There are big plans ahead for our world-famous Oxford Streetwith talks about pedestrianising the iconic shopping destination circulating for as long as we can remember. However, the Mayor of London has officially dropped a proposal that will boldly transform Oxford Street into a traffic-free zoneand it’s been backed by the Government following Labour’s newly elected lease of power.
The Mayor has already attempted to implement changes on Oxford Street but the plans were axed by the previous government. Now that Kier Starmer and his cabinet have been working more directly with local governments and city mayors. there is now an agreement to unlock the potential throughout London’s legendary mile-long high street.
As we witness the slow but sure death of the high street across the UK, these exciting plans hope to revitalise Oxford Street into a more attractive and thriving modern retail/leisure destinationattracting more tourists and helping out the local economy.
These said plans include turning the road into a traffic-free pedestrianised avenue and creating a beautiful public space in the process. But it’s the more legroom during high season that sounds like the most beautiful aspect of this major redevelopment.
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said in a statement: “Oxford Street was once the jewel in the crown of Britain’s retail sector, but there’s no doubt that it has suffered hugely over the last decade. Urgent action is needed to give the nation’s most famous high street a new lease of life.
“I am excited to be working with the new Government, and local retailers and businesses, on these plans – that will help to restore this famous part of the capital to its former glory… I want Oxford Street to once again become the leading retail destination in the world.”
So – as we wait for more developments and plans, we promise to keep you up to date with all things Oxford Street, and all things London as per usual. If you’re looking for things to do near Oxford Street, check out our neighbourhood guides below.
