Oxford Street pedestrianisation to begin on 26 October

Oxford Street will begin its transition to a traffic-free shopping destination on 26 October, London mayor Sadiq Khan has confirmed. In a statement posted on Facebook, Khan said the street would “start to go traffic free” from Monday 26 October, following what he described as strong support from Londoners and businesses.

The project will remove traffic from the central section between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street, with work expected to continue into 2027. Limited traffic will still be able to cross the area from side streets.

Khan first proposed pedestrianising Oxford Street in 2024 as part of a wider 90 million pound regeneration scheme designed to create a more pedestrian-friendly public space. The plans have been positioned as a way to support the recovery of one of London’s most important retail destinations following the disruption caused by the pandemic and the end of tax-free shopping for international visitors.

The project has faced delays and opposition, particularly over traffic diversion, accessibility and the potential impact on surrounding roads. Westminster City Council had previously considered pursuing a judicial review of the plans after the Conservative party returned to control of the council. However, in June it confirmed it would not proceed with the challenge, with legal advice indicating that a judicial review was unlikely to succeed and that a late claim would be refused.

The council nevertheless remains concerned about accessibility, bus routes and the impact on residents and businesses, and has said it is exploring other legal and procedural options.

The pedestrianisation plans have also received backing from retail organisations including New West End Company. A public consultation held last year found seven out of 10 respondents in favour of pedestrianisation.

A one-day car-free trial in 2025 also offered a preview of the proposed changes, with brands and organisations hosting pop-ups, retail activations, live music and installations along the street. Khan said at the time that the trial demonstrated how Oxford Street could become a destination for shopping, leisure and outdoor events.