​The Mayor of London is aiming to move forward with his ultimate aim to pedestrianise Oxford Street and has launched a consultation  to get the views of Londoners and businesses on the proposal.

They have until 2 May to let Sir Sadiq Khan know what they think with the Mayor hoping that the long-discussed pedestrianisation will create a “world-class, accessible, clean, avenue” that will boost visitor numbers to the famous shopping street, create jobs, and boost the city’s overall growth.

Pedestrianisation has been discussed for decades but the last attempt to push it through in 2018 was derailed by then-Conservative-controlled Westminster City Council, which said local residents were against the idea.

The Mayor now has greater planning powers for the area following changes after last year’s general election and the arrival of the new Labour government, which means he can take control of the area away from the council, which itself is now Labour-controlled.

Sir Sadiq 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. These proposals would help to restore this famous part of the capital and support good businesses, while creating new jobs and boosting growth.”

Dee Corsi, CEO of New West End Company said: “We have long championed the regeneration of Oxford Street, recognising its vital importance to London and the UK economy. The launch of the public consultation marks a significant milestone in the journey of the nation’s high street.”

And Kate Nicholls, chief executive of UKHospitality, said the proposed changes would turn the area into “one of Europe’s biggest plazas”. 

But while the pedestrianisation is general seen as a good thing, there’s no denying that banning traffic from a massive artery in the middle of London would create problems elsewhere. 

Daytime traffic is already restricted to buses and taxis but with those removed, adjoining and parallel roads are likely to see heavier traffic.

And while pedestrianisation could boost shopping, the removal of the ability to hop of a bus or into a cab outside Selfridges, John Lewis et al while carrying bags of shopping could be an issue. Disabled access could also be reduced.

Sir Sadiq, who has the backing of deputy PM and local government secretary Angela Rayner, added: “This is a street that contributes hugely to our national economy. But over the last few years it has been in decline due to a combination of competition from online shopping and out of town centre malls. It needs to have an injection of inward investment from future flagship stores.”