Harland & Wolff has won two steel-working contracts from Irishenco Construction relating to renovation and regeneration works in Dublin.

The contracts involve work on the famous Ha'penny Bridge and a new bridge at Blackhall Place. The Belfast firm would not disclose the contracts' value, saying only they were worth "several hundred thousand pounds," and involved work equivalent to 35,000 man hours.

The Ha'penny Bridge (officially Wellington Bridge after the "Iron Duke") is one of two pedestrian bridges on the River Liffey. Opened in 1816, it acquired its unofficial name from the toll paid to cross the river - one old ha'penny. Harland & Wolff has been awarded the contract to complete the steelwork element involved in the refurbishment of this important historical structure.

Blackhall Place is the site of one of Dublin's great unfinished buildings, the former Blue Coat School, now home to the Law Society. Harland & Wolff has been contracted to supply, fabricate and install a new road bridge measuring 41m x 33m across the River Liffey, from Ellis Quay to Ushers Island.

Sales director Mr Brian McGrath said recently the firm had forged an excellent relationship with Irishenco.

"We welcome the opportunity to work with them and Dublin Corporation on these projects," Mr McGrath said.

"This is a market sector which Harland & Wolff has not been extensively involved in recent years, but it is undoubtedly one where there are significant market opportunities for a company with our facilities and experience," he added.

He said the yard was also discussing other potential contracts with Irishenco, which could form the basis of a long-term relationship between the two companies.

"These contracts will provide valuable workload until such times as the two MoD roll-on roll-off ferries which were confirmed last week, move into full production," he said.