Oxford Street stretch to close to traffic from 26 October, Mayor says; critics question impact

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has confirmed that a stretch of Oxford Street will be pedestrianised from Monday 26 October 2026. 1 2 The zone runs between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street. 1 Metro reports it will be closed to all traffic, including buses, taxis and bikes, and will be introduced in phases. 2

Khan said the street would become a "world-class pedestrianised space" and that the change would stimulate growth in the area. 1 He said he had tried for some time to reinvigorate the street, and that Westminster Council had pushed back against the proposals. 1 Khan also said the closure would come in time for the Christmas shopping period and followed strong support from Londoners and businesses. 2

Preparation works are already under way in the Oxford Street, Regent Street, Bond Street and Great Portland Street areas, with road closures, restrictions, diversions and changed parking and loading arrangements. 1 Metro spoke to people in the area and found divided views. A cab driver, a restaurant manager and a construction foreman feared displaced traffic and reduced access, including for disabled people. 2 A tourist and a street vendor welcomed the plan. 2

Festus Akinbusoye, a Westminster councillor and prospective Conservative mayoral candidate, said pedestrianisation alone is not a regeneration strategy and urged City Hall to monitor effects on surrounding streets. 2 Transport for London is working on signage and safety measures, and City Hall is working with the Oxford Street Development Corporation. 2