​Work on Narrow Water Bridge 'set to start in the coming fortnight'

​BAM Ireland are to build the bridge between Warrenpoint and Omeath. They have previously constructed the River Siur Bridge in Waterford and the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Bridge in Co. Kilkenny.

First mooted over 50 years ago, the 280m cable stayed bridge at Narrow Water will include lanes for motorists and cyclists.

It is hoped that the bridge could be completed by 2027.

The news was welcomed by First Minister, Michelle O’Neill, who said that she was “absolutely delighted” that the contract has been awarded.

“This will be transformative for South Down and the Cooley areas, creating a wealth of opportunities and unlocking the huge potential to create good quality jobs, boost tourism and create a stronger, all-Ireland economy,” she said on X, formerly Twitter.

“An exciting time ahead for local communities in South Down and Louth!”

Her party colleague, South Down MP Chris Hazzard, said that work is “set to start in the coming fortnight for a period of 36 months”.

He added: “It will be transformational for the local area and is key to unlocking South Down’s huge potential to create good quality jobs, boost tourism and create a stronger, all-Ireland economy.

“Sinn Féin will continue supporting the Narrow Water Bridge project to ensure it is delivered to improve the lives of workers, families and local businesses across South Down.”

SDLP South Down MLA Colin McGrath said the new bridge will transform communities on both sides of the border.

Hailing the “watershed moment”, he added: “It will also create a number of tourism opportunities in what is a stunning part of our island, bringing new jobs and attracting investment.

“Seeing this project realised has been a key priority for the SDLP over many, many years. It was driven forward by the late PJ Bradley and that good work was carried on by his daughter Sinead. In government, the SDLP did everything possible to get this across the line and I’m delighted to see that hard work has paid off. I’d also like to thank local campaigners who have worked tirelessly on highlighting the potential of the Narrow Water Bridge and we now need to get on and see it built to benefit everyone right across the border area.”