Memorial planning in London

Three London jurisdictions ‒ Westminster, the Royal Parks and the City ‒ employ different policies, decision-making processes and criteria to shape the siting, design and subjects of new memorial proposals, in relation to different stakeholder interests, existing memorials and ongoing urban development. Across these jurisdictions, some new memorials fit well into existing physical, functional and symbolic contexts. Non-traditional ‘spatial’ memorials are often placed opportunistically wherever they can obtain approval. Other memorials are incorporated into existing commemorative precincts, despite dissonance in form or subject. Varying systems, a densely-developed urban fabric, political influence and compromise all lead to very diverse commemorative outcomes.