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Oxford Street is one of the busiest shopping areas in the world, with around half a million visitors each day generating an annual spend of around £3.1 billion – London Mayor Sadiq Khan wants to see it among top global tourist destinations like Times Square
Oxford Street is officially pedestrianized as the first images of London’s iconic attraction have been released.
London Mayor Lord Sadiq Khan hailed the pedestrianization of the iconic shopping street as “a really important occasion for the capital” as the overhaul comes in time for the run-up to the busy Christmas shopping period.
Oxford Street, which produces annual spending of around £3.1 billion, is one of the busiest shopping areas in the world, with around half a million visitors every day.
From Monday, almost a kilometer of the busy central London shopping street, between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street, will be traffic-free with vehicles diverted to nearby streets.
Buses, taxis, private hire cars, private motorized vehicles, bicycles, scooters and pedicabs can no longer enter, while deliveries can be made from midnight to 7am.
The emergency services will have access to the road at all times.
The area has become increasingly popular as an office location thanks to the Elizabeth Line and Lord Khan believes the scheme will help revitalize the site, boost economic growth and attract visitors.
Describing it as “a vibrant new destination”, he said: “I’m really excited to see my bold vision for Oxford Street come to life from today. It’s a really important opportunity for the capital.”
He added: “For centuries, Oxford Street has reinvented itself, adapting to change and shaping British culture along the way.
“Pedestrianising Oxford Street has been talked about for decades. After so many false dawns, and now working with a government that shares the scale of my ambition, I am proud that we are finally ushering in a new era for the street.”
He hopes the changes will open up the chance to bring new experiences to the streets, from sports to fashion and cultural events.
He said: “The revitalization of Oxford Street will boost jobs and economic growth in the capital, unlock the full potential of this key part of the West End and help build a better, greener and wealthier London for everyone.”
The move marks the first phase of a pedestrian and wider regeneration project that will place Oxford Street among top global shopping destinations, including Times Square, the Champs-Élysées and La Rambla.
Critics have said the scheme is too rushed and fears have been raised about diverted traffic increasing congestion.
New bus stops are located along Wigmore Street, Henrietta Place and Cavendish Place approximately 200 meters from the traffic free area.
The deputy leader of Westminster City Council believes Lord Khan is “making preparations”.
Councilor Tim Barnes previously said: “If this is to be the ‘greener, better and wealthier’ success the Mayor has promised, issues around access, air pollution, street cleaning and public safety need urgent answers.”
“Right now the danger is that we have all the downside and too little upside.
“Traffic is pushed onto the minor roads in the area, causing economic and environmental damage.”
London Transport Commissioner Andy Lord suggested the scheme would create a safer space for people to enjoy shopping and leisure.
He added that “we will monitor these changes closely to ensure they work for everyone and support London’s continued economic growth”.
Housing, Communities and Local Government Secretary Angela Rayner said: “This marks an exciting new chapter for Oxford Street, creating a greener, more vibrant place that will attract visitors and investment, support businesses and jobs, and drive growth in the heart of our capital.”
The scheme has the support of businesses including John Lewis and Selfridges, who both described it as “exciting”, along with Under Armor and Grosvenor Property plus organizations such as UK Hospitality and New West End Company.
Savills co-head of global retail Sam Foyle said: “As well as significant investment, it sends a powerful signal about the future of the street, strengthening Oxford Street’s position as a world-class retail destination for leading global brands.”
Minimal construction will take place in the immediate weeks to reduce disruption during the busy Christmas period.
By the end of spring 2027, visitors to Oxford Street should see more than 50 new trees, two new public squares and better signage.Over 100 new seats, dining tables and new lighting are also to be installed.
Oxford Street Development Corporation (OSDC) chief executive Nabeel Khan said: “The transition phase is a vital opportunity for us at OSDC to test ideas, learn from people’s experiences and work closely with local communities, businesses and accessibility groups to ensure the future street is as welcoming and inclusive as possible.”
