UK government warns councils about high street pedestrianisation risks

The UK government has warned local councils that plans to ban cars from high streets must be carefully considered. In evidence submitted to a parliamentary inquiry, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) said pedestrianisation can make streets safer and more welcoming, but that removing traffic could reduce accessibility and hurt local businesses. The department urged leaders to recognise the risks and work to mitigate them within a wider spatial strategy. No formal guidance has yet been issued, and the government will publish a new high‑street strategy later this year.

High‑street pedestrianisation has become a common experiment across the country, especially after COVID‑19 opened up outdoor spaces. Many councils tried temporary bans during lockdowns, sparking debates about the best use of public space. In London, Mayor Sadiq Khan has clashed with the City of Westminster over plans to make parts of Oxford Street traffic‑free from 26 October. The mayor’s spokesperson said the goal was to create cleaner, greener streets that drive economic growth, and that the Greater London Authority would use data from the pilot to refine permanent improvements.

The MHCLG evidence also highlighted that while short‑term disruption to businesses is a common concern, research suggests pedestrianisation can boost the long‑term economic viability of high streets if paired with better public transport. Professor Lee Ivett of the School of Architecture at the University of the Built Environment warned that opposition usually focuses on immediate inconvenience. He added that successful schemes require integrated transport solutions to realise the promised benefits.

The government’s upcoming strategy will set out detailed guidance on how to balance accessibility and economic health for high streets. Meanwhile, the Oxford Street pilot will provide early data on the impact of car bans on shoppers, delivery logistics, and local commerce. The outcome of both the national strategy and the London experiment will shape how councils across England decide whether to walk away from cars on their main streets.