New Bridge, Sandbank Rd, Hilltown, Newry, Co Down BT34 5XX

The New Bridge is a finely crafted bridge, likely dating from between 1820 and 1839, which carries a minor road over the Upper Bann river. It is of group value, exhibiting notable architectural and local historical significance and possessing characteristics of industrial archaeological interest.

The bridge consists of three segmental arches, with the left-hand arch typically dry. It is constructed primarily of finely dressed granite blocks, although the soffits are of random rubble schist. The piers feature rounded cutwaters on both the upstream and downstream sides, culminating in shallow domed tops at arch spring level. The stonework of the spandrels and parapets is laid randomly. Decorative elements include a projecting platband of finely dressed granite running just above the crown of the arches, saddleback-profileled copings, and shallow-domed, out-curving piers to the parapets. The parapet walls are 45cm thick, and the roadway is 5.60m wide, giving a total width of 6.50m (22ft). A raised roadway accommodates flooding at either end. The riverbed is protected by stone boulders.

While an 1834 Ordnance Survey map shows roads on both sides of the river without a bridge, the structure was likely built around this time, being named “New Bridge” on an 1859 map. The bridge's architectural interest derives from its style, proportions, ornamentation, plan form, and structural system while its historical interest is rooted in local significance. Ownership is by Central Government.