Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan makes landmark decision to make the Nation’s High Street traffic free

The Oxford Street Development Corporation (OSDC) welcomed the Mayor of London’s decision to proceed with the pedestrianisation of Oxford Street between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street. Following a public consultation that engaged over 2,700 respondents, the OSDC is now moving at pace to deliver on the transformation of this iconic stretch into a world-class, traffic-free destination.

This marks a positive step toward making Oxford Street a safer, cleaner, and more vibrant destination for the millions of Londoners, residents, workers, and international visitors it serves annually.

Nabeel Khan, OSDC Chief Executive, said: “We have a bold and unifying vision to transform Oxford Street into a safer, greener and more welcoming place where everyone feels they belong. Our plans put public safety first, including the safety of women and girls, and champion inclusive design so the street works for everyone. This will result in a more resilient public realm with more planting, sustainable materials and spaces where people can spend time, whether to meet, shop or relax.

This is about restoring the energy and confidence of one of London’s most important economic and cultural destinations – and delivering a world-class Oxford Street for Londoners, workers, businesses and visitors for the long term.”

Design priorities shared by the OSDC today include:

1. Creating a bold, unifying vision for the whole street that builds on and enhances its unique character, identity, and cultural heritage, transforming it into a place that Londoners and visitors alike can enjoy and explore.
2. Championing inclusive design, ensuring Oxford Street is welcoming to all through improved amenities, increased seating, and better wayfinding for visitors.
3. Future‑proofing the public realm and prioritising sustainability through climate‑resilient design, including the addition of more trees and planting, and the prioritisation of low carbon materials.
4. Prioritising public safety, including the safety of women and girls, ensuring these groups actively inform the design and going beyond lighting improvements.

Oxford Street remains a pillar of the UK economy, contributing an estimated £22.75bn annually. By removing traffic and improving the public realm, the OSDC aims to revitalise the retail experience, boost the West End economy, and to ensure it becomes the world’s flagship shopping and leisure destination.

The OSDC will continue to work in close partnership with Transport for London (TfL) and stakeholders across the public and private sectors to deliver an Oxford Street that all Londoners can be proud of.