Two of Bath’s most famous landmarks, The Weir and Pulteney Bridge, have been bathed in light to celebrate the renew of the city’s accreditation under the Purple Flag scheme for a fourth year.
Bath was one of the first UK cities to receive the standard, which indicates excellence in the management and safety of its evening economy. 
The accreditation is backed by financial support from the Bath Business Improvement District (BID) and Bath & North East Somerset Council, along with initiatives such as the Nightwatch scheme and the introduction of city and taxi marshals, which ensure revellers get home safely following a night out and ease pressure on the local emergency services.
Nightwatch connects licensees and the police via the latest radio technology, helping to quickly identify any issues and share information among the support team. The BID marshals help around 2,000 people every week in the city of Bath.
Bath BID chief executive Andrew Cooper said: “Once again Bath has proven itself as a safe, diverse and well-run night-time economy. Purple Flag Week aims to celebrate these achievements as well as conveying important safety messages that Bath is a thriving night time destination, with a growing reputation as a safe place to enjoy on a night out.”
Cabinet member for neighbourhoods Cllr David Dixon added: “Many people in Bath do take care and drink alcohol responsibly but alcohol-related harm is still a serious concern for some, and something we take very seriously.
“Bath’s on-going Purple Flag accreditation shows the importance of the council and the Bath BID’s partnerships, and our joint commitment to tackling alcohol-related issues, making the evening economy safer and more enjoyable for all.
“With the support of our public health, community safety and public protection teams, Bath & North East Somerset Council wants to help ensure everyone has the opportunity to enjoy a healthy lifestyle and have a great night out by drinking sensibly.”
During Bath’s Purple Flag Week, which ended yesterday, Nightwatch members displayed posters at their premises, handed out pocket-sized guides with tips on staying safe as well as a map of the city centre showing participating bars.
The Purple Flag scheme is managed by the Association of Town Centre Managers working in partnership with key groups such as central and local government, police, business and consumers.
