The vision for the iconic Narrow Water Bridge has been clearly outlined during a meeting with local stakeholders.

Cross-border representatives Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon MLA and Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh O'Brien TD visited the site of the proposal which aims to connect Counties Down and Louth.

Following the investment from the Taoiseach's Shared Island Unit, a working group has been set up tasked with driving forward delivery of the project.

The Department for Infrastructure is working with partners on further proposals for complementary walking and cycling infrastructure to enhance connectivity to the new bridge and maximise the tourism potential in this area of outstanding beauty.

Minister Mallon said: "Minister O'Brien and I are committed to partnership working North and South and to the delivery of the iconic Narrow Water Bridge. Today we met with local partners and stakeholders in the area who have faithfully campaigned for this Bridge, to provide an update on the work now started by the taskforce set up to drive this forward. This is positive progress and my officials will continue to work closely with our partners to ensure that all the steps necessary to turn this project from concept to reality are quickly put in place.

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"I have also made it clear that my vision for this area of outstanding natural beauty includes the provision of new and enhanced walking and cycling infrastructure to complement the Narrow Water Bridge. I am delighted that my Department is now working with partners on plans to transform active travel in the area. This transformative project will not only open up connectivity in the area but it will benefit our island economy and tourism offering."

Minister O'Brien added: "The Narrow Water Bridge has been a Government priority for many years and I am very pleased that through the Shared Island Fund, this project is progressing in earnest. Local authorities in the east border region have played a key role in advocating for the Narrow Water Bridge over the past five decades, recognising the huge symbolic, economic and social importance of the project to the people living there. We all appreciate the significance of this project and eagerly await construction beginning in 2023."