The shortlisted designs for the Queen Elizabeth II memorial for St James’ Park were recently unveiled. Most were perfectly lovely bridges, to replace an existing not very exciting bridge. One or two were not to my taste, but that’s subjective. I’m sure it will smarten up a corner of a rather lovely park a stone’s throw from Buckingham Palace. The statue of the late Queen will no doubt also be a useful spot for those who wish to pause and remember the long life of a woman who embodied duty, perseverance and service to her country.

It does seem a pity to me though that while central and close to ceremonial routes, the life of this extraordinary woman, who cared so much for communities around the UK and the commonwealth should become such a London project. I also can’t help but ponder if a footbridge over an ornamental lake is the most fitting way to remember our longest reigning monarch, and the longest reigning female monarch in history.

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