We’ll keep the Purple Flag flying here!

Wednesday, 14 June 2023 15:45

By David Murphy

From Left to right; Two members of the Street Pastor team, Jill Youlton, Victoria Robinson, Cllr Charlotte Morris and Chief Executive Lynne Ridsdale holding the Purple Flag outside Bury MET

Bury is celebrating after once more being awarded the prestigious Purple Flag accreditation for its evening and night-time economy.

Similar to the Blue Flag for beaches, it aims to raise the standard and broaden the appeal of town and city centres between the hours of 5pm to 5am.

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 Bury’s submission include the enthusiasm for short and medium-term future plans under its town centre masterplan and levelling-up funding projects, the commendable level of police presence, and the dedication and local knowledge of the Street Pastor team.

Councillor Charlotte Morris, cabinet member for culture, the economy and skills, said: “We are delighted to receive this prestigious award again in recognition of the ongoing excellence of Bury town centre.

“A huge number of organisations have worked together to make our town centre a welcoming and successful destination: from the council and the police to pubs, restaurants and entertainment venues, retail and transport operators, to our dedicated street pastors.”

Victoria Robinson, Chair of Bury Business Improvement District (Bury BID Company), said “Achieving Purple Flag status is fantastic for the town centre, particularly as it highlights how closely the Night Time Economy businesses work together and how lucky we are in Bury to have the wonderful voluntary street pastors that provide incredible support week after week. The BID looks forward to maintaining Purple Flag status going forward.”