Deputy PM Angela Rayner has offered her support, saying the Government would help deliver the mayor’s “ambitious vision” to revitalise the famous shopping district.
Sadiq Khan has said he will ban traffic from London’s Oxford Street (Image: GETTY)
Plans to ban vehicles from part of Oxford Street will be pushed through “as quickly as possible”, Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan has pledged, citing strong public support. Two-thirds (66%) of respondents to a recent consultation backed the scheme, while a separate YouGov poll found 63% of Londoners were in favour of pedestrianising the busy central London thoroughfare.
The mayor wants to remove traffic from a 0.7-mile stretch between Oxford Circus and Marble Arch, with potential for future expansion towards Tottenham Court Road. Sir Sadiq’s plan hinges on approval from Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, who must authorise the creation of a new Mayoral Development Corporation to grant the necessary planning powers — which City Hall hopes to secure by early 2026. He said: “Oxford Street has suffered over many years, so urgent action is needed to give our nation’s high street a new lease of life.
The move has been backed by deputy PM Angela Rayner (Image: Getty)
“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.”
Despite apparent widespread support, some motorists incuding taxi drivers will likely be left furious by the move. Ms Rayner has since offered her support, saying the Government would help deliver the mayor’s “ambitious vision” to revitalise the famous shopping district.
Westminster City Council leader Adam Hug said the final decision was “not the council’s preferred outcome” but that it would now work “constructively” with City Hall to ensure the project meets the needs of visitors, businesses, and residents.
Oxford Street is one of the world’s most famous shopping destinations, attracting around half a million visitors daily.
Stretching about 1.2 miles through central London, it’s home to flagship stores for major global brands alongside countless smaller shops, cafes, and restaurants.
The street has long faced challenges from congestion, pollution, and declining footfall, especially since the pandemic.
Previous attempts to reduce traffic and improve the environment have met resistance, but growing public demand for cleaner, safer streets has increased pressure for change.
Revitalising Oxford Street is seen as key to maintaining London’s status as a leading global retail and tourism hub.
