Millionaires fail to block Queen Elizabeth II sculpture tribute

Wealthy residents of Mayfair have been unsuccessful in their attempts to prevent a memorial for Queen Elizabeth II.

Two organisations representing the affluent communities of Mayfair and St James's raised objections to the proposals, which involve several new national monuments in St James's Park.

They argued against the plans featuring an equestrian statue, a bridge, a gold sculpture, and a memorial to Prince Philip, claiming these would disrupt the park's character.

They also expressed concerns about a potential increase in crime and antisocial behavior, as the changes could create hidden areas that criminals might exploit and places that could attract homeless individuals.

Despite their opposition, the Labour-led Westminster City Council dismissed these objections on Tuesday night.

Cathy Jones, vice-chair of the Queen Anne’s Gate Residents’ Association, shared her concerns on the matter.

"We're very familiar with the park and are committed to its preservation. We wholeheartedly support the idea of a national tribute to Queen Elizabeth II, but we cannot endorse the negative impact on St James’s Park suggested by this proposal, in this particular location and of this magnitude," she mentioned.

Issues involving disruption to the land, loss of trees, and illegal cycling were also pointed out.

"There are practical implications as well. Modifications to paths and plantings could lessen natural oversight, especially during nighttime, raising concerns about safety and antisocial activities," Ms. Jones further explained.

She concluded: "While it is appropriate to commemorate, this proposal does not prove that the extensive and permanent damage to St James’s Park is necessary or justified."

Members of the Queen Anne’s Gate Residents’ Association reside in 18th-century homes regarded as "the finest of their kind in London," once occupied by figures like Sting and MI6 founder Sir Mansfield Smith-Cumming.

A government representative remarked: "The Queen Elizabeth Memorial will be a lovely place for people to gather, reflect, and honor our longest-serving monarch. We are glad the plans have been approved."

Sculptor Martin Jennings, known for his bust of the Queen Mother at St Paul's Cathedral and the first crowned coinage portrait of King Charles, has been chosen to create the piece.

Fosters and Partners, an architectural firm, won a competition last year to design the tribute.