Oxford Street pedestrianisation approved following 'overwhelming' support

London Mayor Sadiq Khan is moving forward with plans to pedestrianise Oxford Street and revitalise the surrounding area, following "overwhelming" support from both the public and local businesses.

With an estimated annual contribution of £25 billion to London’s economy, Oxford Street is a vital hub of national economic importance. However, the area has faced years of decline, impacted by factors such as the pandemic, the rise of online shopping, and competition from out-of-town retail parks.

In February 2025, the Mayor unveiled plans to revitalise Oxford Street, including the pedestrianisation of its main shopping thoroughfare. The proposals aim to enhance the visitor experience and create space for new leisure opportunities, such as al fresco dining and outdoor events.

Following extensive public consultation, attracting 6642 responses, a new report shows Londoners and businesses overwhelmingly back the ideas.

In fact, nearly seven in ten respondents supported the Mayor’s proposed plans to regenerate Oxford Street, with two-thirds specifically endorsing the pedestrianisation initiative. Major businesses in the  area and across London also welcomed the proposals, which are designed to strengthen retail and stimulate economic growth for both the city and the wider UK.

As part of this, the new plans propose pedestrianising the stretch of Oxford Street from Orchard Street through Oxford Circus to Great Portland Street - spanning nearly a mile of one of London’s most iconic thoroughfares. These proposals will be open for public consultation later this year.

The Mayor also intends to establish a Mayoral Development Corporation dedicated to the regeneration of the area. Working with government, businesses, local councils, and residents, the MDC will aim to transform Oxford Street into a "world-leading urban space for shopping, leisure and outdoor events".

Subject to approval by the London Assembly, the Mayor will work with the Government to put in place the necessary legislation to establish the MDC by 1 January 2026.

"Oxford Street has suffered over many years so urgent action is needed to give our nation’s high street a new lease of life. 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," said Khan.

"We want to rejuvenate Oxford Street; establish it as a global leader for shopping, leisure and outdoor events with a world-class, accessible, pedestrianised avenue. This will help to attract more international visitors, and act as a magnet for new investment and job creation, driving growth and economic prosperity for decades to come.

"Our plans are not only about creating a beautiful public space where people can shop, eat and connect – but transforming Oxford Street into a place Londoners and the whole of the country can be proud of, as we continue to build a better London for everyone."

Deputy Prime Minister, Angela Rayner, added: "We want to see Oxford Street become the thriving place to be for tourists and Londoners alike, and that’s why we welcome the Mayor of London’s bold proposals to achieve that.

"We will support the Mayor in delivering this ambitious vision, which will help to breathe new life into Oxford Street – driving investment, creating new jobs for local people, and providing a boost to economic growth in the capital in line with our Plan for Change."

Here's what businesses and local authorities think...

Meave Wall, Executive Director at Selfridges:

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. The community's support and enthusiasm is really encouraging, and we are excited to play our part in shaping a brighter future for this iconic shopping and entertainment hub.

Peter Ruis, Managing Director at John Lewis:

We welcome the Mayor's plans for the regeneration and pedestrianisation of Oxford Street, where John Lewis has been a key retailer for over 160 years. We continue to invest significantly in our Oxford Street store - including a new beauty hall, a Waterstones bookshop and the new Jamie Oliver Cookery School - and believe pedestrianisation will create a vibrant, thriving shopping environment enhancing the area's appeal as a top retail destination.

Dee Corsi, CEO at New West End Company:

Today’s consultation results are an important step forward in the transformation of the nation’s high street – and an acknowledgement of the important economic, cultural and community role it plays for Londoners and the UK as a whole.

The West End is a powerful driver of growth for the capital, with Oxford Street alone generating 5% of London’s annual economic activity. A comprehensive and considered transformation of Oxford Street - delivered in partnership with local businesses and communities - will enhance the area, bringing significant economic benefits to Londoners and the wider UK economy.

As the representative of over 600 West End businesses, we will continue to work closely with the Mayor, the Government, Westminster City Council and the wider West End community to ensure the Mayoral Development Corporation for Oxford Street takes a long-term, strategic approach to revitalising the street – realising a vision that secures its future and unlocks its full potential. We look forward to seeing more detail on the proposed pedestrianisation plans when they are released for consultation later this year.

Karim Fatehi OBE, CEO of London Chamber of Commerce and Industry:

Oxford Street is a vital economic, social and cultural asset for both London and the UK. We support plans that can unlock its latent potential, boost productivity and revitalise the area. Strong and continuous business engagement will be crucial to ensure the successful renewal of one of the capital’s iconic brands. We look forward to working with the Mayor of London to make Oxford Street a thriving destination for businesses and visitors.

Sarah Bevan, Planning & Development Director at BusinessLDN:

It’s encouraging to see public backing for long-awaited plans to pedestrianise Oxford Street, as part of wider efforts to revitalise the capital’s flagship high street. We welcome the bold vision and the commitment to move forward at pace with establishing the Mayoral Development Corporation and consulting on more detailed plans.

"Close consultation with landowners and businesses within and around the new MDC area over the months ahead will be a must for ensuring its long-term success. Clear governance structures, clarity around how developer contributions will be collected and reinvested, and careful consideration of boundary lines will also be key.

Alex Williams, Chief Customer & Strategy Officer at Transport for London:

Oxford Street is an iconic location in London - well served by the Tube, Elizabeth line and local bus services - and this consultation shows that there is a clear desire to improve access to the shops, businesses and attractions within the area. 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.