Exeter awarded Purple Flag status for safe and vibrant night-time economy

Exeter has been awarded Purple Flag accreditation, an internationally recognised mark of excellence that recognises towns and cities where people can enjoy a safe, well-managed and vibrant night out with confidence.

The Purple Flag award celebrates strong partnership working, effective transport connections and a clear focus on safety and wellbeing within the evening and night-time economy. Exeter has secured the status for the first time following a comprehensive external assessment by the Association of Town and City Management (ATCM).

Sergeant Jim Wellard, who leads on policing of the evening and night-time economy in Exeter, said the award reflects the work carried out in the city in recent months.

“Over the last 18 months, we have made significant and much needed changes to the way we police Exeter in the evening.

“We have implemented Public Space Protection Orders which provide our officers with powers to disperse individuals causing issues from the city centre, and we have used statistics and detailed crime information to structure two-phase patrols which ensure we have a policing presence in the right areas at the right times.

“The Purple Flag award is a huge achievement for the city and highlights the fantastic work the neighbourhood policing team have done to increase the visibility of police in the evening economy and focus on safety - particularly of women and girls - at night between 17:00 and 05:00 on Friday and Saturday nights.

“We will continue to work closely with our partners to make Exeter a safe and enjoyable place for everyone.”

Police figures from 2025 show incidents of anti-social behaviour during the evening in Exeter fell by 16 per cent compared with 2024. This reduction has been attributed to closer partnership working, proactive drug patrols in nightclubs, spot checks on the Ask Angela initiative and a wider availability of non-alcoholic drinks for those choosing not to drink alcohol.

Inspector Nathan Johnson, who leads the Exeter Neighbourhood Policing Team and was involved in preparing the Purple Flag submission, said the accreditation was a landmark moment for the city.

“I am delighted and proud that Exeter has been granted the prestigious Purple Flag status for the very first time.

“This demonstrates the value of partnership efforts which take place every day of the year to keep Exeter safe for people living in, working in or visiting the area.

“The success of this achievement is thanks to the collaboration between InExeter, Devon & Cornwall Police, Exeter City Council, Exeter College and the University of Exeter, as well as transport providers, cultural venues and local businesses.

“Exeter has a lot to offer we will continue to keep people spending time in our vibrant and cultured city safe and secure.”

The ATCM assessment praised Exeter’s diverse night-time economy, strong partnership approach and clear prioritisation of safety. Purple Flag status reflects the city’s coordinated management after dark, supported by visible policing, expanded CCTV coverage, late-night transport options and a growing programme of cultural, community and family-friendly activities.

Nicola Wheeler, chief executive of InExeter, said the accreditation highlights the commitment of businesses and partners across the city.

“We’re absolutely delighted that Exeter has been awarded the prestigious Purple Flag accreditation.

“This achievement highlights Exeter as an exceptional city for a night out. Our businesses and partners are committed to ensuring the wellbeing of all who come to enjoy the evening atmosphere.

“Exeter offers an outstanding and vibrant night-time experience for people of all ages, with an ever-growing programme of diverse events and activities.”

Exeter City Council has also invested in improvements to CCTV in the city centre. Cllr Laura Wright, the council’s deputy leader and lead councillor for community safety and the city centre, said: “Our investment in CCTV has significantly strengthened safety in Exeter. Extensive high definition coverage and 24/7 monitoring from the city’s control room provide real reassurance for people enjoying the evening and night-time economy, while supporting rapid partnership responses when it matters most.”

Residents and visitors can follow the Exeter neighbourhood policing team for updates at www.facebook.com/ExeterPolice.