Oxford Street bans vehicles starting Monday

Pedestrians will control nearly a kilometer of London’s Oxford Street beginning Monday, October 31. The stretch between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street will ban cars, buses, and bicycles. Traffic will be diverted to surrounding roads. This change alters the daily commute and shopping route for approximately half a million visitors who currently use the street.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan announced the closure in a BBC interview, calling it a new era for the district. City officials aim to reposition Oxford Street alongside global retail hubs such as Times Square and the Champs-Élysées. The move follows a public consultation that concluded removing vehicles would attract new retailers and increase foot traffic.

The area has struggled with a rise in souvenir and candy sellers, which city leaders say has diluted its status as a primary shopping destination. Major retailers including Selfridges, Zara, and John Lewis remain located on the street. The closure is the first phase of a larger makeover that includes planting trees, installing seating, and building two new public squares.

The Oxford Street Development Corporation, established by the mayor’s office in the last two years, managed the project. The group helped overcome resistance from local residents who worried that diverted traffic would congest nearby neighborhoods. The new Elizabeth line express train, which includes a stop on Oxford Street, also supported the case for pedestrian access.

Khan said further design work will begin in the new year. City officials will refine plans based on feedback from visitors. He stated that the goal before Christmas is for people to shop and enjoy the experience on a rain-soaked street.

The pedestrian zone is permanent as of the Monday start date. No specific end date for the traffic ban was announced. The development corporation will continue to oversee the installation of the planned green spaces and seating areas.