Westminster Council Raises Concerns Over Oxford Street Pedestrianisation Plans

The new leader of Westminster City Council has called for fresh discussions with London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan over plans to pedestrianise Oxford Street, arguing the current proposals do not fully address key operational and safety concerns.

Oxford Street is currently due to undergo major pedestrianisation works between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street following approval of proposals earlier this year. The scheme forms part of the Mayor of London’s wider ambition to transform the famous shopping district into a more pedestrian-focused public space.

However, Westminster Council leader Paul Swaddle has said the plans, in their current form, fail to adequately address issues including accessibility, safety, servicing arrangements, and day-to-day operational practicalities.

Swaddle has called on the Mayor to work more closely with the council to develop what he described as “a plan that actually works” for Oxford Street.

Among the concerns raised by the council leader is accessibility for disabled passengers and people with reduced mobility. While the proposals aim to create a more pedestrian-friendly environment, Swaddle pointed out that Oxford Circus Underground station — one of the area’s busiest transport hubs — still lacks full step-free access.

He also questioned how removing buses and other traffic from Oxford Street during late evening hours could affect perceptions of public safety.

Oxford Street is already heavily restricted to private vehicles, meaning the proposed pedestrianisation would primarily affect buses, taxis, cyclists, scooters, and pedicabs currently using the route.

Swaddle suggested that the presence of public transport and regular movement along the street during the evening currently contributes to a sense of security for people travelling through the area at night.

Concerns around crime and anti-social behaviour have also been raised, including fears that increased pedestrianisation could create new challenges linked to pickpocketing and phone theft unless supported by wider policing and security measures.

Despite the criticism, City Hall continues to strongly support the project. A spokesperson for the Mayor said the scheme would create a more attractive and accessible public space while helping restore Oxford Street’s status as one of the world’s leading retail destinations.

The Mayor’s office has indicated that the first phase of traffic-free operation could begin later this summer.

The scheme has also become politically significant because of the governance arrangements used to advance the project.

Sir Sadiq Khan approved the plans through the creation of a Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC), a statutory regeneration body that transferred planning powers for the area away from Westminster City Council and into mayoral control.

The move required government approval and new legislation, reflecting the scale and strategic importance attached to the future redevelopment of Oxford Street.

The debate highlights the increasingly complex balance cities face when redesigning major urban streets around active travel, public realm improvements, accessibility, public transport operations, and public safety.

Supporters of pedestrianisation argue that reducing traffic can improve air quality, encourage footfall, and create more attractive urban environments. Critics, however, often point to operational challenges around servicing, transport access, nighttime safety, and the needs of vulnerable users.

Oxford Street remains one of Europe’s busiest shopping destinations, attracting millions of visitors annually and playing a major role in London’s retail and tourism economy.

As discussions continue between Westminster Council and City Hall, the future design and operation of Oxford Street is likely to remain one of the capital’s most closely watched urban infrastructure and public realm projects.