London Mayor Sadiq Khan has unveiled a £150 million plan to make Oxford Street fully pedestrianised, aiming to remove all vehicles from the iconic shopping destination within the next two years. However, the move has sparked concerns that it could turn the area into a crime hotspot.
Oxford Street, one of the busiest shopping streets in the world with around 500,000 visitors daily, is now the focus of a public consultation running from February 28 to May 2. The proposal would see a 0.7-mile stretch—from Oxford Circus to Marble Arch—closed to traffic, with the potential for further expansion towards Tottenham Court Road.
While some shoppers and businesses see pedestrianisation as a win for accessibility and shopping convenience, others worry about rising crime, including shoplifting and pickpocketing. Industry leaders are calling for stronger policing, as taxis and buses often act as a deterrent to criminal activity.
London taxi drivers have expressed frustration, arguing the plans will make it harder for disabled passengers and those needing quick transport options.
Meanwhile, local residents fear increased congestion on nearby streets, more pollution, and overcrowding from an influx of visitors.
Despite the criticism, Khan believes the transformation will boost business, create jobs, and enhance London’s appeal." Oxford Street has been known as the nation's high street but the area has suffered in recent years", he said
"My proposals are designed to unlock the true potential of Oxford Street and deliver a world-class, accessible, clean, avenue. These proposals would help to restore this famous part of the capital and support good businesses, while creating new jobs and boosting growth.
"I encourage everyone to have their say on these proposals, which would transform 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."
The plan is part of a wider regeneration project aimed at restoring Oxford Street’s status as the UK’s premier shopping destination. In recent years, the area has struggled, with many big-name brands closing and empty shops being taken over by souvenir and candy stores. However, with HMV reopening and IKEA set to launch a new store, there’s hope for a revival.
For the plan to move forward, Khan needs approval from Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner to establish a Mayoral Development Corporation, which would oversee the redevelopment. The project’s funding is expected to come from a mix of businesses, private investors, and new revenue streams.
With bus routes set to be diverted and vehicle restrictions already in place from 7 AM to 7 PM (except Sundays), the transformation of Oxford Street is one step closer. Whether it revitalises the area or causes more issues remains to be seen.
What do you think—game changer or disaster? Let us know your take.
