High street pedestrianisation: government warns councils of the risks

Government highlights risks of pedestrianising England’s town centres

The warning was included in evidence given to MPs on the Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee, which is looking at ways to breathe new life into high streets. 

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government said well-planned schemes could make streets safer, more welcoming and more appealing to visitors.

However, ministers stressed that councils must consider the potential consequences before going ahead. 

Without a wider plan, restricting traffic could make shops harder to reach and leave local traders struggling to attract customers.

The government has not, however, introduced official guidance setting out how councils should approach pedestrianisation. 

An MHCLG spokesperson said local authorities remained free to decide what works best for their communities.

Oxford Street set to go car-free

The competing interests are already apparent in London, where plans to transform Oxford Street have sparked disagreement between Mayor Sadiq Khan and Westminster City Council. 

The BBC reports that a section of the major shopping thoroughfare is due to become pedestrian-only from 26 October.

Professor Lee Ivett, who leads the School of Architecture at the University of the Built Environment, told the broadcaster that opposition to pedestrianisation schemes often emerges soon after proposals are announced. 

More details about the government’s approach are expected later this year, when ministers publish their high streets strategy. 

The plan is expected to address how town centres can stay easy to reach while undergoing changes intended to improve their appeal.