Wakefield Council publishes results of flag flying survey

Thursday, November 20, 2025

Wakefield Council has published the results of a flag flying survey carried out between 19 September and 10 October.

Following the significant amount of feedback, Wakefield is keeping flags in place which aren’t causing any issues. The Council will take a safety-first approach in how it responds. And is urging everyone to respect their neighbours and wider local community.

“Thank you to everyone who took part in our recent flag survey. Over 3,100 people shared a wide range of views, so the strength of feeling on this was really clear.

“Flags mean a lot to many people. They carry deep cultural significance and are a real source of pride. At the same time, some residents raised important concerns. From feeling excluded or intimidated, to practical issues like road safety and visibility.

“This shows just how emotive and complex the topic is. We’ve listened carefully, and we’re committed to finding a balance that reflects community views while keeping safety as a priority.”

Cllr Jack Hemingway

Deputy Leader of Wakefield Council

In a recent survey, 51% of people supported flag flying. Many said they felt pride and patriotism when seeing the national flag displayed.

35% wanted flags to be removed. This included a range of feedback like worries about people in the community feeling intimidated and road safety risks.

Much of the remaining feedback included more detailed comments, including supporting flags being flown in specific places or on certain days.

Following the results of the survey, the Council has committed to:

Keep flags in place for now where they aren’t causing any issues. Flags causing a safety risk or obstruction - for example if they block drivers’ views or where other items like hanging baskets or Christmas lights need to be installed – will still need to be removed, as might flags that are damaged or worn.
Publish an updated protocol for flying flags on Council buildings. The Union Jack, the St George’s Flag on St George’s Day, and the Yorkshire Flag on Yorkshire Day are already flown.
Share clear guidance for communities on how to display flags and bunting safely during national celebrations.
Keep working with all communities to make Wakefield a place where everyone feels safe and welcome. And with partners like West Yorkshire Police, encouraging anyone experiencing or witnessing hate crime to report it — because hate has no place in the district.
Look at how it can support communities to celebrate national days like St George’s Day, while also considering the financial implications of doing this.

The full report is available to view at https://www.wakefield.gov.uk/about-the-council/consultation-and-engagement/wakefield-council-feedback/wakefield-flag-survey