The McKevitt Gazette

Public consultations are now open until Tuesday 1^st September for the proposed Active Travel Scheme along the R132 from the Bridge of Peace to MacBride Railway Station, including part of Marsh Road. This aims to address some of these challenges by creating a safer, more accessible route for everyone.

The proposal includes improved pedestrian facilities, dedicated cycling infrastructure, upgraded junctions, safer crossing points and enhancements to public spaces. While much of the discussion understandably centres around cyclists, the scheme is about far more than bicycles. It is designed to make walking, wheeling, commuting and accessing the town centre safer and easier for people of all ages and abilities.

Why does this matter?

Drogheda continues to expand, with thousands of people travelling into and through the town every day. Modern transport planning is no longer solely about moving more cars—it is about giving people genuine choices.

A well-designed Active Travel network can bring a range of benefits, including:

• Safer routes for schoolchildren and families.
• Better connections between the town centre, railway station and surrounding neighbourhoods.
• Reduced congestion for those who still need to drive.
• Healthier lifestyles through increased walking and cycling.
• A more attractive town centre that encourages people to spend time and support local businesses.

Experience from towns and cities across Europe has shown that investing in high-quality walking and cycling infrastructure can improve the overall vibrancy of urban centres while making streets safer for everyone.

Public consultation is important

As with any major infrastructure project, there will be differing opinions. Concerns around traffic flow, parking, access and construction impacts are all valid topics for discussion.

That is exactly why the Part 8 public consultation process exists. It gives residents, businesses and commuters the opportunity to review the proposals, ask questions and make constructive submissions before any final decisions are made.

Whether you fully support the scheme, have reservations, or simply want more information, taking part in the consultation is one of the best ways to help shape the future of Drogheda.

Looking ahead

No single project will solve every transport challenge facing Drogheda, but investment in safer and more sustainable infrastructure is an important step towards preparing the town for future growth.

The proposed Active Travel Scheme represents an opportunity to create a town that is easier to move around, more accessible for everyone, and better connected for future generations. Whatever your view, now is the time to read the plans, have your say and help ensure the final design works as well as possible for the whole community.

https://planning.localgov.ie/part-8/application/c7aecb62-8425-11f1-855c-3d04f7bb660b

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