Giant canopy of stone lilies and exact cast of Windsor oak tree among ideas for commemoration in St James’s Park

The Queen Elizabeth Memorial Committee has unveiled a shortlist of five designs for a national memorial dedicated to Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away in 2022 after a historic reign of 70 years. This memorial, which will be situated in St James’s Park near Buckingham Palace, aims to celebrate her legacy and is set with a provisional budget of £46 million, excluding VAT. The proposed concepts reflect a blend of artistry and nature, with each design representing significant aspects of the Queen's life and service. Among the designs, one notable proposal includes an exact cast of a Windsor oak tree, symbolizing strength and endurance, while another features a serene garden space inspired by John Nash’s historical work. The innovative designs—ranging from a tranquil family garden to a digital conservatory and a stone bridge with flowing water—are intended to create an area of reflection and solace. A key element of public involvement is emphasized, allowing citizens to view the designs and offer their feedback, echoing a commitment to community engagement and transparency throughout the planning process. The process pushed by the Queen Elizabeth Memorial Committee is ambitious and aims not just to create a memorial but to encapsulate the essence of a monarch who profoundly affected countless lives. The feedback period for the public ends on May 19, with the winning design expected to be revealed in 2026, coinciding with what would have been the Queen's 100th birthday.