Controversy Over Sadiq Khan’s Rush to Pedestrianise Oxford Street

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, September 29, 2026

Starting October 26, a half-mile section of Oxford Street in central London will be pedestrianised, banning all vehicles between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street to create a more shopper-friendly environment ahead of Christmas. While Mayor Sadiq Khan supports the move as essential for boosting retail and urban renewal, local officials warn that unresolved practical issues and a rushed timeline could undermine the plan's success.

Plans to pedestrianise a significant section of Oxford Street in central London have drawn criticism amid concerns about the speed of implementation and unresolved practical issues. Starting October 26, vehicles including cars, buses, taxis, and bicycles will be prohibited from accessing the half-mile stretch between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street. The initiative aims to transform the busy shopping district into a pedestrian-friendly zone ahead of the Christmas season.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has defended the timeline, stating that the changes come at a crucial moment to support the city’s retail sector during the holiday period. Khan described the scheme as a "bold vision" backed by strong support from both Londoners and businesses, envisaging it as a catalyst for economic growth and urban regeneration. The mayor highlighted the broader goals of creating a greener and more prosperous London, suggesting the pedestrianisation would contribute positively to the capital’s long-term development.

However, not all local leaders share this optimism. Westminster City Council's deputy leader, Councillor Tim Barnes, voiced concerns that the project’s preparations are being rushed. Barnes emphasised that residents, businesses, and the council itself still face numerous unanswered questions regarding the impact and operational details of the pedestrian zone. Key issues cited include access logistics, management of air pollution, street cleaning, and public safety measures.

Barnes warned that unless these matters are addressed promptly, the plan risks falling short of the promised improvements. While the pedestrianisation aims to improve the shopping experience and reduce vehicle emissions, the complexity of managing one of the world’s busiest retail streets requires detailed planning and stakeholder engagement.

Oxford Street attracts approximately half a million visitors daily, making it a central hub for London’s retail economy. The pedestrianisation scheme forms part of wider efforts by the mayor and city authorities to reshape urban spaces in response to environmental and social priorities. The debate over the timing and execution of the changes underscores the challenges of balancing ambitious urban renewal projects with immediate operational needs and community concerns.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.