London’s iconic Oxford Street is set to be traffic-free under new plans unveiled by Mayor Sadiq Khan.

The move aims to transform the iconic retail street and return it to its former glory as a world-leading shopping destination.

The pedestrianisation of the mile-long street has been in discussion for a long time and the subject of much objection from Westminster Council. Businesses and residents had previously voiced concerns over the impact of re-routing buses under earlier suggested schemes.

However, the deputy prime minister Angela Rayner is expected to approve the creation of a mayoral development area, granting Khan enhanced authority to deliver his vision for the famous thoroughfare, first mooted in 2017. 

Last year a report from Local Data Company found that Oxford Street had more empty units than the average British high street.

It is hoped the new plans will result in increased footfall and spending and generate increased tax revenue.

Khan told The Guardian: “Oxford Street was once the crown jewel of Britain’s retail sector, but it has undoubtedly suffered in recent years. Urgent action is required to breathe new life into the nation’s most famous high street.”

The plans come as Oxford Street begins to recover from the devastating effects of the pandemic, which saw visitor numbers plummet amid restrictions on retail and travel.

Despite this, the street still attracts around 500,000 daily visitors, though the closure of major department stores such as House of Fraser and Debenhams has had an impact. 

Click here to sign up to Retail Gazette‘s free daily email newsletter