A significant transformation could soon greet visitors at London’s iconic Oxford Street, enhancing its appeal and accessibility.
- The proposed pedestrianisation of Oxford Street from Oxford Circus to Marble Arch, aims to revitalise the historic shopping area.
- Sadiq Khan emphasised the need to rejuvenate Oxford Street, affected by a decade of decline.
- A £90 million investment programme will commence, focusing on widening pavements to accommodate more footfall.
- The project, a collaboration with local retailers and Westminster City Council, promises economic benefits.
A major section of London’s Oxford Street, known as one of the world’s busiest retail destinations attracting around half a million visitors daily, is set to undergo a transformation that could enhance its pedestrian accessibility and appeal. A proposal by London mayor Sadiq Khan suggests creating a 0.7-mile pedestrian zone spanning from Oxford Circus to Marble Arch. This development builds upon existing traffic restrictions on Oxford Street, which currently limit vehicular access from 7am to 7pm, excluding taxis and buses.
Mayor Khan underscored the urgency of this project by stating that Oxford Street has ‘suffered hugely over the last decade’ and stressed the need for urgent action to revitalise this historic retail hub. By collaborating with the new government, businesses, and local retailers, the initiative hopes to restore Oxford Street to its former glory while simultaneously creating new job opportunities and economic growth for London and the UK.
Set to begin this autumn, the £90 million Oxford Street Programme aims to widen pavements along the stretch from Marble Arch to Tottenham Court Road. The project will be carried out by Westminster City Council in partnership with the business improvement district, New West End Company (NWEC).
These transformative efforts are expected to renew Oxford Street’s status as a premier global shopping destination while supporting economic recovery in the capital.
