The Association of Town & Centre Management (ATCM) awards towns and city centres that meet or exceed the standards of excellence in managing the night time economy.
Sheffield was the first city in Yorkshire to apply for the accreditation in 2012, and has been awarded it every year since.
Councillor Joe Otten, Environmental Services and Regulation Policy Committee, said: “Partners, city centre businesses and the Council work hard to achieve this accreditation and just because we’ve had this for a long time now, it doesn’t mean that it’s easy to get.
“We are all as pleased as ever to receive it because it’s the result of the continued determination, enthusiasm and collaboration across a number of sectors that brings vibrancy to our city centre.”
Initiatives such as ‘Ask for Angela’ and ‘Best Bar None Scheme’ operate in licensed businesses and are supported by a night time charter and toolkit to tackle violence against women.
‘Sheffield Safe Square’ is another initiative that aims to support Sheffield’s night time economy and keep residents and visitors safe when out in the city centre and after a pilot, has been extended into the Spring.
This service is based at Baker’s Pool and is made up of a medical treatment unit, a privately funded ambulance and two heated tents. These facilities offer both medical and welfare assistance to anyone on a night out.
Judges for this year’s Purple Flag award assessed the city centre on a range of criteria including cleanliness, personal safety, transport and how welcoming the city is.
Diane Jarvis, Chief Executive Officer at Sheffield BID, said: “Sheffield BID continues to play an active role in supporting partners to maintain the city’s Purple Flag status. Through strong collaboration across the evening and night‑time economy, we are working together to create safe, welcoming and vibrant experiences for everyone who visits the city centre.
“Our award-winning Best Bar None scheme has grown yet again this year, demonstrating the continued commitment of venues to raising standards and contributing to a great – and safe – night out in Sheffield.”
Sheffield’s partners in the Purple Flag Process include Sheffield City Council, South Yorkshire Police, Sheffield BID and Sheffield street pastors.