AN investigation is underway following allegations that Reform councillors were ‘abusive’ to council staff and the non-binary pride flag was taken down from the town hall.

Back in 2023, it was agreed in a motion that the non-binary pride flag would be able to fly from the town hall.

However, it has now been alleged by the Liberal Democrat group that two Reform councillors objected to the flag and ‘behaved in a way that staff found abusive and intimidating’.

The two councillors have not been named.

It has then been alleged that after staff refused to remove the flag, ‘unauthorised access’ was gained to the space and the flag was subsequently removed and replaced with the St George’s Cross.

The Lib Dems have asked the council to establish who entered the area and whether or not the flag was damaged.

Coun Leyla Nayeri, deputy leader of the Lib Dems in Barnsley, said: “These are serious allegations involving the treatment of council staff, access to a restricted area and the unauthorised removal of a flag being flown following a democratic decision of full council.

“Regardless of the outcome of that investigation, the council must examine whether the alleged conduct breached the Members’ Code of Conduct and the standards expected of those in public office.

“Staff must also be protected from any intimidation or retaliation arising from this matter.”

The incident has been reported to South Yorkshire Police but the Chronicle understands the force will not be taking any action.

The Chronicle contacted Barnsley Council for a comment.