Nottinghamshire County Council, led by Reform UK, has come under fire for spending £75,000 on 164 new flag installations across 82 locations, at a cost of £475 each. The expenditure includes brackets, traffic management, and cherry pickers.
Council leader Mick Barton defended the move, stating it provides a 'feel-good factor' and supports public displays for events such as Remembrance Day, Christmas, and Easter. He claimed the funds came from efficiencies already made, with no cuts to services.
Labour councillor Helen Faccio expressed shock, arguing the money should go towards potholes or youth clubs. Conservative councillor Sam Smith also criticised the spending as 'ridiculous', saying it should be used for services.
Reform UK had promised to cut wasteful spending, with leader Nigel Farage announcing a 'UK Doge' unit to identify inefficiencies. The flag decision does not require a vote, but councillors have five days to object.
