Seb Dance, the Deputy Mayor for Transport under Mayor Sadiq Khan, recently attended the European Mayors’ Summit in Strasbourg where he met with Laia Bonet, a counterpart from Barcelona. The purpose of their meeting was to discuss the benefits of pedestrianised streets in cities and the challenges associated with large-scale regeneration projects. This meeting was particularly timely as London is looking to pedestrianise Oxford Street and revitalize its surrounding area, taking inspiration from Barcelona’s famous pedestrian avenue, La Rambla.
Although the announcement of the plan to pedestrianise Oxford Street was made six weeks ago, there have been concerns about the lack of serious planning and preparation by City Hall. Transforming Oxford Street into a pedestrian-friendly space involves more than just laying down paving stones. The street and its surrounding infrastructure are crucial to the economic productivity of London, providing not only shopping opportunities but also employment. Therefore, careful consideration and planning are necessary to ensure the success of this ambitious project.
La Rambla, a popular pedestrian avenue in Barcelona, serves as a model for what Oxford Street could become. With its tree-lined streets, diverse sections offering various attractions, and ongoing renewal process, La Rambla provides valuable insights into urban revitalization. By reducing motor vehicle access, widening pavements, and enhancing the overall street environment, La Rambla aims to create a welcoming and vibrant space for visitors and residents alike.
One of the challenges facing pedestrianisation projects, such as the one proposed for Oxford Street, is the management of such a large, open space. Safety concerns, especially in areas with high tourist traffic, need to be addressed to prevent crime and ensure a pleasant experience for all. While La Rambla has faced issues with street crime, Seb Dance hopes to replicate some of its positive features on Oxford Street, such as creating a green and attractive environment that attracts people from all over.
The potential formation of a mayoral development corporation, accountable to the Mayor, could involve local businesses in contributing to the maintenance and security of the pedestrianised space. This collaborative approach aims to ensure the long-term success and sustainability of the project, learning from the successes and challenges of La Rambla’s transformation.
As London embarks on the journey to revitalize Oxford Street and its surrounding area, there is much to be learned from other cities like Barcelona. By drawing inspiration from successful urban renewal projects and addressing potential issues proactively, London can create a vibrant and thriving pedestrian-friendly environment that benefits residents, visitors, and businesses alike. The road ahead may be long, but with careful planning and community involvement, the vision of a transformed Oxford Street may soon become a reality.
