Removing Unlawful Flags from Lampposts Costs Somerset Taxpayers £4,500 Daily

Somerset Council has revealed that removing unauthorized flags from lampposts and other highway infrastructure costs taxpayers approximately £4,500 each day. This figure was disclosed by Councillor Richard Wilkins, the portfolio holder for transport and waste services, during an executive committee meeting on December 3.

Over the past months, the council’s highways teams have repeatedly taken down both British and English flags illegally attached to public property, notably along the A39 Bath Road in Bridgwater. These removals, enforced under the Highways Act 1980, are necessary because affixing items such as flags to street furniture without permission is unlawful and can pose safety risks to the public and council workers.

Councillor Wilkins emphasized that this daily financial burden diverts valuable resources from essential road maintenance tasks. He also stressed the council’s stance that individuals are free to display flags on their own private property, reinforcing the message that the intention is to “foster belonging, not division” within the community.

During the committee meeting, Somerset resident Eric Ayers had submitted questions regarding the overall costs and impact of flag removals. Although not present to ask them in person, his queries were read by council officers. Councillor Wilkins responded that while a total cost was not available, the daily expenditure on removals was significant, highlighting that the operation requires manpower and equipment to ensure safety.

The council also condemned the abuse and threatening behavior directed at staff and contractors tasked with removing the flags, describing the conduct as unacceptable. Council leader Bill Revans noted that the police are handling these incidents and declined further comment.

Wilkins remarked that the unauthorized flag displays might not represent wider local sentiment and warned that continuing such actions could harm Somerset’s reputation as a welcoming and vibrant community. The council remains firm in its commitment to uphold the law while encouraging respectful displays of community spirit.