Godfrey will be backing closure of the gate

CLLR Frank Godfrey, who has been campaigning to protect and preserve St Laurence Gate for over 40 years, sees the end of through traffic in sight, as local councillors vote on closing the Gate at their April meeting.

‘We are a step closer to closing the Gate permanently as we vote on the issue next week,’ said Cllr Godfrey, founder of Defenders of Drogheda’s Heritage Action Group.

‘ The Gate must be closed off to traffic, then restored to its former glory, with works put in place allowing the public and tourists to visit the Gate on a regular basis, possibly once a week during the summer months.

‘I’m calling on Louth County Council to establish a heritage office and tourist information point near the Gate, as well as having a guide in place there too.’

Commenting on the damage done to St Laurence Gate over the past year by lorry strikes, Cllr Godfrey said that letters on the subject to both Louth County Council and the Office of Public Works (OPW) – both custodians of the Gate - have gone unanswered.

‘ This is unacceptable! We want answers to the extent of the damage done to the Gate, when it will be repaired, and how much it will cost,’ he said.

‘I also feel that those who got the height restrictions wrong must be taken to task. They must take responsibility for their actions.’

‘It’s high time that the Gate is closed, and works are carried out to ensure it stands guarding our town for future generations. It has been sadly neglected over decades by both Louth County Council and the OPW.

‘We must act now and save the Gate!’ said Cllr Godfrey.

Acknowledging that closing the Gate and re-routing traffic flow will hugely impact on those living in the immediate area, Cllr Godfrey said that the Council must continue to engage with local residents on the issue.

‘ Those living in Chord Road, Francis Street, Oulster Lane, Siena and Sandyford Terrace will be most affected by any traffic changes, and we must take their concerns on board.’