Chester flying the Purple Flag in 2026

Chester has retained the prestigious Purple Flag accreditation for its evening and night-time economy.

 It’s a double celebration this year, along with retaining the Purple Flag status (held by the city since 2018), Chester will also be hosting this year’s Purple Flag awards ceremony on 17 March.

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 residents.

The key successes from Chester’s submission this year included an inclusive and representative partnership, demonstrating incredibly positive relationships between stakeholders; a clear commitment and dedication to the Purple Flag program; and the impressive ‘One City Plan,’ a vision that effectively shapes Chester’s future ambitions.

Councillor Stuart Bingham, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Neighbourhood Pride said:

“I am incredible proud of Chester city centre and the hard work that has been done by partners and stakeholders that make it an amazing destination for so many reasons. 

“This award gives visitors the confidence that the city centre is not just vibrant, diverse, and welcoming, it is also safe, with the Council, it’s partner organisation, and the venues and their staff taking care of everyone’s well-being.  The city centre continues to go from strength to strength with this being one of many awards that mark Chester as a very special place ”

The Purple Flag programme was developed following the Civic Trust’s “Night Vision” report in 2006 and is now managed by the Association of Town & City Management.

Carl Critchlow, Chief Executive of Chester BID said:

“Over the last year, Chester has welcomed over 20 new businesses in the city, a large percentage of those being hospitality and night-time economy. Receiving the Purple Flag accreditation shows us that businesses, new and longstanding, understand the need for a safe and welcoming experience for our customers and visitors to the city.

“As a BID, we’re pleased to be able to fund this on behalf of our business. All credit goes to them.”

Inspector James Wilson, Chester Local Policing Unit, added:

“I welcome the Purple Flag accreditation given to Chester and am proud that our city has been awarded this status yet again.

“We work closely with all our partners across Chester to ensure those enjoying the night time economy can do so safely, including Cheshire West and Chester Council, businesses and private security, amongst others.

“Our officers are committed to protecting our residents and visitors, and rest assured we are not complacent, and we will continue working hard to ensure Chester remains a safe place for everyone.”

Keeping the city safe is a partnership between Cheshire West and Chester Council, the Chester BID, Cheshire Police, Chester Against Business Crime, Pubwatch, the University of Chester, Chester Residents' Associations Group and several third sector groups.