Residents of the East Sussex town have been sharing their views online after St George’s Cross banners were cleared from a local traffic island.
Online reaction expressed annoyance following the removal of the flags from the Denton roundabout in Newhaven.
The banners were initially erected in late 2025 and reinstalled during 2026 as part of a countrywide campaign called Operation Raise the Colours.
Over the warmer months, flags appeared repeatedly across Brighton, Seaford, Newhaven and Peacehaven, though occurrences dropped substantially once winter arrived.
Following a freedom of information request by former councillor Sean Macleod, East Sussex County Council revealed expenditure of £16,288 on flag removal costs through January 12, with the final figure expected to be greater.
Phil Boorman commented on Facebook, congratulating whoever removed the St George’s flags from the roundabout and expressing confidence they would be restored soon to commemorate the patron saint on the 23rd, suggesting the action accomplished nothing.
Some contributors called for unity among residents.
Helen Frederick replied to the post, questioning why more discord was being generated and suggesting the community should unite instead.
Tee Nolan wrote that those concerned should simply display a flag in their own garden.
Other users grew weary of the ongoing discussion.
Ed Plant wrote that he could not believe the situation was still ongoing.
Maggie Barber responded with a request to cease.
