Lichfield gains Purple Flag Award for its creation of a safe and welcoming night-time economy

The internationally recognised accreditation – similar to the Blue Flag for beaches – and bid for by a partnership led by Lichfield District Council, aims to raise the standard and broaden the appeal of town and city centres between 5pm and 5am.

Judges from awarding body, the Association of Town and City Management, visited the city last month and made their assessment over the course of a Saturday evening and early Sunday morning noting the blend of entertainment, dining and culture and the measures taken to ensure the safety and wellbeing of residents and visitors.

They particularly praised Lichfield for its safe, diverse offer, incorporating historic features and multi-use green spaces, the use of the Social Progress Index to inform the application and the exemplary enthusiasm, dedication and commitment of those present at the assessment presentation.

Councillor Janice Silvester-Hall, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Visitor Economy, Ecology and Climate Change, said:

“We are all absolutely thrilled that Lichfield has been awarded the Purple Flag as it represents the gold standard for the management of evening and night-time economies.

“The award, which will help boost Lichfield in the evenings, is the result of hard work and collaboration between our partners and I wish to thank them all for delivering a successful bid.”

Ojay McDonald, Chief Executive Officer of Association of Town and City Management, said:

“On behalf of the ATCM, we are delighted to congratulate Lichfield on being awarded their first Purple Flag. This achievement reflects the city’s outstanding commitment to delivering a safe, vibrant, and well-managed evening and night-time economy. Lichfield should be commended for the dedication and enthusiasm demonstrated by the partnership.”

Lichfield’s entry was backed by a partnership which includes Lichfield District Council, Lichfield City Council, Staffordshire Police, Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service, Lichfield Garrick Theatre, The Hub@St Mary’s, Lichfield Chamber of Trade and Commerce, Lichfield Cathedral, Late Night Listeners, Lichfield Food Festival, Lichfield Arts, Lichfield District Council’s Visitor Economy Network, Lichfield District Council’s Community Safety Partnership.

There are 100 Purple Flag destinations around the globe; in the UK, Ireland, Sweden, Malta, New Zealand and Australia. This includes world renowned tourist destinations to small market towns.