Pride Flag flies for five days outside Northamptonshire council building in spite of Reform UK's anti-flag policy
For nearly five days, a Rainbow Pride flag flew proudly outside the Cornerstone building in Kettering, North Northamptonshire, near the town’s war memorial.
However, the flag - raised overnight on Saturday, 5 July - has now been taken down by North Northamptonshire Council (NNC), citing a breach of its newly implemented 'Flag Flying Protocol', which was introduced by the Reform-led council on 13 May.
A council spokesperson stated: "The flag in question was removed as it was raised without council authorisation.”
The removal of the Pride flag has sparked debate among residents and councillors, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. Many have expressed disappointment, viewing the act as a symbolic rejection of inclusivity.
Jamie L., a local LGBTQ+ activist, commented: “Pride flags are more than just symbols – they represent visibility, solidarity, and the ongoing fight for equality. Removing it, especially during Pride season, sends a message that marginalised communities are not welcome in public spaces.”
The previous flag policy, established under the Conservative-led administration, allowed for broader representation. However, one of the first actions taken by the newly elected Reform UK leadership was to restrict flag flying to national symbols only.
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