Consultation begins on transforming the Oxford street district into the world’s best outdoor shopping experience

Here’s why

The Leader of Westminster City Council, Cllr Nickie Aiken, and London’s Transport Commissioner, Mike Brown MVO, have today both welcomed the start of a consultation to support the delivery of what is expected to be one of the most ambitious place-shaping projects London has ever seen.

A world class destination, Oxford street is a leading shopping and cultural hub that welcomes more than 500,000 visitors every day. It is home to some of the best-loved stores and brand names as well as being a key commercial centre that drives the London and UK economies. There is also a strong educational and cultural tradition, from the University of Westminster to the world famous London Palladium and prestigious Wigmore Hall.

The district is also home to a vibrant local community who are proud to call the area their home. However, international competition and ongoing local issues such as overcrowding, congestion and poor air quality are putting its long-term future at risk.

The proposals to transform Oxford street aim to significantly improve the area, as well as creating jobs, opportunities and prosperity, bolstering the area’s reputation as a leading shopping destination and ensuring the District retains the unique character of its neighbourhoods. Westminster City Council and TfL propose to create a new world-class public space by:

Val Shawcross, Deputy Mayor for Transport, said: “Today is an exciting first step in our plans to transform Oxford street into one of the finest public spaces in the world. Oxford street is iconic as a shopping destination, but there is far too much pollution and we have a huge opportunity to make it cleaner and safer for the millions of people who use the street every year.”

“We need to make the transformation the very best it can be ensuring it benefits local residents, businesses, and people who rely upon transport links in the area. This is an important first opportunity for Londoners to have their say before we outline our detailed proposals later in the year.” 

Leader of Westminster City Council, Cllr Nickie Aiken, said: “This consultation is the first step towards transforming Oxford street to make it an even more enjoyable experience for the thousands of people that use the area every single day. We want to ensure that all residents, office workers, shoppers and tourists benefit from the improvements to one of the busiest and most famous streets in Europe. 

“In order to achieve this, we would urge as many people as possible to take part in the consultation and have their say on the future of an iconic area of London. The Mayor and I are in total agreement that the area should be massively improved but we don’t yet have any firm plans. That’s why we want to hear what residents, businesses, visitors and workers think will improve the district.”

“Once we have gathered as many views as we can, we will develop a detailed proposal and a second round of consultation is planned in the autumn. It is a highly complex environment, but we know that by working together with all those who have a stake in the future of the area, we can get the best outcomes for the Oxford street district.” 

London’s Transport Commissioner, Mike Brown MVO, said: “Oxford street is known across the globe as a fantastic place to shop, meet friends and socialise. The introduction of the Elizabeth line will help ensure that it retains its iconic status for years to come. 

“It’s therefore vital that we take this once in a lifetime opportunity to make the area an even better place to live, work and visit. I would encourage everyone to get involved in this important consultation and help us shape the future of this world-renowned destination.” 

For more information and to respond to the consultation, please visit www.tfl.gov.uk/oxford-street