6 publishers · first seen Mon, 26 Oct 2026 11:50 UTC · updated Wed, 28 Oct 2026 16:40 UTC
Almost a kilometre of Oxford Street in London, between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street, has become traffic-free from Monday, marking the first phase of a pedestrianisation and regeneration project. Buses, taxis, private vehicles, cycles and scooters can no longer enter the section, though emergency services and mobility scooters retain access. Deliveries are permitted between midnight and 7am. The change, led by the Oxford Street Development Corporation (OSDC), aims to revitalise the area, boost economic growth and improve the visitor experience ahead of the Christmas period.
The project has the support of London Mayor Sadiq Khan, businesses including John Lewis and Selfridges, and the UK government, with Housing Secretary Angela Rayner calling it an exciting new chapter. Bus routes have been diverted to nearby streets such as Wigmore Street, with new stops around 200 metres from the pedestrianised zone. Critics, including Westminster City Council’s Tim Barnes, argue the plan may increase congestion on side streets and raise accessibility concerns. By spring 2027, more than 50 trees, two public squares, over 100 seats and improved lighting are planned.
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