OVERVIEW

The decision to create a national memorial for Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother was announced by the Chancellor of the Exchequer during his 2005 Budget speech.

The intention is to commemorate the life of a well known and popular public figure, and add an attractive, durable feature to the public space of central London.

Designers, architects and artists from throughout the UK, Commonwealth and the world were invited to submit their expressions of interest for this memorial at the start of 2006. Submissions were shortlisted, with selected entrants being asked to provide detailed designs.

The selection of the winning design has been made by a selection committee chaired by His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, grandson of The Queen Mother.

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and the Royal Household are working in partnership to ensure that the project is well managed at every stage and does not exceed its budget.

The project will be funded by the sale of a £5 coin commemorating the 80th birthday of The Queen in 2006.