Parade to return to golden mile
Marching down West Street in 2010
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THE annual St Patrick's Day parade could be marching down West Street again next year, if the Drogheda traders have their way.
The go-ahead was given for the parade to cross the former 'golden mile' this year by gardaí, however the organising committee were still unsatisfied with safety issues.
'Despite what people think, we did want the parade to go over West Street this year, but there were just too many safety worries still to be ironed out.
' We have never taken a risk before with children in the 23-year history of the event,' says the parade chairwoman Isobelle Sanroma.
'The bollards are all cemented in and can be removed,' she added, 'but the hole that is left would be too dangerous, especially for excited little feet.'
But the committee are delighted to think that something could be sorted for next year, as they feel it was by far the best route for the parade.
West Street traders agree wholeheartedly.
'Everyone is saying that we need to bring the heart back to West Street,' says business man Niall Kierans,' and this would be a great start.
'We had meetings right up until the 11th hour with gardaí and the committee for this year, but it is their call, and we just hope we can have the parade in its proper home next year.'
For now, the shoes are being polished, the brass buttons shined and everyone is praying for good weather as final preparations are being made for this year's event.
The action will begin this year on the North Road, where all those taking part in the parade are asked to congregate in the car park at 11.30am, so that the mammoth task of getting everyone in their place can begin.
The parade will start bang on 12 o'clock, appropriately enough with the boom of the Millmount cannons, and crowds can pick up the action en route as it heads to George's Street, Fair Street, Peter Street, Shop Street and the North Quay.
The viewing stand has been moved to the corner of William Street and Peter Street, and traffic restrictions in the town will be in place from 11am to about 2.30pm.
All of the traffic in the areawill be directed away from the town centre and diversions will be in place.
' We have had a tremendous response and expect a great turnout as usual,' says Isobelle, 'and we look forward to a wonderful parade, no matter what the weather.'
- ALISON COMYN
