Oxford Street has become permanently vehicle-free under Mayor Sadiq Khan’s plan to transform the famous central London shopping destination into a pedestrianised district.
Mr Khan described the launch as “a truly momentous occasion for the capital”, while opponents warned that the changes could create an “unmanaged mess” across the area.
The restrictions came into effect this morning across almost a kilometre of Oxford Street, between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street. Cars, buses, taxis, bicycles and other vehicles must now use alternative roads.
Delivery vehicles are still permitted to enter between midnight and 7am, while emergency services will have unrestricted access to the street.
Oxford Street is one of the busiest retail destinations in the world, attracting roughly 500,000 visitors a day and generating more than £3billion in annual spending.
However, the pedestrianisation plan has faced strong local opposition. One councillor called it a “disaster for local people” and accused the mayor of pushing the project forward to meet an “arbitrary deadline”.
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…”
He added: “London deserves a world-class shopping district, but I’m worried we’re heading for an unmanaged mess.”
Oxford Street has permanently closed to vehicles as Sadiq Khan’s pedestrianisation plan gets underway
The arrival of the Elizabeth line has helped make the surrounding area increasingly attractive to businesses and office workers. Mr Khan believes removing traffic will help revive Oxford Street, stimulate economic growth and draw in more visitors.
Presenting the project as the creation of “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 said Oxford Street had repeatedly evolved throughout its history, adding: “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.”
The mayor hopes the traffic-free space will allow Oxford Street to host a wider range of attractions, including sporting activities, fashion showcases and cultural events.
“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,” he said.
The vehicle ban is the opening stage of a broader pedestrianisation and regeneration programme designed to place Oxford Street alongside major international destinations such as Times Square, the Champs-Élysées and La Rambla.
Opponents argue that the timetable has been too tight, with concerns that rerouting traffic could worsen congestion on surrounding streets.
Replacement bus stops have been introduced on Wigmore Street, Henrietta Place and Cavendish Place, around 200 metres from the newly traffic-free section.
Mr Barnes, Westminster City Council’s deputy leader, has accused Mr Khan of “rushing preparations” for the scheme.
He 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.’
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.’
