Almost 1km of London's Oxford Street goes permanently traffic-free

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 26 Oct, 12:01 · Archive

An almost 1km section of London's Oxford Street has been permanently closed to buses, cars and bicycles to revitalise the shopping district.

An almost 1km section of London's Oxford Street, Britain's busiest shopping thoroughfare, has been permanently closed to buses, cars, taxis, cycles, scooters and pedicabs in an effort to revitalise the area. London Mayor Sadiq Khan said the pedestrianisation is the first stage of a wider regeneration project and a move more than two decades in the making. He described it as 'unlocking a new era for the street' and said it would boost jobs and economic growth in the capital.

Oxford Street, which houses retailers including John Lewis, Marks & Spencer and Tiffany & Co, has struggled since the COVID pandemic. Many flagship stores including House of Fraser and Topshop have closed, and Khan said the area had been neglected. The arrival of US candy stores has also put off many shoppers, though the street still attracts about half a million visitors daily.

Minimal construction will take place during the run-up to Christmas, a busy shopping period. Plans for 2027 include more than 50 new trees, 100 new seats, two public squares, rest areas and better signage and lighting.

Almost 1km of London's Oxford Street goes permanently traffic-free — Image: Perth Now

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How it is being reported

Buses out, shoppers in: famed UK street is traffic-freeLondon's Oxford Street will be closed to cars, buses and bicycles as authorities seek to revive the city's main shopping street.Perth Now · 26 Oct, 11:36
Buses out, shoppers in: famed UK street is traffic-freeLondon's Oxford Street will be closed to cars, buses and bicycles as authorities seek to revive the city's main shopping street.The West Australian · 26 Oct, 11:36

In this story: Sadiq Khan · Oxford Street · London · John Lewis · Marks & Spencer

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