Oxford Street is set to undergo a major transformation as plans to pedestrianise a significant stretch of the iconic shopping destination have received a green light, with London Mayor Sadiq Khan vowing to implement the changes "as quickly as possible."

The decision follows overwhelming public and business support, with a consultation revealing that seven in ten Londoners back the move.

The ambitious scheme will see buses and taxis banned between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street, covering nearly a mile of central London.

Mayor Khan emphasised the urgent need to revitalise the area, stating: "Oxford Street has suffered over many years, so urgent action is needed to give our nation’s high street a new lease of life."

He added: "It’s clear that the vast majority of Londoners and major businesses back our exciting plans, so I’m pleased to confirm that we will now be moving ahead as quickly as possible."

Major retailers, including Selfridges, John Lewis, and Ikea, have welcomed the initiative. Meave Wall, Executive Director at Selfridges, expressed their enthusiasm, saying: "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."

Peter Ruis, Managing Director of John Lewis, echoed this sentiment, believing "pedestrianisation will create a vibrant, thriving shopping environment enhancing the area’s appeal as a top retail destination."

Despite the broad support, some opposition remains. Opposition politicians and BusinessLDN have called for greater detail and transparency regarding governance structures and how developer contributions will be managed.

Sarah Bevan, Planning and Development Director at BusinessLDN, stressed that "close consultation with landowners and businesses within and around the new [pedestrianised] area over the months ahead will be a must for ensuring its long-term success."

Oxford Street is already largely restricted to general traffic but is a key route for London buses and taxis so the move to ban them has also raised concerns about potential congestion on surrounding streets. Steve McNamara, General Secretary of the Licensed Taxi Drivers' Association (LTDA), warned: "Putting this traffic down surrounding streets will cause chaos – we’re already Europe’s most congested city, maybe we’ll now get the world title."

Transport for London's Chief Customer and Strategy Officer, Alex Williams, acknowledged the public desire for improved access and stated: "We will now support the development of detailed traffic and highways plans to pedestrianise the section of road between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street, which will be consulted on later this year."

The Labour government has indicated its approval for a Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC) to spearhead the plans, potentially establishing it in early 2026. This move comes after previous attempts to pedestrianise the street faced setbacks from Westminster City Council, which, despite now being under Labour control, has also expressed reservations.

Cllr Adam Hug, Leader of Westminster City Council, while accepting the Mayor's decision, highlighted the need for a collaborative approach to "reimagine" Oxford Street in a way that benefits everyone.

Ultimately, the Mayor aims to "rejuvenate Oxford Street; establish it as a global leader for shopping, leisure and outdoor events with a world-class, accessible, pedestrianised avenue."

The next steps will involve detailed traffic proposals and further consultations later this year.

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