London's St James's Park Chosen for Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Site

The British government has announced plans to establish a national memorial for Queen Elizabeth II in London's St James's Park. This decision, revealed on September 7, 2023, comes nearly a year after the monarch's passing on September 8, 2022, following her record-breaking reign of 70 years and 215 days.

The chosen location for the Queen Elizabeth II Memorial holds significant historical and personal connections to the late sovereign. Situated adjacent to The Mall and overlooking the park's lake, the site is in close proximity to Buckingham Palace, which has served as the official London residence of British monarchs since 1837. The area also houses the headquarters of the Commonwealth, an organization of 56 countries that Queen Elizabeth II led from 1952 until her death.

St James's Park, the oldest Royal Park in London dating back to 1603, already features memorials to Queen Elizabeth II's parents. The statue of King George VI, unveiled in 1955, stands alongside that of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, added in 2009. This familial connection further emphasizes the site's significance.

Robin Janvrin, chair of the memorial committee and former Private Secretary to the Queen from 1999 to 2007, highlighted the location's importance:

"The Mall and St James's Park at the ceremonial heart of our capital provides a location closely identified with so many events of the late Queen's life."

The memorial aims to serve dual purposes: as a fitting monument to Queen Elizabeth II's extraordinary contributions and as a space for public contemplation. Throughout her reign, the Queen undertook over 250 official overseas visits to 129 different countries, demonstrating her commitment to international relations.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the lasting impact of the late monarch, stating, "Queen Elizabeth II's enduring legacy of service and devotion to our country will never be forgotten."

The government plans to invite architects, artists, and designers to submit proposals for the memorial's design later in 2023. The project is expected to reflect the Queen's significant role in national life while providing a communal space for reflection.

As the plans for this memorial progress, it will join other notable features in St James's Park, including its 57-acre expanse and the lake created in 1827, home to various waterfowl. This new addition will further enrich the historical tapestry of London's ceremonial heart, where Queen Elizabeth II celebrated both her Golden Jubilee in 2002 and her Platinum Jubilee in 2022.