The official launch of the shared space project at Peters Hill which includes the much talked about sculpture of two birds perched on spires, will take place at 2.30p.m on Monday next, May 8th.
Constructed by Glas Civil Engineering Ltd, this multi-functional meeting plaza, comprises a seating area with spectacular views of Drogheda and a sculptural artwork created by sculptor Michael Disley entitled ‘Inspired to Meet’.
The design shows two spires which are set apart with a large bird perched on top of each one. The birds are facing one another as if chatting to each other.
The spires echo the large stone pillars of the gateway and reflect the proximity of the two St. Peter churches. The result is a depiction of a meeting between the two birds with the image celebrating both peace and meetings.
Speakers at the launch event will include Louth County Council Chief Executive Joan Martin and Cathaoirleach Councillor Conor Keelan.
Louth Chief Executive Joan Martin said: “This shared space is an addition to Drogheda which will provide a place for people and communities to meet, will enhance the social fabric of the town and create a new identity for this area within Drogheda’s Heritage Quarter”.
It is envisaged that this meeting plaza will act as a cross community and cross-border shared space, providing a significant public amenity for the people of Drogheda and symbolising the reconciliation between the communities on this island.
This public realm design project has been supported by the European Union’s PEACE IV Programme, managed by the Special European Programmes Body and supported locally by Louth County Council and Louth Local Community Development Committee (LCDC).
Match-funding was provided by The Executive Office in Northern Ireland and the Department for Rural and Community Development in Ireland.