BAM, the main contractor for the landmark Narrow Water bridge project, has brought together 148 pupils from four local primary schools across the Irish border to take part in 'The Big Bridge' – an educational initiative designed to inspire the next generation of engineers.
As part of the event, pupils collaborated to build a 13m cable-stayed bridge, providing a fun and engaging hands-on experience that introduced them to the world of engineering and construction.
Organised in partnership with the Narrow Water Bridge Community Network, Louth County Council, Roughan & O’Donovan and social enterprise The Big Bridge, the initiative aims to spark interest in STEM subjects among young people, while celebrating the transformative vision of Narrow Water bridge. A vision, which is already becoming a reality – not only through construction, but through the communities it connects.
Sustainable transport options
Once complete the Narrow Water Bridge will span 195 metres, offering sustainable transport options for vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians.
The schools – St Dallan’s and Dromore Road Primary School in Warrenpoint, and Scoil Naomh Lorcan and Scoil Naomh Bríd in Omeath – worked in mixed teams to construct the model bridge, sparking curiosity, confidence and co-operation.
Pupils also learnt about the historical significance of Narrow Water and the future potential of the landmark 195m bridge being constructed across Carlingford Lough.
William Diver, construction director from BAM said: “We are proud to partner with The Big Bridge to bring this innovative learning opportunity directly to schools.
"The Narrow Water bridge is the flagship project of the Shared Island Fund, and our goal is to ensure that it delivers lasting social value beyond the build. By engaging young people in STEM and construction, we are investing in the workforce of tomorrow. We thank all participating schools for embracing this initiative.”
Amy Dillon, principal engineer at Design ID and project director of 'The Big Bridge', said: “We’re passionate about helping young people experience the creativity, teamwork and problem-solving that underpin engineering. Through this workshop, we’re not only building bridges – they’re discovering the wide range of careers that bring major infrastructure projects like Narrow Water to life.”
David Jones, director of services, Louth County Council, said: “The Narrow Water bridge is a landmark project that symbolises connection, and 'The Big Bridge' workshop is a brilliant example of how major infrastructure can also deliver real educational and community value.
"By capturing the students’ interest in engineering and construction, we’re not only building a bridge, but we’re also hopefully building future careers and strengthening cross-border relationships that will last for generations to come.”
"Borders divide, bridges bring people together," said Jim Boylan, chairman of the NWBCN, a local community group based in Warrenpoint, which has campaigned for many years for the bridge.
"The No 1 objective of our campaign was to unite communities around the Lough. It was truly inspirational to see children from both traditions and both sides of the border coming together so easily to build a bridge. The real bridge, of course will transform these children’s lives, creating opportunities denied to previous generations."
The Narrow Water bridge project is being delivered by BAM on behalf of Louth County Council, designed by Roughan & O’Donovan and funded by the Irish government under the Shared Island Fund.
'The Big Bridge' is a not-for-profit social enterprise operating across Northern Ireland and Ireland. Its mission is to deliver memorable STEM experiences to schools, showcasing the real-world application of construction and engineering in a fun, inclusive and impactful way.