Campaigners have urged Transport for London (TfL) to halt the implementation of traffic orders for the Oxford Street pedestrianisation project, citing a 'sham' consultation process. The proposed pedestrianisation aims to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality in the area by closing the street to motor vehicles. However, local businesses and residents have expressed opposition to the plans, claiming that the consultation process was inadequate and did not accurately represent their views.
The consultation, which took place in 2022, received over 4,000 responses from stakeholders, including local residents, businesses, and community groups. However, campaigners claim that many of these responses were ignored or dismissed by TfL, and that the final decision to implement the pedestrianisation was made without proper consideration for the views of local stakeholders.
The Oxford Street pedestrianisation project has been years in the making, with TfL initially announcing plans for the project in 2019. The project aims to create a more pedestrian-friendly and sustainable environment in the area, but opponents argue that it will have a negative impact on local businesses and residents.
TfL has maintained that the consultation process was thorough and transparent, and that the pedestrianisation project will bring numerous benefits to the area. However, campaigners are calling for the implementation of the traffic orders to be halted until a new and more inclusive consultation process can be undertaken.
The outcome of this dispute remains uncertain, but it highlights the ongoing challenges faced by TfL in balancing the needs of local stakeholders with the need to improve air quality and reduce traffic congestion in the area.