Navan becomes the newest town to fly the Purple Flag | Discover Boyne Valley Meath, Ireland

Navan becomes the newest town to fly the Purple Flag

Date: 30/09/2015

Navan is celebrating today after learning it has achieved the prestigious Purple Flag status for its evening and night-time economy.

Navan is celebrating today after learning it has achieved the prestigious Purple Flag status for its evening and night-time economy. Purple Flag is a town and city centre award – similar to the Blue Flag for beaches – which aims to raise the standard and broaden the appeal of town and city centres between the hours of 18:00 & 05:00. Towns awarded the Purple Flag are recognised for providing a vibrant mix of entertainment while promoting the safety and wellbeing of visitors and local residents.

Since 2007, the programme has awarded the Purple Flag status to over 65 towns and cities in the UK and Ireland. Purple Flag accredited towns 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 the Purple Flag Advisory Committee - a partnership of key stakeholder groups.

Navan has been awarded Purple Flag accreditation for showcasing a number of key initiatives to create awareness and promote what the town has to offer from 6pm to 5am.  The award is in recognition of the immeasurable effort on behalf of Navan Chamber of Commerce, Meath County Council, Corporate/Business sector, community and media.

Donna Farrell, President of Navan Chamber of Commerce said:

“Navan was very proud to be awarded Purple Flag accreditation, it’s a wonderful achievement for businesses and the wider community and we will grab this opportunity to further our aims in fostering a vibrant, clean and safe night time economy.” 

Philip Kolvin QC, Chairman of the Purple Flag Board said:

“The sustained growth of the Purple Flag initiative is highlighting the important challenge of creating a balanced, safe and vibrant night-time offering. Each area achieving this award has displayed how local organisations working together in partnership with the public can create positive and innovative outcomes. It is inspiring to witness the ongoing diversity of efforts from all accredited towns; old and new alike.”

Navan will officially receive the Purple Flag accreditation along with Carrick-on-Shannon, Cork and Swords and five towns who have had their status renewed at an awards ceremony on the 3rd November in Guildford, Surrey.