Traffic could soon be banned from part of London’s most popular shopping area, under new plans by the capital’s mayor.
A scheme announced by Sadiq Khan could see a 0.7-mile stretch of Oxford Street – between Oxford Circus and Marble Arch – pedestrianised with the aim of boosting the experience of shoppers, residents, workers and tourists.
The proposal is part of the Labour mayor’s wider regeneration project with the potential for further changes towards Tottenham Court Road.
The potential ban would build on current restrictions which limits vehicle access – apart from buses and taxis – to parts of Oxford Street from 7am to 7pm, except on Sundays.
“Oxford Street was once the jewel in the crown of Britain’s retail sector, but there’s no doubt that it has suffered hugely over the last decade,” Mr Khan said.
“Urgent action is needed to give the nation’s most famous high street a new lease of life.
“I am excited to be working with the new government, and local retailers and businesses, on these plans that will help to restore this famous part of the capital to its former glory, while creating new jobs and economic prosperity for the capital and the country.”
The mayor’s plan depends on him obtaining permission from housing secretary and Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, who could establish a new Mayoral Development Corporation, which would provide planning powers.
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A statutory period of consultation and consideration by the London Assembly is also required.
Mr Khan’s previous attempt to implement a traffic ban was blocked by then-Conservative run Westminster City Council in 2018.
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If given the green light this time around, the project is expected to cost around £150m, with City Hall officials hoping it could be paid for by a combination of local businesses, new revenue streams and private funders.
Stuart Love, chief executive of Westminster City Council, said it will be important to receive further details about what is planned, including how long it could take and how concerns of locals and businesses will be addressed.
He said for the last two years the authority has worked with businesses and residents’ groups to develop a “shovel ready” plan to improve Oxford Street without pedestrianisation – but the council intends to work constructively with the mayor and the government to ensure the best outcomes for all.
