Work is underway to create new a garden to remember the late Queen in the heart of one of London's biggest parks.

A new two-acre garden in Regent’s Park to commemorate the life of Queen Elizabeth II has been given the go-ahead by Westminster Council.

The garden - between The Broad Walk, Chester Road and St John's Lodge Gardens - is set to open in 2026, marking what would have been the late Queen’s centenary year.

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Andrew Scattergood, chief executive of The Royal Parks charity, which runs Regent’s Park, said: "The approval of planning permission marks an exciting step forward in the creation of the new garden, which is designed to be a tranquil space for reflection, accessible to all.

"It provides a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. This site will add two acres of biodiverse parkland for everyone to enjoy and explore."

The garden will be on the site of a former plant nursery in Regent's Park Allotment Gardens.

In keeping with nearby historic gardens in the park, the garden will include a circular pond and a central promenade with an accessible platform over the pond.

A vibrant flower garden will showcase species significant to the late Queen such as the specially bred narcissus ‘Diamond Jubilee’ or tulipa ‘Royal Celebration’.  

It will also include her favourite plants, such as lily of the valley.  

A disused water tower will be transformed into an accessible viewing platform with panoramic views of the garden and its surroundings.

The tower will provide habitats for birds, bats, and invertebrates, serving as a unique educational tool for visitors to explore the natural oasis of the new garden and the wider park.

Public engagement sessions were held in January to gather the views of local communities about the new garden.

Katharina Erne, associate senior landscape architect, at HTA Design said: "We are honoured to be working with The Royal Parks on the design of such a significant new garden to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II, right in the heart of The Regent’s Park.

"The design transforms a brownfield site into a stunning, biodiverse and climate resilient garden for the public to enjoy for many years to come.”

The garden will be designed by HTA Design LLP and their team including horticulturalist Dr Noel Kingsbury and Tate + Co architects.