Rundown Oxford Street is finally set for a facelift as long-awaited plans to reduce traffic and increase space for pedestrians went to public consultation.
The world-famous shopping district will get a “once-in-a-lifetime” overhaul after concerns the area was being blighted by US-style sweet and souvenir shops.
Westminster council’s much-anticipated proposals show wider pavements, redesigned crossings and new trees for the mile running from Tottenham Court Road to Marble Arch.
It is hoped the redesign will attract top brands back to the area after the stores it became known for, such as Topshop and House of Fraser, closed down. IKEA and HMV have already confirmed they will be opening shops in the street later this year.
Junctions, including at Oxford Circus, are set to be redesigned to create more space for shoppers and 12 more pedestrian crossings will be built.
The town hall’s previous Conservative administration had earmarked £120million for the revamp, but ditched plans with London Mayor Sadiq Khan to part-pedestrianise the street to create extra space for Elizabeth line passengers.
The new proposals were drawn up with the New West End Company (NWEC), which represents 600 retail, restaurant and hotel businesses and property owners across the West End.
Councillor Geoff Barraclough, cabinet member for planning and economic development, said: “The West End constantly needs to adapt if it is to continue draw to shoppers from around the country and around the world.
“We have great brands such as Selfridges and John Lewis, and we’re pleased that, IKEA and HMV will both be opening on Oxford Street later this year.
“But we need to innovate and ensure we can offer a top-class experience for everyone.
“I want Oxford Street to be a place local communities, residents and visitors and businesses can feel pride in.
“New West End Company and Westminster City Council have a long track record in successful collaboration and are looking forward to working in partnership to keep Oxford Street thriving.”
Dee Corsi, Chief Executive of NWEC, added: “The proposed enhancement of Oxford Street’s public realm infrastructure is part of a bigger, once-in-a-lifetime, opportunity to regenerate one of the world’s most iconic retail and leisure destinations.”
The consultation runs until August 31, with work set to be completed in 2026.
