Wiltshire Council granted permission to fly Progress Pride flag despite opposition
Decision sparks debate over council's endorsement of political symbolism
Wiltshire Council can now display the Progress Pride flag outside County Hall in Trowbridge for up to five days a year, following a contentious debate.
The decision comes despite 369 objections and 163 submissions of support surrounding the application.
Flying the flag required advertising consent due to its specific representation of trans people, queer people of colour, and those affected by HIV/AIDS, unlike the traditional rainbow flag.
In June, Wiltshire Council planners reviewed applications to fly the flag at two locations: Monkton Park in Chippenham and County Hall in Trowbridge.
The application for Monkton Park was granted under delegated powers, while councillors were tasked with deciding the County Hall application.
Kellie-Jay Keen, a prominent women’s rights campaigner, was among the objectors.
She stated that the Progress Pride flag symbolises a political and ideological movement with views that may not be representative of all constituents.
Councillor Tanya Maidment echoed concerns, suggesting that granting permission could set a precedent for future identity-based requests.
Conversely, Wiltshire Councillor Liz Alstrom supported the flag's display, arguing that it aligns with the council's Public Sector Equality Duty to foster good relations and equality.
The Western Area Planning Committee, chaired by Councillor Stewart Palmén, ultimately approved the application, citing minimal material considerations for advertising consent.
Both Keen and Maidment spoke against the application, while Alstrom and Phoenix Stewart, Swindon & Wiltshire Pride's community engagement manager, advocated in favour.