Westminster City Council Rejects Legal Action Fund Against Oxford Street Pedestrianisation
Conservative group proposes amendment for judicial review funding, citing concerns over mayor's plans.
Westminster City Council's Conservative group has voted against an amendment aimed at allocating funds for a judicial review of the proposed pedestrianisation of Oxford Street, a plan initiated by London Mayor Sadiq Khan.
The Conservative opposition described the pedestrianisation as an 'ill thought out vanity project.'
Last week, Mayor Khan launched a public consultation to gather feedback from Londoners on the principle of removing vehicles from this iconic shopping district.
He contends that Oxford Street has become 'tired,' characterized by a prevalence of empty or subpar retail spaces, and that the transformation would enhance the experience for both Londoners and tourists.
Khan criticized the previous administration, which was led by the Conservative Party until 2022, for failing to adequately support the high street.
As part of the proposed initiative, Khan plans to oversee the pedestrianisation through the establishment of a new 'mayoral development corporation' (MDC), intended to manage the area and its adjacent roads.
While the Labour leadership of Westminster City Council has indicated that an MDC is not necessary for effecting change, they have expressed willingness to collaborate with the mayor on the project.
The Conservative opposition argues that the mayor's plan could lead to decreased accessibility on Oxford Street itself, potentially redirecting traffic and pollution to surrounding areas.
During the recent council meeting, Tory group leader Paul Swaddle introduced the amendment calling for financial provisions to support a judicial review, expressing skepticism about the funding mechanism for the mayor's plans.
Swaddle pointed out concerns that the mayor may rely on private investment without providing adequate details, raising fears among businesses regarding possible tax increases or levies associated with the project.
Swaddle also noted Westminster's own proposals for improving Oxford Street, which amount to £90 million, although they do not include full pedestrianisation.
He criticized Khan for overlooking these plans in favor of a more ambitious overhaul of the street.
Furthermore, Swaddle highlighted the council's position by stating, 'The leader of the council has failed to forge a productive relationship with the Mayor of London, who clearly does not take him or his administration seriously.' He urged councillors to support the amendment and recover any perceived wasted funds from the mayor’s proposed changes.
As the political landscape evolves, the Conservative party has gained ground, winning three by-elections since Labour took control of the council.
The current Labour majority stands at only two seats out of 54, which could pose challenges for Khan's pedestrianisation plans should the Conservatives regain control of the council in future elections.
The Conservative opposition described the pedestrianisation as an 'ill thought out vanity project.'
Last week, Mayor Khan launched a public consultation to gather feedback from Londoners on the principle of removing vehicles from this iconic shopping district.
He contends that Oxford Street has become 'tired,' characterized by a prevalence of empty or subpar retail spaces, and that the transformation would enhance the experience for both Londoners and tourists.
Khan criticized the previous administration, which was led by the Conservative Party until 2022, for failing to adequately support the high street.
As part of the proposed initiative, Khan plans to oversee the pedestrianisation through the establishment of a new 'mayoral development corporation' (MDC), intended to manage the area and its adjacent roads.
While the Labour leadership of Westminster City Council has indicated that an MDC is not necessary for effecting change, they have expressed willingness to collaborate with the mayor on the project.
The Conservative opposition argues that the mayor's plan could lead to decreased accessibility on Oxford Street itself, potentially redirecting traffic and pollution to surrounding areas.
During the recent council meeting, Tory group leader Paul Swaddle introduced the amendment calling for financial provisions to support a judicial review, expressing skepticism about the funding mechanism for the mayor's plans.
Swaddle pointed out concerns that the mayor may rely on private investment without providing adequate details, raising fears among businesses regarding possible tax increases or levies associated with the project.
Swaddle also noted Westminster's own proposals for improving Oxford Street, which amount to £90 million, although they do not include full pedestrianisation.
He criticized Khan for overlooking these plans in favor of a more ambitious overhaul of the street.
Furthermore, Swaddle highlighted the council's position by stating, 'The leader of the council has failed to forge a productive relationship with the Mayor of London, who clearly does not take him or his administration seriously.' He urged councillors to support the amendment and recover any perceived wasted funds from the mayor’s proposed changes.
As the political landscape evolves, the Conservative party has gained ground, winning three by-elections since Labour took control of the council.
The current Labour majority stands at only two seats out of 54, which could pose challenges for Khan's pedestrianisation plans should the Conservatives regain control of the council in future elections.
