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Plymouth flies the purple flag for 2022
15th June 2022
Plymouth has been awarded the prestigious Purple Flag accreditation for the way the city’s evening and night-time economy is managed.
Similar to the Blue Flag for beaches – The ‘Purple Flag’ accreditation is given to cities and towns that meet or surpass the standards of excellence in managing its evening and night-time economy.
Areas awarded the Purple Flag are recognised for providing a vibrant and diverse mix of dining, entertainment and culture while promoting the safety and wellbeing of visitors and local residents.
Plymouth was assessed on elements which considered the safety of customers and staff, the appeal of the city, the movement of people around the city and its cultural diversity and vibrancy. This was all assessed against a foundation of positive partnership working.
A large number of organisations work together to make Plymouth a welcoming and successful destination including: the City Council, Devon and Cornwall Police, pubs, restaurants, sports and entertainment venues, retail and transport operators, dedicated street pastors and taxi marshals.
Cat Macdonald, Chair of Plymouth Best Bar None scheme, said: “We are delighted to retain our Purple Flag accreditation. It’s recognition of the hard work, passion and dedication of those running our pubs, bars and clubs to provide a safe and successful night time economy.”
Council Leader Richard Bingley said: “Retaining our purple flag status is excellent news for the city. We are proud of the accreditation and it is not difficult to see why Plymouth ticked all the boxes as a great night out, with a growing number of restaurants, cafes and attractions, in addition to its vibrant waterfront and its maritime heritage, historic Barbican and The Hoe drawing thousands of visitors to the city each year.
“The Purple Flag accreditation demonstrates our commitment to strengthening our vibrant evening and night time economy (ENTE) and continuing our important work around safety and wellbeing linking with the Violence Against Women and Girls commission who have noted the good work already being undertaken by the ENTE partners and the trade.”
One of the highlights from Plymouth’s submission was their drink spiking campaign. Sergeant Dave Moore from the Police said: “The support from all of the partners involved in working together has been critical in Plymouth successfully retaining the Purple Flag accreditation. The fact that the venue staff and door staff are aware of vulnerability and anti-drink spiking protocols, along with those working regularly in the night-time economy help to make everyone’s experience more enjoyable and safer.”
The last few years have not been what anyone expected and in the fight against COVID-19. Purple Flag has been important to many of our towns and cities that hold the accreditation during lockdown, as well as being instrumental in the reopening policies and strategies with key stakeholders as towns and cities adjust to the new way of life post-pandemic.
