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Oxford Street pedestrianisation projected to create 700 jobs

By Drooid · Oct 30, 2026 · How we work

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Summary

London Mayor Sadiq Khan pedestrianised almost a kilometre of Oxford Street, banning cars and buses.
City Hall analysis projects the pedestrianisation could generate over $109 million annually and create 700 jobs.
Two-thirds of businesses reported higher or similar sales during the October 2025 trial.
Oxford Street Development Corporation will review results and aims to make the street traffic-free by next year.

Summary

TfL will warn cyclists entering the zone and gradually disable their electric assistance.
Westminster City Council warned the scheme could raise traffic, air pollution, and safety risks on nearby streets.
London Cycling Campaign launched an online petition urging Westminster Council to provide high-quality parallel cycle routes.
TfL said it can issue Penalty Charge Notices to any vehicle breaching the 24-hour prohibition, including e-scooters.

History

In February 2003 Mayor Ken Livingstone launched London’s congestion charge, cutting traffic in the central zone by roughly 15 % and generating £1.2 billion for TfL. That car-free experiment proved the city could curb congestion and fund transport upgrades. Today Mayor Sadiq Khan builds on that legacy by pedestrianising Oxford Street, extending the car-free approach to a major retail corridor.

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In February 2003 Mayor Ken Livingstone launched London’s congestion charge, cutting traffic in the central zone by roughly 15 % and generating £1.2 billion for TfL. That car-free experiment proved the city could curb congestion and fund transport upgrades. Today Mayor Sadiq Khan builds on that legacy by pedestrianising Oxford Street, extending the car-free approach to a major retail corridor.

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