Barnsley town centre has been awarded a coveted Purple Flag accreditation for a sixth consecutive year in recognition of its commitment to creating a dynamic, secure, and vibrant evening and night-time economy (ENTE). 

The Purple Flag scheme aims to raise the standard while broadening the appeal of town and city centres between the hours of 5pm to 5am. This prestigious award highlights Barnsley's diverse and attractive entertainment, dining, and culture offer, all while ensuring the safety and wellbeing of residents and visitors in the ENTE. 

Key successes in Barnsley's submission include strong partnership work which provides a focused and ambitious vision for the town along with comprehensive guardianship measures. 

The introduction of the Licensing Security and Vulnerability Initiative (LSAVI) initiative was also praised by the judges, with 30 venues accredited at 4.5 stars or above. 

Other aspects included annual training conducted with night-time economy staff, taxi and marshal services, night angels, the Ask for Angela safety scheme, and the continued development of Barnsley’s Violence Against Women and Girls agenda. 

The feedback from the assessment said: “Barnsley deserves commendation for the strong momentum conveyed in this submission. The partnership’s strength, collaborative spirit, and ambitious vision for the town are evident and inspiring. The energy surrounding Barnsley’s journey so far - and all that lies ahead - is truly impressive. Well done! 

“The level of guardianship within the ENTE is impressive, with groups like the wardens, marshals, angels, and street pastors providing a supportive presence for night time visitors. 

“This strong network contributes to a widespread sense of safety, as reflected in the positive results of the crime and anti-social behaviour survey. It's also encouraging to see a responsive approach in action, such as adjusting the patrol hours of marshals and angels to align with consumer needs. 

“Following the last renewal, it’s great to see that LSAVI has been a success in Barnsley, with 30 venues already being accredited all with 4.5 stars or above. The adoption of the scheme, and its expansion to the entire town centre, demonstrates the drive to encourage safe hospitality venues.” 

The town centre has continued to thrive in 2024, particularly with the historical market celebrating 775 years and The Glass Works development continuing to help attract new businesses to the town centre.  

Barnsley’s extensive events programme includes the Flavours Food Festival, the return of the Barnsley 10K as well as Barnsley’s Big Weekend in July. The Bright Nights festival, an evening event including an illuminated parade and light projection, resulted in a 16% increase in footfall in November compared to 2023. 

Councillor Sir Steve Houghton CBE, Leader of Barnsley Council, said: "We’re incredibly proud to have received the Purple Flag accreditation for a sixth consecutive year. Doing so is a great testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone involved in making Barnsley's evening and night-time economy a success. 

“The collaborative efforts between ourselves, services and partners in both the public and private sector continue to be vital as we all work toward the shared goal of making Barnsley a safe and vibrant place to come with a diverse offering that provides something for everyone to enjoy, day or night.” 

The partnership includes Doyle Security, South Yorkshire Police, Barnsley Council’s licensing team, the Violence Reduction Unit, Barnsley Hospital, Trading Standards, Safer Neighbourhood Service, Street Pastors, Barnsley Recovery Steps, and licensed premises and staff.