With Regent Street drawing nearly 57,000 visitors every day and Oxford Street attracting around 300,000 daily shoppers — contributing over £1 billion in annual retail turnover — it’s clear that the West End remains one of London’s most powerful economic engines. But keeping it vibrant and competitive means looking ahead — and ensuring our public spaces evolve in a way that supports our businesses, communities, and the wider local economy.
The latest BBC story about the future of Oxford Street highlights the pressing need for a balanced approach to pedestrianisation and urban renewal. As Sophie Shrubsole, CEO of Westminster Business Council (WBC), comments:
“So many parts of Westminster are well known and loved, and that includes Regent Street and its surrounds. That kind of footfall is a powerful engine for local businesses and the wider West End economy. We must create future-proof public spaces that allow enterprises to thrive and drive prosperity for local communities. As ever, Westminster Business Council stands firmly with businesses wanting to drive positive change in our area, but success depends on full backing and consultation with the local authority and residents throughout. Pedestrianisation must reflect widespread support across all stakeholders to be sustainable and effective.”
At Westminster Business Council, our mission is to connect the right people at the right time — helping businesses across Westminster and London to grow, create jobs, and deliver real social value for our communities. Every programme we run and every introduction we facilitate is designed to generate tangible ROI — whether that’s winning new contracts, building strategic partnerships, or influencing policy for the better.
For any change to succeed, especially one as impactful as pedestrianisation, we must champion open dialogue. WBC bridges the gap between SMEs, corporates, local authorities, and our communities, ensuring that all voices are heard. That’s how we help create resilient, future-ready places where business and communities can flourish together.
Our commitment is clear: we stand with businesses who want to drive positive, sustainable change. By bringing people together, from ambitious solopreneurs to FTSE 100s, we make sure our West End remains not just a global destination, but a place where local communities and businesses can thrive for generations to come.
Join the Conversation
Are you a local business looking to shape the future of Westminster? Want to connect with new partners, buyers or suppliers? Westminster Business Council can help you grow your network, win contracts and deliver real impact. Find out more about joining WBC.
