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A successful traffic ban on Oxford Street has spurred Mayor Sadiq Khan to accelerate plans for full pedestrianisation, promising economic revitalisation despite local debates over practicality and safety.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
The Mayor of London, Sir Sadiq Khan, has reaffirmed his commitment to the bold pedestrianisation of Oxford Street, following a one-day traffic ban that proved significantly beneficial to the local economy. On 21 September, a half-mile stretch of Oxford Street\u2014from Orchard Street to Oxford Circus\u2014was closed to traffic, resulting in footfall that was 45 per cent higher than usual, according to CityAM. Nearly 70 per cent of stores reported sales on par with or exceeding a typical Sunday, with 80 per cent indicating a willingness to participate in similar future events.<\/p>\n
Mayor Khan described the traffic-free day as a celebration of London\u2019s vibrancy and proof of strong public appetite for a cleaner, more welcoming West End. He emphasised that putting people at the heart of Oxford Street without the hindrance of traffic allowed the area to flourish and benefited local businesses.<\/p>\n
The pedestrianisation plan aims to rejuvenate Oxford Street, a key retail and leisure destination that has struggled with the impacts of online shopping and the COVID-19 pandemic. The proposal, announced in September 2024, intends to transform a 0.7-mile section between Oxford Circus and Marble Arch into a pedestrian-friendly environment, complete with improved urban landscaping such as planters, trees, water features, and ample seating areas. Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner has voiced strong support, highlighting the potential for job creation and the boost to London\u2019s night-time economy that the pedestrianisation could deliver.<\/p>\n
However, Westminster City Council has voiced concerns over practical challenges posed by the scheme. These include the impact on residents and street users, and the logistics of redirecting the many bus routes currently using Oxford Street. The proposal\u2019s implementation hinges on the government’s approval to establish a Mayoral Development Corporation, which would grant the Mayor enhanced planning powers, potentially overruling local council objections. The government appears supportive, with Rayner underscoring Oxford Street’s world-renowned status and the need to sustain its economic vitality.<\/p>\n
The plans have garnered substantial backing from the public and major businesses alike, with a June 2025 consultation showing that nearly 70 per cent of respondents support the regeneration efforts, and two-thirds specifically favour pedestrianisation. Prominent retailers such as Selfridges, John Lewis, and Ikea have welcomed the initiative, which is expected to not only revive retail but also stimulate wider economic growth across London and beyond.<\/p>\n
Despite majority support, some opposition remains. Critics, including the Soho Society, have raised issues about the potential impact on investor confidence and possible increases in crime\u2014citing precedent cases where pedestrianisation correlated with higher crime rates. Tim Lord, chair of the Soho Society\u2019s executive committee, described the plan as \u201cenormously contentious\u201d for local stakeholders. Nonetheless, the Mayor\u2019s office has affirmed its determination to proceed, framing the initiative as essential to revitalising the area and invigorating the local economy.<\/p>\n
Mayor Khan envisions a swift rollout of the pedestrianisation, inspired by successful transformations in cities like New York and Barcelona. He aims to create a world-class, accessible public space that accommodates shopping, leisure, and outdoor events, while improving tourism and attracting investment. The plan intends to ensure Oxford Street remains a vibrant urban hub capable of drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors daily.<\/p>\n
As the project moves forward, detailed traffic and highway plans are expected to be published, offering clearer insights into how the changes will be managed on the ground. The establishment of the Mayoral Development Corporation will be a critical step in accelerating these urban improvements, ultimately aiming to position Oxford Street as a world-leading destination for both Londoners and visitors alike.<\/p>\n