Oxford Street transformed into a pedestrian zone in London

On Monday, October 26, 2026, London inaugurated a significant urban renewal project by converting a one-kilometer section of the iconic Oxford Street into a pedestrian-only zone. The area between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street is now closed to all motor vehicles, including buses, taxis, private cars, bicycles, and pedicabs. Emergency services retain access at all times, while freight deliveries are permitted only between midnight and 7:00 a.m. This initiative aims to revitalize the commercial district, which generates approximately 3.1 billion pounds (4.1 billion dollars) in annual turnover and attracts nearly 500,000 daily visitors.

Mayor Sadiq Khan described the move as a monumental opportunity for the capital, reflecting a broader shift toward prioritizing public spaces over vehicle traffic. The transformation is led by the Oxford Street Development Corporation and Transport for London. Bus routes have been diverted to neighboring streets such as Wigmore Street, with minimal impact on travel times according to current modeling. This initial phase serves as a pilot project for future redevelopment plans, including the introduction of greenery and public dining areas to modernize the historic shopping hub ahead of the busy Christmas retail season.