St George’s Cross has been painted on road markings in a city in Essex as red lines continue to appear across the UK. A mini-roundabout and give-way lines have been painted in Colchester.
The flags and roundabout painting have divided opinion in the same county where protests have taken place outside the Bell Hotel, which houses asylum seekers. Colchester Council suggested those responsible have crossed a red line, as attaching flags to lampposts and painting road markings is not allowed.
Flags have been taken down by a number of councils in recent weeks, including Tower Hamlets in east London and Birmingham.
Campaigners attached them as part of an online movement called Operation Raise the Colours. Some of the flags and painted lines have appeared outside hotels used to accommodate migrants.
A resident from Colchester wrote on social media: “I have no issue with the St George cross and patriotism – like supporting the Lionesses for example. However, what I do have a problem with is the likes of right wing supporters using it to stir up community tension.”
Another said: “Personally, I don’t think it’s OK to be painting on road markings as they are a safety aspect. However, it’s lovely to see England and Union flags flying proudly.
“You go to any other country and they are flying their flags everywhere you go, you rarely see an England one unless it’s football related.”
Another local added: “Love it and all these flags that have been put up. Great to see some pride in this nation, especially when our culture is being watered down by others.”
A Colchester Council spokesperson said symbols such as the Union Flag or St George’s Cross are valued expressions of national pride and have appropriate places on designated flagpoles, at civic events and in places where they can be displayed respectfully and safely.
They added: “To maintain public safety and infrastructure standards, the council removes items attached to lamp posts, road signs, and other street furniture.
“Similarly, painting symbols and graffiti on road islands or other public surfaces is not allowed, as it can pose hazards to both the individuals involved and road users.”
The spokesperson said the council continues to work with others to ensure Colchester remains a safe, inclusive and welcoming place.
They added: “We encourage residents to celebrate their pride in ways that are both lawful and respectful of shared public spaces.”
