Oxford Street Severs Road Links to Reclaim Space for Pedestrians

London’s mayor, Sadiq Khan, has permanently closed an almost 1km section of Oxford Street to buses, cars, taxis, cycles, scooters, and pedicabs. The closure, effective from Monday, spans the area between the Selfridges and IKEA stores. The primary objective is to transform the corridor into a dedicated public space to stimulate economic activity and restore the street’s global competitive standing.

The initiative concludes a planning process that has spanned more than two decades. City leaders aim to position Oxford Street alongside other major international shopping destinations, including New York's Times Square, Paris' Champs-Élysées, and Barcelona's La Rambla. Khan described the move as the start of a new era, noting that the city is finally working with a central government that supports the scale of the project. He stated that revitalizing the area will increase job opportunities and boost capital growth.

The street has faced financial and popularity challenges since the pandemic. The arrival of numerous American candy stores has altered the commercial mix, potentially deterring some shoppers. Additionally, major retailers such as House of Fraser and Topshop have closed locations in recent years. Khan characterized the area as neglected prior to this intervention.

This pedestrianization represents the initial stage of a larger transformation. Minimal construction is scheduled before the Christmas holiday season to avoid disrupting peak shopping periods. For 2027, the plan includes planting more than 50 new trees, installing 100 new seats, and creating two public squares. The redesign will also feature rest areas, improved signage, and enhanced lighting.

According to the mayor's office, Oxford Street receives approximately 500,000 visitors daily. The street connects to Bond Street and Regent Street and houses high-profile tenants like John Lewis, Marks & Spencer, and Tiffany & Co. Housing and communities minister Angela Rayner said the project creates a greener environment to attract investment and support local businesses.