London Mayor Sadiq Khan has unveiled plans to transform Oxford Street into a pedestrian-only zone, aiming to boost shopper numbers and rejuvenate the UK’s ‘most famous high street.’ Khan’s proposal includes converting the iconic road into a car-free area as part of a broader regeneration project for the retail hotspot, according to reports.
The pedestrianisation initiative would be implemented through the establishment of a new mayoral development area, supported by the incoming Labour administration, asserts City Hall. Khan anticipates that the scheme will lead to an increase in visitors, job creation, and economic growth both in the capital and nationwide, aspiring to match the allure of New York’s Times Square and Barcelona’s Las Ramblas.
Khan remarked, ‘Oxford Street was once the jewel in the crown of Britain’s retail sector, but there’s no doubt that it has suffered hugely over the last decade. Urgent action is needed to give the nation’s most famous high street a new lease of life. I want Oxford Street to once again become the leading retail destination in the world.’
Echoing this sentiment, Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner stated, ‘Oxford Street is a world-renowned shopping destination, and we want it to stay that way. This plan will drive growth by creating new jobs, generating economic activity, and giving a much-needed boost to London’s night-time economy.’
Banning traffic from Oxford Street, which normally sees around 500,000 daily visitors, has long been a part of Khan’s vision for London, notably included in his 2016 mayoral manifesto. However, Westminster City Council, responsible for the street, stalled the proposal after consulting with residents in 2018. The political landscape changed significantly in 2022 when the Labour party gained majority control over the council for the first time since its inception in 1965.
Despite contributing approximately five percent to London’s GDP, Oxford Street has faced stiff competition from online retailers. The street, famous for its department stores such as Selfridges and John Lewis, has also seen notable closures, including the flagship Topshop store, and an increase in American candy trader outlets.
Khan is moving forward with plans to rejuvenate the area by creating a Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC), designed to wield necessary planning authority. This initiative aims for increased expenditure and higher contributions to the nation’s coffers. John Dickie, CEO of BusinessLDN, commented, ‘Oxford Street is London’s flagship high street and an attraction for visitors from across the country and all over the globe. We look forward to engaging with the new MDC and other stakeholders to help make Oxford Street an even more vibrant and attractive place to visit.’
Peter Ruis, John Lewis executive director, expressed pride in the brand’s historical connection to Oxford Street, sharing, ‘Oxford Street has been home to the first ever John Lewis store since 1864. We’re extremely proud of our place on the street.’ On the transformative plans, he added, ‘We’re delighted to see the plans announced today to transform ‘the nation’s high street’ and look forward to welcoming even more visitors to London’s West End.’
Dee Corsi, chief executive of the New West End Company, also supported the overhaul while emphasising the past difficulties. She noted, ‘[We have] long championed the transformation of Oxford Street, navigating various challenges.’ However, she cautioned that it is critical to act promptly to realise this vision, stating, ‘Given the history of past schemes, it is essential that we move swiftly to deliver this project.’ Corsi concluded by acknowledging the complexity of the plans under review, saying, ‘We are pleased all partners are taking a long-term, strategic view of the issues at hand, ensuring a comprehensive approach to Oxford Street’s future; the devil will be in the detail.’
Sadiq Khan’s plans to pedestrianise Oxford Street aim to restore its status as a global retail destination. With support from key stakeholders and a strategic approach, the transformation seeks to drive economic growth, job creation, and revitalise London’s iconic shopping hub.