- Oxford Street becomes traffic-free from 26 October 2026.
- The first phase covers almost one kilometre between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street.
- The trial will be reviewed through spring 2027 with permanent changes intended by late 2027.
- Buses are rerouted along Wigmore Street and Henrietta Place.
- Essential deliveries retain overnight access between midnight and 07:00.
A major section of London’s Oxford Street will become traffic-free from 26 October. The first phase covers almost one kilometre between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street, closing the road to buses, taxis, bicycles and other vehicles to create a pedestrian plaza. Mayor Sadiq Khan noted the scheme aims to strengthen the street’s appeal to shoppers, businesses and visitors as part of a wider regeneration plan timed ahead of the Christmas period.
The pedestrian plaza will run from Orchard Street near Selfridges to Great Portland Street just past Ikea. The initial trial begins 26 October 2026 and will be reviewed through spring 2027, with the intention of making changes permanent by late 2027. The area will receive temporary seating, planters, raised carriageways, security bollards and two new public squares ahead of the Christmas shopping season.
Buses are being rerouted along parallel streets including Wigmore Street and Henrietta Place. New taxi ranks and drop-off locations are positioned close to the pedestrian zone. Bicycles, e-scooters and pedicabs are not permitted on this stretch and must use newly created cycle routes. Essential freight and delivery vehicles retain limited access overnight between midnight and 07:00.
