A section of Oxford Street in London is to be closed to traffic from later this year as part of plans drawn up by Westminster Council.
Under the proposals, the stretch from John Prince’s Street to the west of Oxford Circus, through to Great Portland Street to the east will be shut to buses and taxis, creating two ‘pedestrian piazzas’ on either side of Oxford Circus.
There will still be traffic along Regent Street but this will be “calmed” through longer green phases at pedestrian crossings and other measures, Westminster Council said.
The authority added that by prioritising people over vehicles, the changes could improve air quality as the works on Oxford Circus are expected to reduce vehicle traffic and improve efficiency of bus journeys across the area.
“There is an urgent need to tackle issues with pedestrian congestion and safety, poor air quality and noise. The serious congestion of Oxford Circus, of people and of traffic, is unsustainable and demands action,” said Westminster City Council leader Rachael Robathan.
“In the aftermath of the pandemic, and with the arrival of the Elizabeth Line, there is an overwhelming need and a compelling opportunity to build back better; a business-as-usual approach will no longer work.
“We hope the creation of these pedestrian-only piazzas at Oxford Circus will not only improve safety, security and accessibility, but create an iconic destination at the heart of London.”
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