Oxford Street car ban begins, pedestrian zone to be completed by spring 2027
London's Oxford Street has started closing the section between Orchard and Great Portland to private cars, buses, taxis, bicycles and similar vehicles. The pedestrianisation works begin immediately and are scheduled to be finished by the end of spring 2027, affecting shoppers and visitors to the iconic shopping boulevard.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- Cars, buses, taxis, bicycles and similar vehicles are barred from Oxford Street between Orchard and Great Portland
- Timing
- Closure starts now with full pedestrian zone expected by end of spring 2027
- Who is affected
- All motorists, cyclists and scooter users travelling through the affected stretch
The details
- Announced by
- Arab Union for Tourist Media
- Previous rule
- The stretch between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street previously allowed private cars, buses, taxis, bicycles, scooters and pedal‑powered carts.
- New rule
- The same stretch is now closed to private cars, buses, taxis, private transport, bicycles, scooters and pedal‑powered carts, creating a pedestrian‑only zone.
Scope of the closure
The city has blocked the segment of Oxford Street that runs from Orchard Street to Great Portland Street. All private motor vehicles, public buses, taxis, private hire cars, bicycles, electric scooters and pedal‑powered carts are prohibited from entering this area.
- The restriction applies to the entire length of the specified segment.
- Pedestrians, wheelchair users and delivery foot traffic remain permitted.
Implementation timeline
Work to convert the street into a pedestrian zone began with the closure announced on 7 November 2026. The programme is phased, with limited construction in the first stage and a target to complete the full set of improvements by the end of spring 2027.
- Initial closure coincides with the pre‑festive shopping season.
- Final works include planting over 50 trees, creating two public squares, installing more than 100 seats and tables, and upgrading lighting and signage.
Impact on transport and services
Bus routes, taxi services and cycling paths are being rerouted to adjacent streets. The city will provide updated maps and signage to guide drivers and cyclists to alternative corridors.
- Public transport operators will shift stops to nearby streets.
- Cyclists are encouraged to use designated bike lanes on surrounding roads.
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Visitors should plan to walk or use nearby public transport to reach shops on the closed segment.
- Travel itineraries that include driving through Oxford Street must be revised to avoid the restricted stretch.
Cost and documents
- No new fees or permits are required for pedestrians entering the area.
- Drivers do not need to obtain any special documentation; they simply must not enter the closed zone.
What you need to do
- Check updated navigation apps for the latest detour routes before traveling.
- Allow extra walking time when visiting stores located on the pedestrianised section.
- Monitor local transport authority announcements for any changes to bus or taxi routes.
Who this affects
-
Private motorists
Cars are now prohibited on the Oxford Street segment between Orchard and Great Portland.
What to do Use alternative routes or park outside the restricted area and walk.
-
Bus and taxi operators
Public transport vehicles are barred from the same stretch.
What to do Reroute services to adjacent streets as directed by city signage.
-
Cyclists and scooter users
Bicycles, electric scooters and pedal‑powered carts are not allowed on the closed segment.
What to do Follow the newly marked bike lanes on surrounding roads.
-
Pedestrians and tourists
The area is being transformed into a pedestrian‑only zone with new seating and greenery.
What to do Enjoy the expanded walking space and new amenities.
-
Delivery foot traffic
Foot‑based delivery services remain permitted within the pedestrian zone.
What to do Continue operations on foot, respecting the new pedestrian layout.
Frequently asked questions
When does the Oxford Street car ban start?
The closure began on 7 November 2026, when the city announced the start of the pedestrianisation works.
Which vehicles are banned from the Oxford Street section?
Private cars, buses, taxis, private hire vehicles, bicycles, electric scooters and pedal‑powered carts are all prohibited between Orchard and Great Portland Streets.
How long will the pedestrianisation project last?
The city aims to finish the full set of improvements, including trees and public squares, by the end of spring 2027.
Will public transport still serve Oxford Street?
Bus and taxi routes are being redirected to nearby streets; passengers should check updated timetables and stop locations.
Do I need a special permit to walk on the new pedestrian zone?
No permit or fee is required; the area is open to all pedestrians, wheelchair users and foot‑based delivery services.
