Liverpool recognised as one of the safest cities at night-time
Liverpool has reaffirmed its reputation as one of the safest and most vibrant city centres, securing Purple Flag accreditation for the 16th year in a row.
Run by the Association of Town and City Management (ATCM), the international scheme recognises cities that offer a diverse range of leisure and entertainment activities after dark, as well as a safe and welcoming environment for all.
The ATCM report praised the city for the work of City Watch, Taxi Marshals, and Licensing teams, each of which plays a key role in improving safety during the evening and night-time economy.
Liverpool was also recognised for the growing strength of its offer, seen in the repurposing of grand buildings like the newly opened Ivy; and continued transport improvements, including the introduction of a new train fleet and step-free access.
It also highlighted the strong partnerships between Liverpool City Council, Liverpool BID, Liverpool ONE, Merseyside Police, Liverpool Nightlife CIC, and student groups, noting their joint efforts to maintain a clean, safe and well-managed night-time environment.
Liverpool has held Purple Flag status since the scheme’s inception in 2010, making it one of the longest-standing Purple Flag cities in the world.
There are now more than 90 Purple Flag destinations across the UK, Ireland, Sweden, Malta, New Zealand and Australia.
Night-time safety charter
Following its Purple Flag success, the Council is launching a new night-time safety charter. Businesses across Liverpool are invited to sign the charter, which is a list of seven pledges designed to further improve customer and staff safety.
The pledges include a commitment to staff training, ensuring a business has clear reporting mechanisms for unacceptable behaviour, and making people aware of the support available.
Businesses are invited to attend a launch event on Wednesday 11 March from 2.30pm at Kells of Eden Bar. Any organisation looking to attend can find out more online, and RSVP by emailing communitysafety@liverpool.gov.uk.
Councillor Laura Robertson-Collins, Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, Neighbourhoods and Streetscene said: “Liverpool is a city that continues to grow year on year, and we’re proud to be recognised for our fantastic nighttime economy for 16 years in a row.
“The city is a shining example of what a vibrant, safe, and welcoming place should be, and it’s no surprise that we are one of very few cities to have held Purple Flag status since the scheme began.
“This accreditation is testament to the hard work our officers and partners put in every day of the year. It is only by working together that we’ve achieved this, and we remain committed to making Liverpool an even better place for everyone who lives, works and visits.”
Liverpool city centre Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Jack Woodward said: “It is only through strong and effective partnership working we can ensure Liverpool remains a safe and welcoming place for people to live, work and visit.
“Our work continues on a daily basis to build relationships with local businesses and provide a visible and proactive presence on the streets of the city so people can enjoy everything Liverpool has to offer, in a safe, vibrant and diverse night time economy.
“It is great news that the work that we do alongside partners has been recognised with the continuation of the Purple Flag accreditation for a 16th year.”
Shaun Holland, Director of Operations at Liverpool Business Improvement District said: “We are delighted that Liverpool has retained its Purple Flag status. This marks 16 years of a collaborative effort to make a night out in Liverpool one of the safest you can find.
“From the business perspective, it helps to keep those working in our night-time economy feeling safe and supported, alongside those who come to the city in their thousands every weekend to sample what Liverpool has to offer. We have led the way, as a city, bringing partners together to work collaboratively to reduce and drive out crime, antisocial behaviour and offences which harm venues, revellers and staff.
“We have piloted projects and given the night-time economy the power to bring their voice to the table and secure what they need. From our Business Crime Reduction Partnership, to supporting the new app from Liverpool Nightlife CIC to improve staff training, the Liverpool Business Improvement District has been central in making our city as safe as it can be for everyone.”
Donna Howitt, Deputy Centre Director at Liverpool ONE, said: “Retaining Purple Flag status since 2010 is a powerful endorsement of what can be achieved through genuine collaboration across the city. From local authorities and emergency services to businesses and community partners, everyone plays a role in creating an environment where people feel welcome, safe and confident to enjoy Liverpool at any time of day.
“A strong, well-managed city centre is fundamental to Liverpool’s visitor economy, supporting jobs, investment and growth across retail, leisure, culture and hospitality. This recognition reinforces Liverpool’s position as a vibrant, inclusive destination where visitors and residents alike can enjoy everything the city has to offer, safely and responsibly.”