What Purple Flag Accreditation Means for Exeter
Exeter has earned the prestigious Purple Flag accreditation, joining an elite group of UK cities recognized for excellence in managing their evening and night-time economy. This national standard, awarded by the Association of Town and City Management (ATCM), signifies Exeter’s commitment to providing safe, diverse, and well-managed nighttime experiences for residents, students, and visitors alike.
The Purple Flag assessment examined five key areas: wellbeing, movement, place, policy, and appeal. Exeter demonstrated particular strength in safety initiatives, partnership working, and cultural diversity – factors that directly benefit the University of Exeter community and all who enjoy the city after dark.
Collaborative Approach to Night-Time Safety
The successful accreditation resulted from unprecedented collaboration between key stakeholders:
- University of Exeter leadership
- InExeter Business Improvement District
- Devon and Cornwall Police
- Exeter City Council
- Transport providers
- Cultural institutions
- Local businesses
“Our community takes pride in Exeter’s reputation as a safe student city,” said Professor Lisa Roberts, Vice-Chancellor at the University of Exeter. “This achievement reflects our shared commitment to wellbeing beyond campus boundaries.”
Safety Infrastructure Enhancements
Exeter’s Purple Flag application highlighted significant investments in nighttime safety infrastructure:
Expanded CCTV Coverage
The city now operates comprehensive high-definition CCTV coverage with 24/7 monitoring from Exeter’s control room. “Our surveillance upgrades provide real-time incident response capabilities,” explained Councillor Laura Wright, Exeter’s Deputy Leader for Community Safety.
Transportation Improvements
Late-night transport options have expanded, including coordinated taxi services and night bus routes serving key student areas. These developments address the ATCM’s emphasis on safe movement during nighttime hours.
Cultural Diversity After Dark
Exeter’s nighttime economy extends far beyond traditional pub culture, offering:
- Theatre productions at Exeter Phoenix
- Live music venues showcasing local talent
- Family-friendly evening events
- Independent cinema screenings
- Museum late-night openings
“Our cultural programming creates unique experiences you won’t find elsewhere in the South West,” noted Patrick Cunningham of Exeter Phoenix. This diversity aligns with Purple Flag criteria for inclusive nighttime offerings.
Economic Impact on Student City
The accreditation strengthens Exeter’s position as a premier destination for university students. A vibrant yet safe nighttime economy directly impacts:
- Student recruitment and retention
- Local business revenue
- Community cohesion
- Graduate employment opportunities
Sustaining Excellence in Night-Time Management
Exeter’s partners have committed to ongoing improvements in four key areas:
- Safety Protocols: Continued investment in CCTV and street lighting
- Partnership Working: Regular multi-agency safety meetings
- Diverse Programming: Expansion of alcohol-free evening events
- Transport Innovation: Nighttime mobility solutions for shift workers
Prospective students and their families can view Exeter’s Purple Flag status as an indicator of the city’s commitment to student wellbeing. Current residents benefit from ongoing investments in nighttime infrastructure and cultural offerings.
Discover how Exeter’s nighttime economy continues to evolve through university-led initiatives and community partnerships. Those considering study opportunities can explore how Exeter’s safe environment enhances student life beyond the classroom.
Have questions about student life in Exeter? Contact the University’s student services team for firsthand insights about living and studying in a Purple Flag accredited city.
