Queen Elizabeth II Memorial to Grace St James's Park in London

Plans for a national memorial honoring Queen Elizabeth II have been unveiled, with St James's Park in London selected as the chosen location. This historic park, established in 1603 and spanning 57 acres, will serve as the backdrop for the tribute to the late monarch.

The memorial site's proximity to Buckingham Palace, the official residence of British monarchs since the 19th century, holds significant symbolic value. Originally constructed as a townhouse in 1703, the palace stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the British monarchy.

St James's Park's selection also aligns with its royal connections and proximity to key landmarks:

• The Commonwealth Secretariat headquarters
• Statues of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother
• The Mall, used for ceremonial processions

The Queen Elizabeth Memorial Committee, established in 2023 and chaired by Lord Janvrin, is overseeing the project. Lord Janvrin, a trusted former aide to the late Queen, was appointed to the House of Lords in 2007 as a crossbench peer.

The committee is considering proposals for both a permanent memorial and a "national legacy programme" to honor the Queen's life of service. This approach aims to blend tradition with modernity, reflecting the Queen's ability to adapt during her long reign.

Other locations initially considered for the memorial included:

• The fourth plinth in Trafalgar Square, known for its temporary art installations since 1999
• Westminster Abbey, the coronation church since 1066 and where Queen Elizabeth II was crowned on June 2, 1953

The chosen site in St James's Park offers a unique setting, rich in both royal history and natural beauty. The park features a lake created in 1827 during the reign of George IV and is home to diverse wildlife, including pelicans introduced in 1664.

King Charles III is taking a keen interest in the memorial project, with other members of the Royal family being consulted throughout the process. The committee has conducted extensive research, including visits to Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland to gather diverse perspectives.

The memorial's design phase is now underway, with the announcement expected in 2026, which would have marked Queen Elizabeth II's centenary. This timing allows for careful consideration and planning to create a fitting tribute to Britain's longest-reigning monarch.

As the project progresses, it will undoubtedly draw inspiration from existing royal memorials in the vicinity, such as the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Memorial. Completed in 2015, this memorial incorporates statues by renowned sculptors William McMillan and Philip Jackson, known for their portrayals of royal and military figures.

The creation of this memorial in St James's Park will add another layer to the rich tapestry of London's royal landscape, ensuring that Queen Elizabeth II's legacy continues to be honored and remembered by future generations.