Oxford Street car-free testing begins October 2026

Oxford Street, London's busiest shopping thoroughfare, will become a car-free zone for a live testing phase beginning in October 2026. This significant alteration to traffic flow will affect just under one kilometre of the street, extending from Orchard Street near Selfridges to Great Portland Street, and will also encompass the Oxford Circus junction with Regent Street. The initiative is being implemented by the Oxford Street Development Corporation, established by Mayor Sadiq Khan.

Traffic and access changes

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During the testing phase, private vehicles will be prohibited from the designated section. Buses will be rerouted away from the pedestrianised area, impacting services including the 7, 94, 98, 139, 390, N7, N98, N113, N137, and N207. Cyclists will also be banned from riding along this stretch, with alternative routes suggested on neighbouring streets such as Wigmore Street and Margaret Street. However, essential access will be maintained for emergency vehicles and for street cleaning and refuse collection vehicles, which will be permitted to enter at specified times. Private vehicles will still be able to cross the pedestrianised zone at several points, including Duke Street, Davies Street, and New Bond Street.

Objectives and future plans

The primary objectives behind this extensive pedestrianisation are to significantly reduce traffic congestion, improve the air quality within the area, and create a safer and more pleasant environment for pedestrians. Temporary seating, planters, and security bollards are to be installed as part of the transition scheme during the live testing period. This phase, running through to spring 2027, will involve further review and adjustments before any permanent changes are made. While pedestrianisation has been trialled on Oxford Street previously, this current plan aims for a permanent transformation of the street.

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The changes are intended to enhance the experience for shoppers, particularly during busy periods like the Christmas season, by alleviating the current crowding on narrow pavements alongside heavy traffic. The vision for Oxford Street includes its potential to host a variety of events, from cultural and fashion shows to sporting activities, alongside new retail and leisure offerings, making it more attractive to both residents and tourists.