City retains Purple Flag award for safe nightlife

Bradford has been awarded accreditation for its "safe and vibrant" night-time economy for the second year in a row.

Purple Flag accreditation is granted to cities by the Association of Town & City Management after an assessment of safety, amenities and other aspects of nightlife between 17:00 and 05:00.

Councillor Kamran Hussain, community safety lead at Bradford Council, said he was "delighted" the city had received the recognition.

"It's thanks to the hard work of dedicated staff and partner organisations striving to keep our city centre safe," he added.

The council, West Yorkshire Police, the university and health and faith-based groups worked together with other organisations to meet the award criteria.

Bradford 2025 City of Culture, the opening of Bradford Live and enhancements to CCTV had been key parts of the submission, the council said.

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, regeneration lead, said he hoped the coming year would "build on the success and momentum" of 2025, saying regeneration and investment in the city were continuing "at pace".

"We have much to celebrate, whether people are here for work, leisure or planning to live here," he said.

Darren Moore, Bradford Live venue director, described the renewal of the scheme as a "fantastic achievement".

"The city has a lot to offer, and Bradford Live is proud to play its part in providing a dynamic, safe and vibrant night-time economy," he said.

More than 90 cities in countries including the UK, Sweden, Malta and Australia, have been accredited over the Purple Flag scheme's 16-year history.

Accredited locations include globally recognised tourist hotspots to small market towns.

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