Westminster blasts TfL over Oxford Street bus changes ahead of pedestrianisation

Westminster City Council has accused Transport for London (TfL) of pushing through significant changes linked to the pedestrianisation of Oxford Street without proper public scrutiny, sparking a fresh row over the future of one of the capital’s busiest shopping destinations.

Council leader Paul Swaddle has called on TfL to halt proposals affecting bus stops and traffic arrangements connected to Mayor Sadiq Khan’s plans to pedestrianise part of Oxford Street later this year.

The dispute centres on a series of traffic orders published by TfL shortly after the May local elections. Westminster claims the timing limited public awareness and consultation on measures that will have a major impact on businesses, residents and transport users.

Swaddle described the process as “a stitch-up, plain and simple”.

He said: “The mayor and TfL tried to force through permanent changes to the most famous shopping street in the world the day after an election, in a consultation so quiet that the people whose livelihoods depend on the street never even knew it was happening.

“That’s not how you treat the nation’s high street.”

The traffic orders affect more than 20 streets surrounding Oxford Street and include changes to bus stands and supporting transport infrastructure designed to accommodate the planned pedestrianisation scheme.

Under the proposals, the western section of Oxford Street between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street would be closed to private vehicles, buses, taxis, cycles, e-scooters and pedicabs.

TfL argues the changes are necessary to ensure the surrounding transport network continues to function effectively once pedestrianisation is introduced.

A TfL spokesperson said the authority had followed the standard statutory process for traffic orders, including notifying Westminster City Council and other consultees.

The latest disagreement follows a long-running battle between City Hall and Westminster over the future of Oxford Street. After the council opposed earlier pedestrianisation proposals, the mayor secured government approval to take over planning powers for the project.

Supporters of the scheme argue that removing traffic will transform the area into a world-class public space, improve air quality and help revitalise Oxford Street’s retail economy.

Sir Sadiq Khan has previously described pedestrianisation as a key opportunity to boost investment, attract visitors and create a safer and more attractive environment for shoppers.

However, critics continue to raise concerns about accessibility, potential increases in congestion on surrounding roads and the impact on local businesses during and after construction.

The £150 million project has also prompted debate over public safety, traffic displacement and how public transport services will operate once buses are removed from the route.

With Westminster demanding a pause and TfL pressing ahead with preparations, the future shape of Oxford Street remains one of London's most closely watched transport and regeneration projects.