Stockport’s night time economy retains Purple Flag accreditation

Stockport has once again retained its Purple Flag accreditation, recognising the town centre’s dynamic, secure, and vibrant evening and night-time economy.

The Purple Flag scheme aims to raise the standard and broaden the appeal of town and city centres between the hours of 5pm to 5am.

This award reaffirms Stockport’s growing reputation as a fantastic evening destination, where visitors can enjoy a mix of great food, entertainment, and culture, all within a safe and well-managed environment.

Key successes in Stockport’s submission include the town’s impressive new award-winning public transport interchange, which seamlessly integrates modern new apartments and an urban park and event space, as well as the creative use of uplighters throughout the town centre, enhancing both the safety and visitor experience.

Through strong collaboration between businesses, the community, and local organisations, the council is creating a thriving and prosperous environment where people can live, work, and socialise with confidence and ambition.

Over the last 12 months, Stockport’s evening offer has expanded, with the White Lion opening, Cantaloupe, a new European dining restaurant and new bars including Thread on Market Place and Stanleys on the Underbanks. The town also boasts a new food tour delivered by Manchester Food Bites and has hosted an array of exciting events such as Stock Party and Stockport’s Spectacular Sunday.

Leader of Stockport Council, Cllr Mark Hunter, said:

“Retaining the Purple Flag accreditation is fantastic news for Stockport and reinforces the success of our continued investment and partnership work. It demonstrates the confidence businesses and visitors have in our thriving town centre, with more people choosing to spend their evenings here.

“With our ambitious regeneration plans, including thousands of new homes and the new transport interchange, Stockport is set to become an even more attractive destination for those looking for a safe and enjoyable night out.”

Chair of Stockport BID, Rhys Owen, said:

“Since the launch of Totally Stockport in 2017, many independent traders have chosen Stockport as the location to open their business.

“We have witnessed an influx of great bars, cafés and restaurants and music venues, adding to our vibrant night-time economy and ensuring Stockport continues to ‘stay alive after five’. Our growing and diverse hospitality and retail offering is positioning Stockport as an ideal after-dark destination. Purple flag accreditation gives both the businesses and visitors confidence that Stockport offers a great choice in entertainment and leisure within a recognised safe environment.”

Chief Inspector John Picton, Greater Manchester Police, said:

“This accreditation is a testament to the strong partnership between GMP, Stockport Council and local businesses. Ensuring that Stockport remains a safe and welcoming place for residents and visitors is a priority, and we are pleased to see our joint efforts recognised. We will continue working closely with all partners to maintain the high standards that have led to this achievement.”

Stockport was first awarded the Purple Flag in 2019, which has been renewed every two years since then.

Purple Flag-accredited areas typically experience increased footfall and reduced crime levels within their evening and night-time economy. The programme, managed by the Association of Town and City Management (ATCM), is backed by the government, law enforcement, and businesses, further demonstrating Stockport’s commitment to excellence.

Photo L to R: Jon Dootson, owner of the White Lion. Inspector Jason Holmwood from Central Neighbourhood Team, Rhys Owen, Chair of Stockport BID, Cllr Mark Hunter, Leader of Stockport Council.