BAM connects communities to inspire engineering careers and celebrate Narrow Water Bridge
BAM connects communities to inspire engineering careers and celebrate Narrow Water Bridge
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 13-metre 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.
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 cooperation. Pupils also learned about the historical significance of Narrow Water and the future potential of the landmark 195-metre 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.”
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.
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”.
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.
