Oxford Street District Framework, Westminster City Council, February 2021 by Publica

FRAMEWORK FEBRUARY 2021

Introduction Foreword by Cllr Rachael Robathan Leader of the Council In these unprecedented times delivering an ambitious and meaningful vision for the Oxford Street District that captures the values and needs of our communities and businesses is more important than ever. I am, therefore, delighted to present this Framework for the Oxford Street District. Building on the Place Strategy and Delivery Plan approved in 2019, this Framework provides a roadmap for the transformation of the district over the next 10 years. From the start of the pandemic, we quickly engaged directly with local residents, businesses and partners to understand the impacts of Covid-19, both on these groups individually as well as on the economy of central London more broadly. We also looked internationally to understand better how other cities are responding to the immediate challenges of the pandemic while identifying new opportunities for long term improvement and climate resilience. We wanted to set out a value-led approach that embraces the good work of our communities and this has informed the council’s development of appropriate plans and initiatives, responding proactively to the new opportunities and challenges of today, as well as preparing for the future. Westminster City Council is committed to supporting and enhancing Oxford Street and its surrounding neighbourhoods to create a dynamic and inclusive part of our city for all. We are confident that our plans for the Oxford Street District will breathe a new lease of life into the area. They will support a smarter way of living and a greener and more sustainable future allowing partners and wider stakeholders to invest further and strengthen the district’s positioning in the local, national and international arenas. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reinvent the nation’s high street, reinforcing its status as a global exemplar and cultural, leisure and economic powerhouse. We will work closely with our partners, stakeholders and communities to shape the future of this incredible piece of London. Let’s reimagine the Nation’s High Street and the centre of a world city – Greener, Smarter, Future, Together.

OX F O R D S T R E E T D I S T R I C T – F R A M E W O R K

What is the Oxford Street District? The Oxford Street District is a major part of the West End and among the world’s most visited destinations. Approximately 200 million people visit the district each year, around 70 percent of whom arrive by public transport. It is also home to over 38,000 residents and employs over 155,000 people. In recent years, deterioration of the building stock and public realm, as well as pedestrian congestion and high traffic volumes, have combined to cause significant issues in the area. These have impacted local residents, businesses and visitors alike. A rapidly changing retail environment, the arrival of the Elizabeth Line and, most recently, the Covid-19 pandemic, pose new challenges and opportunities. Westminster City Council recognises the need for a coordinated district-wide approach and that the pandemic offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to rethink this important piece of London. The aim is to deliver innovative solutions that make a real difference, both in the short-term and into the future. With elements of delivery already underway and through ongoing engagement with residents, businesses and partners, the Oxford Street District delivery programme will unlock the district’s true potential, securing its success and growth for generations to come.

Recognised worldwide as a leading retail destination with

200m visitors a year.

The Elizabeth Line will bring in an extra

60m pedestrians a year. 70% of people

Home to over

travel to Oxford Street by Underground.

38,000 residents.

One of London’s largest employment centres, employing around

155,000 people. 4

OX F O R D S T R E E T D I S T R I C T – F R A M E W O R K

Garden Squares

Innovation

Iconic

History

Heritage

Culture OX F O R D S T R E E T D I S T R I C T – F R A M E W O R K

Vision Reinventing the nation’s high street A value-led approach for a fully integrated district Our ambitious vision for the Oxford Street District will reinvent the nation’s high street for the future, at the centre of a world-leading, forward-facing urban district. In order to deliver the vision, this framework sets out a comprehensive programme of improvements, which will enhance the district in its entirety: as a global destination alongside thriving residential neighbourhoods, with successful businesses and an unrivalled visitor experience. The framework responds to long-standing opportunities and challenges as well as the significant new ones presented by the pandemic, capitalising on this moment to strengthen the district’s world-renowned status as a great place to live, work and visit.

GREENER SMARTER FUTURE TOGETHER 6

OX F O R D S T R E E T D I S T R I C T – F R A M E W O R K

TFOR ST R A D PL AC E

OXF O

RD ST RE

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GREENER

An exemplar for sustainable city-making and a test-bed for pioneering approaches. A clean, green destination where signature green spaces and nature may be found across all buildings and streets. A world-class neighbourhood with clean air and streets, zero-carbon energy and transport, locally sourced produce, and thriving businesses in a circular economy. A habitat for wildlife and a haven for city-dwellers. A place to explore and experience, rather than to simply pass through.

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CLIMATE LEADER

The district will pioneer the borough's climate emergency response, showcasing leadership on tackling climate change and improving air quality. This means forging the path for ambitious zero-carbon retrofitting of heritage buildings, delivering a zero-carbon transport network, and increasing resilience to the impacts of a changing climate.

GREENER MEANS: Heritage-sensitive, zero-carbon built environment including green energy generation A zero-emission transport network Resilient communities, businesses, natural and built environments

GREEN PLACES

With an enviable network of natural spaces to build from, and with the Wild West End partnership, the district is wellplaced to be the green heart of the world’s first National Park City. By seamlessly integrating city and nature and creating and celebrating diverse habitats and places, the district will attract wildlife and people alike.

GREENER MEANS:

SUSTAINABLE ACTION

The rapid evolution of retail combined with more local approaches to life provides an opportunity to accelerate and embed sustainable behaviours across all sectors. A growing re-connection of people with nature will be evident through the increasing wellbeing and nature-friendly actions of residents, businesses and visitors.

GREENER MEANS:

Seamless connections between the urban environments of Westminster and the green spaces of Hyde Park and garden squares A thriving network of biodiversity across all streets and buildings Connections to the wider ecosystem including Regent’s Park, the Thames and beyond

A global reputation for innovative, sustainable, circular economy businesses, fashion and experiences Low environmental footprint across residential neighbourhoods, businesses and the visitor economy Application of smart city innovations to all elements of city management and operation

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SMARTER

A district that reinforces its position as a world-class destination, anchored in its rich legacy of innovation. A hotbed for experimentation that showcases smart city-making and leverages new opportunities. A dynamic, creative urban quarter, responsive to, and creating change in, technology, retail, culture, working practices and social trends, shaped by collaboration and intelligent design.

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INNOVATION AND EXPERIMENTATION HOTSPOT

By recognising and celebrating the role that innovation has played in the history of the district, we will consolidate this position by showcasing the area as a centre for future innovation, creative design and global best practice.

SMARTER MEANS: Developing a clear roadmap for implementing innovative data-driven solutions across the district, guided by the overarching principles of transparency, accountability and fairness Creating a public realm that is adaptive to change and provides a canvas to test new ideas or technologies Attracting talent and crowdsourcing ideas such as through innovation challenges or ‘hackathons’

COLLABORATIVE AND TRANSPARENT APPROACH

Collaboration with local partners and transport providers will create a better experience for users based on needs and will support opportunities to act as the catalyst for the creation of new jobs and uses.

SMARTER MEANS: Sharing resources and skills to create better local outcomes Supporting small and medium-sized enterprises to establish themselves in the district Empowering local users and partners Celebrating and amplifying the smart sectors already hosted in the district

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RESILIENT AND RESPONSIVE

The district will play a key role responding to local shocks and the wider economy, and so must be designed to be responsive to future changes in technology, retail, and culture, as well as business and social trends.

SMARTER MEANS: Creating beautiful and adaptive public realm Developing a collaborative multidisciplinary approach to management and keeping the district safe Optimising land use and extending the life of Oxford Street Creating efficiencies of services through the use of technology

FUTURE

A centre of commerce that continuously adapts to change by unlocking the potential of its existing civic spaces. A future district that showcases the unique character of local neighbourhoods, while strengthening connections with the extensive commercial, cultural and leisure offerings of the West End as a whole.

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DESIGN FOR FLEXIBILITY

The sustainability of the district will be enhanced by supporting diverse consumer, social and cultural offerings catering to the needs, desires and wellbeing of businesses, residents and visitors.

SHOWCASING OUR ASSETS

The social, physical and infrastructure requirements of the district will be fully integrated to enable comprehensive and ambitious development.

CHAMPIONING NEW USES

The global retail, flagship stores, residential neighbourhoods and businesses will provide a unique opportunity to work at pace and scale to strengthen the offer district-wide and celebrate its diversity.

FUTURE MEANS:

Creating flexible indoor and outdoor spaces that respond to changing land use and demands from day to night Designing permeable, adaptable, legible public realm that accommodates accessible gateways, multi-modal patterns, multi-use buildings, and active frontages Planning for flexible uses that will reflect the particular character and operation of different sections of Oxford Street

The district will have a key role as a destination for culture and offer distinct experiences attracting visitors to the wider West End Delivering a world-class environment through high quality architectural and streetscape design Creating synergies with large infrastructure projects (such as the Elizabeth Line) within the district Exploring new models of living and working

Creating social value in our contracting arrangements Adapting to evolving retail and fashion trends and diversifying of land use to provide a mix of retail, workspace and homes, delivering economic growth in the district Supporting new businesses, start-ups and entry-level access to new jobs and skills opportunities Reusing and reimagining existing buildings

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TOGETHER

A vibrant and inclusive neighbourhood in which people of all ages and backgrounds are proud to live, visit, work and play. A unique place where strong partnerships maximise the potential of the district’s broad and diverse attractions, amenities and experiences of modern city life.

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INCLUSIVE

Inclusivity is central to the vision. This will be evident not only through physical changes to the district but the dynamic and diverse partnerships formed to maintain and support a thriving place, welcoming multiple audiences and communities.

TOGETHER MEANS: Public realm and amenity improvements will celebrate inclusion and accessibility A range of stakeholders will support the flexibility of uses within the district A district that is welcoming for multiple audiences and communities, to support a 21st-century district Prioritisation of pedestrians to enhance access to public spaces and the animation of façades, upper floors, and backs of buildings to draw pedestrians through the district

INSPIRING EXPERIENCE AND WONDER

The advance of online shopping and move away from traditional retail means that leisure, entertainment and experience will play a key role in bringing stakeholders together to make the district a destination of choice.

TOGETHER MEANS:

REGENERATIVE, SUSTAINABLE AND CIRCULAR

There will be a collaborative, innovative and multi-disciplinary approach to managing and responding to the needs of a 21stcentury district.

TOGETHER MEANS:

Creating spaces that enable a wider range of cultural activities and events Designing features to support play and wellbeing within the district Redesigning gateways and iconic spaces (Marble Arch, Oxford Circus, East Oxford Street) Promoting a diverse and inclusive night time economy

Working with partners to promote circular economy solutions Prioritising sustainable buildings to complement a greener public realm Reusing and repurposing materials where appropriate A modern approach to managing a range of uses within the district

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We have to act now Now is the time to act. While plans to enhance the Oxford Street District have been long underway, the pandemic has provided the wake-up call to accelerate planned improvements to all city centre places, especially public space. The pandemic and climate emergency have called for a new approach and we urgently need to take action to address the immediate and long term challenges. The strategic location of the district, its international draw and excellent connectivity all offer opportunities to improve the area dramatically. On the other hand, the retail sector is transforming rapidly and there is wider economic instability. The growing impacts of these factors on local communities, along with the imperative to accelerate a green transition, create an urgent need to deliver a vision that is practical, inspiring and resilient to future change.

The new reality

CHALLENGES

As in many global city centres, the impact of the pandemic on the Oxford Street District has been significant. The area has seen a dramatic drop in footfall and a growing number of business closures, some permanent. With a large proportion of the area’s workforce continuing to work from home in 2021 and beyond, and international tourism on hold, it seems likely the challenges of the pandemic will continue to impact the area and in adapting to these challenges the council is redoubling its efforts to champion its values as an inclusive city for all.

• Changing retail environment • Poor public realm • Safety and security • Air quality and noise • Climate change • Maximising the value of infrastructure • Impact on local communities

Alongside the inestimable costs of the pandemic, the urgent need to support businesses and communities presents opportunities to innovate, trial and test solutions quickly, which would otherwise take a long time to develop. Additionally, there is now the chance to take a long-term view on the big questions highlighted by the pandemic. These include issues of health and wellbeing, mobility, density, living and working in central London and how to maximise the value of investment in infrastructure in the area, from The Elizabeth Line to 5G to green infrastructure.

• • • •

OX F O R D S T R E E T D I S T R I C T – F R A M E W O R K

OPPORTUNITIES More diverse mix of uses Human scale solutions Integrating city and nature Accelerate transition to net zero carbon • Leverage smart technology • Place of many places

Investing in our future The strategy set out in this document focuses on a three phase plan over the course of the next decade. Phases 1 and 2 represent the short to medium term recovery postCovid-19, with Phase 3 being the long term commitment, reinventing the nation’s high street and delivering all aspects of the vision. The three phases follow the key trends that are likely to impact the area by 2030. These include the opening of the Elizabeth Line, a greater focus on active travel, a drive to achieve net zero carbon, and changes to the mix of land uses, with an increase in residential, culture and leisure uses. PHASE 1 – POST-COVID ACTIONS

PHASE 2 – RECOVERY

PHASE 3 – SHOWCASE

Phase 1 represents the key actions undertaken by the council, partners and stakeholders to tackle the short term impacts of the pandemic.

Phase 2 represents short to medium term actions to recover from the pandemic, including business support and job creation measures.

Phase 3 represents the delivery of the Greener, Smarter, Future, Together vision. This represents a world-leading district for all, which thrives socially, economically and environmentally.

ASSUMPTIONS:

Trialling urban realm improvements, interimto long-term to support outdoor activity Schemes to support local businesses Significant reduction in footfall Majority of workforce working remotely No international travel

Significant improvements to the urban realm benefitting residents and businesses Increase in active travel modes Footfall increase from Phase 1 but still remains below pre-Covid-19 levels Flexible working arrangements Modest international travel

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Elizabeth Line opens in 2022 Increase in footfall in comparison to preCovid-19 levels Three centres around major transport hubs, supporting active travel Changes to the mix of land uses with increases in residential, hospitality and culture International travel returns 17

The potential Our vision for the Oxford Street District will deliver a step-change in the quality of the area’s built environment, refreshing its character. The vision will provide access to a wider range of employment, leisure and hospitality opportunities in and around a revitalised Oxford Street, offering a new set of experiences, showcasing state-of-theart technology, architecture and culture. All this will be underpinned by a revitalised mix of uses, exceptional, playful new public spaces, ease of active travel, and worldclass, accessible station interchanges that enable people to move freely.

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Impact at national and global scale

OSD

WEST END

LONDON

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GLOBAL

What we will do Our vision for the Oxford Street District will be realised on the ground through a series of key moves. These have been formulated to address the objectives of the vision and ensure delivery of the longterm aspirations for the district. The key moves provide a blueprint for the spatial and non-spatial actions required to ensure that the Oxford Street District fulfils the short-term objective of economic recovery while building momentum towards medium and long-term success.

OXFORD CIRCUS

1 Create spectacle and memorable experiences reate coherent networks ‌2 C that support active travel ‌3 Enable residents, communities, businesses and visitors to be more sustainable 4 Leverage smart innovation to drive sustainable city management

OX F O R D S T R E E T D I S T R I C T – F R A M E W O R K

What we will do The strategy for the Oxford Street District focuses on experience and wellbeing. It is based on a spatial understanding of the district and incorporates the various elements that make this piece of city work and translates them into activities to create memorable experiences. It explores interrelationships between function and delight, proposing that spaces, buildings and infrastructure should work together as an ecosystem, leveraging value socially, economically and environmentally across the district as a whole.

MARBLE ARCH

‌5 Seamlessly connect the city with parks and garden squares 6 Create activity centres around stations ‌7 Promote a mix of living and working environments ‌8 Integrate catalyst projects with their surroundings and the wider West End

OX F O R D S T R E E T D I S T R I C T – F R A M E W O R K

What we will do The strategy emphasises the importance of a meaningful contribution to local communities, while responding to global questions such as climate change, economic growth and mobility, with a view to stimulate the wider economic recovery of central London, improving the attractiveness of the area both locally and internationally.

EAST OXFORD STREET

‌9 Make Oxford Street the spine for sustainable infrastructure ‌10 Provide a platform for business innovation and new global brands, and support and scale-up business growth ‌11 Curate a distinct identity for the district, respecting the historic neighbourhoods ‌12 Ensure green infrastructure connects all streets and buildings

OX F O R D S T R E E T D I S T R I C T – F R A M E W O R K

Focused approach Delivering the vision for the Oxford Street District requires a focused approach that channels effort and investment to the places with the most catalytic potential and from which wider transformation would likely develop.

REGENT'S PARK

BAKER STREET

The three centres By focusing investment in the district on three strategically defined areas, evenly distributed along the high street, Marble Arch, Oxford Circus and East Oxford Street, we can maximise the value of investment in infrastructure, knit together major assets (locally and in the surrounding area), and integrate sites and zones with future development potential where public realm interventions will be most impactful. This approach results in the creation of three ‘supercentres’ for the district, promoting walkability and public transport and making direct connections to local parks, gardens and other amenity. New cycle routes Key pedestrian connections Green spaces Child-friendly spaces Retail Education Leisure/entertainment

Catalyst Project Three Centres Key activity areas Neighbourhood – centres interface Neighbourhood Greenways Green connections Cycle connections Pedestrian connections Alternative pedestrian connections Transport connections

MARBLE ARCH

HYDE PARK

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EUSTON SQUARE

HOLBORN

EAST OXFORD STREET OXFORD CIRCUS

PICCADILLY CIRCUS

EMBANKMENT GREEN PARK

GREEN PARK

ST JAMES'S PARK

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True partnership Effective collaboration between the public and private sectors will create opportunities to leverage major investments in the area, maximising public benefits. Westminster City Council’s capital funding to kick-start priority works must be integrated with the value uplift associated with investments in critical infrastructure as well as benefits delivered over time by major developments in the area. This, in turn, will lead to increased wider investment in the area over time. Clear governance that aligns contributions by stakeholders in the delivery of the programme will enable the Oxford Street District to fulfil its potential as a world-leading urban district.

FUNDING

KEY PARTNERS • • • • • • • • • •

PUBLIC BENEFITS

Westminster City Council Major landowners Business Improvement Districts Businesses Residents and residents' associations, including neighbourhood forums Property owners Government and statutory bodies Interest groups Utility companies Wider industry

PARTNERS

EC O E N VN O M IRO

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CATALYST PROJECTS

INVESTMENT FROM ACROSS INDUSTRY

UNLOCK DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL

ENT

OSD

MAXIMISING VALUE OF INFRASTRUCTURE

LOCAL 28

NATIONAL OX F O R D S T R E E T D I S T R I C T – F R A M E W O R K

GLOBAL

Criteria for success The vision for the Oxford Street District will guide the area through a time of change. In order to do this, it will need to be flexible, adapting to new conditions as transformation and development in different parts of the district take shape. The following criteria underpin the vision and its delivery in the short, medium and long term.

1 – COLLABORATION

2 – INTEGRATED

Truly collaborative engagement between WCC and partners, responding holistically to the needs of the future and leading to improved social, economic and environmental outcomes. • A shared vision bought into by all major partners • A partnership model whereby the role of each partner is clear in delivering the vision • Build capacity within the council to support the delivery of the framework • Create opportunities for wider industry to engage

Seamlessly integrating social, physical and infrastructural requirements of the district to enable comprehensive and ambitious development. • Delivery of infrastructure fully integrated with placemaking • Efficient use of space to balance development capacity with the creation of quality places for people • Leverage the value of infrastructure to optimise mix of use and density • Deliver optimised services and operations

OUTCOMES

• Inclusion of partners early in strategic decision making • Wider collaboration across industry, other cities, academia, and other experts • Community engagement throughout the process

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• State-of-the-art technology across the district to attract leading businesses • Mix of workspace, living spaces and ground floor spaces • Active mobility and improved urban realm that contributes to improved retail experience and spend • Reuse of indoor spaces creatively to deliver new types of experiences 29

Criteria for success 3 – STRATEGIC FOCUS

4 – PLACE OF MANY PLACES

5 – INVESTMENT AND FUNDING

A catalytic approach that maximises the opportunities to deliver change and attract investment by concentrating delivery in strategic locations. • Respond to the economic challenges and constraints presented by the pandemic through careful prioritisation • Capitalise on the opening of the Elizabeth Line and high levels of connectivity to focus development in and around major transport nodes • Maximise the value of projects developed by different stakeholders

A unique part of London that leverages the area’s diversity and character, offering rich and memorable experiences and places for all to live, work, play and visit. • An attractive environment that is supported by the diverse offer in the area, including culture, arts, retail and creative industries. • Deliver regeneration and growth in the local area, wider West End, across London, nationally and internationally

Capitalise on WCC’s committed investment to kickstart the transformation of the area and work closely with partners and industry to deliver greater value over time. • Clear plan to deliver value over time • Attract public and private sector investment to realise the value of the district and maximise public benefit • Public realm works early in the process to create the conditions for long term success • Maximise the opportunities presented by the pandemic to deliver value over time

OUTCOMES

• A sustainable district that promotes active travel such as walking and cycling to support liveability • Varied built form and urban realm, reflective of the rich local environment • Greater mix of workspaces and living spaces • Improved cultural and wellbeing offer • Improved safety and security • Greater inclusivity and a more welcoming district

• Clear governance that enables WCC and partners to maximise wider stakeholder and public benefits • Stimulating investment from the public and private sector in the area • Diverse mix of uses that cater to the evolving needs of residents, workers and visitors

• Major developments in the area that fit within the wider aspiration for the district, borough and city • Public realm projects that respond to the needs of the future • Public transport environments that support commuters and non-commuters

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6 – COMMUNITY AND HERITAGE

7 – SHOWCASE

8 – FLEXIBLE AND ADAPTABLE

A creative place with an inspiring mix of old and new that celebrates and heightens the experience of its rich heritage while embracing contemporary design and technology. • Rich heritage of the area is protected, conserved and enhanced to become a major driver for placemaking • Heritage forms a network of experiences across the district that bring cohesion to the area, increase legibility and enhance its sense of place

Capitalise on Oxford Street's global reputation by creating a district that showcases innovation, new modes of living and working, and distinctly urban experiences. • Utilise smart city solutions to deliver an unrivalled visitor experience • Leverage technology to improve mobility, accessibility and districtwide operations • Foster renown as a global showcase for sustainability and innovation

A phased plan with clearly defined projects that are deliverable over time and fulfil the vision and its implementation over the short, medium and long terms. • A unique district that can embrace change and continue to be attractive and successful over time • A place that can respond quickly and creatively to changes in technology, retail and culture, as well as business and social trends • Clear definition of what is fixed and what is flexible

OUTCOMES

• Thriving, attractive residential neighbourhoods where people enjoy living • Stimulating and engaging places where everyone enjoys spending time • Greater access provided to neighbourhoods and cultural assets • Reduced overcrowding and a public realm that is safe and inclusive

• Public spaces that are designed to accommodate a variety of activities • Zero-Carbon Demonstrator supported by smart technology • Quality urban lighting to support after-dark uses and the nighttime economy • District-wide offer of scale-up spaces, attracting new businesses • Unrivalled destination for the creative industries OX F O R D S T R E E T D I S T R I C T – F R A M E W O R K

• Attractive and adaptive public realm • Collaborative approach to management and safety • Increased efficiency of services through the use of technology

Delivery with communities The renewal of the Oxford Street District in line with our vision will be guided by a robust delivery framework. This has wide-ranging potential to bring forward ambitious investment and development, benefitting local communities and playing a key role in the recovery of the London and UK economies post-Covid-19. Improvements to a district of such scale and influence can only be realised with strong leadership and vision, true engagement, public and private sector partnership and firm commitments to delivery. By responding to the unique character of the different historic neighbourhoods the framework will deliver benefits that local communities value. By identifying a clear set of ‘fixes’ and ‘flexes’ and encouraging open and ongoing collaboration with our strategic partners, the framework will ensure that maximum benefits are achieved, using catalytic projects and strategic focus to trigger further positive social, economic and environmental outcomes at local, national and international scales.

CAVENDISH SQUARE

MANCHESTER SQUARE

PORTMAN SQUARE

GROSVENOR SQUARE

MARBLE ARCH

HYDE PARK

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EAST OXFORD STREET

SOHO SQUARE

OXFORD CIRCUS

HANOVER SQUARE

Catalyst project Key activity areas Garden squares Greenways Green connections Local back route connections Area of focus OX F O R D S T R E E T D I S T R I C T – F R A M E W O R K

Delivery plan Delivery approach

A day in the life

Delivery of the Oxford Street District is already underway, with major public realm interventions and enabling works in progress. The framework ensures that this ambitious programme continues, and is accelerated where most needed, with strategic focus to enable the urgent recovery of the West End and begin the longer-term transformation of the area.

Timeline S TEP 1: February 2019 Place Strategy and Delivery Plan approved

STEP 2: April 2019

ECOSYSTEM OF USERS AND USES The Oxford Street District is a place for people, and the framework and delivery approach have been developed with the district’s users in front of mind. By considering the district’s elements in the context of a typical user’s experience, the framework and delivery plan establish people and uses as central to the evolving ecosystem of the area. Close study and understanding of these will remain central to the design process as individual projects come forward.

Business Case approved

STEP 3: February 2020 Delivery started

S TEP 4: Winter 2020 Post- Covid-19 review and Framework completed

STEP 5: Spring 2021 Wider engagement with communities and stakeholders

S TEP 6: Summer 2021 Stage A catalytic interventions and public realm projects completed

STEP 7: Winter 2021 Stage B of transformation commences with first deliverables in time for Christmas RE

S TEP 8: Summer 2022 Stage C of works commences to complement the Elizabeth Line opening 34

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RESIDENT WORKER STUDENT TOURIST ST

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Delivery plan ZERO-CARBON DEMONSTRATOR

Accelerate the delivery of zero-carbon projects in a preferred location through a pilot project within the district to demonstrate the council’s commitment to cleaner air, more efficient freight and servicing, and sustainable movement. • Public realm improvements that support active mobility and community uses • Smart freight and servicing networks and operations • Upscale EV charging infrastructure • Prioritise active travel and cleaner vehicles

MARBLE ARCH CENTRE

Work with stakeholders and landowners, as part of the three centres approach, to progress delivery of a fully integrated and attractive centre at Marble Arch. • Short-term catalyst projects to showcase the level of ambition and reopen the city post-pandemic • Connect the western end of Oxford Street with Hyde Park • Coherent public realm worthy of a global destination • Significant developments to provide more homes, jobs and diversity of uses

OUTCOMES

• More efficient freight, servicing and deliveries • Increased uptake of active travel modes and cleaner vehicles • Reduced rat-running • Cleaner air and lower emissions • Improved public realm for community and business use

• A reimagined centre with a strong identity and distinct sense of place • Improved connections between city and park • Greater concentration of economic outputs and community benefits

Stage A: Quick wins Stage B: Catalyst projects Stage C: Ongoing implementation

FIRST 6 MONTHS

2022

2025

2030

FIRST 6 MONTHS

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2022

2025

2030

LANEWAYS PROGRAMME

GREENWAYS PROGRAMME

Public realm catalyst projects that can be delivered without major district-wide enabling works – providing maximum value in the short to medium term. • Two key laneway schemes constructed in 2021 • Four remaining laneways to be delivered throughout 2022/23 • Maximise the value of local character and ambitions for the identified spaces in collaboration with stakeholders

A network of green routes connecting neighbourhoods, garden squares and parks, by providing safe, comfortable, sustainable, and attractive streets for walking and cycling. • An east-west route to the north of Oxford Street from Edgware Road to Foley Street delivered by 2022 • An east-west route to the south of Oxford Street connecting Hyde Park to Soho • A north-south route connecting Fitzrovia and Soho

OUTCOMES

• High-quality and attractive public realm • Promote playful character in the district • Opportunities for new types of uses in the area • Additional greening and spaces for respite provided • New spaces to provide a platform for creative and cultural activities

FIRST 6 MONTHS

2022

2025

2030

• A comprehensive network of greenerylined streets • Better connections between key neighbourhood spaces and district focal points • More sustainable transport resulting from electric vehicle charging points, new pedestrian crossings, and more footway space

FIRST 6 MONTHS

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2022

2025

2030 37

Delivery plan OXFORD STREET SHOWCASE

BUSINESS SCALE-UP

Deliver immediate improvements to Oxford Street and adjacent streets as a springboard for wider recovery and acceleration of major schemes along the district’s main spine. Interim improvements to provide a trial ahead of permanent scheme delivery. • Increased footway space by mid-2021 to enable safe, distanced access to the district and its businesses • Work with partners to further advance Oxford Circus plans and enabling works in 2021 • Provide additional greenery, cycle parking and seating • Introduce pocket parks on adjacent streets

World’s first ‘District as a service’ offering – Implement a district-wide business scaleup programme to support local start-ups and attract new businesses to the district. Trial and test innovative uses of enterprise spaces to contribute to a more resilient, inclusive and thriving local economy. • Attractive packages for local businesses, start-ups and international firms, attracting and retaining them in the district • District-wide curation of vacant spaces with full scale-up capacity • Flexible accommodation options for a range of business uses

OUTCOMES

• Confidence in the West End as a safe destination to visit • Grow the district’s reputation for innovation and sustainability • Clear roadmap for delivery of Oxford Circus

• Respond quickly and effectively to the impact of Covid-19 on the high street • Maximise occupation of vacant premises • A more inclusive economy

Stage A: Quick wins Stage B: Catalyst projects Stage C: Ongoing implementation

FIRST 6 MONTHS

2022

2025

2030

FIRST 6 MONTHS

OX F O R D S T R E E T D I S T R I C T – F R A M E W O R K

2022

2025

2030

DIVERSE USES ACCELERATOR

SMART DISTRICT

Refresh the West End’s world-class experience by using spaces in new ways that meet the changing needs of local communities, occupiers, property owners and consumers, and are flexible in the face of challenges such as Covid-19. • Support innovative application of flexible new planning rules to provide a greater mix of uses and activities • Explore options for a new major attraction on Oxford Street to stimulate footfall and growth • Develop pioneering day and evening activities and opportunities

Deliver a world-leading activation programme that provides unique experiences, transforms the look and feel of the area and kick-starts wider economic recovery. Seamlessly integrate smart-city solutions to enhance the overall experience of the district. • Broker new partnerships to develop an exciting cultural programme • Trial and test longer term technology solutions for freight, waste and mobility • Deliver lighting schemes that respond to time, place, function and use

OUTCOMES

• Improved diversity of the high street offer with a mixture of uses and activities • A more flexible, responsive and resilient district • An enhanced reputation as a global destination

• An improved art and cultural offer that supports an inclusive destination for all • Strengthened international profile as an innovative and engaging place • Improved safety, security, management and operation • Improved air quality and mobility

FIRST 6 MONTHS

2022

2025

2030

FIRST 6 MONTHS

OX F O R D S T R E E T D I S T R I C T – F R A M E W O R K

2022

2025

2030 39

Oxford Street District 2030 In 10 years’ time, the Oxford Street District will be transformed. Working closely with our partners, stakeholders and communities, now is the time to unite our efforts to position the district as an exemplar city-centre neighbourhood and destination. This Framework is a working document. It is designed to serve as a roadmap, guiding the development of the area over the coming decade.

MARBLE ARCH MANCHESTER SQUARE

PORTMAN SQUARE

Focusing on short-term delivery in 2021 and 2022 will provide a springboard for wider West End recovery and establish the level of ambition for action, inspiring and encouraging long-term success.

MARBLE ARCH

GROSV SQUA

HYDE PARK

GREAT ESTATES AND MAJOR LAND OWNERS Church Commissioner’s Hyde Park The Portman Estate Selfridges Grosvenor Estate Conduit Mead Estate The Crown Estate Howard de Walden Estate Shaftesbury

OX F O R D S T R E E T D I S T R I C T – F R A M E W O R K

GOODGE STREET

EAST OXFORD STREET

OXFORD CIRCUS TOTTENHAM COURT ROAD CAVENDISH SQUARE OXFORD CIRCUS

SOHO SQUARE

BOND STREET HANOVER SQUARE

ENOR ARE PICCADILLY CIRCUS

Key activity areas Transport access DEVELOPMENT Under construction In planning Area of focus

CONNECTIONS Active frontage Key connections Greenways

OX F O R D S T R E E T D I S T R I C T – F R A M E W O R K

How to use this document This document articulates Westminster City Council’s overarching vision for the Oxford Street District and the bold approach we are taking to deliver meaningful urban change during one of the most challenging periods of our lifetime. The framework reaffirms our commitment to securing the future of the district and sets the direction for the delivery of the vision at multiple scales: first, as an urgent response to the immediate challenges of the pandemic, and second, as an opportunity to use catalyst projects as a springboard for wider recovery. In parallel, the framework strategy sets a comprehensive roadmap for long-term change and evolution. The delivery strategy section of the document highlights the priority schemes identified as catalyst projects and the timeline for their delivery. These have been identified in response to discussions with partners, stakeholders and communities over the course of the pandemic period and a post-Covid-19 review undertaken by the council. The Vision Framework is not a stand-alone document. It builds on previous work by the council, and should be read in conjunction with the Place Strategy, approved in February 2019, and Westminster’s emerging City Plan 2019 – 2040, which sets out the conditions around which this Vision Framework operates. With the council leading the way with early funding of priority works, it will work with the delivery partners to establish clear governance, align their actions and contributions, and enable the Oxford Street District to fulfil its potential. In particular, policy in the City Plan supports the intensification and diversification of the Oxford Street District for a range of commercial uses, in a manner that respects townscape, heritage, and residential amenity. Policies in the plan also seek to facilitate an improved public realm, pedestrian and cycle environment, and developments that respond to the council’s Climate Change Emergency declaration, including through improved air quality and energy efficient buildings. Policies reflect the government’s recent changes to the Use Class Order, which, in response to the systemic challenges to the high street that Covid-19 has accelerated, provide greater flexibility for the diversification of commercial floorspace to provide a range of uses and functions.

OX F O R D S T R E E T D I S T R I C T – F R A M E W O R K

ECONOMIC

SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT PRIORITIES

PLACES

CONTEXT

OX F O R D S T R E E T D I S T R I C T – F R A M E W O R K

COLOPHON Issued 16 February 2021 This document was produced by Westminster City Council, supported and designed by Publica. Maps contain basemap data from Ordnance Survey, © Crown copyright and database rights 2020 OS OS_MasterMap_645694_850128. Drawings, maps and infographics © Publica 2021. All rights reserved. Included incidental iconography in artist’s impressions is purely illustrative, for the purposes of cultural review, and not indicative of any planned usage, installation or creative activities within the scheme as realised in due course. Third party image credits: Photograph of Soho Square (© Publica, all rights reserved). Microsoft London flagship store at Oxford Circus (© Microsoft, all rights reserved). Hanover Square (© The Trustees of the British Museum, CC BY-NC-SA 4.0). HMV shop on Oxford Street 1976 (© Klaus Hiltscher/Flickr). Christmas Lights on Oxford Street November 2020 (© Alamy, credit: Han Yan/Xinhua/Alamy Live News). Rolling Stones performing at the 100 Club in Oxford Street, 1982 (© Getty Images, McNeill/Mirrorpix via Getty Images). This document is © Westminster City Council 2021. All rights reserved.