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London | ReNews Pakistan

Nearly one kilometre of London's world famous Oxford Street has been closed to general traffic and transformed into a pedestrian-only zone under a major £150 million regeneration initiative aimed at revitalising one of Britain's most prominent shopping destinations.

The new restrictions, which came into effect on October 26, 2026, prohibit cars, buses, taxis, bicycles and electric scooters from entering the section between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street.

Traffic has been diverted to surrounding roads, while emergency vehicles retain access. Authorised delivery and servicing vehicles are permitted to enter through designated routes between midnight and 7am.

Oxford Street is among the world's busiest shopping destinations, attracting approximately 500,000 visitors daily and generating an estimated £3.1 billion in annual retail spending.

The transformation forms part of London Mayor Sadiq Khan's wider vision to create a safer, greener and more attractive shopping environment while strengthening the capital's retail economy.

Planned improvements include additional trees, public seating, improved lighting, clearer signage and open spaces for cultural and community activities. The initiative is also intended to enhance the overall shopping experience and encourage further investment in the surrounding commercial district.

According to the Oxford Street Development Corporation, the initial phase involves temporary arrangements designed to minimise disruption and allow authorities to assess how pedestrians, businesses, residents and workers use the newly created public space.

Feedback collected during this phase will help shape permanent improvements, with a transitional design expected to be introduced by spring 2027.

Mayor Sadiq Khan has described the transformation as an important step towards boosting economic growth, supporting employment and making central London more welcoming to residents and international visitors.

However, the traffic restrictions have also raised concerns about congestion on nearby roads as buses, taxis and private vehicles are redirected away from the shopping street.

Transport for London has advised commuters and visitors to use public transport wherever possible and allow additional journey time when travelling through the area.

The initiative has been launched ahead of the busy Christmas shopping season, with authorities hoping that a more accessible, pedestrian-friendly Oxford Street will attract visitors, improve the shopping experience and support long-term commercial growth.