Oxford Street to begin phased pedestrianisation in London

A one-kilometre stretch of London’s Oxford Street will become vehicle-free starting Monday, October 26. The initial phase of the transformation covers the area between Orchard Street, near Selfridges, and Great Portland Street, east of Oxford Circus.

Under the new restrictions, cars, buses, taxis, private hire vehicles, bicycles, e-bikes, e-scooters, and pedicabs will be banned from the central section. Emergency services will maintain access, and delivery trucks will be permitted between 7am and midnight. While the road will be closed to through traffic, several north-south junctions will remain open to allow vehicles to cross the street.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan stated the initiative aims to reverse years of retail decline and replace “dross” such as souvenir shops with high-quality flagship stores. While the immediate focus is on traffic removal, further developments including new seating, trees, and public spaces are planned for early next year following the busy Christmas period. Westminster council has noted concerns that traffic may be diverted onto surrounding side roads.