Significant progress on Waterford's flagship North Quays Public Infrastructure Project was marked by a recent ministerial visit.

The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, was joined by the Minister of State for Planning and Local Government, John Cummins TD, and Government Chief Whip, Minister Mary Butler TD, for a site tour and project update.

This transformational development is backed by over €170 million in Government funding, including €100.6 million from the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF) and €70 million from the National Transport Authority (NTA).

The construction of the Strategic Development Zone (SDZ) is being fast-tracked, with the new sustainable transport bridge due to open to the public in Q4 2026.

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The SDZ will focus on reconnecting the north and south quays, with significant improvements to public spaces and urban infrastructure. The direct economic benefit to Waterford is estimated to exceed €350 million over the next six years. During the construction phase, around 200 jobs will be supported, with over 1,500 new roles anticipated following the completion of the first phase.

The first phase of the SDZ will deliver 350 new homes, a 160-bedroom hotel, retail units, public plazas and a riverside walk and is due to commence later this year.

During the visit, Minister James Browne TD stated: "This is a landmark day for the Waterford North Quays Project marking a crucial step in making the development a reality.

"The sustainable transport bridge will also act as a catalyst for the wider project and the SDZ development which will have a powerful impact on economic development across Waterford and the South-East."

Minister John Cummins TD added: "This project is a key element of the council's comprehensive development plan for the area, enabling the development of commercial and residential land on the City's North Quays with direct and sustainable access to the city centre."