LONDON, ENGLAND.- Design plans for a permanent memorial garden to those who lost their lives in the United States on 11 September 2001 were announced today by Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell.

A planning application has been submitted to Westminster City Council for a memorial garden to be sited within Grosvenor Square Garden and near the American Embassy in London. The application has been made following consultations with the families of the UK victims and other interested parties.

Grosvenor Square Garden was the focus for many, including some of the families of those who lost their lives, in the aftermath of 11 September 2001. It is bordered on its west side by the American Embassy, and has become known as ’The American Square’.

The design has been devised in conjunction with The Royal Parks and landscape architects, Land Use Consultants. It will consist of an oval with two planting beds on one side and an oak pergola with a classic pavilion on the other. There will be Yorkstone paving and a stone centrepiece with an inscription remembering all victims. The garden will be surrounded by a yew hedge and steel railings. The whole is designed to sit comfortably in its surroundings.

Consultation continues with the families about detailed content and the composition of plants will draw on suggestions from the families and represent native North American and British plants. It will also include flowers incorporated in the posy presented to Her Majesty The Queen at the memorial service last November. For example, the planting may include lily of the valley, representing hope. Herbs, perennials and other foliage plants will also be included such as myrtle, signifying fruitfulness and the hope for the continuation of the family, rosemary for remembrance, lavender for its calming properties and ivy for fidelity.

Subject to planning approval, the memorial garden should be planted and ready in time for 11 September 2003.

Tessa Jowell said:

"Our intention is to provide a garden that will be simple, dignified and designed to the highest quality. It will also allow for privacy and seclusion for visitors. The families affected have, of course, been consulted and the design draws on their suggestions.

"It is fitting that the garden should be complete in time for the second anniversary of this terrible tragedy."

Meanwhile St Paul’s Cathedral have announced details of a Service of Remembrance and Commemoration at St. Paul’s Cathedral to mark the first anniversary on 11 September this year.

The Prince of Wales will be joined by United States Ambassador William S Farish and senior members of government at the service at the Cathedral at 1.15pm on 11 September 2002.

The invited congregation of 2000 will be made up of representatives from families of UK victims, the American community in the UK, emergency services, and the business community.