Since its establishment in 2020 The Drogheda Cycling Group has been promoting the cause of making cycling a safe, environmentally friendly and accessible transport option in the Drogheda area.

There is still some way to go in terms of the provision of cycling infrastructure locally but there can be no doubt that the group, in tandem with others around the country, has managed to push the topic much further up the political agenda and cycle lanes are now a standard feature of new developments and more of them are being retrofitted alongside existing roadways.

As the Group Chairman and other committee members continue to lobby local and national government on the topics of cycling infrastructure and safety in our town there is also a social side to the group which meets regularly for cycle rides in the locality.

The next such outing is this Sunday, November 27^th, with a community ride to An Grianan starting from Courtyard Coffee on Merchant's Quay, Drogheda, A92 YX7N when they will also be distributing free bike lights and hi-vis vests to participants.

This year's Christmas Lights community ride will take place on Sunday, December 18^th leaving from the North Quay at 3pm, cycling around the town and checking out the Christmas decorations in estates along the route.

Anyone who needs help with basic bike maintenance should arrive 15 minutes early at either of these events for a bike check.

“In the long dark evenings it is important that cyclists take the opportunity to ensure they are visible to everyone” said Chairperson Noel Hogan.

“If you choose to cycle without lights, or your lights fail when on the road, you run the risk of a €40 fixed penalty notice and are vulnerable to being injured due to lack of visibility. Cycling is a very safe and effective way of travelling around Drogheda and our group wants to make it even safer.”

Apart from cycling, the group is also working on several other longer-term projects including organising a public meeting to promote their vision for the Dublin Road.

They are also considering the possible acquisition of a cycle bus to promote safe active travel for children going to school in Drogheda. This idea is in the early stages but it is something that happens in other, more cycle friendly, parts of the world.

“We would welcome all comments and suggestions” said Noel. “If anyone would like to reach out to help progress these initiatives with us you can find us on Droghedacycling.ie Facebook - Twitter and Instagram