The Greater London Authority (GLA) has begun the hunt for two expert design teams to lead the Mayor’s ambitious Oxford Street Transformation Programme, marking the next step in a bold
plan to revitalise one of London’s most iconic streets.
Following an overwhelmingly positive public consultation in June 2025—where around 70% of Londoners supported the proposals and two-thirds backed pedestrianisation—the Mayor is moving swiftly to deliver a regenerated Oxford Street. Plans include creating a pedestrian-friendly main thoroughfare, enhancing the visitor experience, and introducing new leisure opportunities such as al fresco dining and outdoor events.
A nationally significant street in need of renewal
Oxford Street contributes an estimated £25 billion annually to London’s economy but has faced years of decline due to factors including the pandemic, the rise of online retail, and the growth of out-of-town shopping centres. The transformation programme aims to restore its global reputation, turning it into a world-class retail, hospitality, and cultural destination.
What’s planned
Detailed traffic and highway proposals—covering nearly a mile between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street—are being developed for consultation later this year. The scheme could see this stretch fully pedestrianised, with improved public spaces and better integration of leisure activities.
Two design teams, one vision
The GLA will appoint:
A Lead Design Team for Phase One (Orchard Street to Great Portland Street).
A Whole Street Concept Team to create a design blueprint for the entire length of Oxford Street, from Marble Arch to Tottenham Court Road.
Both teams will be selected from the Mayor’s Architecture and Urbanism Framework but will be encouraged to draw on specialist expertise from across the UK and internationally. The design contract is expected to start in September 2025.
Looking ahead
To ensure the transformation’s long-term success, the Mayor has requested the creation of a dedicated Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC) for the area. Following consideration by the London Assembly in July 2025, the aim is to have the MDC established by 1 January 2026, in partnership with the Government.
Will Norman, London’s Walking and Cycling Commissioner, said:
“This is a really exciting opportunity for two design teams to work together on the Mayor's bold and ambitious Oxford Street Transformation Programme. We welcome bids for this fast-paced project, which aims to build a world-class retail, hospitality, and visitor destination that can compete with cities across the globe.” Photo by Taken by Ysangkok, Wikimedia commons.