UK's busiest shopping areas set to be pedestrianised under Mayor's new rule (original) (raw)

Traffic would be banned as part of a regeneration project aimed at boosting the experience of shoppers, residents, workers and tourists

"Oxford Street was once the jewel in the crown of Britain's retail sector"

One of the world's busiest shopping areas is set to be pedestrianised. London mayor Sadiq Khan is planning to ban traffic from entering Oxford Street, which is home to 300 shops including the likes of Selfridges and attracts over 200 million visitors each year.

The Labour mayor of London has put forward a pedestrianisation proposal. This is supported by the Government, with Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner claiming it will give the popular shopping district "the boost it needs".

Preventing traffic from entering Oxford Street is part of a wider regeneration project aimed at boosting the experience of shoppers, residents, workers and tourists.

A previous attempt by Mr Khan to ban traffic from the road was blocked by then-Conservative run Westminster City Council in 2018.

Mr Khan said: "Oxford Street was once the jewel in the crown of Britain's retail sector, but there's no doubt that it has suffered hugely over the last decade.

"Urgent action is needed to give the nation's most famous high street a new lease of life.

"I am excited to be working with the new Government, and local retailers and businesses, on these plans that will help to restore this famous part of the capital to its former glory, while creating new jobs and economic prosperity for the capital and the country.

"I want Oxford Street to once again become the leading retail destination in the world.

"The transformation of Oxford Street will be a leading example of how working together - City Hall and the new Government - we can build a better London for everyone."

Ms Rayner said: "Oxford Street is a world-renowned shopping destination and we want it to stay that way.

"By working with the Mayor and local leaders, we can ensure it gets the boost it needs.

"This plan to revitalise Oxford Street will drive growth by creating new jobs, generating economic activity, and giving a much-needed boost to London's night-time economy."

Mr Khan's his latest proposal depends on him obtaining permission from Ms Rayner in her role as Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government to establish a new Mayoral Development Corporation.

This request can only be made following a statutory period of consultation and consideration by the London Assembly.