Taoiseach visits Narrow Water Bridge construction site in north Louth

^{Above: L-R: David Jones, Louth County Council Director of Services, John O'Hagan, Louth County Council Senior Engineer, Minister James Browne TD, Senator Alison Comyn, Taoiseach Micheál Martin, Cllr Kevin Callan, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, Erin McGreehan TD, Cormac Devlin TD and Thomas McEvoy, Deputy Chief Executive of Louth County Council, at the Narrow Water Bridge site visit}

Louth County Council welcomed An Taoiseach Micheál Martin and James Browne TD, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, to the construction site of the Narrow Water Bridge on Thursday, 12th June, marking a significant moment in the delivery of one of the most iconic cross-border infrastructure projects in recent memory.

The visit provided an opportunity to reflect on the progress made since the launch of the construction stage in June 2024, and for the Taoiseach and Minister to receive a detailed update on the current phase of works.

The event featured a presentation from the project team and a guided site walk on the southern embankment, offering guests a close-up view of the major engineering works which are now well underway.

The Narrow Water Bridge, a flagship Shared Island Project, will 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, 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.

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The visit was also attended by Louth TD 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.

_{Below: William Diver, Contracts Manager at BAM Ireland, discusses the Narrow Water Bridge construction with the Taoiseach, Micheál Martin}

"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 Narrow Water Bridge project is being delivered in line with best international practice. It is overseen by a project board, chaired by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. The board includes the Chief Executive of Louth County Council, Directors of Services, and senior officials from the Department of Infrastructure (Northern Ireland) and the Department of Transport.