London’s iconic Oxford Street has officially become pedestrian-only, with buses, taxis, cars, bicycles and other vehicles banned from travelling along the busy shopping thoroughfare.
But despite the new restrictions, it appears not everyone has followed the rules.
Some were seen travelling on Lime bikes and other e-bikes, while others continued on push bikes.
Cyclists spotted riding on the pavement of Oxford Street
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In one incident, a cyclist who was instructed by an enforcement officer to dismount and push his bike appeared to comply, before getting back into the saddle and cycling away after the officer turned his back.
Whether they knew about the ban or were simply unaware of the new rules remains unclear, but it raises questions over how effectively they are being enforced.
Cyclists spotted riding through the pedestrianised stretch of Oxford Street
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Several cyclists were seen dismounting and pushing their bikes through the pedestrianised stretch in accordance with the new rules.
Although, the early scenes suggest it could take some time for people to adjust to the new arrangements.
Transport for London (TfL) has legal powers to enforce the restrictions, with anyone caught riding a bicycle, e-bike, e-scooter or pedicab through the pedestrianised 1km stretch potentially facing a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN).
Cyclists riding on the pavement on Oxford Street
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Those who fail to pay or challenge the fine within 28 days could face an increased penalty.
As part of the transition, security personnel and enforcement officers have been deployed to key entry points, including Oxford Circus, where they are tasked with stopping cyclists and instructing them to dismount before entering the pedestrian zone.
Mayor of London Lord Sadiq Khan on Oxford Street, London, as pedestrianisation of the street comes into force
PA
Motorists, buses and taxis are meanwhile being redirected onto surrounding roads as the major shake-up gets underway.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan described the changes as a “truly momentous occasion for the capital”.
Members of the public walk along the newly pedestrianised Oxford Street
Getty
Describing it as “a new vibrant destination”, Lord Khan said: “I’m hugely excited to see my bold vision for Oxford Street coming to life from today. It is a truly momentous occasion for the capital.”
He added: “For centuries, Oxford Street has reinvented itself, adapting to changing times and helping shape British culture along the way.
“There has been talk of pedestrianising Oxford Street for decades. After so many false dawns, and now working with a Government who share the scale of my ambition, I’m proud that we’re finally unlocking a new era for the street.”
Transport for London and Lime have been contacted by The Standard for comment.