The official start of construction has been welcomed for the Commemorative Bridge over the River Liffey, located at the Irish National War Memorial Gardens (INWMG) at Islandbridge, Dublin. Minister of State for the Office of Public Works (OPW), Mr. Kevin "Boxer" Moran T.D., attended the site to mark the commencement of works.

The project, which has been a long-term ambition for the OPW, traces its original concept back to the gardens' landscape architect, Sir Edwin Lutyens (1869-1944). The final design, which won an open international design competition in 2019, was created by London-based Ritchie Studio and their design team, which includes Equals, Cronin and Sutton, and Schlaich Bergermann partner.

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John Sisk & Son (Holdings) Ltd has been awarded the contract to construct the bridge following a public procurement process. The project is jointly funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA) and the Office of Public Works (OPW), and construction is due to be completed in the first quarter of 2027.

The bridge will serve a dual purpose:

Commemoration and Access: It will create a new formal, accessible entrance to the Gardens from the Chapelizod Road, enhancing the experience for the nearly half a million annual visitors and creating a new public landmark.

Active Travel Link: It will include a dedicated pedestrian route and cycle path, linking the INWMG with the nearby Phoenix Park and improving active travel access to key cultural attractions such as Kilmainham Gaol.

Minister Moran stated: "Here in one of the most famous memorial gardens in Europe, I am delighted to turn the sod and witness the commencement of the construction works on this long anticipated commemorative Bridge. This bridge when completed will provide a focal point joining many historic and heritage sites on both sides of the Liffey, while becoming a vital integral link in the city’s active travel infrastructure."