BRISTOL ACCREDITED PURPLE FLAG FOR 14TH CONSECUTIVE YEAR

Bristol has once again been recognised for its outstanding commitment to creating a safe and dynamic nighttime economy, receiving the prestigious Purple Flag accreditation for the 14th consecutive year. This accolade highlights the city’s dedication to improving its nighttime economy, making Bristol a leading nightlife destination that emphasises safety, inclusivity, and community engagement from 6pm to 6am.

The Purpose of the Purple Flag

Much like the Green Flag accreditation, the Purple Flag acknowledges Bristol's efforts to enhance its nighttime economy. This recognition is a testament to the city's focus on creating a vibrant and secure environment for both residents and visitors after dark.

Areas awarded the purple flag are recognised as providing a vibrant and diverse mixture of entertainment and culture, whilst promoting the safety and wellbeing of visitors and residents.

Award Criteria

The Purple Flag, devised by the National Association of Town Centre Management (ATCM), assesses cities based on several key qualities:

• Safety
• Diversity
• Vibrancy
• Accessibility
• Cleanliness
• Partnership working

Key Initiatives for Success

Bristol's ability to consistently meet these criteria is due to several key initiatives and partnerships, including collaborations with:

• Avon and Somerset Police
• Bristol Ambulance Service
• Bristol Waste
• Bristol Business Improvement Districts (BIDs)
• Street Pastors
• The Bristol City Council-led Bristol Nights Partnership

The Bristol Nights Partnership

A cornerstone of Bristol's nighttime economy success is the Bristol Nights Partnership. This project supports the city and those who work from 6pm to 6am by engaging with stakeholders across various sectors. Bristol Nights has been at the forefront of numerous innovations, such as:

• The UK's first city-wide Harm Reduction Policy
• The establishment of a Women’s Safety Charter
• A city-wide anti-spiking initiative
• The Thrive-At-Night program, focusing on the wellbeing of nighttime workers

Cultural Diversity

Another significant factor in Bristol's Purple Flag accreditation is the city’s rich cultural diversity. The wide array of cultural, entertainment, dining, and nighttime venues has greatly contributed to Bristol being recognized as a vibrant and inclusive nighttime destination.

Quotes

Carly Heath, Bristol’s Night Time Economy Advisor, shared:?“Bristol continues to fly the flag for a world-leading nighttime economy. I'm thrilled that Bristol's hard work in creating a safe, welcoming, and diverse nighttime offer has yet again been awarded the prestigious Purple Flag. The dedication of the Bristol Nights partnership works year-round to make nightlife safer, stronger, and better connected - so that everyone can enjoy the city after dark.”

Vicky Lee, Director of the Bristol City Centre BID, added:?“Safety is a key priority in our work towards improving the city centre. We want everyone who comes out to enjoy the amazing businesses open during late hours to feel safe, and we are proud to have retained our Purple Flag accreditation for another year. We hope this status provides residents and visitors with further reassurance that Bristol is a safe place to live, work, and play for years to come.”

Global Context

Bristol stands proudly among over 100 Purple Flag accredited destinations worldwide, continually setting the standard for a safe, inclusive, and thriving nighttime economy.

Go Bristol!

Published: 18.06.24 by Phoebe Clutton

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