European funding for Narrow Water Bridge a boost for cross border tourism - Attwood
Published on Wed, 24 Oct 2012
by ecomms@doeni.gov.uk.
Environment Minister Alex Attwood welcomed today’s announcement of €17.4million of European money to fund Narrow Water Bridge.
The announcement by Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) follows on from Minister Attwood’s planning approval for the cross border bridge on 12 October and the subsequent planning approval from An Bord Pleanála on the southern side of the border last week.
Alex Attwood said: “This is a tremendous boost for cross border tourism, trade and relationships. Two planning approvals and one funding approval all in one month means it’s all systems go. The tenacity, diligence and never say die attitude of public representatives in the area, including the Louth and Newry and Mourne Councils has helped bring this project to life. I warmly commend them in that.
“There is no doubt that the bridge will be a game changer. It will be a great catalyst for generating cross border tourism and developing business on both sides of the border. For visitors from the South it will very much act as a gateway to the Mournes and a chance to experience the wonder of our natural, built and Christian heritage. Significantly, it is the first cross border bridge built since partition and in that sense it is a positive outcome of the Good Friday Agreement and a potent symbol of the new Ireland.
The multi million investment will see a single carriageway cable stayed opening bridge across the Newry River tying into the existing A2 Roundabout and linking Co Down with Co Louth. The bridge is an opening bridge that enables tall ships, leisure craft and other marine vessels access to the Victoria Lock and the Albert Basin in Newry. The bridge will act as a gateway to the Mourne and Cooley Mountains for people and tourists south of the border making it much easier for visitors travelling each way.
Notes to editors:
1. The proposed bridge crosses the Newry River at Narrow Water to the Omeath Road at the townland of Cornamucklagh, near the village of Omeath.
2. The total length of the scheme and bridge crossing is approximately 660 metres.
3. The proposed development is by Louth County Council in association with Newry and Mourne District Council.
4. For media enquiries please contact DOE Communications Office 028 9025 6058. Out of office hours, contact the EIS Duty Press Officer on pager 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
Notes to editors:
1. The proposed bridge crosses the Newry River at Narrow Water to the Omeath Road at the townland of Cornamucklagh, near the village of Omeath.
2. The total length of the scheme and bridge crossing is approximately 660 metres.
3. The proposed development is by Louth County Council in association with Newry and Mourne District Council.
4. For media enquiries please contact DOE Communications Office 028 9025 6058. Out of office hours, contact the EIS Duty Press Officer on pager 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
