Government warns councils over high street pedestrianisation risks

The UK government has warned councils in England that pedestrianising high streets can make them less accessible and harm local economies unless plans are carefully designed and supported by better transport links.

In evidence to a parliamentary inquiry into revitalising high streets, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government said pedestrianisation can make shopping areas “more attractive, safe and welcoming”, but urged local leaders to assess and mitigate the risks. [1]

The department said it has not issued formal guidance on pedestrianisation. The government plans to publish a new high streets strategy later this year, which it says will explain how it aims to make high streets accessible to everyone.

The warning comes as councils weigh changes that can be contentious and take years to implement. In London, parts of Oxford Street are due to become pedestrianised from 26 October, after a proposal first raised by Mayor Sadiq Khan in 2016. His spokesperson said the Greater London Authority would use data and public feedback from the scheme to assess how people use the space and refine plans for permanent improvements. [1]

Some trials have failed: West Berkshire Council ended an evening pedestrianisation trial in Newbury last month after 75% of respondents to a consultation opposed it. Elsewhere, a trial at Stevenson Square in Manchester’s Northern Quarter led to a largely pedestrian-friendly space becoming permanent. [1]

Professor Lee Ivett, head of the School of Architecture at the University of the Built Environment, told the BBC that opposition often centres on short-term disruption to businesses, while evidence suggests pedestrianisation can improve high streets’ economic viability over time. He said better public transport is needed to maintain access and support those benefits. [1]