Oxford Street pedestrian plaza sparks business and transport backlash ahead of October works

# What's happening

# Who supports the plan

# Who objects and why Several groups contacted by Metro expressed clear reservations:

• Local businesses: A restaurant manager said banning taxis and buses would limit how customers access businesses and reduce convenience for patrons who prefer to be dropped off close to doors.

• Construction teams and developers: Ongoing building work around Oxford Street requires vehicle access. A foreman said diverting construction traffic will be problematic and predicted nearby roads will become more congested as vehicles are rerouted.

• Transport and crowding concerns: The closed stretch will still be served by Oxford Circus and Bond Street stations, but those stations are already busy. Removing bus and taxi access could increase pressure on underground stations and surrounding streets.

# Political and planning perspective Festus Akinbusoye, a Westminster councillor and prospective Conservative mayoral candidate, said pedestrianisation can be part of a wider strategy but is not a regeneration plan on its own. He urged City Hall to monitor impacts on adjacent streets, respond rapidly to problems, and work with businesses and residents.

# Practical implications to watch

• Traffic displacement: Critics expect diverted traffic to clog neighbouring streets and create additional pollution there.
• Access for disabled people and deliveries: With taxis and buses banned, drop-off and loading arrangements will need clear alternatives to avoid harming shoppers with mobility needs and local businesses that rely on deliveries.
• Construction logistics: Active developments near Chapel Place and other sites will need revised access plans, which planners and contractors must coordinate before closures take effect.
• Station capacity: Increased footfall at Oxford Circus and Bond Street stations may require operational adjustments to manage crowds.

# Immediate timeline and next steps

# Bottom line The pedestrian plaza will change how people arrive at and move through a key West End shopping corridor. Supporters point to improved public space for shoppers and events. Traders, transport workers and construction teams warn of practical access problems and traffic displacement that could hit nearby streets and station capacity unless the scheme is closely managed.