Drogheda has launched a new set of guidelines aimed at making nights out in the town safer, more welcoming and more enjoyable, with one simple message at its heart: “Be Sound”.
The Drogheda Code has been developed by Louth County Council in partnership with the Drogheda Purple Flag group and was launched by Night-Time Economy Adviser Mark Davies at Freshers’ Day in Drogheda Institute of Further Education.
According to Louth County Council, Drogheda is the first town in Ireland to adopt a night-time code of this kind.
The code is intended to encourage people to look out for themselves, their friends and the town when they are out after dark.
It will initially be introduced at DIFE before being rolled out across Drogheda venues throughout 2027.
Shaped by local feedback
The Drogheda Code grew out of the Drogheda After Dark consultation, which gathered views from residents, workers and venues on what they wanted from the town’s night-time economy.
Louth County Council records from 2025 show that the campaign was influenced by feedback calling for a night-time experience that was free from harassment and unnecessary drama, while also promoting sensible drinking and respect for other people.
The project was inspired by the Bristol Rules, a similar initiative developed in Bristol.
It also forms part of the wider Sound Town vision for Drogheda’s night-time economy.
Louth County Council says Drogheda was the first town to go live under Ireland’s national Night-Time Economy pilot, with the programme aimed at building on the town’s existing cultural, hospitality and entertainment offering after dark.
‘Look out for each other’
Cllr Dolores Minogue, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said:
“The Drogheda Code is a forward-thinking initiative shaped with the people of Drogheda, particularly the younger generation who are central to the town’s night-time economy. It sends a clear message that everyone should be able to enjoy a night out while feeling safe, respected and supported. That is especially important for women and others who may feel more vulnerable after dark. By listening to local people and working together, Drogheda is showing real leadership in creating a night-time experience that is welcoming and enjoyable for all.”
Mark Davies, Night-Time Economy Adviser for Drogheda, said:
“The Drogheda Code didn’t come from us. It came from the residents and venues who told us, through Drogheda After Dark, what they want to see happening that supports a culture of care in our night-time experiences. It forms part of our ongoing work on the Louth Tourism Strategy, expanding programming and positioning Louth as a standout destination for night-time experiences. Being Sound is simple: look out for each other, respect the town and enjoy yourself.”
Part of wider night-time plans
The Drogheda Code sits alongside a number of initiatives already underway in the town, including Sound Town, the Purple Flag partnership and late-night cultural programming.
Sound Town has been developed as a way of broadening the choice available to people after dark, with music, comedy, late cafés, workshops and other events taking place across different venues.
Olivia McCormack, Senior Executive Officer with Louth County Council, said:
“We are delighted to launch The Drogheda Code today as part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring Drogheda is a welcoming destination after dark. This forms part of our ongoing work on the Louth Tourism Strategy, supporting the Night-time Economy Officer in expanding programming and positioning Louth as a standout destination for night-time experiences.”
Dola Twomey of Safe Gigs Ireland added:
“It was wonderful to see The Drogheda Code born into the world today. There is a real energy in the partnership that has grown through the Drogheda Purple Flag group and the Night-Time Economy pilot. Great work for the town that Safe Gigs Ireland is delighted to be part of. Let’s start making waves”.
More information on the Drogheda Code is available at thedroghedacode.ie.
