Hundreds of local people have already backed the campaign calling on the Mayor and Council to listen to local people's concerns over the pedestrianisation of Oxford Street.
Cllr Paul Swaddle OBE, Leader of the Opposition Conservative Group at Westminster Council, is encouraging more people to show their frustration over Sadiq Khan's pedestrianisation plans, which will cause:
- Increased Congestion and Pollution Closing Oxford Street to vehicles would simply divert traffic—including buses, taxis, and deliveries—onto surrounding roads, creating increased congestion and pollution in residential areas adjacent to the shopping street. Residents fear that roads such as Marylebone, Fitzrovia, and Soho would experience higher traffic, slower travel, and deteriorating air quality as a result.
- Accessibility Concerns Removing buses and taxis from Oxford Street could make it much harder for people with disabilities, the elderly, and those with mobility issues to access shops and services. There is concern that, without accessible alternatives or support infrastructure, pedestrianisation could further isolate vulnerable groups.
- Impact on Local Residents Resident associations argue that the pedestrianisation plan has been pushed without proper engagement, dismissing the repeated objections of locals who see the street as their neighborhood high street, not just a retail destination. Residents worry about diminished quality of life, more crowded pavements outside their homes, and loss of direct vehicular access for deliveries or emergencies.
- Effects on Business Some businesses dependent on vehicle deliveries, or customers who use cars or cabs, are concerned about logistical challenges and possible decline in sales if access is restricted. Business groups warn about potential increases in overheads for rerouted logistics and the risk that not all retailers will benefit equally from increased footfall.
- Lack of Detail and Local Accountability The current proposals lack specifics about how displaced traffic will be managed, what provisions will be made for accessibility, and who will fund and be accountable for the changes. Concerns around a proposed Mayoral Development Corporation include reduced local control and less transparency and accountability to the people living nearby.
Paul explains
The Mayor has decided not to listen to residents and proceed with the pedestrianisation of Oxford Street.
If you want to fight this, please click below and sign our petition, and we'll keep you up to date with everything that we're doing to try and fight this ridiculous idea.
