Oxford Street to Become Pedestrianised in London
Source reports published 26 Oct 2026, 10:00 am – 7:18 pm AEST
A section of Oxford Street in London will be closed to vehicle traffic from 26 October, marking a significant step towards creating a pedestrian-friendly shopping area. The initiative, championed by Mayor Sadiq Khan, aims to improve the street’s environment and boost its economy.
What happened
- From 7am on 26 October, a 0.6-mile stretch of Oxford Street, encompassing flagship stores like John Lewis and Selfridges, will be vehicle-free.
- This ban extends to all motorised traffic, including buses, black cabs, and bicycles.
- The pedestrianisation project, costing £150 million, is part of Sadiq Khan’s clean air plans and has been supported by the government.
- Traffic will be diverted onto surrounding roads, overseen by Transport for London.
- Over the next 12 months, plans include the installation of 50 new trees, over 100 seats, and two public squares.
- The street, attracting millions of foreign visitors annually, has been subject to pedestrianisation proposals for decades.
- London has studied the pedestrianisation of central Sydney and discussed the scheme with Barcelona.
- Businesses, Transport for London, and city planners are hopeful the changes will improve the street’s environment and attract visitors.
- Mobility scooters will be permitted, but cycles, e-bikes, and e-scooters will not.
- Access for disabled people will be enhanced, and cargo e-bikes will be introduced for litter collection.
- Multiple consultations supported the Mayor’s plans, with a majority of Londoners and visitors favouring the pedestrianisation.
Original reporting
- Guardian: How will pedestrianisation of UK’s most famous shopping street work in practice?
2026-10-26T00:00:00+00:00 - GB News: Oxford Street bans vehicle traffic as Sadiq Khan praises 'truly momentous' day for London
2026-10-26T09:18:27+00:00