Northampton town centre’s night time economy awarded purple flag status for third consecutive year

For the third year running, Northampton town centre has been awarded with the purple flag status for its night time economy.

The purple flag, which is comparable to the green flag for parks and the blue flag for beaches, recognises the town’s diverse range of bars, restaurants and evening entertainment venues.

Judges were impressed with the partnership between the Northampton town centre Business Improvement District (BID), which co-funded the Purple Flag application, along with Pubwatch and Northampton Borough Council.

Mark Mullen, BID Operations Manager, said: “This award is based on our town centre at the start of this year. Obviously the pandemic has transformed the landscape and much of our nightlife is only just starting to reopen, with some yet to reopen.

"Despite this we want to take a moment to express pride in our renewed accreditation. We are pleased the Purple Flag judges recognised our commitment to the evening economy and to ensuring our visitors’ experience is a positive one. We look forward to establishing a new normal for our night time economy and to resuming to living up to the high standards of Purple Flag."

Councillor Anna King, Northampton Borough Council Cabinet member for community engagement and safety, added: “We’re delighted to receive this award once again, and it serves as a reminder of the fantastic range of independent and high street bars and restaurants on offer, which make our town so unique.

“Over 200 food and drink venues in and around the town centre are also taking part in the Eat Out to Help Out Scheme this month, and we hope that people will take advantage of this, to support these businesses.

“Our partners at Northampton Town Centre BID and the Council’s team of wardens are doing an excellent job of making sure everyone stays safe while visiting the town centre, but please remember to be patient with staff and maintain social distancing.”

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