Leaders at Gloucestershire County Council have reaffirmed the authority’s position on the display of national flags in public areas, stating that Union and St George’s flags will not be routinely removed from lampposts or other public places unless they present a safety hazard.
Council Leader Cllr Lisa Spivey said the Council recognises that many residents take pride in displaying the national flag, but emphasised that public safety remains the top priority.
“While we understand the pride many people feel for our national flag, painting it on a road can be a safety issue,” said Cllr Spivey. “We will intervene where there is a clear safety risk, for example if something is blocking the view of road users, interfering with traffic signals, or is in danger of falling.
“Where flags have been attached but do not create a hazard, we are not actively removing them. While they may not always be to everyone’s taste, they are seen by many residents as a sign of national pride. The presence of flags on lampposts is not something we will prioritise council resources on unless safety is compromised.”
Cllr Spivey clarified that while flags attached safely to lampposts will generally remain in place, painted markings or symbols on the road are not permitted under highways regulations and will be removed by Council teams.
She added that anyone who feels intimidated by the presence of flags, or believes they have been displayed with racist intent, should report their concerns to the police.
“The County Council proudly flies the Union Flag all year round and the St George’s Cross on St George’s Day,” Cllr Spivey said.
