Following a public consultation and the support of local businesses, Mayor of London Sadiq Khan’s plans to pedestrianise Oxford Street will go ahead.
The plans revolve around pedestrianising the section of road between Orchard Street and Oxford Circus up to Great Portland Street, promising to boost retail and drive growth. It is also hoped it will help contend with ecommerce, while also attracting more national and international visitors.
Khan introduced the proposals to update the Oxford Street area earlier this year as part of a wider “transformative” £90mn public realm scheme for the shopping street.
The project saw approximately 70% of respondents backing Khan’s transformation plans and two-thirds specifically endorsing the pedestrianisation proposal. The Mayor of London’s office reported 6,642 responses to the consultation.
Retailers, including John Lewis, and the New West End Company have welcomed the news.
Ikea, which in May opened the doors of its Oxford Street store, celebrated the move to pedestrianise the famous London street. Peter Jekelby, Ikea’s UK chief executive, said: “The plan to pedestrianise Oxford Street is a positive step, which we believe will create a more welcoming and accessible space – bringing wide-ranging benefits to visitors, shoppers, businesses and the wider community.”
The move has also been praised by luxury department store Selfridges, Meave Wall, executive director, said: “Selfridges has thrived on Oxford Street for well over 100 years, and we’re hugely energised by the renewed commitment to make this area more enticing and attractive for locals and visitors from around the world.
“The community’s support and enthusiasm is really encouraging, and we are excited to play our part in shaping a brighter future for this iconic shopping and entertainment hub.”
Stay informed
Our editor carefully curates two newsletters a week filled with up-to-date news, analysis and research, click here to subscribe to the FREE newsletter sent straight to your inbox and why not follow us on LinkedIn to receive the latest updates on our research and analysis.
