After three years of planning a new landmark public art project is nearing completion on the roundabouts at Southgate, Colpe in East Meath, an area that marks a vital gateway to Drogheda, the Boyne Valley, and the wider northeast.

The sculptures have been designed to capture the essence of Southgate as a symbolic gateway, not only to the vibrant local community of Colpe and Southgate, but also to the beautiful, historic, and mythical Boyne Valley and the ancient walled and gated town of Drogheda.

Located at a key entry point on the East Meath–Louth border, this site holds powerful significance as a threshold between past and present, rural and urban, local and national heritage. 

It offers visitors their first impression of a region steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty, making it the perfect place for a landmark artistic statement. Gerry Leydon, Chairperson of Drogheda Tidy Towns reviews plans with artist, Breda Marron.

The selection process began back in 2023. Submissions were received from 33 national and international artists and each was reviewed carefully.

Led by Drogheda Tidy Towns, the selection panel included local community volunteers, representatives and art professionals. Following a rigorous process, the commission was awarded to local artist Breda Marron. Her unique artistic vision and strong local connection made her the ideal choice to bring this meaningful project to life.

Members of the selection panel gathered to announced the artist selection.

Breda Marron is an award-winning local based sculptor known for her thoughtful, nature-inspired work that connects deeply with community and place.

Notable pieces include “Heart Space” in Dundalk, featuring entwined swans symbolizing connection, and “Éirímís – Together We Rise” in Dublin’s Ballyfermot People’s Park, celebrating local resilience and community spirit.

Breda’s experience creating site specific sculptures makes her the ideal artist to bring the Southgate gateway sculptures to life.

Breda said, "It is an honour to be chosen to create the public sculptures for Southgate. I hope the work fosters a renewed sense of place, pride, and beauty for East Meath, Southgate, and surrounding communities, while honouring the area’s rich heritage.”

She continued 'We’re excited to share that the first stage of the actual work will begin this coming weekend, with the installation of the foundations for the two sculptures.'

'This marks an important milestone and brings the project into its first visible phase.'

'We look forward to revealing the finished work over the next few weeks, along with its inspiration, the connection to our community, landscape, and shared heritage.'

Chairperson of Drogheda Tidy Towns, Gerry Leydon said 'This initiative would not have been possible without the tremendous support of key partners.'

'We wish to express our sincere gratitude to Meath County Council for their continued help and guidance, to Meath Leader Partnership as our primary funder, and to Community Finance Ireland and several local business funders including Amazon, Coca-Cola and The Southgate Management Company, whose belief in the value of community-driven art has helped make this project a reality.'

'We are incredibly proud to be approaching the completion of a project that means so much to our community.'

'This artwork will stand as a symbol of welcome, pride, and heritage—not just for the local community but also for Drogheda and the wider Boyne Valley area. We’re thrilled to have Breda Marron leading this final, exciting phase.'