London’s Oxford Street will be pedestrianised “as quickly as possible” after a public consultation showed overwhelming support for the plan. Mayor Sadiq Khan confirmed the move, which aims to revitalise the famous shopping district.
More than 6,600 respondents including residents, businesses, and organisations backed the proposal to ban traffic along a 0.7-mile stretch from Great Portland Street. Khan said the changes would give the struggling high street a “new lease of life” and attract global visitors.
Previous attempts to pedestrianise Oxford Street were blocked by Westminster City Council. Now, with Labour in control, the government will establish a mayoral development corporation (MDC) to fast-track the project by early 2026.
Even so, council leader Adam Hug said the decision was “not our preferred outcome” but pledged to work with the mayor to ensure the scheme benefits shoppers, tourists, and residents.
While most private vehicles are already banned, buses and taxis still use Oxford Street. Black cab representatives warn that diverting traffic could worsen London’s congestion.
Steve McNamara of the LTDA said: “Putting this traffic onto surrounding streets will cause chaos we’re already Europe’s most congested city.” Detailed traffic plans, including bus rerouting, will be released later this year.
Major retailers, including Ikea and Selfridges, support the transformation. Peter Jelkeby of Ikea UK said pedestrianisation would create a “more welcoming and accessible space.” The New West End Company, representing 600 local businesses, called the consultation result a “crucial step forward.”
With government backing, the MDC will finalise designs and begin consultations on traffic changes. If approved, work could start in 2026, with the pedestrian zone opening by 2027.
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