London to pedestrianise Oxford Street for better shopping experience

London's mayor, Sadiq Khan, is advocating for the pedestrianisation of Oxford Street, a major shopping destination that hosts around 300 shops and attracts over 200 million visitors annually. This initiative aims to enhance the shopping experience and is part of a broader regeneration project designed to revitalize the area for shoppers, residents, and tourists alike. The proposal has garnered support from the Government, with Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner emphasizing its potential to stimulate economic growth and job creation. Khan's previous attempt to restrict traffic on Oxford Street in 2018 was thwarted by the then-Conservative Westminster City Council. He expressed the need for urgent action to restore Oxford Street's status as a premier retail location, which has declined over the past decade. The mayor is optimistic about collaborating with the new Government and local businesses to breathe new life into this iconic street. The plan not only focuses on improving the shopping environment but also aims to boost London's night-time economy. Rayner highlighted the importance of maintaining Oxford Street's reputation as a world-renowned shopping hub, asserting that revitalization efforts will drive economic activity and create new job opportunities. For the proposal to move forward, Khan must secure permission from Rayner, who serves as Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government. This request will follow a statutory consultation period and consideration by the London Assembly, marking a significant step towards transforming Oxford Street into a more pedestrian-friendly area.