The Mayor of London’s vision to transform Oxford Street into a pedestrian-friendly space has found an ally in the hospitality sector, with calls for the inclusion of diverse dining and recreation options.
Kate Nicholls, UK Hospitality’s chief executive, contributed her thoughts on the proposal in a correspondence to Sir Sadiq Khan, emphasizing hospitality’s integral role in the success of the revamped shopping artery, as reported by City AM.
In her communication, which City AM had the opportunity to review, Nicholl’s voiced her tentative endorsement: “In principle we support the proposal,” she wrote.
Her insistence on the importance of hospitality is clear: “It is our belief that for this to be successful it is imperative that hospitality is used to animate the new pedestrianised area.”
She further underscored the value of blending hospitality with other sectors: “When we talk of healthy, successful high streets, one important measure is the diversity created by a mix of hospitality, leisure and retail. All of these are important, and all work together.”
The lobbying group’s input comes on the heels of a two-month public feedback session on the transformation effort, which seeks to block vehicular access – including cars, buses, and bicycles – to the renowned route, with proposed changes focusing on the section stretching from Oxford Circus to Selfridges. The pedestrianisation project faces a financial impact estimated at £150m borne by the taxpayers.
The public consultation period, which concluded on 2 May, saw a wave of interventions both in favour and against the proposal.
Critics, including opposition politicians in the London Assembly, have voiced concerns over the Greater London Authority’s (GLA) lack of detailed information and commitment to transparency regarding the project.
However, there are those who back the plans for a revamped Oxford Street, such as Peter Jelkby, UK head of Ikea, the hub’s latest flagship tenant. Jelkby, whose company announced the much-anticipated opening of its flagship UK store last month, stated that the plans would be “good for the street” and “make it easier to move round.”
In her letter, Nicholls, recently named City AM’s personality of the year, echoed Jelkby’s sentiments, suggesting the proposal could “redefine Oxford Street as an attractive destination for both domestic and inbound tourists.”
Nicholls, offering to participate in future discussions with businesses, added: “We look forward to engaging further on this topic and we’re hopeful that these proposals can be showcased as a successful case study on how licencing and planning can work together to create a successful, thriving high street.”
A representative for the Mayor of London stated: “Working closely with local businesses, residents and local councils, the mayor has developed bold proposals to pedestrianise Oxford Street and establish it as a global leader for shopping, hospitality and outdoor events.
“Revitalising Oxford Street would super-charge regeneration and unlock the potential of the area.”
