Planning authorities have given the go-ahead for a new bridge to be built at Narrow Water between Co Louth and Co Down.
An Bord Pleanála gave planning permission to Louth County Council for construction of the structure across the Newry River to Omeath, provided a special roost for birds affected by the project is built.
Northern Ireland environment minister Alex Attwood last week granted planning permission for the project.
The single-lane cable bridge will be 660 metres long and cost around €18 million.
It is hoped that most of the cost will be provided from an EU fund.
Louth County Council said members want it to be opened by mid-2015.
Louth TD Gerry Adams said: "The Narrow Water Bridge will cost almost €18 million but its economic and social impact will be significantly greater.
"It will provide a huge boost to the local economy, create new jobs and spur economic growth in this region."
It will be an opening bridge that allows tall ships, leisure craft and other marine vessels access to the Victoria Lock and the Albert Basin in Newry.
The bridge crosses the Newry River at Narrow Water to the Omeath Road at the townland of Cornamucklagh, near the village of Omeath.
The proposed development is by Louth County Council in association with Newry and Mourne District Council.
PA