Sadiq Khan is asking Londoners for their ideas on pedestrianising Oxford Street in a bid to transform the iconic shopping district into a “world-class, accessible, clean, avenue”.

The Mayor today launched a public consultation on the proposed transformation of the central London road which will run until 2 May 2025.

Sir Sadiq is proposing to create a new Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC) which would lead the regeneration project with specific planning powers – and he hopes the revamped street will become the world’s best urban space for shopping, leisure and events.

City Hall says the transformation would boost visitor numbers, create new jobs, and improve growth for London and the whole UK economy, after Oxford Street declined in recent years amid the Covid pandemic, the rise of online shopping and out-of-town shopping centres.

The public, residents, businesses and visitors to Oxford Street are being asked for their views on the scheme, which covers an area worth £25bn to London’s economy in 2022. 

Khan said: “Oxford Street has been known as the nation’s high street but the area has suffered in recent years.

“My proposals are designed to unlock the true potential of Oxford Street and deliver a world-class, accessible, clean, avenue.”

He added: “[This] would help restore this famous part of the capital and support good businesses, create new jobs and boost growth. I encourage everyone to have their say.”