What: Westminster Council has approved GBP 90 million for the first stage of a revamp of London's Oxford Street.

Why it is important: The investment into the street will revitalise the shopping area and create a more pleasant experience for visitors as well as boost sales for the businesses.

The plans include reducing traffic and increasing visitor space, with the aim of creating a "world class offer and experience" for shoppers. The stretch from Tottenham Court Road to Marble Arch will receive wider pavements, redesigned crossings, and more greenery to improve the overall environment. The important junctions, such as Oxford Circus, will be redesigned to be more pedestrian-friendly. While it falls short of the traffic-free shopping ideal, it will undoubtedly improve the area. Oxford Street has faced challenges, including the rise of American candy stores and the closure of flagship stores like Topshop and Debenhams. The news will please retail leaders who have advocated for more investment in Oxford Street, especially as neighbouring streets like Bond and Regent have thrived.

Oxford Street gets go-ahead for GBP 90m upgrade