Flags in Stevenage
Our position remains unchanged, and for now, we will not be removing flags from land owned by Stevenage Borough Council. However, we have been liaising with Hertfordshire County Council (HCC) regarding national flags being displayed on highways structures and lampposts. HCC has subsequently released the following guidance which adheres to their usual council policy and provides details on how to report any issues:
“We [HCC] regularly fly the Union flag and the flag of St George outside our offices, and recognise their importance as symbols of national pride. We also support the right of individuals and organisations to fly these flags on their own property.
“However, to ensure public safety we have a policy of not allowing any items to be attached to lampposts and other street fixtures we are responsible for without our permission. If our highways team become aware of unapproved items then they will remove them when they are next in the area. If we consider an item poses an immediate risk to safety, or is clearly offensive (e.g. offensive words or symbols) it will be removed as soon as possible.
"If you wish to report an issue in your area, please use our online fault reporting tool at What type of fault are you reporting? | Hertfordshire County Council, selecting the option to report a sign that has been illegally placed on the highway. We will respond in line with our policy."