Changing the name of the Boyne Cable Bridge on the M1 Dublin to Belfast motorway would “greatly interfere” with the promotion of Drogheda as a gateway to the Boyne Valley, according to a local councillor.
Kevin Callan of Fine Gael was one of a number of councillors on Drogheda Borough Council who spoke out against proposals that the bridge, which is 2km west of the Boyneside town, be renamed to recognise the work of former president Mary McAleese.
Mr Callan said investment had been made in the last 18 months to “link Drogheda with the Boyne Valley”, and he described the bridge as “the centre point of a compass” that is in danger of being lost if the name is changed.
“To lose the name of the bridge would greatly interfere with efforts to promote Drogheda as a gateway to the Boyne Valley region; to change it now would be a great mistake,” he added.
“It would be of more benefit and beneficial to remove the toll,” said Independent councillor Ken O’Heiligh, referring to the road toll paid by motorists who use the bridge.
The Mayor of Drogheda, Paul Bell of Labour, said no one in the town had expressed support for changing the name. “The bridge is not inside our boundary but it has an impact on us so we have a right to express our views,” the mayor added.
The issue is to be debated at the next meeting of Louth County Council.