06 February 2025
Southampton is waving the Purple Flag for a third consecutive year as the city is recognised for its ongoing dedication to night-time safety.
Southampton is celebrating as it proudly receives ATCM’s (Association of Town & City Management) Purple Flag accreditation, a recognition of its commitment to creating a dynamic, secure, and vibrant evening and night-time economy. 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 5 pm to 5 am. This prestigious award highlights Southampton’s blend of entertainment, dining, and culture, all while ensuring the safety and well-being of residents and visitors in the evening and night-time economy.
The ATCM noted that key successes in Southampton’s submission included the fantastic work of the Street Pastors, who provide an exceptional service in the city; strong engagement with the two universities; and the Op Defender briefings, weekly debriefs, and forward looking, demonstrating great awareness and a strong partnership approach.
The city’s Business Improvement District, GO! Southampton has been behind the application since the city first achieved Purple Flag status in 2023. Operations Manager Jade McCauley said: “Securing Purple Flag status for a third year in a row is a real honour for us and we are thrilled to be a part of this incredible achievement.
“We are so proud to see Southampton recognised for its vibrant, safe and dynamic night-time offering. The city has something for everyone, from cinemas, cafes and bars to theatres, parks and shopping – and it’s so important that we all pull together to keep that scene alive after dark.
“Achieving Purple Flag status is a testament to the ongoing efforts of GO! Southampton, our partners and local businesses, which are all committed to enhancing the wellbeing and safety of both residents and visitors in the evening economy.
Southampton Chief Inspector at Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary, Chris Douglas, said: “Myself and my officers, who work tirelessly alongside our valued partnership agencies to ensure that Southampton is a safe and welcoming place to visit after dark, are really proud that the city has been awarded Purple Flag status once again.
“Operation Defender, which is our dedicated effort to make the night-time economy safe for everyone, has been in place for a number of years now and accolades such as this demonstrate that it is working. We are committed to ensuring that people who come into the city in the evenings are enjoying themselves and having a good time, and that they are able to get home safely at the end of the night.”
Councillor Christie Lambert, Cabinet Member for Communities & Safer City at Southampton City Council, said: “I am thrilled to have achieved Purple Flag Status for the city and would like to thank all our partners involved. Southampton is known for its vibrant nightlife, with something for everyone, which is why keeping our people safe is a huge priority. We will continue to work to instil pride in place and ensure people can enjoy our wide entertainment offer, safely.”
