London's Oxford Street finally pedestrianised

The Mayor of London is to progress with the pedestrianisation of Oxford Street and establish a Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC) dedicated to regenerating the area.

Major businesses including Selfridges, John Lewis and Ikea have welcomed the plans, which aim to boost retail and drive growth for London and wider UK economy.

Oxford Street is an area of critical national economic importance, with an estimated annual contribution of £25bn to London’s economy, but it has suffered over many years for a variety of reasons, from the pandemic to the growth of online shopping and retail parks.

Detailed traffic and highway proposals will be developed to pedestrianise the section of road between Orchard Street and Oxford Circus up to Great Portland Street – almost a mile of one of London’s most iconic high streets. These will be consulted on later in 2025.

The MDC will work alongside government, businesses, local councils and residents to develop and deliver a bold new vision for London’s flagship high street. The Mayor’s proposals include:

* creating an attractive pedestrian-friendly public space to attract shoppers, which can host exciting events and activities to make Oxford Street a place for all;

* creating a well-designed, high-quality space that showcases the best of London's talent, assets and opportunities – a place that Londoners feel proud of and those coming to London want to visit, invest in and return to;

* hosting exciting events to showcase and test the potential of a new and more inviting public space.

Subject to consideration by the London Assembly, the Mayor will work with the government to make the necessary legislation for the MDC to be established by 1 January 2026.