Bournemouth retains Purple Flag status for 15th year for its safe and vibrant nightlife
Bournemouth Town Centre is still one of the safest and most enjoyable nights out in the UK, according to assessors
Bournemouth has once again been recognised for the quality and safety of its nightlife, after retaining its prestigious Purple Flag status for the 15th consecutive year.
The international accreditation, run by the Association of Town and City Management, celebrates towns and cities with a safe, welcoming and well-managed night-time economy.
Assessors consider everything from entertainment, dining and cultural experiences between 5pm and 5am to the effectiveness of safety measures and partnership working.
Following an independent review, Bournemouth’s night-time offer was found to demonstrate “strong partnership working and innovative thinking”.
The submission was led by the Bournemouth Town Centre BID in collaboration with BCP Council, Dorset Police, Townwatch, Bournemouth Pastors, Bournemouth University, Morebus and others.
Victoria Sheppard, Nighttime Economy Coordinator for the BID and Secretary of Townwatch, said: “Over the past year we’ve strengthened links between businesses, the BID, Dorset Police and BCP Council.
“Working together and sharing ideas has helped us drive improvements and support a safe and successful town centre – as the Purple Flag confirms.”
Cllr Kieron Wilson said the award reflected “a strong partnership working and commitment to visitor wellbeing”, adding: “This shows Bournemouth as a place where residents and visitors can feel safe and welcome on an enjoyable night out.”
Among the town’s key strengths highlighted in the assessment were its coordinated safety initiatives, including SentrySIS — a crime reporting and monitoring platform allowing police and businesses to share intelligence in real time.
Paul Kinvig, Chief Operating Officer for the Town Centre BID, said: “To retain Purple Flag status for the 15th year is a huge achievement and reflects the creativity and commitment of our partners.”
Bournemouth is one of just 100 Purple Flag destinations worldwide, a list that includes places across the UK, Ireland, Sweden, Malta, New Zealand and Australia - recognised for providing safe, inclusive and vibrant evenings out.