Sadiq Khan’s plan to pedestrianise Oxford Street is a bold and essential move to restore the nation’s high street to its former glory. It presents a unique opportunity to breathe new life into a street that was once the crown jewel of Britain’s retail sector, inject fresh energy into the capital’s economy and help London solidify its position as the preeminent global shopping destination.
International examples such as Barcelona’s La Rambla have set the standard, demonstrating that pedestrianisation can unlock massive economic benefits while creating an iconic global cityscape. Oxford Street could see a new wave of dynamic activity and development, ranging from creative retail concepts and upscale shopping experiences to vibrant residential projects, all intermingled with hospitality venues and dining areas that stand where cars previously idled.
The clearly evident windfall benefits of such a project should silence those who have fallen back on the same old tired protestations in the days since the announcement.
In reality, international examples of well-planned pedestrianisation prove that Khan is right to celebrate the social and economic value uplift these projects unlocks. ‘The Pedestrian Pound’ report from Living Streets highlights projects in New York City that increased local retail sales by 48%, a 300% increase in employment following the development of the Temple Bar District in Dublin, 40% increase in pedestrians through Melbourne’s laneways – now home to 600 new cafes.
Oxford Street already attracts around half a million visitors daily. Imagine how many more would arrive if the street was welcoming and accessible. Even minor improvements, such as better street lighting, can significantly enhance visitor experience and reduce crime, leading to fewer retail vacancies, and higher spending. As a result, a project of this scale will generate more jobs and tax revenue, while improving retail rents and property prices.
It is clear that investment in better streets and walkable spaces will deliver measurable returns, benefiting businesses, residents, developers, and tourists alike. With careful execution, Oxford Street can experience the growth and revitalisation it is desperate for after years of neglect.
But after decades of literal and metaphorical roadblocks, is it short-sighted to constrain this historic project to a single street? New megacities are emerging from every corner of the globe, and we cannot afford to rest on our historical laurels. London already finds itself playing catch-up with other major cities delivering projects to enhance public spaces, so we should not shy away from something more ambitious.
Khan should make the most of this opportunity to go further, pedestrianising both Oxford Street and Regent Street together to deliver a world-class city precinct that will stand the test of time.
Imagine a new beating heart of London. Where instead of a concrete jungle, with masses of people spill over slim sidewalks into gridlock traffic, green veins of the city would emerge to run the length of our two most iconic streets.
As major cities around the world advance into the future, London stands at a pivotal moment, facing the decision to propel itself into the next stage of modern urban development. Projects of this scale are truly once-in-a-century opportunities that, while require meticulous planning, are primed to create lasting value for our once proud capital city.
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