A Progress Pride flag has been removed from Pathfinder House, the main office for Huntingdonshire District Council in Cambridgeshire, after a challenge from the local Reform UK group revealed it lacked the necessary planning permission. The council confirmed the flag, which had been displayed in June, was taken down after an internal review prompted by the challenge.
The Progress Pride flag incorporates additional stripes – black, brown, pink, pale blue, and white – to specifically represent marginalised people of colour within the LGBTQ+ community, the trans community, and those living with HIV/AIDS. While the traditional Pride flag is covered by 'deemed consent' under planning regulations, Huntingdonshire District Council clarified that the Progress Pride flag requires 'express consent' from the local planning authority, which it currently does not possess.
Ryan Coogan, leader of the Reform UK group on the council, initiated the discussion, stating that "councils should be cautious about displaying flags that some residents may regard as ideological or political." He added that "public buildings should represent everyone and that the Union Flag is the flag that unites the country," further asserting that "councils should not fly divisive political symbols, particularly where the correct permission has not been obtained." Reform UK is the third-largest party on the council.
The council spokesperson explained that the flag was displayed at Pathfinder House in June but was subsequently removed on 27 June to make way for the Armed Forces Day flag. It was at this point, they noted, that it became clear the council did not have the required permissions for certain flag displays. The Progress Pride flag is a recent evolution of the broader LGBTQ+ symbol, which has seen various updates over the years to be more inclusive.
This incident highlights the complexities local authorities face in balancing community representation with adherence to planning regulations, particularly concerning symbols that may be perceived differently by various segments of the population. The council has not yet indicated whether it intends to apply for the necessary express consent to fly the Progress Pride flag in the future.