Nottingham has once again been awarded Purple Flag status by the Association of Town and City Management (ATCM), marking the 15th straight year the city has been recognised for excellence in managing its evening and night-time economy.
The Purple Flag accreditation is awarded to towns and cities where public and private sector organisations work together to create a safe, diverse, and vibrant nightlife.
Nottingham’s continued success reflects strong partnerships across the city, including It’s in Nottingham (the city’s Business Improvement District), the Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Violence Reduction Partnership, Nottinghamshire Police, Nottingham City Council, Nottinghamshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Nottingham Trent University, the University of Nottingham, and local businesses.
The assessment process evaluated multiple factors, including safety measures, the diversity of the night-time offer, and city centre management. The ATCM highlighted Nottingham’s effective communication between businesses and partner agencies through the Purple Flag working group, as well as initiatives like strategic and tactical forums that enable businesses to participate in safety programmes.
Key achievements noted by assessors include:
- Enhanced safety measures, such as Body Worn Video camera radios funded by It’s in Nottingham and the Violence Reduction Partnership, which allow live streaming to CCTV for rapid emergency response. The Safe Space Pledge has also seen strong engagement from businesses, with transport drivers recognised for their role in assisting vulnerable individuals.
- Expanded participation in the No Place for Hate Charter, with business sign-ups increasing from 88 to 346, demonstrating a sector-wide commitment to tackling hate incidents and supporting staff wellbeing.
- A thriving events calendar, including the successful Light Night, which has boosted footfall, spending, and perceptions of the city after dark.
- Growth in the nightlife scene, with new venues opening despite national trends of nightclub closures.
- Strengthened partnerships, with the Purple Flag working group now including all city bus providers, CCTV Control, Best Bar None, and city cleansing teams.
Rich Lane, Head of Operations and Business Crime at It’s in Nottingham, said: “Achieving Purple Flag status once again highlights the incredible teamwork and commitment of our partners. Everyone has played a crucial role in creating a night-time environment where safety and enjoyment go hand in hand.”
Nottinghamshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Gary Godden, said: “This is national recognition that Nottingham is a safe and vibrant city where all of our diverse communities can come together and enjoy what the city has to offer.”
Chief Inspector Karl Thomas, overseeing city centre policing, added: “We are fortunate to have strong partnerships with It’s in Nottingham and Nottingham City Council. The accreditation is a testament to the hard work of several agencies.”
Councillor Corall Jenkins, Nottingham City Council’s Executive Member for Communities, Waste and Equalities, said: “We recognise there’s always more to do, but this accreditation recognises our commitment to improvement.”
Wayne Cliff from Nottingham Trent University said: “This recognition reinforces Nottingham’s reputation as a leader in promoting both safety and nightlife culture.”
The Purple Flag status cements Nottingham’s position as a city that successfully balances safety with a thriving night-time economy, ensuring residents and visitors can enjoy the city with confidence.
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