London's Oxford Street goes car-free for 'trial' pedestrianisation
This is why Oxford Street was closed to cars yesterday (23rd September)
Oxford Street was transformed yesterday as cars, buses, and taxis were replaced by street performers, food stalls, and festival vibes.
The capital’s busiest shopping street – which usually sees around half a million visitors every day – was pedestrianised for the day as part of a new initiative called This Is Oxford Street.
A 0.7-mile stretch between Oxford Circus and Marble Arch was closed to vehicles from noon until 8pm, giving shoppers and tourists free rein to wander without traffic. The event included live music, art installations and even a literary festival.
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan called it a “landmark, free event” showcasing what Oxford Street could look like in the future.
“As mayor, I have pledged to pedestrianise Oxford Street and I am determined to unlock its true potential to deliver a world-class, accessible, clean street for everyone as we build a better, greener and safer London,” he said.
Businesses along the famous shopping street also threw their support behind the move. Dan Harvie, Vice President of TV/AV at Samsung UK – whose flagship Experience Store sits on Oxford Street – said pedestrianisation highlighted a strong appetite for vibrant high streets.
“Today’s high street is no longer just about the quick buy; it’s about exploring,” he said. “Pedestrianisation shows the appetite for a return to the buzzing high street. We cannot let our high streets lose their magic.”
The one-off event has reignited calls for permanent pedestrianisation, which City Hall has long promised but has faced delays.
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