Plans to part-pedestrianise Oxford Street unveiled

Plans to pedestrianise one of London's busiest roads, Oxford Street, have been unveiled.

Mayor Sadiq Khan has proposed that east-traffic be removed from the world-famous street, but with some north-south routes remaining.

The proposals could be implemented as early as December next year if approved.

Under the scheme, a half-mile stretch between Oxford Circus and Orchard Street would become traffic-free.

Mr Khan said the move would make the area "substantially cleaner and safer for everyone".

The mayor described the publication of the plans as "a hugely exciting moment for the capital".

"Oxford Street is world famous with millions of visitors every year, and in just over a year the iconic part of the street west of Oxford Circus could be transformed into a traffic-free pedestrian boulevard," he said.

Transport for London has been reducing the number of buses operating along Oxford Street.

New and extended taxi ranks would be created nearby to allow black cabs to continue to pick up and drop off shoppers.

Cyclists will be forced to dismount under the scheme, although a consultation on new cycling routes is set to take place.

Charities have said the measure is an "important step" towards tackling air pollution.