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Working alongside internationally acclaimed architect Heatherwick Studio, the Birmingham office of multi-disciplinary engineering practice Webb Yates has helped bring to life a bold new vision for the memorial, shortlisted as one of five proposals unveiled to the public this week. Set in the heart of London’s St James Park, the monument will be a space for reflection, honouring the longest-reigning monarch in British history.

The project has attracted national attention, with coverage in BBC News, The Guardian and Sky News, and showcases the creative strength of the Midlands’ built environment sector on a world stage.

Led by Director Rob Nield, the Jewellery Quarter-based team provided structural and civil engineering input — including stone expertise alongside stone mason Pierre Bidaud — for the design, developed in collaboration with sculptor Halima Cassell, landscape designers MRG Studio, and engineering firm Arup.

The design, named ‘Bridge of Togetherness’, proposes the creation of a memorial walk formed of 70 lily pad ‘stepping stones’, with a statue of the Queen shaded by eight sculptural lilies featured in the centre.

A panel of committee members will select the winning concept and work with the team on the final design, which is expected to be unveiled in 2026. The final design will then be submitted to King Charles and the prime minister for approval.

The five shortlisted designs can be viewed in the Finalists’ Gallery, open to public feedback until 19 May.

With around 60 staff across offices in Birmingham and London, Webb Yates has worked on everything from public buildings to complex infrastructure. This high-profile collaboration marks another step in the firm’s growing reputation for thoughtful, design-led engineering.

“It was a joy to collaborate with esteemed designers Thomas and Halimaand play a part in developing this unique and exciting scheme with an innovative and sustainable engineering design.”
— Rob Nield, Director of Webb Yates Birmingham office.

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