Council say flags attached to posts are a danger
They say its hazardous to try and attach them to street furniture and can be dangerous to motorists.
West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has issued safety advice for residents wanting to fly flags.
They say with the topic raising debate both nationally and locally, WNC have issued safety advice.
In a statement they say they want to clarify the safety of flag flying, as well as the legal rules around flying flags in public to ensure residents don’t put themselves at risk.
Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council
“It’s great to see residents having such a sense of national pride and expressing this by flying the union and St George’s flags, particularly with West Northants hosting the Women’s Rugby World Cup and the Red Roses due to play at Franklins Gardens this weekend.
“I fully encourage people to proudly fly flags on their own homes and property safely but I would urge them not to attempt anything dangerous like putting them up on street furniture or road signs. Not only does this put their own safety at great risk, but also that of motorists if the flags distract them or block their view. There are many other places away from the public highway where flags can be flown so let’s do so and celebrate our country safely.”
In a statement he added:
“Lampposts are not designed to take the weight of a ladder or person climbing up and we are concerned that someone will be seriously hurt as a result of these actions, not to mention the very real risk of electrocution. For these very reasons it was made an offence under the Highways Act 1980 to fix items to lampposts without the consent of the highways authority and this remains the case today.”