It follows “overwhelming support” for the plans following a public consultation
The pedestrianisation of Oxford Street has been talked about for years, and previously blocked by Westminster Council, but now it looks like it’ll finally be happening as London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan is pressing ahead with plans as quickly as possible. The proposals had been put to a public consultation, with two in three respondents supporting the removal of traffic from the street. The £150m scheme will see the area from Great Portland Street to Orchard Street pedestrianised, creating space for outdoor events and al fresco dining.
With the opening of IKEA on Oxford Street, the area is undergoing a revival, and businesses including John Lewis and Selfridges have welcomed the pedestrianisation plans. There are those who are less enthusiastic about the scheme though, like Steve McNamara, the general secretary of the LTDA (which represents black-cab drivers), who believes removing traffic from Oxford Street will increase congestion in the city.
Speaking about the proposal, Sir Sadiq said: “Oxford Street has suffered over many years so urgent action is needed to give our nation’s high street a new lease of life.
“It’s clear that the vast majority of Londoners and major businesses back our exciting plans, so I’m pleased to confirm that we will now be moving ahead as quickly as possible.
“We want to rejuvenate Oxford Street; establish it as a global leader for shopping, leisure and outdoor events with a world-class, accessible, pedestrianised avenue. This will help to attract more international visitors, and act as a magnet for new investment and job creation, driving growth and economic prosperity for decades to come.
“Our plans are not only about creating a beautiful public space where people can shop, eat and connect – but transforming Oxford Street into a place Londoners and the whole of the country can be proud of, as we continue to build a better London for everyone.”
City Hall will deliver the plans by establishing a Mayoral Development Corporation, which will take over planning and fundraising powers from Westminster Council, which has previously opposed the street’s pedestrianisation. Proposals to re-route the buses and remove the traffic currently using Oxford Street will be released later this year, with changes likely to be implemented from 2027 onwards.
Stay in the loop…
Sign up to our drops & get us in your inbox.
We’ll be in your inbox every Wednesday at 11:30am.
Put the kettle on!
