commerce in the area, promoting a more connected and united Ireland.

Taoiseach Simon Harris, Tánaiste Micheál Martin, and Minister of State Malcolm Noonan were present at the Omeath site to announce the commencement of construction. Northern Ireland Minister for Infrastructure John O'Dowd also attended the event.

Taoiseach Simon Harris highlighted the bridge's transformative potential, stating, "The mountains meet the sea all along this stretch of stunning coastline and this bridge will be a game-changer for commerce, daily life and tourism in this part of our shared island."

Tánaiste Micheál Martin emphasized the project's significance for cross-border relations: "This project is a clear physical manifestation of the philosophy underpinning Shared Island. It embodies our ambition for reconciliation, a closer relationship between North and South, and progress."

Minister of State Malcolm Noonan added, "The project is already creating new opportunities and deepening connections between communities on both sides of the border, and will endure as an outstretched hand of hope between communities."

The Narrow Water Bridge is expected to serve as a lynchpin for cross-border travel and recreational activities in the Carlingford Lough region. It will connect the Mourne Mountains and the Cooley Peninsula, providing access to greenways, mountain bike trails, walking routes, and beaches.

Local residents and business owners are optimistic about the bridge's potential to stimulate economic growth. Brian Murtagh, a local resident, hopes it will lead to the reopening of closed businesses, while Berni Lively, general manager of the Whistledown Hotel in Warrenpoint, expects the bridge to attract more visitors to the town.

The project has faced challenges, including a previous failed attempt in 2013 when European funding was withdrawn. However, the renewed commitment and funding from the Shared Island Unit have reignited hopes for the bridge's completion.

As construction progresses, the Narrow Water Bridge stands as a symbol of community, togetherness, and hope, embodying the ambition for a more connected and united Ireland.

Key Takeaways

• Construction begins on €100m Narrow Water Bridge connecting Louth and Down.
• The 195-meter cable-stayed bridge will feature lanes for vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians.
• The project is fully funded by the Government's Shared Island Unit with €102m plus VAT.
• The bridge aims to enhance tourism and connectivity in the east border region, promoting local growth and job creation.
• The project is expected to complete in 2024, serving as a symbol of community and hope for a more connected Ireland.