Road closures announced for Edenderry St Patrick's Day Parade

A number of road closures and diversions will be in place for the Edenderry St Patrick's Day Parade on Thursday.

The Edenderry Parade will commence on March 17 at 2:30pm and leading the Parade this year will be Grand Marshal Mrs Bernie Brady.

"In order for us to have a safe and enjoyable parade for everyone we ask that motorists cooperate with the diversions and road closures that will be in place. We also appeal to the spectators that they keep on the footpath and to obey all instructions from stewards and Gardaí," organisers said.

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The road closure plan will consist of three phases.

Phase 1 of the road closure will see JKL Street being closed at both ends from the harbour roundabout to the Bank of Ireland roundabout at 12:00pm. This closure will be assisted by stewards and Gardaí. All traffic will follow the diversion route. Gardaí and stewards will be on duty.

Phase 2 of the road closure will commence at 1pm. A traffic light system will be in operation at Clonmullen. At the same time, Killane cross will be fully closed. This will allow floats to gather in a safe manner on St. Mary's Street. The school lane will be fully closed off at both ends to all traffic. This is the gathering area for walking groups. Gardaí and stewards will assist with the closure.

Phase 3 will commence at 2pm. The full diversion route will then be activated and the town will then be in lockdown mode. It is crucial that all motorists obey the diversions. Motorists are asked to plan their journey well in advance of the traffic diversions and if at all possible to leave their cars at home when setting out to attend the parade or use the larger shopping car parks.

This year all walking groups will disperse at the Station House Pub junction. Floats will continue on out towards the Dublin Road and continue on to disperse in a safe and efficient manner.

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Go Ahead Bus customers are asked to check for updates well in advance of setting off on their journey, there may be some disruption to services.

"We appeal for people who would be willing to assist with stewarding duties on the day to contact any committee member.
All the relevant emergency services Gardaí, Fire service, Edenderry Red Cross, The Order of Malta, stewards and the town hall have been consulted in all matters in relation to the organisation of the parade. Again we appeal to everyone to make this a safe and enjoyable parade."

The parade itself will create a festival atmosphere. There will be live music on the stage from 12:30 and amusements in the square.

The Parade will also be live-streamed on the parade's Facebook page and to a giant screen in the square. The Parade will start at 2:30pm sharp.

Winners will be announced at an awards night in Larkin’s Bar & Lounge on Sunday, March 20.

A wheelchair accessible area and for those with walking disabilities will be put in place near the viewing stand area. A first aid station will be in place at the Bank of Ireland roundabout and in the Square. Please check the parade Facebook page for updates.