Business news and discussion on TalkFuse.
Oxford Street pedestrianisation brings ‘staggering’ shopping boost
City Hall data suggests that pedestrianising part of Oxford Street has increased footfall and spending, offering an early boost to the shopping district ahead of Christmas. The results support Mayor Sadiq Khan’s argument that a traffic-free street could attract more visitors and encourage shops to open, although the decision to exclude buses and cyclists remains disputed.
In the first week, footfall between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street was 16 per cent higher than during the October 2025 half-term, while international visitor numbers rose by about 42 per cent. Visits after 6pm also increased, and Adyen data showed spending in stores along the traffic-free section rising from £2.9 million to £3.7 million year on year. Local residents say some bus journeys now take up to 11 minutes longer, and hundreds of cyclists have protested.
In short
- Footfall on pedestrianised Oxford Street rose by 16 per cent.
- International visitor numbers increased by about 42 per cent.
- Residents and cyclists have raised concerns about the changes.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters argue that the early rise in visitors and shop spending suggests a traffic-free Oxford Street can make the area more attractive, helping retailers and the wider high street. They may see the gains in evening and international visits as promising ahead of Christmas, while viewing changes to bus and cycle access as a trade-off worth considering if the benefits are sustained.
The case against
Critics argue that a bus-free scheme shifts costs onto residents who rely on public transport, with some journeys already taking longer, and makes travel less convenient. They may also question whether a one-week comparison proves the increase will last, and argue that excluding cyclists and buses risks prioritising shoppers over accessible, practical street use.
Explained simply
Oxford Street is a major shopping street in central London, running through the West End. It is near several busy shopping areas and is served by buses, cyclists and pedestrians. Its shops and visitors also matter to businesses across the surrounding district.
Sadiq Khan is the Mayor of London, and City Hall is the elected authority responsible for the capital’s transport and planning. Plans to make parts of Oxford Street traffic-free have been debated because they could change how people reach the shops as well as how they experience the street. The debate involves retailers, visitors, local residents, bus users and cyclists.