Battle for Oxford Street: Huge row over Sadiq Khan's plan to force through traffic ban

Westminster council leader blasts mayor's 'politically motivated' move as 'outrageous'

A major row has erupted over plans to ban traffic from Oxford Street, with the leader of Westminster council branding the move as "outrageous" and "politically motivated". Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, is said to be determined to push through the ban, despite opposition from businesses and residents.

Westminster council leader blasts mayor's 'politically motivated' move as 'outrageous'

The council leader, Nickie Aiken, has written to Khan demanding that he reconsider the plan. She said that the ban would be "devastating" for businesses and would "kill off" Oxford Street as a shopping destination. She also accused Khan of being "more interested in ideology than in the livelihoods of Londoners".

Business leaders warn of 'catastrophic' impact

Business leaders have also warned of the catastrophic impact that the ban would have. The New West End Company, which represents businesses in Oxford Street, said that the ban would cost businesses £1 billion a year and lead to the loss of 5,000 jobs. They also said that the ban would make it difficult for people to access Oxford Street, particularly those with disabilities or those who live outside of London.

Mayor 'determined' to push through ban

Despite the opposition, Khan is said to be determined to push through the ban. He believes that the ban is necessary to reduce air pollution and improve the environment. He also said that the ban would make Oxford Street a more pleasant place to walk and shop.

Public consultation to be held

A public consultation on the ban is due to be held in the coming weeks. The consultation will give people the opportunity to have their say on the plans. However, it is thought that Khan is unlikely to change his mind, even if the consultation shows that the majority of people are opposed to the ban.

Conclusion

The battle over the Oxford Street traffic ban is set to continue. Khan is determined to push through the ban, but he faces opposition from businesses, residents, and politicians. The public consultation will give people the opportunity to have their say on the plans, but it is thought that Khan is unlikely to change his mind, even if the consultation shows that the majority of people are opposed to the ban.