Oxford Street is the energetic core of London’s retail scene. Stretching along two kilometres from Marble Arch to Tottenham Court Road, it’s the city’s most iconic shopping destination — bustling with life and welcoming over half a million visitors daily. Connecting Regent Street and Bond Street, it sits at the heart of London’s luxury shopping district. In 2019, the area contributed 5% of the capital’s economic output.
Now, Oxford Street is on the brink of a bold transformation. Announced by Mayor Sadiq Khan in September 2024, the vision is to put people first. The stretch between Oxford Circus and Marble Arch will become a pedestrian-friendly zone, making it safer, more inviting and easier to explore. Cars and buses will be removed, pavements widened, and lush greenery introduced — turning this celebrated shopping street into an open, welcoming location where you can shop and soak up the atmosphere without the dangers and constraints of heavy traffic.
This shift is a game-changer for businesses, particularly in the Fitzrovia Quarter. More space means higher footfall — bringing fresh opportunities for retailers, cafés, offices and a variety of trades. A cleaner, greener Oxford Street enhances the customer experience, encouraging visitors to stay longer and return more often. Beyond aesthetics, this move marks a more sustainable future for one of London’s most renowned streets.
The idea of pedestrianising Oxford Street isn’t new. Since the 1960s, various proposals have aimed at reducing traffic and improving the shopping experience. Concepts in the 1980s and 1990s explored elevated walkways and air quality improvements, while later efforts focused on enhancing public transport access. Though earlier plans were scaled down, today’s £150 million investment is set to deliver a long-awaited, transformative upgrade.
This revitalisation of Oxford Street cements its status as a leading global shopping destination. By prioritising pedestrians and sustainability, the redesign ensures a more inclusive and engaging space for all. Londoners, visitors and businesses alike will benefit from an area that balances heritage with modern convenience. The future of Oxford Street is bright, and its conversion will redefine how the community enjoys one of London’s most visited streets.
Progress is well underway, with surrounding roads adapting to support the new vision. On Sunday, 23 February 2025, Mortimer Street transitioned from a one-way to a two-way system — an initiative led by Westminster City Council to simplify traffic flow and improve pedestrian safety. For the Fitzrovia Quarter, this change is presenting many benefits, opening many opportunities, reducing congestion and fostering a more welcoming, people-first environment.
For local businesses, the new layout boosts visibility, accessibility, and overall appeal. Fitzrovia Quarter is reinforcing its reputation as a prime hotspot for work and leisure, offering a well-crafted work-life balance. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite during your working day or settling in for a relaxed meal on the weekend, our neighbourhood is the perfect place to elevate your daily life.
