Westminster City Council has kicked off its ambitious reinvention of the nation’s high street.
Work is underway on measures which will make more space for people, add trees and greenery, introduce seating and cycle parking and create pocket parks throughout the Oxford Street District. The temporary measures, which are due to be completed by late Spring 2021, will create a welcoming and safe environment for residents, workers and visitors when lockdown restrictions are eased, helping retailers, restaurants, cafes and other businesses in the area to bounce back.
The first phase of work, which will be in place for a period of 18 months, will also see bus bays consolidated to make space for pocket parks complete with play areas and lighting installations.These are just the first in a series of Council led projects repositioning Oxford Street as the centre of a world leading retail and leisure district and boosting confidence in the West End.
Cllr Rachael Robathan, Leader of Westminster City Council, said: ““The pandemic has been a hammer blow for retailers and Oxford Street has suffered as much or more than any other high street in the country.Today is significant because work is underway. It is critical that we act urgently to restore confidence in the nation’s favourite shopping district. These initial measures, which should be completed in time for summer, will literally pave the way for an economic recovery. They will create a new visitor-friendly environment and reinforce the area as one of the best places in the world to live, work, shop and visit.”
