Twenty two venues, event organisers and local businesses have come together as the first wave of signatories to the newly launched Drogheda Purple Flag Charter — a community-led commitment to creating a night-time experience that is safe, welcoming and inclusive for everyone.

This growing coalition reflects a shared belief in Drogheda’s potential after dark — from food and drink to arts, culture, sport and late-night retail. Whether you’re heading out to unwind, connect with friends, or enjoy a great night’s entertainment, the Charter signals a community working together to support each other and the public.

Signing up to the Charter means being part of a collective that values shared responsibility, open communication and access for all. It’s also about partnership. Each participating venue receives access to free training and resources through the Night-Time Economy Adviser for Drogheda — a role hosted by Louth County Council — as well as ongoing support from the town’s Purple Flag Working Group.

The Charter sets out five simple but powerful principles: creating safe spaces, challenging harmful behaviour, making venues accessible, improving how we communicate, and strengthening collaboration. For the public, it means you can feel confident that any venue displaying the Purple Flag Charter mark is actively working to make Drogheda a great place to be after dark.

Elaine McDonough, who manages several key venues in the town, said:
“We’re dedicated to making sure people feel safe and welcome while they’re out enjoying themselves in Drogheda — that’s really important to us. But there’s always room to do more, and I think the Purple Flag Charter is a great way to show the heart this town has. I’m proud to be part of something that brings venues together and keeps things moving forward in a really positive way.”

Collette Farrell, Director of Droichead Arts Centre, said:
“This Charter is a powerful statement about the kind of town we want Drogheda to be — open, safe and welcoming for everyone. At Droichead, we believe the night-time economy can be inclusive and inspiring, and we’re proud to play a role in shaping that. Whether it’s through late-night events, accessible programming or simply being a safe space in the heart of the town, we want people to feel they belong here — and that their experience of Drogheda after dark matters.”

Rían Wogan, CEO of Drogheda United, added:
“Drogheda United is proud to be part of the Purple Flag Charter — it reflects the kind of community we’re all working to build here. Match nights bring people of all ages and backgrounds together, and we want everyone to feel part of something positive, safe and inclusive. This is about more than football — it’s about showcasing Drogheda’s community spirit, our sense of responsibility, and how we look after each other. We’re delighted to stand alongside local businesses and organisations who share that vision.”

Hubert Murphy, Chair of the Drogheda Purple Flag working group and CEO of Drogheda & District Chamber, said:
“It’s brilliant to see so many local businesses stepping forward to support the Purple Flag Charter. These are venues that go the extra mile for their customers and their town — it’s what makes Drogheda such a great place to live, work and visit. There’s a real sense of pride and optimism in this first wave of sign-ups, and it shows what’s possible when we back each other and work together.”

The Purple Flag Working Group — including Droichead Arts Centre, Drogheda & District Chamber, Love Drogheda BID, An Garda Síochána, Louth County Council and business representatives — has recently refreshed its brand, but its commitment remains the same: helping Drogheda punch above its weight by championing the best of what local collaboration can achieve.

This Charter is just the beginning. Any venue, event or organisation active after 5pm is invited to join the growing network of signatories. Together, we’re shaping a night-time experience that works for everyone — locals and visitors alike.

To find out more or register your interest, e-mail mark.davies@louthcoco.ie or visit www.lovedrogheda.ie/blog-categories/purple-flag or follow @DroghedaPurpleFlag on Instagram and Facebook. All Drogheda based businesses with an evening and night-time offering are welcome to take part.

Businesses signed up to the charter so far include:

1. 33FortyFive (Event Organiser)
2. All That Glitters (Event Organiser)
3. Brenda McComeskey (Event Organiser)
4. Cagneys Bar
5. Clarkes Bar
6. D’Vine
7. Droichead Arts Centre
8. Drogheda United FC
9. Earth Nightclub
10. Gleesons Bar
11. Grey Goose
12. Ill Forno
13. McHughs
14. Nelly’s Bar
15. Odd Mollies
16. Over the Top Wrestling (Event Organiser)
17. Peggy Moore’s
18. Scholars Townhouse Hotel
19. Sunday Street
20. The Bare Food Company
21. The Marcy Hotel
22. The Market Bar