Bournemouth awarded purple flag status for 2022
4th November 2022
Bournemouth’s night-time economy has received a Purple Flag award, marking the 12th year in a row the town has been recognised for the accolade.
Purple Flag is an international accreditation awarded to towns and cities that surpass excellence in managing their evening and night-time economies.
Similar to the Blue Flag for beaches, Purple Flag aims to raise the standard and broaden the appeal of town and city centres between the hours of 5pm and 5am.
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 residents.
Highlights from Bournemouth’s submission include:
A comprehensive list of safety driven operations, focusing on preventative measures as well as improved training provisions.
The return of the street pastors after the pandemic, who help provide a vital service for patrons. Their capacity to collect important data helps focus resources
A varied offer of independent businesses in both alcohol and food led venues.
The renewal of the Town Centre and Coastal BID, which demonstrates partnership working and that the initiatives put forward really add value to the area
Councillor Bobbie Dove, Portfolio Holder for Community Safety and Regulatory Services said: “Receiving this award is a great achievement for Bournemouth and the hard work of the council and partners across the town.
“Promoting a safe and lively nightlife is important for celebrating the town’s national and international reputation and it’s great to see our independent restaurants, venues, bars and clubs at the heart of Bournemouth’s well-respected culture.”
“It’s our aim to ensure all visitors feel as welcome, safe and secure as possible while enjoying their time in the town.”
Paul Kinvig, Chief Operating Officer of Bournemouth Town Centre BID, said: “Christmas Tree Wonderland will be a great festive boost to lighten the mood in the current challenging times. We live in a fantastic part of the country, and we want to celebrate that.
“Bournemouth’s Christmas Tree Winter Wonderland has been an incredible success over a number of years and is set to be just as spectacular this time.
“I encourage everyone to visit, have a good time, enjoy the lights and see just how much the town centre’s retail and hospitality businesses have to offer.”
Editor’s notes
Since 2007, the Purple Flag status has been extended to over 70 towns and cities in the UK, Ireland and New Zealand. Purple Flag accredited areas have all reported a consistent increase in footfall and a decrease in crime within the Evening and Night Time Economy (ENTE).
The Purple Flag programme is managed by the Association of Town and City Management (ATCM) which works alongside a partnership of key stakeholder groups backed by Government, police, and businesses.
The scheme, which is backed by the Home Office and Association of Chief Police Officers, provides research, training and development to help towns and cities tackle issues such as anti-social behaviour.
Picture shows Christmas Tree Wonderland in Bournemouth from previous years
