Carrick on Shannon is now part of a network of 14 towns in the Republic of Ireland to be awarded Purple Flag Status. Purple Flag is the international accreditation for town centres in the evening and at night from 5pm to 5am. Like a Blue Flag, centres that achieve the required standards of 30 criteria can fly the flag. Purple Flag destinations distinguish themselves by being Vibrant and Well-Managed. The network of Purple Flag towns meet twice a year to share good practice and also highlight to agencies such as Failte Ireland the good work being done in these towns by Councils, Chamber, Businesses, Community and sporting organisations.
Carrick on Shannon received its award in November 2015 and is already busy preparing for its annual renewal in June 2016. As part of the renewal process, a number of actions must be put in place and some of these have already been achieved including improvement works to the Streetscape of Bridge Street, completion of a lighting assessment of the town, drawing up a Visitors Charter and installing street counters.
In April of this year a second Public Perceptions Survey will be carried out with residents and visitors alike to see again how people feel about the town and suggestions for on-going improvements to the town across day and night time activity. So watch out for a chance to participate in the coming weeks.
The Purple Flag is all about improving the experience you have of the town so we will be delighted to get your views.