London opens first traffic-free stretch of Oxford Street
Around one kilometre of Oxford Street between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street was opened to pedestrians on Monday, with officials noting the change is the first phase of a wider regeneration plan.
London’s mayor, Lord Sadiq Khan, marked the opening of a roughly 1 km pedestrian zone on Oxford Street as the first step in a plan to revive the historic shopping thoroughfare. The stretch between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street was closed to cars, taxis, buses and bicycles, with barriers and signage installed by the Oxford Street Development Corporation.
The mayor described the day as a turning point for the capital, saying the street had been in decline for decades and that the new layout would allow the area to become a hub for culture, leisure and tourism. Deputy mayor for transport Seb Dance added that the benefits of pedestrianisation would become evident quickly.
Transport for London (TfL) confirmed that cyclists and e-scooter users are required to follow the ban and that the agency is working with dockless hire companies to enforce geo-fencing that limits e-bike power within the zone. A TfL spokesperson said the authority will monitor compliance and adjust measures as needed.
While many shoppers welcomed the change, some concerns were raised about accessibility for disabled visitors and the impact on surrounding traffic. Representatives from disability groups and a local black-cab driver warned that rerouted buses and taxi ranks might create difficulties for passengers with mobility needs. The Oxford Street Development Corporation said it has consulted emergency services and will continue to address access requirements.
Local residents expressed mixed reactions. Some praised the open space and anticipated a boost to businesses, while others feared that diverting traffic could affect nearby neighbourhoods. Westminster City Council deputy leader Tim Barnes said the council will monitor traffic, noise and pollution levels and work with TfL and the mayor to resolve any issues.
The mayor indicated that further phases of pedestrianisation are planned, with additional improvements slated for the new year and a focus on making the area safe and spacious ahead of the Christmas period.