Westminster City Council is pushing back against Transport for London’s (TfL) plans to pedestrianise Oxford Street, claiming the process is a ‘stitch-up’. The council leader, Paul Swaddle, argues that the timing of the announcement, just after local elections, was designed to limit public scrutiny. This £150 million scheme aims to close the street to all vehicles, raising concerns about accessibility and potential increases in crime.
The council’s objections highlight a significant tension between local governance and TfL’s authority, as Westminster lacks the power to block these traffic orders. This situation underscores a growing frustration among local officials who feel sidelined in decisions affecting their communities. The pedestrianisation plan is intended to enhance foot traffic and boost the local economy, but critics worry about the implications for surrounding areas.
As TfL prepares to implement these changes, the council anticipates further notifications that could allow for additional formal responses. The outcome of this conflict could set a precedent for how urban transport policies are developed and implemented in London, particularly in high-profile areas like Oxford Street.
If the pedestrianisation goes ahead, it could transform the shopping experience, potentially drawing more international visitors. However, the ongoing dispute raises questions about the balance of power between local councils and transport authorities, and how such decisions are made in the future.
Source: GB News
