Ireland’s taoiseach (prime minister) Micheál Martin has announced approximately US$3.6 million in funding from the Shared Island Fund to progress work on the Narrow Water Bridge. The money will see the project brought to tender stage, based on the current design of the bridge and existing planning permission.
Further funding will be allocated from the Shared Island Fund, once the due diligence process has been completed and the final costs of the project are determined.
Planning permission is in place for a 280m cable-stayed bridge, anchored by towers at either end. It will connect the A2 Newry to Warrenpoint dual carriageway with the R173 Omeath and will have the ability to open to allow for passage of ships through and on to the Newry Canal.
Above: image by Louth County Council
Martin said: “I am delighted that work on the Narrow Water Bridge is now progressing, supported by funding from the Shared Island Fund. This project was first proposed decades ago, and has been a long standing and highly symbolic government commitment, as reflected in the Stormont House-Fresh Start and New Decade New Approach agreements.
“I am determined that the repeated commitment to build the Narrow Water Bridge will now be delivered upon.
“The bridge will link the Mourne Mountains and Cooley peninsula, providing huge tourism and connectivity boosts in the east border region, and will act as a key enabler for improved cross-border active travel and recreation activities including the development of greenways, walking trails and park amenities.
Above: image by Louth County Council
“The Narrow Water Bridge is a true all-island project, with strong cross-party political support North and South. It will open up new and exciting opportunities, with huge potential for the local and wider economy. Today’s announcement is yet another example of the agility of the Shared Island Fund in unlocking and progressing long standing infrastructure commitments and I welcome the renewed momentum and energy which has been breathed back into this project."
Northern Ireland minister for infrastructure Nichola Mallon said: “I am delighted to welcome this long-awaited progress on the iconic Narrow Water Bridge. The Narrow Water Bridge brings with it the potential for huge opportunities for tourism and connectivity to the local area of Carlingford Lough and right across our island.
“Today’s announcement of funding will be crucial in moving the project forward and getting delivery on the ground. I will be working closely with An Taoiseach, Minister O’Brien and the two councils to ensure my department plays its part in delivering this key commitment for communities North and South, enhancing connectivity, encouraging active travel and opening up opportunities for our island economy”.
It is proposed to establish a subgroup of the North-South Infrastructure Group, to include Louth County Council and Newry Mourne & Down District Council, to oversee the development and delivery of the project. Subject to all the required processes, construction is scheduled to begin 2023.
Above: image by Louth County Council
