Regent Street St James's pedestrianisation delayed until 2027
Westminster City Council and the Crown Estate push back scheme for more consultation.
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Westminster City Council and the Crown Estate have postponed their scheme to make Regent Street St James's traffic-free. The project, which also aims to enlarge pedestrian areas around Piccadilly Circus, will now undergo further consultation in 2027. This marks a delay from the original plan, which had a final decision anticipated in autumn.
Reasons for the delay
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A spokesperson for the council and the Crown Estate stated that previous consultation rounds had identified areas needing additional work. This feedback is being incorporated into the scheme's development to ensure it meets the needs of residents, visitors, and businesses. The organisations are currently in a phase of focused stakeholder engagement.
The proposed pedestrianisation would transform a significant section of central London, creating an estimated 35,000 square metres of public space. The plans also include enhancements to Haymarket, the introduction of more greenery, and a reimagining of the area surrounding All Saints church.
Criticism of the postponement
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Geoff Barraclough, the Labour councillor for planning and economic development on Westminster Council, criticised the delay. He described the scheme as a "once-in-a-generation opportunity" and expressed concern that further rounds of engagement could lead to "dithering and delay". He noted that previous consultations had shown clear support for progressing the project.
The council and Crown Estate anticipate the next wider public consultation will occur during 2027 and will issue further updates as arrangements are confirmed. City Hall had previously supported the plans, viewing them as complementary to the pedestrianisation of Oxford Street.
Questions this report answers
+Why has the Regent Street St James's pedestrianisation scheme been delayed?
The scheme has been delayed because previous consultations highlighted areas that require further development. Westminster City Council and the Crown Estate are undertaking additional work to incorporate this feedback before proceeding with further public engagement.
+When will the new public consultation for the scheme take place?
A new, wider public consultation for the Regent Street St James's pedestrianisation scheme is now scheduled to take place during 2027. Further updates on the specific arrangements will be provided by the council and the Crown Estate as they are confirmed.
+What is the aim of the Regent Street St James's pedestrianisation scheme?
The scheme aims to make Regent Street St James's traffic-free and to enlarge the pedestrian space at Piccadilly Circus. It is intended to create approximately 35,000 square metres of new public space in central London.
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