We don’t need a flag to tell us about Galway’s nightlife, but we’ll take one anyway.
The city has once again won the prestigious Purple Flag, which has been retained since 2015.
The Purple Flag is an international accreditation awarded to cities and towns that meet a standard of excellence in managing the evening and night-time economy.
The application for the flag process brought together Galway City Council and local business associations and networks including Galway Chamber, the Latin Quarter, East Village and Galway’s Westend among others.
Galway City, as a Purple Flag accredited area has proven that it is welcoming to everyone, offers safe ways for visitors to travel home after dark and provides a good mix of venues.
An overnight assessment was undertaken by two assessors from 5.00pm to 5.00am throughout the designated Purple Flag area of Galway City which spans from College Road, Forster Street, Eyre Square, Woodquay, Eglington Street, William Street, Shop Street, the Latin Quarter area, Fishmarket and Spanish Arch and through Galway’s Westend.
Caitriona Morgan, Purple Flag Co-ordinator expressed her delight at the news of Galway City retaining the Purple Flag Award.
“We are delighted that Galway City has had its Purple Flag renewed in recognition of our dedicated efforts and investment in the creation and enhancement of our evening and night time economy. We are very proud to fly the Purple Flag, reflecting the strength of ongoing partnerships and engagement activities with all key stakeholders,” she said.
The feedback from the independent assessors was overwhelming positive and in their report they stated: “There is excellent involvement of Galway businesses on the Purple Flag Working Group and with individual participation in making it happen.
“Consequently the relationship between the business community and stakeholders from the Council and the Garda is particularly strong.”
The announcement of the award comes at an appropriate time as Galway City will be celebrating Purple Flag weekend which takes place from 6th – 8th October, 2017.
