Oxford Street revamp receives support with plans to begin this autumn

The £90 million renovation plans for London's Oxford Street have been supported by two thirds of respondents during a consultation of local people, businesses, and visitors.

As part of the public consultation, participants were asked to share feedback on different aspects of the proposals, including improvements to the quality of public spaces, look and accessibility of footways, vehicle access, and cycle infrastructure.

Schemes for Oxford Street, Oxford Circus, Marylebone Fitzrovia, Oxford Street West, and Eastcastle Street were included in the consultation. All five schemes received support from 64% of the 1,611 respondents.

Looking at the particular plans, 35% of respondents expressed strong support for the Oxford Street scheme, which envisions the area as a "vibrant, high quality public space for all who work, live or visit the street".

The proposed design will allow for greater pedestrian space with more greenery, seating, and lighting to increase accessibility and comfort.

Notably, trees and greening emerged as the top priority for respondents, evidencing a "strong desire" for a greener and more environmentally friendly urban space.

Following closely behind, 63% stressed the importance of the quality of the street environment, highlighting a collective aspiration for an appealing and inviting street atmosphere.

The quality of public spaces also featured prominently, with 62% of respondents deeming it significant.

While traffic congestion received a slightly lower response rate at 40%, it remains a "notable consideration". In addition, bus services and vehicle access were of importance to 35% and 22% of respondents, respectively.

Following the feedback and support from the public consultation, Westminster City Council is set to move the programme forward with construction expected to start this autumn.

Cabinet member for planning and economic development, councillor Geoff Barraclough, said: "It’s heartening to see local people and businesses have given their support for our plans to improve Oxford Street and its surrounding areas.

"After a number of schemes have been proposed to develop the district in the past, I am confident that we have an ambitious and deliverable plan in place."