The Scottish Government has officially opened a public consultation to shape a permanent memorial dedicated to the late Queen Elizabeth II. This initiative invites residents, communities, and organizations across the nation to propose designs, locations, and features for the tribute. Announced on October 19, 2026, the nationwide effort is supported by £1.4 million in capital funding from the UK Government to honor the late monarch’s profound and enduring connection to Scotland.
Officials have launched a dedicated online engagement portal to facilitate broad participation. Through this digital platform, the public can submit ideas regarding the memorial’s appearance, scale, purpose, and potential physical site. Participants are also encouraged to share personal memories and reflections concerning Elizabeth II and her deep relationship with Scottish communities throughout her historic 70-year reign.
Timeline, Local Events, and Leadership
The public consultation will remain active for eight weeks, closing on December 13, 2026. A series of in-person engagement events will run through the autumn and into late 2026. Lord Lieutenants are coordinating these local discussions in collaboration with educational institutions, youth organizations, community representatives, and groups associated with the late Queen’s numerous patronages.
The QEMC Scotland Legacy Group, established in April 2025, is guiding the development of the memorial. Dr. Joseph Morrow, The Right Honourable the Lord Lyon King of Arms, chairs the group. Other members include prominent cultural and historical figures such as Professor Chandrika Kaul of the University of St Andrews, V&A Dundee Director Leonie Bell, and National Galleries of Scotland Director General Anne Lyden.
Culture Secretary Mairi McAllan emphasized the cultural significance of the project:
Queen Elizabeth held a special place in the hearts of many people across Scotland. Her passing in 2022 prompted an outpouring of affection and respect. She had a strong connection to Scotland, and it is right that those across the country who wish to have the opportunity should help shape how that legacy is remembered for future generations.
The Broader Context of the Memorial
Queen Elizabeth II maintained a close and personal bond with Scotland, spending significant portions of each year at her Balmoral estate in Aberdeenshire, where she passed away in September 2022. Following her passing, her coffin was moved from Balmoral to Edinburgh, where it lay in state for 24 hours at St Giles’ Cathedral before being transported to London.
The Scottish project operates alongside broader UK-wide efforts. In September 2024, the location for the primary national memorial was confirmed as St James’s Park in London. This site incorporates the area adjacent to The Mall at Marlborough Gate and the Blue Bridge. The UK Government subsequently confirmed that additional capital funding would be made available so each devolved nation could develop its own unique tribute.
Dr. Joseph Morrow highlighted the importance of public input in shaping the final outcome:
The online engagement portal is a key part in the work of the Scotland Legacy Group, and I am delighted that we are now at a stage where it is open for the public to give their views. Queen Elizabeth held Scotland and Scottish life in great affection, and the portal is an opportunity for everyone to give their thoughts and ideas which will help guide how we create a fitting tribute.
Following the conclusion of the consultation period on December 13, 2026, the Scotland Legacy Group will review the gathered insights and present final recommendations to Scottish Ministers in the spring of 2027.
