Oxford Street will become traffic-free between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street from 26 October.

Buses, taxis, bicycles and other vehicles will be banned from the almost one-kilometre stretch under the plans confirmed by London Mayor Sadiq Khan.

The development marks the first major step in the transformation of Oxford Street into a pedestrianised retail and leisure destination, with temporary changes including new seating set to be introduced while officials assess how shoppers and visitors use the space.

City Hall has previously said the scheme is designed to create more space for pedestrians and support Oxford Street’s revival as a major shopping destination, with longer-term plans including greenery and areas capable of hosting retail, sporting, cultural and festive events.

Khan said the October launch would mean the changes arrive “just in time for the busy Christmas shopping period”, adding that his ambition was to turn the street into a “world-class space” combining flagship retail with workplaces, leisure experiences and events.

The pedestrianisation has attracted backing from some of Oxford Street’s biggest retailers. Earlier consultation on the wider regeneration plans found around seven in 10 respondents supported the proposals, while businesses including Selfridges, John Lewis and Ikea had welcomed the project.

However, Westminster City Council has raised concerns over how the changes will operate and the potential impact on surrounding streets.

Deputy leader and cabinet member for growth and planning Tim Barnes said businesses and residents still faced a “long list of unanswered questions”, including around access, street cleaning, public safety and air pollution.

He warned that diverting vehicles away from Oxford Street could push traffic onto smaller neighbouring roads, creating economic and environmental problems for the surrounding area.

TfL will work with the Oxford Street Development Corporation to introduce safety measures as part of the change.

The initial interventions are expected to be temporary, allowing data and feedback on how the pedestrianised space is used to inform the permanent design.

City Hall documentation has previously said emergency access will be maintained and servicing for Oxford Street businesses will continue overnight between midnight and 7am.

Click here to sign up to Retail Gazette‘s free daily email newsletter