Stockport’s night-time economy recognised with prestigious Purple Flag award

Areas awarded the Purple Flag are recognised for providing a vibrant and diverse mix of dining, entertainment and culture whilst also promoting the safety and wellbeing of visitors and local residents. Purple Flag aims to raise the standard and broaden the appeal of town and city centres between the hours of 5pm to 5am.

Stockport was particularly recognised for the atmospheric and popular use of the Produce Hall as a night-time venue, the large-scale investment and major infrastructure projects to improve the area, and a desire to work with partners, including the police, to improve the former image of Stockport and to bring a high-quality offer to all aspects of the town.

Over the past few years, the town centre has successfully welcomed many new businesses to help enhance the night time offer including The Spinn Off, Bistro Marc at Winters, Dr Feelgood, Yellowhammer and the new bowling and leisure offer at The Light Cinema.

Councillor Colin MacAlister, Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration at Stockport Council, said: “This is very welcome news and demonstrates that our investment into the town centre and partnership work has clearly paid off. Our many residents come to Stockport to enjoy all it has to offer, and a raft of new business openings shows real confidence from the business community. Our ambitious plans, including new homes and the new Transport Interchange will attract more people to the town centre, who can enjoy all it has to offer.”

Chair of Stockport Business Improvement District, Mike Lamont, said “One of the BID’s main priorities is to support all businesses so they can thrive within the town centre. Our growing and diverse hospitality and retail offering is positioning Stockport as an ideal after-dark destination. Purple flag accreditation gives both the businesses and visitors confidence that Stockport offers a great choice in entertainment and leisure within a recognised safe environment.”

Purple Flag accredited areas have all reported a consistent increase in footfall and a decrease in crime within the evening and night-time economy. The Purple Flag programme is managed by the Association of Town and City Management (ATCM), which works alongside a partnership of key stakeholder groups backed by Government, police and businesses.