13th 'Purple Flag' accolade in a row for Derry

Derry’s vibrant evening and night-time economy has once again captured the spotlight as it secured its impressive 13th consecutive recognition from the Association of Town and City Management (ATCM).

This remarkable achievement reflects the city's unwavering commitment to providing a diverse range of captivating experiences for residents and visitors alike. From bustling restaurants and thriving bars to captivating cultural events. Derry continues to shine as a beacon of excellence in night-time economy offerings.

Ceara Ferguson, at City Centre Initiative (CCI), who co-ordinates the Purple Flag application for the city explained that the award is in recognition for providing a vibrant experience for locals and tourists and providing a diverse mix of entertainment, dining and culture, while also promoting safety, cleanliness and good wellbeing.

The consistent recognition by ATCM is a testament to the city's unwavering dedication to fostering a vibrant and thriving social scene that has firmly established Derry as a premier destination for unforgettable evenings and nights out.

She added CCI facilitate the running of the project and are extremely thankful to receive funding from the North West Development Office of Department for Communities (DfC) to help deliver the application.

A departmental spokesperson said: “Congratulations to everyone that has contributed to the City retaining its Purple Flag status for the 13th consecutive year. This sends a message that the City continues to offer a diverse, safe and entertaining nightlife and contributes to achieving a thriving and successful local economy.

“The funding provided by DfC enables CCI to deliver a wide range of city centre management services and I would like to thank them for all the work that goes into co-ordinating the Purple Flag application and accreditation process.

Extending his heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated stakeholders and local businesses Jim Roddy, City Centre Manager at CCI said the resolute commitment and invaluable support from all in our city is a testament to the strong partnerships that underpin our success.

“Our dedicated partners work tirelessly to maintain the high standards necessary to achieve and retain Purple Flag status.

“The application process serves as an invaluable benchmark, allowing us to identify areas for improvement and enhance our overall standards. Moreover, it presents a wonderful opportunity to highlight our city as a proud recipient of the prestigious Purple Flag award, attracting tourists and encouraging them to indulge in our vibrant evening economy, ultimately boosting our local economy and to feel safe while doing so.

“This accolade serves as a powerful tool in showcasing our city, attracting business, investment, and visitors, solidifying our reputation as a desirable destination.”

“Our evening time economy continues to thrive locally and all the businesses and services that operate within it play a central role in achieving this status, alongside the city centre support team including; Derry City and Strabane District Council’s cleansing team, the PSNI, PCSP Community Safety Wardens, Foyle Search and Rescue, First Housing Support, CCTV, NIAS, NIFRS, Translink, NW Taxi Proprietors, Visit Derry, and the Foyle Haven in keeping our city centre safe, clean and vibrant throughout the year.

“I’d like to congratulate them all and our Purple Flag Coordinator, Ceara on this amazing accomplishment.”

The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Sandra Duffy added: “This is fantastic news and a hugely important accolade for the city. I would like to congratulate everyone involved in working collaboratively to ensure the highest standards are achieved in making our city centre a safe and inclusive space for everyone to enjoy.”

Derry City and Strabane Chief Inspector, Yvonne McManus said: "This is wonderful news, and we are delighted Purple Flag accreditation has once again been awarded. We understand how important it is that people who live here feel safe, and people feel welcome when they visit.

“As a Police Service we are committed to doing all we can, and play our part in creating a safe environment for everyone.
"Securing Purple Flag status is recognition of the hard work that goes on by everyone involved to make it happen, and we will continue to work with our partners to ensure the safety and wellbeing of local residents and the city’s visitors.”

ATCM have said Derry is officially celebrating today after receiving the news that they have been awarded the prestigious Purple Flag accreditation for its evening and night-time economy (ENTE) – similar to the Blue Flag for beaches – which aims to raise the standard and broaden the appeal of town and city centres between the hours of 5.00pm to 5.00am.

Areas awarded the Purple Flag are recognised for providing a vibrant and diverse mix of dining, entertainment and culture while promoting the safety and wellbeing of visitors and local residents.

Highlights from Derry's submission include the launch of the Nightmovers bus and its high use, the diverse events schedule especially those around Halloween, and the creation of a VAWG action plan.

PICTURED ABOVE: Celebrating Derry’s renewed Purple Flag status is Purple Flag Co-Ordinator, Ceara Ferguson alongside, Mayor Sandra Duffy, Jim Roddy City Centre Manager, Karen Doyle NWDO (DfC) DCSDC Cleansing Department and Regeneration Manager Tony Monaghan, PCSP Community Safety Wardens, PSNI City Centre Neighbourhood Team, Foyle Search & Rescue, Visit Derry, First Housing & Support Services, DEEDS, Foyle Haven, Hegarty’s Butchers and City Hotel Derry. (Photo: Martin McKeown Photography)