Plans to fully pedestrianise London's iconic Oxford Street have been officially approved, with Mayor Sadiq Khan committing to create a "world-leading urban space" by removing all remaining traffic this summer. The decision, confirmed on Thursday, follows a second public consultation on reshaping a central stretch of the capital's famous shopping thoroughfare.
Transformation Timeline and Details
Work will commence in the coming months and continue until late 2027, focusing on the section west of Oxford Circus. While Khan is expected to unveil more specifics next week, he has championed pedestrianisation as a strategic move to boost local businesses and revitalise London's hospitality and nightlife sectors.
"I am delighted to be moving forward with my bold vision to transform Oxford Street into a world-leading urban space for shopping, leisure and outdoor events," Khan stated.
Public Support and Historical Context
An initial consultation last year demonstrated widespread public backing, with 6,600 respondents expressing support. More than 2,700 people participated in the second consultation, which addressed the detailed layout of the scheme and traffic diversion plans.
Although Oxford Street has already been largely closed to general traffic, full pedestrianisation has been a protracted ambition spanning decades, partly due to disputes between City Hall and Westminster council.
Traffic Management and Diversions
Transport for London (TfL) will proceed with proposals that allow limited traffic to cross from most side-streets while pedestrianising the core shopping area. Buses will primarily be rerouted to Wigmore Street, a parallel road to the north.
Alex Williams, TfL's chief customer and strategy officer, emphasised collaboration: "We will work closely with Westminster council in the coming months to implement changes to the roads around Oxford Street, and the mayor will provide more information on the next steps for this transformational scheme next week."
Stakeholder Reactions and Concerns
Major retailers along the street, including department stores Selfridges and John Lewis, have endorsed pedestrianisation, anticipating it will help restore the area's prestige, which had been marred in recent years by stores of questionable repute.
Conversely, taxi drivers have criticised the move, warning that closures could further slow journeys through London's congested heart. TfL acknowledged in the consultation that some bus journeys would take longer, with hundreds of vehicles diverted to surrounding streets during peak hours.
However, TfL noted that concerns about access for people with reduced mobility would be alleviated by easier movement for wheelchairs and buggies on the pedestrianised street.
