Drogheda and District Chamber has outlined a ‘Top 5 for ‘25’ Action Plan series of issues for this region that it wants to see addressed by a new government during the course of 2025.
“We have clear goals for Drogheda and district, and we’ll be working with all those who have this area at heart. The opportunities that surround this growing town are simply huge and we want to see those delivered as soon as possible,” Chamber President, Naomi Tully, stated.
“Our aims focus on deliverables in a timely manner. There is a big picture that will take time, but we can’t get distracted by that. 2025 can be truly a gamechanger for this district.
“We would urge those seeking election on November 29 to back our ‘Top 5 for ‘25’ Action Plan because we want to see this area grow and develop in a sustainable way,” Naomi added.
Drogheda and District Chamber’s ‘Top 5 for ‘25’ are:
1. Confirm a government-based Taskforce team that will deliver on top line issues impacting on Drogheda, Ireland’s biggest town. It should be led by stakeholders across the spectrum with goals and objectives that can secure significant wins for the area and quickly. It will need buy in from government and the local authorities and if that will to drive the region on is there, we can change lives.
2. Continued progress towards the completion of the Northern Cross Route. With the next stage of the road due to begin in March/April, it is imperative that the following stages, impacting on the railway crossing and down to the port area, are kept firmly on the agenda as the road needs to be completed as soon as possible. In collaboration with all stakeholders, the chamber is ready to assist.
3. Use Drogheda’s placement as a key Regional Growth Centre to increase job opportunities. The objectives of the 2040 Plan must be further developed and delivered on in 2025. It must focus on FDI, transport, logistics, collaboration and investment in infrastructure, plus a new look at planning and how to fast-track applications to encourage greater business interest.
4. Make Drogheda a destination town. The town and region is perfectly placed to became a real focal point, for both industry and tourism. We want key improvements to be at the top of the list for our TDs – the rejuvenation of West Street lies at the heart of that.
5. A new look at how Drogheda and district, including East Meath, is governed at local level. As Ireland’s biggest town, it needs a deliberate focus and this can be achieved in a number of ways, including the creation of the post of Town Manager and a major push to get the Joint Local Area Plan published.