People across Scotland are being invited to share their memories of Queen Elizabeth and help decide how her life and enduring connection to the country should be remembered for generations to come.
A new public consultation has opened to gather ideas for a permanent Scottish memorial to the late Queen, with £1.4 million in capital funding committed by the UK Government.
The initiative is being led by the Scotland Legacy Group, which is asking people to consider what form the memorial should take, where it might be located and how it could contribute to community and cultural life.
For many across the Highlands and Islands, the late Queen’s association with Scotland was a familiar part of her long reign, particularly through her time spent at Balmoral and her visits to communities throughout the country.
Now those personal memories, alongside ideas from schools, community groups and cultural organisations, could help influence the design of a lasting tribute.
An online engagement portal allows members of the public to contribute suggestions about the memorial’s purpose, appearance, size and location.
People are also encouraged to share their own reflections on Queen Elizabeth, who died in September 2022 after a reign of more than 70 years.
Alongside the online consultation, community engagement events will take place across Scotland throughout the autumn, with Lord Lieutenants helping bring local organisations and individuals into the discussion.
Cabinet Secretary for Education, Culture and Gaelic Màiri McAllan said:
“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 would wish to have the opportunity to help shape how that legacy is remembered for future generations.
“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.”
The Scotland Legacy Group is considering how the memorial might make a meaningful contribution to Scotland’s heritage, environment and public spaces rather than simply providing a place of remembrance.
Its chair, Dr Joseph Morrow, who also serves as Lord Lyon King of Arms, welcomed the opportunity for people to become involved.
He said:
“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.”
The consultation will include organisations connected to the Queen through her patronages, as well as young people, educational institutions and representatives of Scotland’s cultural and heritage sectors.
No final design or location has yet been announced, with the public’s contributions intended to help shape the options under consideration.
The online consultation remains open until Sunday 13 December, while engagement with communities and organisations will continue until later in the year.
The Scotland Legacy Group is expected to present its recommendations to the First Minister and King Charles in spring 2027.
For anyone with a memory of the late Queen, or an idea about how Scotland might honour her life, the consultation offers an opportunity to help shape what comes next.
