One week after its transformation into a £150 million pedestrian-only zone, London's Oxford Street has become a 'lawless cyclist's rat run,' according to shoppers and enforcement officers. Despite efforts by Mayor Sadiq Khan to create a 'greener, safer, world-class destination,' the half-mile stretch, which banned bicycles, cars, buses, and taxis on October 26, is reportedly being swamped by speeding cyclists.
Transport for London (TfL) enforcement officers face an 'impossible job' attempting to stop and fine cyclists £160 for violations. Critics argue that the scheme's enforcement was not adequately planned. Hundreds participated in a 'Critical Mass' event on Friday night, filling the street with bicycles, with some using dockless e-bikes that reportedly defied geofencing technology meant to prevent their use in the zone. TfL's own traffic cameras captured the mass of cyclists on the restricted road.
Enforcement officers have privately admitted to being powerless against cyclists who refuse to stop. One officer reported facing hostility, including racial abuse and physical intimidation from a group of teenagers. Another stated that approximately 70% of cyclists ignored requests to dismount. Social media videos appear to show groups of youths cycling with impunity, weaving through pedestrians.
Local resident Michael Bolt expressed concerns that pedestrians are being forced to dodge cyclists and are intimidated, adding that enforcement officers should not be left 'powerless.' He warned that without 'constant vigilance, a properly funded management plan and effective, enforceable restrictions,' the scheme risks becoming a 'free-for-all.'
Concerns about cyclists ignoring the ban were raised by over 600 respondents during TfL's consultation, though transport bosses believed that alternate routes and pedestrian numbers would deter riders. The pedestrianization project also includes plans to install benches and trees as part of a revitalization effort aimed at improving the street's image.
Beyond cycling, disability campaigner Mik Scarlett highlighted issues with the anti-terror bollards installed to prevent vehicles from entering the zone, stating they make navigation difficult for wheelchair users and constitute 'inactive discrimination.' Susan Hall, leader of the City Hall Conservatives group, criticized the Mayor for pushing the plan through without adequate consideration for warnings, citing increased traffic gridlock on surrounding roads and accessibility issues for those with disabilities. She suggested Khan is prioritizing a legacy project before potentially not seeking a fourth term as Mayor.