Bristol City Council considers ban on Union flags on lampposts

Bristol City Council, led by a coalition of Greens, Liberal Democrats, and independents, is considering a ban on the display of Union flags from lampposts. The council suggests that such displays can become “a source of concern or division” and may present “potential health and safety concerns.”

If the proposed restrictions are implemented, individuals found in breach of the rules could face unlimited fines or prison sentences of up to two years. The council has reportedly already spent £50,000 addressing unauthorized flags and is working to remove unauthorized items from council-owned infrastructure.

This move follows similar actions by other local authorities. Birmingham City Council has planned the removal of Union and St George’s flags to protect public safety, while Oxfordshire County Council successfully obtained a High Court injunction to prevent flags from being hung on or near public highways following reports of worker intimidation.