London is on the cusp of a transformative change as plans to pedestrianise Oxford Street, one of the world’s busiest shopping hubs, move closer to reality. The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has put forward an ambitious vision to create a vehicle-free zone along a 0.7-mile stretch between Oxford Circus and Marble Arch, with prospects for expansion towards Tottenham Court Road. This initiative, championed as a means to unlock Oxford Street's “true potential,” aims to redefine it as a world-class, accessible, and vibrant destination for both Londoners and visitors.

Oxford Street attracts roughly half a million visitors daily, representing a significant slice of London’s retail economy, which is valued at approximately £25 billion annually. However, the street has faced mounting challenges over recent years, including decreased footfall following the Covid-19 pandemic and the rise of online shopping. The pedestrianisation plan, backed by a public consultation showing nearly 70% support, seeks to rejuvenate the area by improving the visitor experience, reducing pollution, and offering new leisure opportunities such as alfresco dining and outdoor events. The creation of a Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC) will allow the Mayor to take control and coordinate the redevelopment more effectively, superseding Westminster City Council in areas of planning and maintenance for Oxford Street.

Proponents argue that removing vehicles will make Oxford Street a safer and more pleasant environment. Data presented by City Hall reveals that in recent years there were 125 serious injuries and four fatalities on the street, amid congested traffic and heavy pedestrian movement. Tanya Braun, Director of External Affairs for Living Streets, emphasises the need for pedestrian-friendly spaces, highlighting that overcrowding paired with high traffic contributes to accidents, and that many short car journeys could be avoided. The comparison with successful pedestrianised streets such as Brussels’ Boulevard Anspach or Seoul’s restored river motorway is frequently cited to illustrate the potential benefits for urban life and economic activity. The Mayor’s plan is not only about reducing pollution, but also about creating a London that competes globally as an attractive destination, stimulating growth and employment.

The proposal enjoys political backing, including from Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, who links the changes with job creation and boosting London’s night-time economy. The estimated cost for the pedestrianisation project is around £150 million, funded through a mix of local business contributions, private investment, and new revenue mechanisms.

Nevertheless, the plan faces significant opposition. Critics, including Conservative Councillor Tim Barnes, argue that the pedestrianisation has not been fully thought through and could lead to greater congestion and pollution in surrounding areas as displaced traffic diverts to smaller side streets. Concerns also revolve around access issues for emergency vehicles, deliveries, and people dependent on taxis or buses. While nitrogen dioxide (NO2) pollution on Oxford Street has reportedly declined substantially since 2016, remaining below legal limits, opponents worry about unintended consequences in neighbouring residential zones. There is apprehension that without clear details on bus rerouting and taxi management, the scheme risks disadvantaging disabled people and daily commuters. Laura from Inclusion London stresses the importance of ensuring accessible transport options remain effective for those who rely heavily on public transit to reach central London.

Since September 2024, Transport for London has assumed highway authority responsibilities over Oxford Street, a critical administrative step towards implementing the vision. Planning now advances towards detailed traffic management solutions aimed at rerouting 16 bus routes off the street and redesigning traffic flow without compromising accessibility or emergency access. Mayor Khan has expressed determination to proceed swiftly with the changes, presenting the pedestrianisation as an essential element of building a "better, greener and safer London for all."

This pedestrianisation resembles landmark urban transformations globally, such as New York’s Times Square pedestrian zones, which revitalised public space and commerce. However, London’s challenge lies in balancing the needs of its diverse users—from shoppers to delivery services and residents—while preserving the historical prominence of Oxford Street.

As the various stakeholders engage in consultations and planning, the future of Oxford Street is poised to be reshaped dramatically. Whether this vision will deliver the promised benefits or face unforeseen challenges remains to be seen, but London’s ambition to create a greener, more accessible urban core is clear.

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Source: Noah Wire Services