UK: Oxford Street pedestrianisation begins in central London

London's Oxford Street has begun a traffic ban, transforming nearly a kilometer into a pedestrian-only area. This initiative aims to enhance safety and accessibility for shoppers, especially during the holiday season. Mayor Sadiq Khan supports the changes, although black cab drivers express concerns about access for disabled individuals. Similar pedestrianization efforts in cities like Paris and Brussels have seen mixed results, with initial sales drops for retailers but eventual support for the schemes. The challenge remains to attract foot traffic while ensuring shops remain accessible and traffic flows smoothly in surrounding areas.