The pedestrianisation of London’s Oxford Street has been given official final approval by Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan, who has instructed Transport for London (TfL) to implement the proposals to remove traffic from Oxford Street between Great Portland Street and Orchard Street.
The decision follows the results of a second consultation on local traffic diversions in which 2,700 people responded. City Hall said the majority agreed with the plans, says the BBC.
It is hoped vehicles will be stopped from using the road by September, with further work to make the street more welcoming to pedestrians to follow, the governing body said.
The mayor of London says pedestrianisation will make Oxford Street safer and more enjoyable for visitors, as well as making it “a global leader for shopping, leisure and outdoor events,” competing with cities such as Paris and New York, external.
An initial consultation on pedestrianisation of Oxford Street, which ended last summer, showed 63% of Londoners were in favour of the regeneration, external.
However, some local residents previously told the BBC they did not support the changes, citing concerns over displacement of traffic and buses, as well as disability access.
TfL said the pedestrianisation would go ahead as originally planned, with no changes being made to the plans previously consulted on.
A spokesperson for London TravelWatch said:
“London TravelWatch is broadly in favour of the plans to pedestrianise Oxford Street West, which are now set to go ahead following approval by the Mayor. We believe the scheme will improve safety for pedestrians, reduce overcrowding and enhance the overall experience for pedestrians. The scheme will also help regenerate the wider area, providing a better experience for both Londoners and visitors to the area.
“However, we look forward to more clarity on elements including the provision of lighting and seating at relocated bus stops to ensure they feel safe and are inclusive, and that changes to bus stops and routes are clearly and sensitively communicated particularly to those who will be most impacted by the changes. We are also keen to see more information around the suggested alternate cycling routes and the safety implications of these diverted routes.
“We hope that while finalising the designs, TfL works with a range of groups to make sure the new pedestrianised area is safe and accessible, and provides more reassurance for those who have expressed concerns during the consultation process.”
(Picture: Mayor of London)
