Shrewsbury's night-time economy awarded
Shrewsbury has been awarded the gold standard for its evening and night-time economy.
The town has achieved Purple Flag status – a town and city centre award and is similar to the Blue Flag for beaches that aims to raise the standard and broaden the appeal of town and city centres after 6pm.
It was praised as a "very safe and secure" town by assessors, who highlighted the town's mix of unique and quirky venues, independent and chain bars and real ale on offer, with over 20 venues CAMRA listed.
The report also commended Team Shrewsbury and its strong partnership approach to improving and responding to issues in town.
In recent weeks Subway has applied to open its Claremont Street branch until 3am, while a bid has also been approved to open a lapdancing club above the Source Bar in Barker Street despite objections from residents and Councillor Andrew Bannerman.
The town will officially receive its Purple Flag at an awards ceremony on February 25 in Aylesbury Vale.
Team Shrewsbury includes Shropshire Council, Shrewsbury Town Council, Shrewsbury BID, West Mercia Police and Shrewsbury Street Pastors.
Shrewsbury BID executive director Kirsten Henly said: "We are extremely proud to be able to fly the Purple Flag in recognition of everyone involved our evening and night time economy,."
West Mercia deputy PCC Barrie Sheldon added: "This award is great news for Shrewsbury, and a ringing endorsement for the excellent work done to make the town an even safer, happier and healthier place.
"We have made tackling business crime a priority and have been involved in an innovative new partnership approach to managing the community. This Purple Flag award helps illustrate how successful that approach has been so far and I hope the benefits it brings for the whole town will only further improve things."
Town clerk from Shrewsbury Town Council, Helen Ball said: "We are delighted to have achieved Purple Flag accreditation in recognition of the ongoing excellence of Shrewsbury town centre.
"To receive this award reflects the hard work of Team Shrewsbury partners to make Shrewsbury a desirable, and safe, night-time destination for people of all ages."
Superintendent David McWilliam said: "This is great news for the town. It is especially pleasing that the very strong and visible presence has been acknowledged as playing a key role in keeping the town safe."
