London's renowned Oxford Street is set to undergo a significant transformation, commencing its pedestrianisation from tomorrow, 26th October. This pivotal change will introduce numerous alterations along the famous shopping thoroughfare.
From tomorrow, vehicles such as cars, buses, taxis, and bicycles will be prohibited from a one-kilometre stretch of Oxford Street. This initial step, termed the 'transition phase,' is a crucial move towards a vehicle-free environment. This first phase, which received approval in February, is anticipated to conclude by spring 2027 and involves more than simply removing vehicles.
Scope of Pedestrianisation
During this preliminary phase, vehicles will be banned from the section of Oxford Street located between Orchard Street, where Selfridges is situated, and Great Portland Street, which lies just to the east of Oxford Circus Underground Station. The pedestrianisation scheme notably includes Oxford Circus itself, a bustling intersection where Oxford Street meets the wider Regent Street.
All cars, with the exception of emergency services and delivery vehicles operating between 7 am and midnight, will be forbidden. Furthermore, all bus services that previously traversed Oxford Street will be rerouted around the area. TfL has also confirmed that e-bikes and e-scooters will not be permitted within the newly pedestrianised section, with dedicated new cycleways currently under development. However, cars will retain the ability to cross Oxford Street at specific points, including Duke Street, Davies Street/Stratford Place, Holles Street, and New Bond Street/Vere Street, with all junctions except Davies Street/Stratford Place operating as one-way access points.
Additional Enhancements to the Area
Beyond the vehicle restrictions, TfL has outlined plans to elevate sections of Oxford Street's road level to match the pavement. The aim is for two specific road sections, one between Orchard Street and Duke Street, and another between Old Cavendish Street and Holles Street, to be completed by spring 2027, with subsequent sections to follow.
Additionally, the pedestrianised zone will feature the installation of approximately 50 new trees and over 100 new seats. The creation of two new public squares is also planned, although their precise locations have yet to be disclosed. TfL is also evaluating the possibility of incorporating a new water feature into the pedestrianised area, with further details pending confirmation.
Impact on Bus Services
Several bus routes that historically operated through Oxford Street, both day and night, will now be diverted to circumvent the newly pedestrianised zone. According to plans published by TfL, these bus routes will be adjusted to utilise new bus stops located on Wigmore Street, Henrietta Place, and Cavendish Place.
Specifically, bus routes 7, 94, 98, 139, 390, N7, N98, N113, N137, and N207 will all be rerouted along Wigmore Street and Henrietta Place, passing behind the John Lewis department store. These services will then rejoin Oxford Street at Great Titchfield Street, on the opposite side of Oxford Circus, with the exception of bus route 139, which will continue its route along Regent Street. Passengers should anticipate an additional walking distance of 100 to 200 metres to reach the new bus stops. TfL staff will be stationed near bus stops and along Oxford Street over the coming week to assist and direct the public.