Oxford Street closes to traffic in phased pedestrianisation scheme

Summarised from 2 outlets · 3 reports · Updated 26 Oct, 07:01 · Archive

Almost a kilometre of Oxford Street became traffic-free from Monday in the first phase of a long-proposed pedestrianisation scheme.

Almost a kilometre of Oxford Street, between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street, closed to traffic from Monday in the first phase of a long-proposed pedestrianisation scheme. Buses, taxis, private hire vehicles, bicycles, scooters and pedicabs are being diverted to nearby roads, though emergency services retain access. Deliveries can be made between midnight and 7am.

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, described the scheme as 'a truly momentous occasion for the capital'. He said Oxford Street had experienced years of decline as people shopped online and at out-of-town malls, and the pandemic had accelerated the change. Khan said the pedestrianisation would support flagship stores in the area.

Oxford Street, which generates annual spending of around £3.1 billion, receives approximately half a million visitors daily and is one of the world's busiest shopping streets. The overhaul comes in time for the Christmas season. Khan said the scheme will revitalise the site, boost economic growth and attract visitors. More seating, trees and public spaces are planned for early next year. Westminster council has warned traffic will be pushed onto smaller surrounding roads.

How it is being reported

• Oxford Street pedestrianisation live as cars, bikes and buses banned for first timeOne kilometre of Europe's busiest shopping street is now car-freeMyLondon · 26 Oct, 08:41
• Oxford Street pedestrianisation begins as Sadiq Khan hails 'momentous occasion' for LondonOxford Street has officially begun its transformation into a traffic-free shopping destination, with Sadiq Khan hailing the changes as a “truly momentous occasion” for London despite fears over congestion on nearby roads.MyLondon · 26 Oct, 06:20
• Sadiq Khan: Oxford Street pedestrianisation will rid road of 'dross' American candy shopsAlmost a kilometre of Britain’s most famous shopping street will become traffic free from MondayEvening Standard · 25 Oct, 06:15

In this story: Sadiq Khan · Oxford Street · London · Westminster council

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