Early results from the first week of Oxford Street's pedestrianisation have significantly exceeded expectations, with new data revealing substantial increases in visitor numbers, retail spending and evening activity in one of London's most iconic shopping destinations.
The Mayor of London has welcomed the figures as evidence that transforming Oxford Street into a traffic-free destination is already delivering economic benefits for businesses, visitors and the capital's retail sector.
Data from City Hall shows footfall along the newly pedestrianised section of Oxford Street, between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street, increased by 16 per cent compared with the equivalent half-term period in 2025.
The area also saw a significant rise in international tourism, with overseas visitor numbers increasing by 42 per cent year-on-year. Meanwhile, visits to the wider Oxford Street area after 6pm climbed by 19 per cent, suggesting the scheme is helping to extend activity beyond traditional shopping hours.
The figures are particularly notable given that the wider physical transformation of the street has yet to begin, with major construction works intentionally delayed until after the Christmas trading period to minimise disruption.
Early figures from payments provider Adyen indicate a substantial uplift in consumer spending.
According to the company's data, spending at participating Oxford Street retailers increased by 28 per cent, rising from approximately £2.9 million to £3.7 million compared with the same period last year.
The number of in-store transactions also rose by 19 per cent, highlighting growing consumer confidence and increased visitor engagement.
For retailers preparing for the critical Christmas shopping season, the results provide an encouraging indication of the potential economic impact of the pedestrianisation programme.
Transport for London has also reported increased activity at nearby stations, with more passengers entering and exiting both Oxford Circus and Bond Street during the first week of the scheme.
Street-level monitoring recorded footfall outside Bond Street station reaching up to 46 per cent above average weekday levels recorded between September and October 2026.
Importantly, early assessments found no significant overall impact on traffic speeds on surrounding roads, while bus operators reported services continuing to operate effectively despite the changes.
Since 26 October, private motor vehicles, buses, taxis, private hire vehicles, cycles, scooters and pedicabs have been removed from the section of Oxford Street between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street.
The initiative forms the first phase of a wider regeneration programme that aims to transform the area into a world-class destination combining retail, culture, hospitality, leisure and modern workplace space.
The project seeks to position Oxford Street alongside internationally recognised destinations such as Times Square in New York, the Champs-Élysées in Paris and La Rambla in Barcelona.
For local government leaders, transport planners and regeneration professionals, the early results will be closely watched as a potential case study for large-scale pedestrianisation projects and high street renewal programmes across the UK.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said:
“These are staggering early results that show the transformational impact that the pedestrianisation of Oxford Street will have. Our early work has been very warmly received by Londoners and visitors, with a surge in footfall and spend.
“More people are coming to Oxford Street, more are visiting in the evening and shops are seeing more sales. These initial results are better than we had anticipated and a real boost for the nation’s high street and the businesses that make it such a special place to visit.
“With Christmas around the corner, I’d encourage Londoners and visitors to come and see what a traffic-free Oxford Street has to offer, whether you’re here to shop, meet friends or make an evening of it. The new Oxford Street is going to be one of the world’s most exciting public spaces, so come and be a part of this truly momentous project.”
Image credit: iStock
