London Mayor launches proposal to pedestrianise Oxford Street

The Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has today (28 February) launched a public consultation on proposals to pedestrianise Oxford Street.

Oxford Street is an area of critical national economic importance, with an estimated annual contribution to London’s economy of £25bn in 2022. 

But the area has suffered in recent years for a variety of reasons including the pandemic, the growth of online shopping and out-of-town shopping centres.

The Mayor’s proposals – working alongside government, businesses and local councils – could include future plans to pedestrianise Oxford Street and transform it into an “exciting, green and thriving destination” for Londoners and tourists.

The public consultation – which is open from 28 February to 2 May – is about gathering Londoners’ views on the Mayor’s proposals to create a new Mayoral Development Corporation, which would have the necessary powers to support the transformation of the area, and on the principle of pedestrianisation.

According to the Mayor, these proposals would help to attract more national and international visitors, showcasing the best of London, while also acting as a magnet for new customers, new investment and job-creation, driving growth and economic prosperity for decades to come.  

Regarding the proposals, Khan said: “Oxford Street has been known as the nation’s high street but the area has suffered in recent years. My proposals are designed to unlock the true potential of Oxford Street and deliver a world-class, accessible, clean, avenue. These proposals would help to restore this famous part of the capital and support good businesses, while creating new jobs and boosting growth.

“I encourage everyone to have their say on these proposals, which would transform Oxford Street into a place Londoners and the whole of the country can be proud of as we continue to build a better London for everyone.”

Dee Corsi, chief executive, New West End Company, added: “The launch of the public consultation marks a significant milestone in the journey of the nation’s high street. It is an important step towards unlocking the full potential of Oxford Street and the wider West End. We are ready to work with the Mayor, the Government, Westminster City Council, and the local community to bring this vision to life and drive long-term benefits for London and the UK as a whole.

“We have long championed the regeneration of Oxford Street, recognising its vital importance to London and the UK economy. With significant private sector investment already driving change, Oxford Street is evolving. It has always been a much-loved destination, attracting Londoners and visitors from around the world. It’s a place where retail, leisure, and culture come together, and with growing demand for high-quality office space, its role as a vibrant commercial hub continues to expand.”