London is making a big change to one of its busiest streets. Starting in September, Oxford Street will become fully pedestrianized. The goal? To make the area safer and more enjoyable for shoppers and tourists.
Mayor Sadiq Khan has approved this plan, which stops all motor traffic on Oxford Street, similar to what has been done in cities like Madrid and Barcelona. Currently, only buses and taxis are allowed on the street, but soon it will be free of all vehicles.
The idea behind this shift is to create a space where people can shop, dine, and relax without worrying about cars. Khan aims to turn Oxford Street into a world-class destination for shopping and outdoor events, putting it on par with famous streets in Paris and New York.
A recent survey showed that 63% of London residents support this change. Many believe this will enhance the shopping experience and attract even more visitors. In fact, past pedestrianization efforts in cities like New York have shown similar positive outcomes, boosting local economies and foot traffic.
Currently, vehicles can’t travel on Oxford Street from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Saturday, meaning the new full closure isn’t such a drastic change. Buses will be rerouted, but the city estimates that travel times for them will only increase by about a minute. New stops are being added nearby.
Interestingly, while no motorized vehicles will be allowed on Oxford Street, delivery trucks will still have access from midnight to 7 a.m. This ensures businesses can operate without disrupting the newly created pedestrian space. Additionally, new bike lanes will be designed to help cyclists navigate around the area.
Overall, this transformation aligns with London’s efforts to promote cleaner air and a healthier environment. With various low-emission zones and the Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) in place, air quality has significantly improved, especially in lower-income neighborhoods. These strategies contribute to a more sustainable future for the city.
For more details on similar initiatives and urban planning strategies, you can visit the Transport for London website.
