Oxford Street Becomes Permanently Traffic-Free for the First Time

Oxford Street officially became permanently traffic-free on 26 October 2026, marking the first time in its history that the stretch between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street has been closed to private motorised vehicles, buses, taxis, private hire vehicles, cycles, scooters, and pedicabs. The closure covers almost one kilometre of one of the world's most famous shopping streets. The move followed extensive pre-launch consultations in which around seven in ten Londoners and businesses backed the Mayor's plans. Mayor Sadiq Khan called it "a truly momentous occasion for the capital." Emergency services retain full access at all times, and deliveries are permitted between midnight and 7am to support local retailers. New bus stops on nearby streets including Wigmore Street, Henrietta Place, and Cavendish Place are approximately 200 metres from the traffic-free zone, keeping the area accessible by public transport. Oxford Street sees an annual spend of around £3.1 billion. The current phase is a temporary transitional scheme, designed to gather real-time feedback from residents, businesses, and accessibility groups before permanent changes are finalised. Physical improvements — including more than 50 new trees, over 100 seats and dining tables, two new public squares, and upgraded signage and lighting — are expected to be in place by the end of spring 2027.