London’s iconic Oxford Street is poised for a major transformation, with plans to pedestrianise a 0.7-mile stretch from Selfridges to Great Portland Street, marking a significant step in the capital’s efforts to revitalise one of its most famous shopping arteries. This initiative, championed by Mayor Sadiq Khan, has gained substantial backing through a public consultation that saw over 6,600 responses overwhelmingly in favour of reducing traffic, reflecting widespread support from both Londoners and major businesses.

The pedestrianisation project aims to establish a traffic-free zone between Orchard Street, near Selfridges, and Great Portland Street. This area has endured several challenges in recent years, including closures of key retailers such as Debenhams and House of Fraser, amplified by the rise in online shopping, the aftermath of the pandemic, and economic pressures. The scheme, with an estimated cost of £150 million, is expected to take until 2027 or later to complete, pending the establishment of a Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC) in early 2026. This MDC will bring together stakeholders including the council, which has historically voiced opposition, alongside government representation to oversee and drive the regeneration efforts.

Major retailers such as Ikea—who recently launched a store near Oxford Circus—and Selfridges have publicly endorsed the pedestrianisation plan. Ikea UK Chief Executive Peter Jelkeby described it as a positive move towards creating “a more welcoming and accessible space.” The New West End Company, representing local businesses, also welcomed the consultation’s outcome as a critical development in Oxford Street’s future. This transformation is designed not only to enhance the shopping environment but to attract tourists, stimulate investment, and boost employment, with aspirations to transform Oxford Street into a vibrant hub for shopping, leisure, and cultural events, akin to celebrated pedestrian zones like New York’s Times Square and Barcelona’s La Rambla.

Removing vehicles will necessitate significant changes to transport in the area, including alterations to 16 London bus routes currently serving the street. The Mayor’s office has committed to releasing detailed traffic and transport proposals later in the year, accompanied by further consultation. The objective is to balance the creation of a pedestrian-friendly area with the needs of public transport users and accessibility considerations.

The push for pedestrianisation has a long history in London. Initiatives dating back to 2018, including proposals by Zaha Hadid Architects and design competitions coordinated by the Royal Institute of British Architects, have explored various ways of reducing car dominance on Oxford Street. These efforts reflect a broader trend in urban planning aimed at reclaiming city streets for people rather than vehicles, with proven precedents both within the UK—such as Glasgow’s Buchanan Street, a successful car-free shopping district since 1978—and internationally.

However, the plan has not been without controversy. Westminster City Council has expressed concerns over the potential traffic disruption, implications for public transport, and accessibility, and has urged for greater clarity on the project’s timeline and local impact. Mayor Khan has acknowledged opposition but remains resolute that transforming Oxford Street is a necessary step to prevent its decline and to maintain its status as a premier retail destination amid intense global competition. He has criticised the traditional planning process, suggesting that decisions on significant developments should shift more towards professionals rather than being hindered by small interest groups, emphasising the national importance of Oxford Street.

Moreover, beyond economic concerns, the street's recent difficulties have included strain from petty crime and an influx of lower-quality retail outlets, some suspected of tax evasion and counterfeit sales. Yet, there are signs of rejuvenation, with prominent retailers returning and new investments signaling hope for the district’s renaissance.

In summary, Mayor Sadiq Khan’s plan to pedestrianise Oxford Street is not merely a traffic scheme but a broader strategic effort to restore the area’s vibrancy, support London’s position as a leading global shopping destination, and adapt to contemporary urban and consumer dynamics. While challenges around implementation and local objections remain, the official momentum and public backing indicate a transformative change on the horizon for one of London’s most storied streets.

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Source: Noah Wire Services