Oxford Street goes traffic free: Pedestrianisation sparks fear of an 'unmanaged mess' as Sadiq Khan's controversial £150m car-free plan gets underway

Oxford Street has permanently closed to vehicles under Sadiq Khan's plan to pedestrianise the busy shopping hub. The London Mayor hailed the move as 'a truly momentous occasion for the capital' - but critics warn it will descend into an 'unmanaged mess'.From this morning, cars, buses, taxis, bikes and other vehicles are banned from almost a kilometre of the central London road - between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street. They will instead be funneled onto nearby roads.Exceptions have been made for deliveries, which can be made from midnight to 7am, and for emergency vehicles - which retain access at all times. Oxford Street throngs with around half a million visitors every day, who each year spend a staggering £3billion at its tills.Critics have said the scheme is too rushed and fears have been raised about diverted traffic increasing congestion. One local councillor described the plan as a 'disaster for local people' - and accused Lord Khan of pushing it through to meet an 'arbitrary deadline'.Cllr Tim Barnes, Westminster City Council Deputy Leader, said: 'We’re extremely disappointed that MHCLG have ignored legitimate concerns about the impact this scheme will have on central London...'London deserves a world class shopping district but I’m worried we’re heading for an unmanaged mess.'The situation overnight was described as 'absolutely pandemonium' by one member of the public who recorded footage of buses coming up against the new diversion. Oxford Street has permanently closed to vehicles as Sadiq Khans pedestrianisation plan gets underway Cars, buses, taxis, bikes and other vehicles are banned from entering almost a kilometre of the roadThe area has become increasingly popular as an office location thanks to the Elizabeth line and Lord Khan believes the scheme will help revitalise the site, boost economic growth and attract visitors.Describing it as 'a new vibrant destination', he said: 'I'm hugely excited to see my bold vision for Oxford Street coming to life from today. It is a truly momentous occasion for the capital.'He added: 'For centuries, Oxford Street has reinvented itself, adapting to changing times and helping shape British culture along the way.'There has been talk of pedestrianising Oxford Street for decades. After so many false dawns, and now working with a Government who share the scale of my ambition, I'm proud that we're finally unlocking a new era for the street.'He hopes the changes will open up the chance to bring new experiences to the street, from sport to fashion and cultural events.He said: 'Revitalising Oxford Street will boost jobs and economic growth in the capital, unlock the full potential of this key part of the West End and help build a better, greener and more prosperous London for everyone.'The move marks the first phase of a pedestrianisation and wider regeneration project aimed at putting Oxford Street among top global shopping destinations including Times Square, the Champs-Élysées and La Rambla. New bus stops are sited along Wigmore Street, Henrietta Place and Cavendish Place approximately 200 metres from the traffic-free area.Councillor Tim Barnes has previously said: 'If this is going to be the 'greener, better and more prosperous' success that the mayor has promised, then issues around access, air pollution, street cleaning and public safety need answers urgently.'Right now there's a danger that we will have all of the downsides and too little upside.'Traffic will be pushed to the small streets nearby causing economic and environmental harm.'London transport commissioner Andy Lord suggested the scheme is creating a safer space for people to enjoy the retail and leisure.He added that 'we will be closely monitoring these changes to make sure they are working for everyone and supporting the continued economic growth London needs'.Housing, Communities and Local Government Secretary Angela Rayner said: 'This marks an exciting new chapter for Oxford Street, creating a greener, more vibrant place that will attract visitors and investment, support businesses and jobs, and drive growth in the heart of our capital.'The scheme has the backing of businesses including John Lewis and Selfridges, who both described it as 'exciting', along with Under Armour and Grosvenor Property plus organisations such as UK Hospitality and the New West End Company.Savills co-head of global retail Sam Foyle said: 'Alongside significant investment, it sends a powerful signal about the street's future, further strengthening Oxford Street's position as a world-class retail destination for leading global brands.'Minimal construction will take place in the immediate weeks to reduce disruption in the busy Christmas period.By the end of spring 2027, visitors to Oxford Street should see more than 50 new trees, two new public squares and better signage.More than 100 new seats, dining tables and new lighting are also to be installed.Oxford Street Development Corporation (OSDC) chief executive Nabeel Khan said: 'The transition phase is a vital opportunity for us at OSDC to test ideas, learn from people's experiences and work closely with local communities, businesses and accessibility groups to ensure the future street is as welcoming and inclusive as possible.'