Launch of 'Shared Space' at Peter's Hill, Drogheda

The successful launch of the shared space at Peter's Hill took place on Monday 8th May.

This public realm design project has been supported by the European Union’s PEACE IV Programme, managed by the Special European Programmes Body (SEUPB) and supported locally by Louth County Council and Louth Local Community Development Committee (LCDC). Match-funding has been provided by The Executive Office in Northern Ireland and the Department for Rural and Community Development in Ireland.

 his multi-functional meeting plaza, constructed by Glas Civil Engineering Ltd, comprises a seating area with spectacular views of Drogheda and an artwork by sculptor Michael Disley entitled ‘Inspired to Meet’. The design shows two spires which are set apart with a large bird on top of each one. The birds are seen facing one another as if chatting. The spires echo the large stone pillars of the gateway and reflect the proximity of the two St Peter’s churches. The result is a depiction of a meeting between the two birds with the image celebrating both peace and meetings.

The launch event was attended by representatives from both St. Peter’s Churches in Drogheda as well as local Councillors. Speakers included Louth County Council Chief Executive Joan Martin and Cathaoirleach Councillor Conor Keelan.

 The opening was celebrated with a performance by the Loving Life Choir.

Speaking at the launch, Louth Chief Executive Joan Martin said: “This shared space provides a new plaza for people and communities to meet, enhancing the social fabric of the town and giving a new identity to this part of Drogheda’s Heritage Quarter. Here, overlooking the town, people can sit down, relax and chat. It is a fitting tribute to the goals of the EU PEACE Programmes and their role in building a more integrated and peaceful society”.

The event at Peters Hill was followed by a tea/coffee reception at St Peter’s Church of Ireland, parish hall.

 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.

Launch of Peter's Hill Shared Space