London mayor plans to ban traffic from Oxford Street

LONDON: Plans to ban traffic from London’s Oxford Street have been announced by Sadiq Khan.The Labour Mayor of London’s pedestrianisation proposal is supported by the Government, with Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner claiming it will give the popular shopping district “the boost it needs”.

Preventing traffic from entering Oxford Street is part of a wider regeneration project aimed at boosting the experience of shoppers, residents, workers and tourists.Oxford Street is one of the world’s busiest shopping areas, with around half a million visitors each day. A previous attempt by Mr Khan to ban traffic from the road was blocked by then-Conservative run Westminster City Council in 2018.

Mr Khan said: “Oxford Street was once the jewel in the crown of Britain’s retail sector, but there’s no doubt that it has suffered hugely over the last decade.“Urgent action is needed to give the nation’s most famous high street a new lease of life.

“I am excited to be working with the new Government, and local retailers and businesses, on these plans that will help to restore this famous part of the capital to its former glory, while creating new jobs and economic prosperity for the capital and the country.

“I want Oxford Street to once again become the leading retail destination in the world. “The transformation of Oxford Street will be a leading example of how working together – City Hall and the new Government – we can build a better London for everyone.”

Ms Rayner said: “Oxford Street is a world-renowned shopping destination andwe want it to stay that way. “By working with the Mayor and local leaders, we can ensure it gets the boost it needs.

“This plan to revitalise Oxford Street will drive growth by creating new jobs, generating economic activity, and giving a much-needed boost to London’s night-time economy.”Mr Khan’s his latest proposal depends on him obtaining permission from Ms Rayner in her role as Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government to establish a new Mayoral Development Corporation.This request can only be made following a statutory period of consultation and consideration by the London Assembly.