Overview

• Reform-led Durham County Council removed bunting after a risk assessment warned strong ropes could pull down lamp columns if struck by high‑sided vehicles.
• National Highways said flags on motorway bridges and verges will be taken down because they can distract drivers and endanger road users.
• Manchester and Bury councils said they will leave flags in place unless they pose a safety risk or involve criminal damage, but altered road markings will be repainted.
• Authorities reiterated that painting flags on mini‑roundabouts and crossings is illegal under the Highways Act 1980, with police reporting at least one arrest in Essex for suspected vandalism.
• A More In Common poll found 58% of Britons want more flags in public spaces, while Essex County Council offered support to staff who feel unsettled by the recent displays.