Reform-led Nottinghamshire County Council is facing mounting criticism after announcing plans to spend £75,000 on installing new flags across the county.
Under the proposal, more than 150 Union Flags will be displayed at 82 locations in Rushcliffe, Broxtowe, Bassetlaw, Newark, Mansfield, Ashfield and Gedling.
Council leader Mick Barton said that flying the flags had the potential to “strengthen community spirit” and mark key national events.
The initiative, which does not require a formal vote, allows councilors five days to raise objections or request changes. Initially, 164 flags will be installed at a cost of around £457 per flag, covering brackets, traffic management and equipment such as cherry pickers.
Barton defended the decision, stating that the supports had been “robustly tested” and were designed to last many years, adding that public safety and long-term value for money were top priorities. He said the flags would also be reused for major events such as Armistice Day, Christmas and Easter.
However, opposition parties have strongly criticized the move. Labour councillor Helen Faccio, who represents Toton, Chilwell and Attenborough, said she was “shocked but not surprised” by the spending plans. “When Reform came to power, they promised to make council services more efficient and cut wasteful spending.
My residents would say we should spend money filling potholes or investing in youth clubs,” she said.
Conservative councilor Sam Smith, leader of the opposition, also questioned the decision. “To spend £75,000 of taxpayers’ money on putting flags up seems a bit ridiculous to me. That should be spent on services,” he said, although he acknowledged that many residents enjoyed displaying flags themselves.
The council said all lamp-posts had been assessed to ensure they were safe before the installations begin.
The flag initiative follows a growing movement across England, where displaying national symbols has been linked to expressions of pride and patriotism. However, some critics have voiced discomfort, noting that tensions over immigration and nationalism have led to the Union Flag and the St George’s Cross being used by far-right groups.
The debate continues to stir public opinion in Nottinghamshire, highlighting the broader national conversation over identity, unity, and how public funds should be spent.
