Louth County Council today announced, in partnership with Drogheda Purple Flag group, the launch of The Drogheda Code, its set of guidelines for a good night out.
Drogheda is the first town in Ireland to adopt a night-time code, positioning the town at the forefront of international best practice.
Inspired by the great work of the team behind the Bristol Rules, The Drogheda Code sets out how to look out for yourself, your friends and your town after dark – adopting language that people actually use. Its central strapline, "Be Sound", reflects that approach.
The Code was launched by Night-Time Economy Adviser Mark Davies at Freshers' Day at the Drogheda Institute of Further Education (DIFE).
The DIFE was an important place to launch as it represents the views and aspirations of younger people, who want a nightlife on their terms, with choice, acceptance and belonging. It starts here before being rolled out across Drogheda venues throughout 2027.
The Drogheda Code is a direct result of the Drogheda After Dark survey, a consultation carried out last year with the people and venues of Drogheda which gave the town a clear mandate for drama-free night-time experiences.
The Code reflects what the public, workers and venue operators said they wanted from a night out in the town and is part of Drogheda’s wider ‘Sound Town’ vision launched earlier this year.
Internationally, codes of this kind are recognised as best practice for towns that want a thriving night-time economy that is welcoming and enjoyable for everyone.
Developed through the Night-Time Economy Adviser pilot, The Drogheda Code has been produced by Louth County Council in partnership with the Drogheda Purple Flag partnership, funded by the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport. To create the code, stakeholders from a number of organisations have been brought together across Ireland - representing the very latest thinking across disciplines and giving the Drogheda Code a uniquely Irish flavour.
Cllr Dolores Minogue, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: “The Drogheda Code is a forward-thinking initiative shaped with the people of Drogheda, particularly the younger generation who are central to the town’s night-time economy. It sends a clear message that everyone should be able to enjoy a night out while feeling safe, respected and supported. That is especially important for women and others who may feel more vulnerable after dark. By listening to local people and working together, Drogheda is showing real leadership in creating a night-time experience that is welcoming and enjoyable for all.”
Mark Davies, Night-Time Economy Adviser for Drogheda, Louth County Council said: “The Drogheda Code didn't come from us. It came from the residents and venues who told us, through Drogheda After Dark, what they want to see happening that supports a culture of care in our night-time experiences. It forms part of our ongoing work on the Louth Tourism Strategy, expanding programming and positioning Louth as a standout destination for night-time experiences. Being Sound is simple: look out for each other, respect the town and enjoy yourself.”
Olivia McCormack, Senior Executive Officer, Louth County Council, said: “We are delighted to launch The Drogheda Code today as part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring Drogheda is a welcoming destination after dark. This forms part of our ongoing work on the Louth Tourism Strategy, supporting the Night-time Economy Officer in expanding programming and positioning Louth as a standout destination for night-time experiences.”
Dola Twomey of Safe Gigs Ireland added: “It was wonderful to see The Drogheda Code born into the world today. There is a real energy in the partnership that has grown through the Drogheda Purple Flag group and the Night-Time Economy pilot. Great work for the town that Safe Gigs Ireland is delighted to be part of. Let’s start making waves”.
To find out more about The Drogheda Code, visit www.thedroghedacode.ie
