New West End Company reveals recommendations for traffic-free Oxford Street
New West End Company, the organisation representing businesses in London’s Bond Street, Oxford Street and Regent Street, has unveiled a proposal for a partially traffic-free Oxford Street as part of its response to the Westminster City Council and TfL-led consultation on the future of the Oxford Street district.
The organisation is calling for traffic free blocks running from 10am to 10pm, with all or some north-south routes remaining open, in addition to significant traffic reduction across the whole of the West End.
New West End Company said the proposal will mean that shoppers would experience a traffic free shopping environment but still be able to access buses and taxis on certain north south routes. It would also mean that delivery vehicles could operate from certain north-south routes and during the night.
The organisation stressed there would be on reduction rather than a rerouting of existing traffic.
New West End Company said a survey of 250 shoppers had found that 85% of respondents supported traffic free sections of Oxford Street at specific times.
Jace Tyrrell, chief executive of New West End Company, said: “Oxford Street is the nation’s high street and it is vital for the West End that it remains a world-class area. Traffic-free zones across the West End, and particularly on Oxford Street, would make a huge difference to area and improve the experience of workers, visitors and residents alike. But this must be achieved through removing traffic from the West End, not simply diverting it down neighbouring streets.
“This summer marks 500 days until the Elizabeth Line arrives in the West End. We believe a consensus on traffic reduction needs to be reached before the 2018 launch date in order to establish a truly world-class experience for the extra influx of visitors the new line will bring.”
