Flags to be removed if they ‘pose potential risk to health and safety’

The Union Flags and St George’s Cross flags had been put up around the town centre and other locations across Bolton earlier this year as part of a nationwide social media driven campaign.

Bolton Council has said it supports people’s right to do so but that flags that create a risk to public safety because of “natural wear and tear” will need to be removed.

A council spokesperson said: “The council has previously stated its full support for residents expressing their national and civic pride in a responsible and appropriate manner.

“Unfortunately, due to natural wear and tear, some of the flags placed on highways and on public land have created a potential risk to public safety.

Bolton Council says it will be looking at the flags on-a-case by case basis (Image: Newsquest)

“Torn and loosened flags not only look unsightly but can also become entangled on streetlights and cover road signage which can create hazards for road-users and pedestrians.

“We will be carrying out assessments on a case-by-case basis around the town centre as we believe some flags may also get in the way of our planned Christmas lights and decorations.

“We want to reassure residents that any removal of flags will be guided purely by safety considerations, and we will be putting them in storage for the owners to collect.”

The flags had been put up as part of “Operation Raise the Colours”, an online movement which put up Union Flags and Flags of St George across the country.

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In August this year Bolton Council said it would not be removing the flags if they did not pose a safety risk or constitute an offence.

The authority said at the time that they would need to paint over roundabouts decorated with flag colours given there is a legal requirement for them to be a solid white colour.

Work is currently underway to prepare Christmas lights in the town centre for the run up to the festive season.

The free Put Big Light On festival will be returning to Bolton from November 20 to 23 from 5pm to 9pm each night.

Source – INDIA TV