Oxford Street one week on: calmer, but concerns remain over journey times and cycling

A week has passed since Oxford Street in London became permanently pedestrianised. According to BBC News, shoppers have welcomed the calmer atmosphere, while concerns centre mainly on journey times and space for cyclists.

What has changed

According to a statement from the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, on 26 October 2026 Oxford Street was permanently closed to traffic for the first time. Almost a kilometre of the street is now traffic-free. Under the Mayor's earlier decision, this covers the section between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street.

Buses, taxis, bikes and other vehicles are being diverted onto nearby roads. Transport for London (TfL) is due to monitor closely whether traffic on those roads flows properly. TfL is responsible for maintaining the street, while Westminster City Council continues to clean the pedestrianised area.

The change came just before the busiest Christmas shopping period. The authorities say removing traffic is only the start of the transformation, with larger works planned for 2027. More than a hundred new seats and tables are due to be added, along with new lighting.

First reactions

BBC's description says that after a week shoppers are praising the calmer atmosphere. Concerns remain, however, over journey times and the use of bikes. We could not access the full BBC article, so we do not give details of who says what on these issues.

Concerns about congestion on neighbouring streets were raised earlier. In the description of its investigation, the London Assembly noted that pedestrianisation could increase traffic on surrounding roads. It said it is not yet clear to what extent this will happen.

What this means for you

Oxford Street is used by people who shop or work there, as well as those who travel through it. Anyone who used to take this route by bus, taxi or bike should expect diversions via nearby streets. TfL publishes up-to-date information on route changes.

For pedestrians, the street is meant to offer more space, and the new seating and venues are intended to encourage people to stay longer.