Winchester celebrates Purple Flag
Winchester has been recognised as a Purple Flag centre offering visitors an entertaining and safe night out for a fifth year.
Just as a Blue Flag is an indicator of a good beach, a Purple Flag is an indicator of where to go for a good night out. The national scheme, led by the Association of Town Centre Management (ATCM), recognises that a town or city is managing its night time experience and overcoming any negative public perceptions that may exist. Winchester has achieved this status as it offers a first class night out for both residents and the city's five million visitors a year.
Cllr Frank Pearson, Leader of Winchester City Council, said:
We have a fantastic city centre offering a whole host of activities and entertainment in the evening. We have safe streets with excellent CCTV coverage, alongside Street Pastors and Pubwatch to keep everyone safe. Purple Flag proves to our residents and visitors just how safe and inviting the city centre is. Thanks to everyone who has been involved in maintaining our Purple Flag accreditation.
Strong partnership working remains one of Winchester’s strengths, with a number of organisations pulling together. Bringing key stakeholders such as the Winchester BID, a number of Winchester City Council teams, cultural venues and security and safety groups together, enables everyone to be in touch with what is happening and what to expect at different times of year.
Eleanor Dodd, owner of The Chesil Rectory sees great value in Purple Flag accreditation:
We offer great food, service and a wonderful atmosphere inside this beautiful, historic building, but it is essential to work with partners to maintain Winchester’s high standing as a whole. We want to do our bit to make Winchester a good night out, so everyone can reap the benefits of greater footfall and greater spend.
Just some of the activities residents and visitors can enjoy include film at the Everyman cinema, live performance at Theatre Royal Winchester or evening music at Nicola’s Tea Shop or The Railway Inn. Afterwards, a good meal at an award winning restaurant, or drinks at a buzzing wine bar, then stay overnight in your choice from a range of hotels and B&Bs. Everything can be found at the www.visitwinchester.com website, including a film showing the range of evening activities and experiences.
For more information about Purple Flag please visit their website at www.purpleflag.org.uk