The Mayor of London has declared that a one-day trial restricting vehicle traffic on part of Oxford Street symbolizes “the beginning of the effort to reclaim this street.”

Sir Sadiq Khan intends to prohibit vehicles on a 0.7-mile ( approximately 1.1 km) segment running from Oxford Circus to Marble Arch, with possibilities for additional modifications extending toward Tottenham Court Road.

During his visit to the event titled “This is Oxford Street,” vehicles were not allowed to access a half-mile section of the road between Oxford Circus and Orchard Street from noon to 20:00 BST on Sunday.

Yet, there are concerns regarding access for individuals with mobility challenges, potential traffic congestion spilling over to smaller side streets, and the impact on local residents.

Comprehensive plans for traffic under the pedestrianization initiative will be discussed later this year.

Tim Barnes, a Conservative councillor in Westminster, expressed that the changes could harm local businesses and residents.

“We’re going to see traffic that usually flows down Oxford Street,” he warned. “Although private cars have already been banned, emergency vehicles, buses, and delivery trucks will be diverted to the narrow side streets that can’t handle it.”

The Soho Society has previously highlighted worries about access for those with mobility impairments or who may be carrying heavy shopping bags.

Among pedestrians, Grace and Tom Brown shared their support for eliminating traffic permanently.

“I would prefer it like this all the time,” Grace stated.

Tom added, “It could be a real boost for local businesses. I believe people are deterred by how crowded it gets. If folks could come, socialize, and stroll comfortably, that would be wonderful.”

Another pedestrian supported the initiative as well. Kish Sha remarked, “It truly improved my day to have this space to walk. There’s so much vibrancy here. It makes sense to keep it a pedestrian space given the volume of foot traffic.”

Sir Sadiq remarked, “Today offers a vision of what the future could hold, where this place is designed for walking. It promotes increased foot traffic and spending, creating a fantastic venue for shopping, leisure, and outdoor events. I believe today will be remembered as the day our efforts to revitalize this street began.”

The mayor acknowledged that he “fully understands” the concerns of the “minority of residents” regarding congestion and accessibility, and emphasized that the authority had engaged with the community.

“We will continue to collaborate not just with residents and the council, but also with retailers, landowners, and others to restore this street to its former glory,” Sir Sadiq stated.

When asked about plans to pedestrianize more streets across London, he responded, “We have already partnered with councils to pedestrianize areas around Somerset House. This summer, we supported outdoor dining options. We are also working with the government to gain more authority over licensing and similar issues. I believe that hospitality and retail are vital sectors for our economy, and they are key reasons why people enjoy visiting London.”

Oxford Street is recognized as one of the busiest shopping locations globally, attracting around half a million visitors daily.

A previous effort by Sir Sadiq to pedestrianize a portion of Oxford Street was thwarted by the then-Conservative-run Westminster City Council in 2018.

His current proposals hinge on acquiring approval from the government to establish a new Mayoral Development Corporation, which would grant planning capabilities, aiming for this to be operational by early next year.

Additional reporting by PA Media.