What: "London's Oxford Street set for pedestrianisation following overwhelming public and business support, with two-thirds backing traffic ban proposal."

Why it is important: "The strong support from both public and retailers shows how urban transformation can successfully balance commercial interests with community needs." The Mayor of London has confirmed plans to pedestrianise Oxford Street following strong public and business endorsement, with two-thirds of respondents supporting the traffic ban proposal. The initiative, which received feedback from over 6,600 businesses, individuals, and groups, will transform a 0.7-mile strip from Orchard Street to Great Portland Street. Major retailers along the street have welcomed the decision, with Selfridges' executive director Meave Wall emphasizing the potential to make the area more enticing for both locals and international visitors. IKEA's UK chief executive Peter Jekelby highlighted the benefits for the wider community, noting how the pedestrianisation will create a more welcoming and accessible space. Detailed traffic and highway proposals will be developed and consulted on later this year.

IADS Notes: The pedestrianisation of Oxford Street represents a crucial step in the street's broader transformation. According to Retail Insight Network's December 2024 coverage , the area has already seen significant revival through private sector investments, with vacancy rates dropping below 5% and major retailers committing to substantial developments. Fashion Network's May 2025 analysis revealed how the street's vacancy rate has reached historic lows of 0.5%, with retailers investing GBP 118 million in store fit-outs over the past year. Fashion Network's January 2025 report highlighted how improved occupancy has enabled landlords to increase rents to GBP 675 per square foot annually, up from GBP 625 in 2021. Drapers' February 2024 coverage showed how the GBP 132 million redevelopment of the former House of Fraser building into a mixed-use space demonstrates the street's evolution toward diverse retail experiences. The strong support for pedestrianisation from major retailers like Selfridges and IKEA suggests the initiative will further accelerate the street's transformation into a more attractive and accessible shopping destination.

In London, Oxford Street pedestrianisation gets green light