Calls to cut 'disproportionate' red tape around Rotherham's hanging basket and poppy displays
Rules governing hanging baskets, Christmas decorations and Remembrance poppies on Rotherham's lamposts could be simplified after parish councils blamed them for delays and cancelled displays.
A scrutiny review by councillors in Rotherham has recommended replacing the existing arrangements with a clearer system which distinguishes lightweight decorations from heavier installations.
Around half of town and parish councils surveyed said community initiatives had been delayed or cancelled because of structural testing requirements or associated costs.
Of those questioned, 83 per cent considered the requirements either somewhat or very disproportionate, while 54 per cent found the process difficult or very difficult to navigate.
The review was launched after concerns that testing costs and administrative burdens were threatening initiatives which contributed to civic pride and local identity, particularly in smaller communities with limited budgets.
However, councillors were told that some hanging baskets can weigh up to 60kg once planted and watered, raising questions about whether lighting columns can safely carry the additional load.
The review states that round 310 lampposts have since been tested across the borough, with only 10 failing assessments for additional weight. The failure rate was substantially lower than initially anticipated, suggesting most existing displays could continue.
Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council contributed 75 per cent of testing costs, leaving parish and town councils to pay the remaining quarter.
The authority is responsible for 36,646 lighting columns, including 8,758 concrete columns. At least 17 of Rotherham’s 31 parish and town councils are thought to want to continue attaching community displays.
The review recommends introducing three clear categories covering attachments allowed without testing, those requiring approval and assessment, and those which are prohibited.
It also calls for publicly accessible guidance, better notice of costs and policy changes, and coordinated testing to reduce the financial and administrative burden.
Where columns cannot safely carry attachments, councillors recommend that alternatives are considered, including dedicated display structures or targeted replacement of lampposts.
The proposed rules would apply equally to the council, contractors, parish councils and other organisations. The authority could also recover the cost of removing unauthorised installations where legally permitted.
Rotherham’s overview and scrutiny management board will consider the recommendations on September 8. If approved, they will be sent to cabinet, which would be asked to respond within two months.