Oxford Street opens to pedestrians as traffic ban takes effect

London’s Oxford Street was closed to motor traffic on Monday, marking the start of a 1 km pedestrian-only zone that runs from Orchard Street near Marble Arch to Great Portland Street east of Oxford Circus. The change, implemented after approval in February, was overseen by Mayor Sadiq Khan, who said the project aims to revive the area’s retail appeal and improve air quality.

Visitors reported a calmer shopping environment. Aamed Alaraimi, 45, from Oman, told the newspaper that the street was “much better” because pedestrians could cross without worrying about cars. David Derbyshire, 67, said the reduction in “argy-bargy” made his wife’s visit to John Lewis more pleasant. Some local business owners expect the pedestrianisation to increase footfall, noting that previous traffic congestion deterred shoppers.

Cyclists, however, largely ignored the ban, with many riding on the pavement and an electric van nearly colliding with a reporter near John Lewis. Drivers expressed concerns about traffic displacement onto surrounding streets. Black-cab driver Barry King warned that the measure could push congestion and pollution onto nearby roads, potentially harming local businesses.

The move follows decades of debate over Oxford Street’s dual role as a major traffic artery and a retail hub. Historical reports have highlighted the street’s high accident rate, and footfall data from Transport for London showed a decline to 57 % of 2006 levels, compared with higher rates on neighbouring Regent and Bond Streets. The pedestrianisation aligns with similar initiatives in other global cities, though critics note the need to monitor impacts on traffic flow, accessibility and crime rates.