Bondholders unite to create safer and more vibrant city centre

A number of Marketing Derby Bondholders have been working with the police to make Derby city centre a safer and more vibrant place to be.

Organisations including Marketing Derby, the Cathedral Quarter and St Peters Quarter Business Improvement Districts, the University of Derby, Derbion, Vaillant and Derby Museums, have all played a key role in improving safety, accessibility and cultural appeal in the city after hours.

This work, in partnership with Derbyshire Police, has recently earned Derby the prestigious Purple Flag accreditation, a national recognition awarded by the Association of Town and City Management.

It is awarded to places that meet high standards for managing the evening and night-time economy.

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, leader at Derby City Council and cabinet member for city centre, regeneration, strategy and policy, said: “The Purple Flag is a powerful symbol of what we can achieve when our city works together.

“From the police and universities to businesses, venues and volunteers, everyone has a part to play in making Derby safer, more welcoming and more vibrant after dark.”

From student safety initiatives led by the University of Derby to late-night shopping and events at Derbion, to visible policing and coordinated city centre management by the BIDs, the efforts are wide-ranging and deeply collaborative.

Companies like Vaillant are also engaging with community initiatives, reinforcing the importance of a collective approach to civic responsibility.

This collaborative work not only supports Derby’s night-time economy, but also builds a stronger, more inclusive city one where everyone can feel proud to take part in its growth.

Councillor Peatfield added: “This isn’t just about awards — it’s about people in Derby. It’s about making sure everyone, from students to families to visitors, feels proud and confident to enjoy our city centre.

“We’re committed to building on this success, working with partners now and into the future to keep improving Derby’s evening experience for all; this includes the new appointment of a city centre manager.”

To learn more about what’s taking place in Derby visit the Derby LIVE website at https://www.derbylive.co.uk/whats-on/.

To find out about the city’s nightlife go to the Visit Derby website at https://www.visitderby.co.uk/.

Visit Derby has also recently produced its latest What’s On Guide, which covers events from July to September. To download it visit https://www.visitderby.co.uk/application/files/3717/5094/5878/Visit_Derby_Whats_On_Guide_-_Jul_-_Sep_2025.pdf.