The proposal for pedestrianising a section of Oxford Street has been overwhelmingly endorsed by Londoners, with 70% in favour during a public consultation.
The bold move would see vehicles such as buses and taxis prohibited from travelling between Orchard Street and Oxford Circus, extending towards Great Portland Street – converting nearly a mile of the iconic road into a pedestrian zone, as reported by City AM.
“This is a hugely significant development for central London,” remarked Cllr Richard Olszewski, Leader of Camden Council.
Olszewski went on to note the numerous advantages of the plan, including economic boosts and enhancements to air quality, health, and wellbeing for the metropolis.
Plans are in the works to form a Mayoral Development Corporation by January 1, 2026, to implement these ambitious changes.
High-profile retailers such as Selfridges, John Lewis, and Ikea have expressed support for the initiative.
“Selfridges has thrived on Oxford Street for well over 100 years and we’re hugely energised by the renewed commitment to make this area more enticing and attractive for locals and visitors from around the world,” stated Selfridges executive director Meave Wall.
Peter Ruis, managing director of John Lewis, shared his enthusiasm: “[We] believe pedestrianisation will create a vibrant, thriving shopping environment enhancing the area’s appeal as a top retail destination.”
Nevertheless, opposition figures have critiqued the Greater London Authority (GLA) for lacking sufficient detail in its plans and failing to uphold adequate transparency to merit approval.
BusinessLDN’s planning and development director, Sarah Bevan, emphasised the importance of collaboration, stating: “with landowners and businesses within and around the new [pedestrianised] area over the months ahead will be a must for ensuring its long-term success.”
She also highlighted the necessity of “Clear governance structures, clarity around how developer contributions will be collected and reinvested, and careful consideration of boundary lines will also be key.”
Meanwhile, Transport for London’s Chief Customer and Strategy Officer, Alex Williams, commented on the iconic status of Oxford Street: “Oxford Street is an iconic location in London – well served by the Tube, Elizabeth line and local bus services – and this consultation shows that there is a clear desire to improve access to the shops, businesses and attractions within the area.”
He added that TfL would assist in the next steps: “We will now support the development of detailed traffic and highways plans to pedestrianise the section of road between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street, which will be consulted on later this year.”
