A central section of London’s Oxford Street has been pedestrianised, marking the end of more than two millennia of vehicular traffic along this historic route. From October 26, a one-kilometre stretch of the street, running from the flagship Selfridges store to the Ikea near Great Portland Street, has been closed to cars, buses, taxis, and bicycles. The move affects one of the busiest shopping streets in Britain, which attracts over 300 million visitors annually.
The closure is part of a £150 million phased redevelopment plan aimed at revitalising the area. The scheme includes the creation of “mini parks,” the planting of more than 50 trees, installation of benches, enhanced lighting, and public art displays. Officials hope these changes will encourage new bars and restaurants to open alongside existing retail outlets, fostering an atmosphere akin to the pedestrian-friendly streets seen in cities like Paris and Barcelona. While vehicles are restricted from driving along this stretch, traffic will still be permitted to cross at certain junctions, including Regents Street, where travel in both directions remains possible.
The pedestrianisation has drawn mixed reactions. Some local authorities and members of the public express concern about the potential impact on traffic flow in the West End. Opponents argue that diverting traffic away from Oxford Street could cause congestion on surrounding roads and raise issues for emergency services and businesses, which now face restricted delivery hours limited to midnight through 7 a.m. Ten bus routes serving the area will be rerouted or shortened.
Sean Lane, a black cab driver with a decade’s experience, voiced his skepticism about the plan, warning it could lead to gridlock and pose difficulties for disabled passengers and parents with prams. Lane and other critics question the need for complete closure given the wide pavements on Oxford Street, suggesting a one-way traffic system might have accommodated both pedestrians and vehicles more effectively.
Conservative members of Westminster Council have also opposed the changes, expressing concerns that the closure may alter the iconic character of Oxford Street. Councillor Paul Fisher highlighted the unique appeal of the street, noting that visitors appreciate not only the shopping but also the experience of seeing historic red buses and black cabs, elements he fears will be lost.
On the other hand, the mayor of London, Lord Khan of Tooting, has strongly supported the project, describing the pedestrianisation as a "bold vision" and a significant milestone for the city. Supporters point to the potential benefits of creating a safer, more pleasant environment for pedestrians and boosting local businesses by enhancing the street’s appeal beyond retail.
Among visitors, the reception has been more positive. Sissel Haar, touring London from Norway, praised the transformation, saying the city is much more enjoyable to explore on foot without having to navigate traffic.
As Oxford Street enters this new chapter, the city balances ambitions for urban regeneration against concerns about practical challenges for transport and local stakeholders. The success of the scheme will likely be judged over time by its effects on traffic, commerce, and the overall visitor experience in one of London’s most prominent shopping districts.