Bridge Owners Forum

The University of Galway, through the EPA funded CRANN (Climate Resilient Adapted National Network of Bridges) project, is leading the establishment of the Bridge Owners Forum Ireland (BOFI) — a new national platform designed to support collaboration and knowledge sharing among Irish bridge stakeholders. 

Goals of the Bridge Owners Forum Ireland 

• Strengthen cooperation, collaboration, and partnership among bridge owners 
• Identify technical and research needs to support best practice in bridge management 
• Share relevant information and updates across the sector 
• Recommend research priorities while avoiding duplication of effort 
• Provide technical advice and support to the Irish Bridges Board and bridge engineers

To get involved REGISTER HERE 

Our first in-person meeting is happening on 18th June 2026. 

Overview

The BOFI workshop brings together key stakeholders involved in bridge infrastructure across Ireland to support collaboration, knowledge sharing, and improved bridge management practices.

Purpose

Build on the initial BOFI meeting and progress the development of a national forum for bridge owners, engineers, agencies, industry, and researchers by:

• Agreeing its vision and structure
• Establishing initial governance and membership approach
• Building a foundation for long-term collaboration

Time & Location

• 15:15 – 16:15
• 18 June 2026
• CERI Conference
• Syndicate Room 3, Riddel Hall, Queen’s University Belfast, BT9 5EE, UK

Key Topics

• Recap of previous discussions and objectives
• Vision, membership, and potential UK alignment
• Governance options and organisational setup (BOFI structure)
• Key priorities: data, monitoring, and collaboration
• Future initiatives (including potential research support)
• Formation of an interim committee

Meeting Agenda (15:15 – 16:15)

• 15:15–15:20: Welcome, introductions, and recap
• 15:20–15:30: Vision, membership, and alignment (including UK forum)
• 15:30–15:45: Governance options and proposal to establish BOFI
• 15:45–15:55: Key priorities and future initiatives
• 15:55–16:15: Interim committee formation, discussion, and next steps

Why Attend

• Contribute to shaping a national bridge owners forum
• Influence how the organisation is structured
• Share experience and best practices
• Engage with cross-sector stakeholders
• Help build a sustainable, member-led initiative

Outcome

Agreement on the initial structure and direction of BOFI, and formation of an interim committee to take the organisation forward toward becoming fully member-led within two years.

View the minutes from the first online meeting: BOFI_Minuites_Meeting_26-04-21.pdf