Plans are underway to pedestrianise a portion of Oxford Street, aiming to rejuvenate this iconic shopping hub.
- Mayor Sadiq Khan announced a proposal for a new pedestrian zone from Oxford Circus to Marble Arch.
- The proposed pedestrian area would extend current traffic restrictions, though buses and taxis would remain unaffected.
- The £90 million project, led by Westminster City Council and NWEC, is set to start this autumn.
- This initiative aims to boost economic activity, create jobs, and return Oxford Street to its former prominence.
Oxford Street, a significant draw for shoppers worldwide, sees approximately half a million visitors daily. The street’s prominence, however, has waned over the past decade, prompting urgent measures to revitalise it. Mayor Sadiq Khan has put forth a proposal that seeks to establish a 0.7-mile pedestrian zone stretching from Oxford Circus to Marble Arch, in an effort to breathe new life into this historic retail district.
Mayor Khan’s proposal aims to expand on existing vehicle restrictions, which currently limit access to certain parts of Oxford Street from 7am to 7pm, exempting buses and taxis from these constraints. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to address the challenges that have beset the street in recent years, with the ultimate goal of enhancing both its commercial appeal and visitor experience.
Financially, the project involves a robust £90 million investment, dubbed the Oxford Street Programme. Set to commence this autumn, the initiative is backed by Westminster City Council in conjunction with the business improvement district, New West End Company (NWEC). The plans include widening pavements to accommodate an influx of pedestrians, thereby improving the overall accessibility and safety of the area.
The anticipated outcomes of these efforts are multifaceted, aiming not only to revive Oxford Street’s commercial stature but also to generate new employment opportunities and stimulate broader economic benefits across London. Sadiq Khan commented, “Urgent action is needed to give the nation’s most famous high street a new lease of life,” expressing optimism about the collaborative efforts between the government, local businesses, and retailers.
The pedestrianisation of Oxford Street is poised to revitalise one of the UK’s most renowned shopping destinations, bringing economic and social benefits to the area.
