Oxford Street has been permanently closed to cars as part of Sadiq Khan’s plan to transform the busy central London shopping destination into a pedestrianised zone.
The Mayor of London described the change as “a truly momentous occasion for the capital”. Critics, however, say the scheme was pushed through too quickly, with important concerns still unresolved.
Almost a kilometre of Oxford Street, stretching between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street, is now closed to cars, buses, taxis, bicycles and other vehicles. Traffic will be redirected onto nearby roads.
The restrictions do not apply to deliveries, which are permitted between midnight and 7am, or to emergency vehicles, which will have access at all times.
Some commuters appeared confused on the first morning of the new Oxford Street pedestrianisation scheme, stopping near the Oxford Circus Tube junction to photograph the green bollards blocking the road.
Security guards were also seen stopping cyclists and instructing them to dismount and walk their bikes. Some riders ignored the directions and continued through the area.
The overnight disruption was described as “absolutely pandemonium” by one member of the public, who filmed buses struggling to navigate the newly introduced diversion.
Oxford Street attracts about half a million visitors each day. Collectively, shoppers spend an estimated £3billion in its stores every year.
Lord Khan said the street had been “in decline” for the past 20 years, arguing that removing traffic would give the famous shopping district the opportunity to recover and prosper.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan on Oxford Street after his pedestrianisation scheme came into effect
Workers install bollards at one end of Oxford Street
An artist’s impression of the proposed pedestrianised Oxford Street
Opponents have warned that diverting traffic could lead to heavier congestion on surrounding roads.
One local councillor called the move a “disaster for local people” and accused Lord Khan of forcing it through in order to meet an “arbitrary deadline”.
Cllr Tim Barnes, deputy leader of Westminster City Council, said: “We’re extremely disappointed that MHCLG have ignored legitimate concerns about the impact this scheme will have on central London…
“London deserves a world-class shopping district, but I’m worried we’re heading for an unmanaged mess.”
Mr Barnes previously said: “If this is going to be the ‘greener, better and more prosperous’ success that the mayor has promised, then issues around access, air pollution, street cleaning and public safety need answers urgently.
“Right now there’s a danger that we will have all of the downsides and too little upside.
“Traffic will be pushed to the small streets nearby, causing economic and environmental harm.”
MORE STORY: Ex-Wife Claims Markle Went to ‘Far East’ Over Age-of-Consent Laws
Oxford Street has also become a more popular office location since the arrival of the Elizabeth line. Lord Khan believes the pedestrianisation project will help revitalise the area, support economic growth and draw more visitors.
Describing it as ‘a new vibrant destination’, he said: ‘I’m hugely excited to see my bold vision for Oxford Street coming to life from today. It is a truly momentous occasion for the capital.’
He added: ‘For centuries, Oxford Street has reinvented itself, adapting to changing times and helping shape British culture along the way.
‘There has been talk of pedestrianising Oxford Street for decades. After so many false dawns, and now working with a Government who share the scale of my ambition, I’m proud that we’re finally unlocking a new era for the street.’
Cars, buses, taxis, bikes and other vehicles are banned from entering almost a kilometre of the road
Oxford Street has permanently closed to vehicles as Sadiq Khans pedestrianisation plan gets underway
He hopes the changes will open up the chance to bring new experiences to the street, from sport to fashion and cultural events.
He said: ‘Revitalising Oxford Street will boost jobs and economic growth in the capital, unlock the full potential of this key part of the West End and help build a better, greener and more prosperous London for everyone.’
The move marks the first phase of a pedestrianisation and wider regeneration project aimed at putting Oxford Street among top global shopping destinations including Times Square, the Champs-Élysées and La Rambla.
New bus stops are sited along Wigmore Street, Henrietta Place and Cavendish Place approximately 200 metres from the traffic-free area.
London transport commissioner Andy Lord suggested the scheme is creating a safer space for people to enjoy the retail and leisure.
He added that ‘we will be closely monitoring these changes to make sure they are working for everyone and supporting the continued economic growth London needs’.
Housing, Communities and Local Government Secretary Angela Rayner said: ‘This marks an exciting new chapter for Oxford Street, creating a greener, more vibrant place that will attract visitors and investment, support businesses and jobs, and drive growth in the heart of our capital.’
The scheme has the backing of businesses including John Lewis and Selfridges, who both described it as ‘exciting’, along with Under Armour and Grosvenor Property plus organisations such as UK Hospitality and the New West End Company.
Savills co-head of global retail Sam Foyle said: ‘Alongside significant investment, it sends a powerful signal about the street’s future, further strengthening Oxford Street’s position as a world-class retail destination for leading global brands.’
Minimal construction will take place in the immediate weeks to reduce disruption in the busy Christmas period.
By the end of spring 2027, visitors to Oxford Street should see more than 50 new trees, two new public squares and better signage.
More than 100 new seats, dining tables and new lighting are also to be installed.
Oxford Street Development Corporation (OSDC) chief executive Nabeel Khan said: ‘The transition phase is a vital opportunity for us at OSDC to test ideas, learn from people’s experiences and work closely with local communities, businesses and accessibility groups to ensure the future street is as welcoming and inclusive as possible.’