Orkney Islands Council has unveiled plans for a new memorial to commemorate the lives lost in the sinking of HMS Royal Oak in Scapa Flow in 1939.

Developed in collaboration with the HMS Royal Oak Association, the proposed memorial will include a building and garden located above Scapa Beach, offering a space for reflection and remembrance.

The project is currently in the early planning stages, with external funding still to be secured. However, public consultation events will be held throughout February to gather feedback on the proposals and inform the development of the project.

These events will include:

• Tuesday, 4th February: Drop-in session at Kiln Corner in Kirkwall (11:00 AM - 3:00 PM) with a presentation at 7:00 PM


• Wednesday, 5th February: Drop-in session at the Warehouse Buildings in Stromness (11:00 AM - 3:00 PM) with a presentation at 7:00 PM

• Thursday, 6th February: Online presentation at 6:00 PM

The proposed memorial building will feature a window facing the wreck site of HMS Royal Oak, incorporating an installation engraved with the names of those lost in the tragedy.

Council Convener Graham Bevan emphasized the importance of this project: "The potential new building will provide a fitting reminder of this tragic event in the nation's naval history and its significance in Orkney's past."

Gareth Derbyshire, speaking on behalf of the Royal Oak Association, said: "We hope that the public consultation will allow those with a connection to the ship and the public in general to appreciate the potential development of the site and offer feedback which can be used to deliver enhancements to the existing proposals."

Gavin Fraser, Project Lead for HRI Munro Architecture, highlighted the design concept: "The building and landscaping will utilize a limited palette of materials, creating a quiet and thoughtful space for reflection and remembrance."

The project aims to create a meaningful and lasting memorial for the 835 lives lost in the sinking of HMS Royal Oak.