Scotland Opens Public Consultation on Queen Elizabeth II Memorial

Scotland has launched a public consultation to shape a permanent memorial to Queen Elizabeth II, inviting residents and community organizations to submit ideas about its design, scale and location. Announced by the Scottish Government on October 19, 2026, the initiative has £1.4 million in capital funding from the UK Government and aims to preserve the late monarch's legacy in Scotland.

The consultation will run online for eight weeks, closing on December 13, 2026. According to the Scottish Government's announcement, participants can also share personal memories of the Queen and her connections to Scottish life. In-person engagement events will continue through the autumn and into late 2026.

The Scotland Legacy Group is coordinating the project and will use public submissions to help develop proposals for the memorial. The group is chaired by Dr Joseph Morrow, Lord Lyon King of Arms, and is expected to submit formal recommendations to the First Minister and King Charles in spring 2027. No final design or location has been selected.

Scottish Culture Secretary Màiri McAllan said the consultation would help ensure the memorial reflects the country's relationship with the late monarch.

"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."

McAllan highlighted the Queen's longstanding relationship with Scotland and the importance of involving people in decisions about how her legacy will be remembered.

"She had a strong connection to Scotland, and it is right that those across the country who would wish to have the opportunity to help shape how that legacy is remembered for future generations."

The consultation is also intended to gather views from different generations and organizations, including schools, young people, cultural institutions and community groups.

"We want to hear a broad range of voices, from community and cultural organisations to schools, young people and those with a particular connection to Queen Elizabeth.

"This memorial should reflect the memories, values and experiences of the people of Scotland, while creating something lasting that future generations can enjoy, use and take pride in."

Dr Joseph Morrow welcomed the opening of the consultation portal, describing public participation as an important part of the Scotland Legacy Group's work.

"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 shape how we create a fitting tribute to the life of our longest reigning monarch."

Lord Lieutenants will coordinate local engagement with youth organizations, educational bodies and community representatives. Charities and institutions associated with the Queen through royal patronages, alongside universities, schools and heritage organizations, are also expected to contribute.

The initiative follows criticism of the Scottish Government over the pace of its memorial planning compared with projects elsewhere in the United Kingdom. The late Queen died at Balmoral in Aberdeenshire on September 8, 2022, making her the first reigning monarch to die in Scotland since 1542.

Her death came two days after she received Liz Truss at Balmoral following Truss's appointment as prime minister. Thousands of mourners subsequently lined the streets as the Queen's coffin was transported to St Giles' Cathedral in Edinburgh before being flown to London five days later.