NORTHAMPTON’S commitment to creating a secure and vibrant evening and nighttime economy has been formally recognised with the confirmation of its Purple Flag accreditation.
Mark Mullen, operations manager at Northampton Town Centre Business Improvement District was on hand to collect the globally recognised award at a ceremony in Nottingham, alongside Charlie Childs, markets and urban activities manager at West Northamptonshire Council.
The award highlights Northampton’s blend of nighttime entertainment, dining and culture while ensuring the safety and well-being of residents and visitors.
Purple Flag – similar to the Blue Flag for beaches – aims to raise the standard and broaden the appeal of town and city centres between the hours of 5pm and 5am. There are 100 Purple Flag destinations around the world, from world-renowned tourist destinations to small market towns.
Northampton Town Centre BID has worked closely with partners including West Northamptonshire Council and the Office of the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner to retain the Purple Flag status for five years. Northampton is one of ten areas in the UK to have received a Full Renewal accreditation, with 13 others receiving an Interim Renewal accreditation.
Mr Mullen said: “Creating a safe and welcoming environment for our visitors is key to a successful nighttime economy and I am delighted the efforts of multiple partners to do just this has been recognised.
“To be awarded Purple Flag accreditation is a fantastic endorsement for Northampton and demonstrates that the many efforts to improve safety in the town centre are having a very positive effect.
“We look forward to developing that further as we prepare for the exciting plans afoot for our town centre with the reimagined Market Square, the opening of STACK and a refreshed Fish Street and Abington Street.”
Through a business-led programme of investment, Northampton Town Centre BID aims to work with stakeholders to define, develop and promote the identity of Northampton town centre, reflecting its strengths, characteristics and heritage and ensuring it is a sustainable and vibrant place.
Receiving the Purple Flag accreditation can boost the local economy, increase tourism and improve overall quality of life for residents by providing more nighttime entertainment and social opportunities.
Key successes in Northampton’s submission include the introduction of a dedicated nighttime economy strategy, the launch of a licensed driver training scheme ID scanning technology in pubs, clubs and bars, a new anonymous anti-social behaviour reporting app and increased CCTV provision in the town centre.
The Safer Nights Out Van concept, where the Northampton Guardian volunteers are available every Friday and Saturday night to support vulnerable people, was also cited as a successful programme, alongside the ‘It Only Takes One’ campaign and ‘Stand By Her’ training scheme.
Cllr David Smith, cabinet member for community safety and engagement, and regulatory services at West Northamptonshire Council, said: “With the help of partners we have delivered an incredible amount of work over the past three years to improve the nighttime economy in Northampton and ensure that residents and visitors feel safe at all times.
“The impact of this work is evident in the reduced crime rates and feedback from local businesses and I am delighted that this was recognised by the Purple Flag auditors on their visit to Northampton town centre during one of our peak nighttime economy weekends.
“The council is committed to working with businesses to ensure we remain a safe and vibrant evening destination and we look forward to continuing this vital ongoing work to make West Northamptonshire a safe, enjoyable and welcoming place for all.”