Impact on retail

To bolster the prospects of this coming to fruition, a Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC) will be created, which would have planning powers around its delivery. However, the creation of the MDC itself will be subject to statutory consultation and consideration by the London Assembly. If successful, the MDC’s role as the determining planning authority is expected to replace Westminster Council’s and presumably enable the delivery of Oxford Street’s pedestrianisation after some 60 years of considerations. 

The increase in flexible town centre uses and need for a wider retail experience is apparent, with pedestrianisation linked to retail becoming more experiential and omnichannel. Such improvements are becoming crucial as consumers increasingly prioritise experience. And with over 500,000 daily visitors, the MDC has the ambitious task of revitalising the experience of different users.

This places emphasis on maximising efficiency, delivering innovation and balancing distinct – and potentially competing – demands. Criticisms of the scheme include accessibility concerns for elderly and disabled users as well as maintaining affordability for workers and low-income groups. There is also the very technical challenge of rerouting 16 bus routes and minimising pressure on surrounding roads, for deliveries and servicing for example.

Learning from European cities

Although Transport for London is committed to increasing the number of walking trips in the capital by a million additional trips a day by 2031, it’s worth noting that the Mayor’s plans would ban cyclists from Oxford Street. Ensuring safety for different users at different times of day will also be critical. This is all the more pressing when considering that, to the east of the city, a handbook entitled ‘Creating Places that Work for Women and Girls’ was recently published by the London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC). The LLDC is believed to be the first local authority in England to introduce such guidance; it will be interesting to see whether the MDC will follow suit to enhance safety for women and girls.

With consultation, formal approval by the London Assembly and preparation of detailed plans required, the scheme remains at an early stage. The success of similar proposals in other European cities (such as the Avenue des Champs-Elysees and Las Ramblas) suggests that a pedestrianised Oxford Street would encourage time spent in the area, increase footfall and pose further opportunities for outdoor leisure. Balancing these with the technical requirements of diverting buses, managing transport pressures and safeguarding user safety will be crucial in the delivery of the scheme.

Further information

Contact Annamaria Sgueglia or Matt Richards