Weather for Chelmsford: Partly cloudy, 7.3°C, View more
Thursday 11th December, 2025

Chelmsford receives 11th Purple Flag in a row

14/02/2024 About 1 minute Share article:
Chelmsford has received Purple Flag accreditation for its night-time economy for an impressive 11th year in a row.

The award came with a commendation for the high standard of coordination of services in the city.

Chelmsford was found to be ‘above standard’ in all five of the core Purple Flag themes, with an ‘outstanding’ award for partnership working.

Purple Flag is an international accreditation programme that aims to reward those who achieve this in their destinations after dark. Purple Flag strives to help create safe and thriving locations at night for all users.

Chelmsford’s district commander, Chief Inspector Paul Ballard said:

“Retaining Purple Flag status for more than a decade is a fantastic achievement, due in no small part to the effective partnerships in Chelmsford.

“We work closely with the council, Business Improvement District and many other organisations to understand issues affecting the city centre, and act immediately whenever there are problems.

“In 2023, reports of anti-social behaviour fell by 36% across the district, with 750 fewer incidents, and we take pride in the part we are playing to help Chelmsford remain a nationally recognised place for a safe and welcoming night out.”

You can read more from Julie Weight on Chelmsford City LIfe.
Chelmsford Purple Flag Chief Inspector Paul Ballard Chelmsford City LIfe Julie Weight

Recent Articles

Person fatally struck by train between Shenfield and Chelmsford — services disrupted
Person fatally struck by train between Shenfield and Chelmsford — services disrupted

According to operator Greater Anglia, a person was hit by a train between Shenfield and Chelmsford in the early morning hours.

UK “Snow-Bomb” Buzz — What’s the Reality?
UK “Snow-Bomb” Buzz — What’s the Reality?

Across UK media and weather-forecasting chatter there has been a flurry of dramatic talk: some forecasts and maps (notably from third-party services) suggest a “snow bomb”.

Christmas Present Appeal — Essex Police supporting vulnerable children in Chelmsford & Maldon
Christmas Present Appeal — Essex Police supporting vulnerable children in Chelmsford & Maldon

In previous years the response has been overwhelming. The kindness and generosity of Essex communities has helped provide thousands of presents to children who might otherwise have nothing under the tree.

Businesses
Events
Rotary Mildmay Invites Families to Magical Santa's Grotto at Beaulieu Community Centre
Rotary Mildmay Invites Families to Magical Santa's Grotto at Beaulieu Community Centre

As the festive spirit descends upon Chelmsford, Rotary Mildmay is thrilled to announce the return of Santa's Grotto Beaulieu 202

The Essex Police Band to perform at the historic Great Waltham Church
The Essex Police Band to perform at the historic Great Waltham Church

The concert will take place at the historic Great Waltham Church, The Village, Great Waltham, Chelmsford, Essex CM3 1AR

Christmas at Riverside 2025
Christmas at Riverside 2025

Join Christmas at Riverside 2025 at Riverside Leisure Centre, Chelmsford — festive ice-skating, winter wonderland atmosphere, inclusive skate hire & family sessions from 6 Dec to 2 Jan.

Join the Popcorn Community for a Mersea Island walk
Join the Popcorn Community for a Mersea Island walk

Popcorn Community invites walkers to join festive 13 mile coastal challenge for local causes