The approach roads to any town play a vital role in forming opinions about the place and for far too long the approaches to Drogheda were uninviting and lacking colour. Indeed, some of the “Welcome to Drogheda” signs were often illegible due to a buildup of dirt and grime.
Recently though, Drogheda Tidy Towns, in collaboration with The Dublin Road Residents, brought the artistic flair of local graffiti artist Ciarán Dunlevy to make the approach along the Dublin Road more appealing.
The resulting mural, which is at the junction for the train station, captures the heart and soul of our beloved town, your eyes are immediately drawn to a breathtaking mural that simply screams ‘Drogheda Gateway to the Boyne Valley.’
“The image looks east into the rising sun with the backdrop of the majestic River Boyne, flowing serenely like a ribbon of liquid colours. It’s the very heart that makes our town thrive, and it’s beautifully showcased in this mural” said a Tidy Towns spokesperson.
“But that’s not all, included in the mural are some iconic landmarks that make Drogheda so special, such as St. Laurence’s Gate depicted in all its glory. And, of course, no Drogheda mural would be complete without featuring the iconic Millmount or as locals call it ‘The Cup and Saucer’.
“Perched atop the hill, watching over our town like a guardian, it’s a symbol of strength and resilience that has withstood the test of time.
“Also included is the Boyne Viaduct, a marvelous feat of engineering which symbolises our progress and connectivity as a community.”
Artist Ciaran Dunlevy (third from right) pictured at his mural on the Dublin Road with Gerry Leydon of Drogheda Tidy Towns and Dublin Road residents Donal Lucey, Eamonn Clinton, Gerry Leydon, Dominick Branigan and Ken Russell.
“This is a great example of community collaboration with a group of Dublin Road Residents and Drogheda Tidy Towns coming together, with the support of Louth County Council, to make this project happen.
“It is a great addition to the ongoing work that is done by the local residents in ensuring Dublin Road is really looking its best and which has meant the area has been repeatably recognised and achieved top grade from IBAL.”
So, the next time you’re travelling along the Dublin Road, take a moment to appreciate the beauty of our city and the talent of our local artists. This mural is a celebration of Drogheda – a gateway to the Boyne Valley, a town with a rich past, a vibrant present, and a promising future. Enjoy it, cherish it, and let it remind us of the incredible place we call home.
