London Mayor Approves Oxford Street Pedestrianisation Plans

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has announced plans to pedestrianise a 0.7-mile stretch of Oxford Street from Selfridges to Great Portland Street, a move supported by a majority of Londoners and businesses after a public consultation. The project aims to rejuvenate the area, turning it into a world-class, accessible shopping and leisure destination, following the decline of many flagship stores in recent years. The pedestrianisation will involve banning vehicles and rerouting 16 bus routes, with detailed traffic proposals expected later in the year. While the plan has widespread backing, some local council officials and community groups have raised concerns about traffic congestion, bus access, and the overall impact on the surrounding neighborhoods. The Labour government has pledged support, with a mayoral development corporation possibly established by early 2026 to oversee the £150 million project, which could be completed by 2027 or later. Khan emphasized the scheme's potential to create a new public space, attract tourists, drive investment, and generate jobs in one of Britain's busiest shopping districts.