Meath County Council, in partnership with the Fitzwilliam Group, was delighted to mark the official opening of the new Blackwater River Town Bridge and Cycleway in Navan on the afternoon of Friday, 12 June 2026. The ribbon was formally cut by the Mayor of Navan, Cllr Padraig Fitzsimons, in the presence of Chief Executive of Meath County Council Kieran Kehoe and Chairman of Fitzwilliam Group William Smyth, alongside invited guests and local stakeholders.
This landmark project delivers a high-quality pedestrian and cycle bridge linking Navan Town Centre with Blackwater Park and the wider Balmoral area, creating a safe, accessible and attractive route for walkers, cyclists and families.
Developed on a 0.77-hectare site in the townlands of Abbeyland and Abbeyland South, the project includes the newly constructed bridge, footpaths, cycleways and public lighting infrastructure. The bridge spans the River Blackwater in a north-south direction, connecting key residential and recreational areas with the town centre.
The new bridge represents a significant investment in active travel infrastructure in Navan. By providing a traffic-free route, it will support healthier lifestyles, encourage more sustainable travel choices, and reduce reliance on car-based journeys.
In addition to its practical benefits, the bridge enhances the local environment by opening up scenic views along the River Blackwater and improving access to Blackwater Park, one of Navan’s key natural amenities. It is also expected to support local businesses by increasing footfall between neighbourhoods and the town centre.
A view from the new pedestrian and cycle bridge over the Blackwater in Navan.
Mayor of Navan, Cllr Padraig Fitzsimons said: “I am delighted to officially open this wonderful new bridge for the people of Navan. It is a superb addition to our town, encouraging walking and cycling, connecting key areas, and providing a beautiful space for people to enjoy. This project reflects the positive direction Navan is taking as a vibrant, accessible and forward-looking town.”
William Smyth, Chairman of Fitzwilliam Group, added: “This is a proud day for all the team at Fitzwilliam Group. The project was originally conceived in 2018, and it has taken a concerted effort with Meath County Council and the various stakeholders involved, to deliver this asset of public good for the community here in Navan.”
L to R – William Smyth, Chairman of Fitzwilliam Group, Meath County Council Director of Services Martin Murray, Mayor of Navan Cllr Padraig Fitzsimons, Chief Executive of Meath County Council Kieran Kehoe.
Chief Executive of Meath County Council Kieran Kehoe said: “This is a fantastic day for Navan. This bridge and cycleway is a vital connection that brings communities closer together, promotes active travel, and enhances the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
“Projects like this demonstrate how we can shape healthier, more sustainable towns while also supporting local economic activity.”
