Oxford Street traffic ban begins on 26 Oct, deliveries limited to night hours
Mayor Sadiq Khan opens a near‑kilometre pedestrian zone between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street, with emergency access retained and future streetscape upgrades planned.
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On Monday 26 October 2026 the mayor declared a near‑kilometre section of Oxford Street closed to all motor traffic. The closure runs from Orchard Street to Great Portland Street in the City of Westminster. Vehicles, including buses, taxis, private hire cars, cycles and scooters, must use diversions on adjacent roads.
Delivery and emergency access
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The mayor’s office said deliveries may be made only between midnight and 07:00. Emergency services are exempt and can reach any point on the pedestrianised stretch at any time. The restriction applies to all private motorised vehicles and to public transport services.
Economic backdrop
Oxford Street accounts for an estimated £3.1 billion of annual retail spend, according to the mayor’s statements reported by The Standard. The street attracts a high daily footfall, making the pedestrian zone a significant shift for local commerce.
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Official reactions
Mayor Sadiq Khan told the press that he was "hugely excited to see my bold vision for Oxford Street coming to life from today" and described the move as a step toward a greener, more prosperous West End. London Transport Commissioner Andy Lord said the change creates a safer environment for pedestrians and that TfL will monitor traffic patterns closely.
I’m hugely excited to see my bold vision for Oxford Street coming to life from today.
Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London
Westminster councillor Tim Barnes warned that the rapid rollout could strain nearby streets, urging the mayor to address concerns about air quality, street cleaning and public safety. The mayor’s office responded that a monitoring programme will be in place to adjust traffic management if required.
Planned enhancements
The Oxford Street Development Corporation outlined a rollout of physical improvements slated for completion by spring 2027. The plan includes planting more than 50 new trees, creating two new public squares, installing over 100 new seats and tables, and upgrading lighting and signage along the pedestrian corridor.
TfL confirmed that new bus stops have been positioned on Wigmore Street, Henrietta Place and Cavendish Place, each roughly 200 metres from the closed section, to maintain public transport links for shoppers and workers.
Residents and businesses can direct feedback to the Oxford Street Development Corporation via its website or contact centre. The corporation will publish regular updates on traffic displacement, air‑quality measurements and retail performance throughout the trial period.
Questions this report answers
+When did the pedestrian zone on Oxford Street start?
The vehicle‑free section began on Monday 26 October 2026, covering the stretch between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street. The change was announced by Mayor Sadiq Khan and took effect that morning.
+Which vehicles are prohibited from the new pedestrian area?
All motorised traffic, including buses, taxis, private hire cars, cycles, scooters and pedicabs, is barred from the designated stretch. Only delivery vehicles may operate between midnight and 07:00, and emergency services retain unrestricted access.
+How will deliveries be handled under the new rules?
Deliveries are permitted only during the night window of 00:00 to 07:00. The mayor’s office said this schedule will minimise disruption to shoppers while still allowing businesses to receive goods.
+What improvements are planned for Oxford Street after the pedestrianisation?
By the end of spring 2027 the street will receive more than 50 new trees, two new public squares, over 100 new seats and tables, plus upgraded lighting and signage. These upgrades are part of the Oxford Street Development Corporation’s regeneration programme.
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