Sadiq Khan’s proposal to pedestrianize Oxford Street in Westminster has faced criticism from various influential residents’ organizations and local opposition parties. The Labour-run Westminster Council has already outlined ten key concerns regarding the plan, with the Westminster Amenity Societies Forum, which includes prominent groups like the Marylebone Association and the Soho Society, expressing their disapproval in a letter to the Mayor.
One major point of contention is the potential removal of buses and taxis from Oxford Street, which the local community and businesses are said to oppose. This echoes the failure of a previous pedestrianization scheme in 2018 that had the support of Khan and the former Tory-run Westminster Council until it was abandoned due to opposition just before local elections.
The letter also questions the creation of a Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC) to oversee the street’s future, suggesting that it would take control away from local politicians in an unprecedented manner. At a recent Westminster Council meeting, Tory councillor Tim Barnes criticized Khan’s plan as a “crackpot scheme” and sought assurances that the council would not fund or endorse the MDC’s role in licensing authority.
Westminster Council has clarified that they do not intend to contribute funds to the Mayor’s project and will retain licensing authority, despite rumors of Khan seeking control over these powers. Discussions between the council and City Hall are ongoing, focusing on issues such as the size of the MDC, traffic management, and resident representation.
While MDCs currently exist in other parts of London for large regeneration projects, the use of one in a central city area like Oxford Street is unprecedented. The Mayor has the authority to designate an area as a mayoral development area, but a thorough consultation process must be completed before the MDC is established.
Overall, the opposition to Sadiq Khan’s Oxford Street pedestrianization plan highlights the complexity and controversy surrounding the proposal. Balancing the interests of residents, businesses, and local authorities will be crucial in determining the future of this iconic London street. Stay tuned for updates on this ongoing issue.
