‘It’s magical’: London’s iconic Oxford Street goes vehicle-free
Summary
Oxford Street in central London has become a pedestrian-only zone between Great Portland Street and Orchard Street. London officials say the change could boost retail activity and support jobs, while some residents and shoppers have raised concerns about consultation and access for people who cannot walk far.Key Facts
- The vehicle-free zone covers part of Oxford Street, a roughly 1km stretch of major shopping street.
- The Greater London Authority estimates partial pedestrianisation could generate more than $109 million a year and support 700 additional jobs.
- Footfall on Oxford Street is about 57 percent of its 2006 level, according to retail trade body New West End Company.
- After a weekend trial in October 2025, two-thirds of businesses in the area reported higher or similar sales during pedestrianisation.
- Plans for the wider regeneration project include two public squares, 50 trees and hundreds of public seats.
- Mayor Sadiq Khan first pursued pedestrianisation in 2017, but the plan fell apart in 2018 after Westminster Council withdrew its support.
- Some shoppers said buses and cabs should remain available to help people with disabilities or those who cannot walk far.
- Westminster Council deputy leader Tim Barnes said residents had mostly been told what would happen rather than meaningfully consulted.
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