Oxford Street pedestrianisation begins as riders take last buses and maps reveal diversions ahead of Monday closure

Replacement bus stops will sit around 200 metres from the closed stretch, and some shortened routes will force riders to change buses, with the final bus over the stretch — the 390 — running at 19:48 on Sunday. Diversions began route by route from 1am on Saturday, with routes 7 and 94 now ending at Marble Arch. From Monday, almost 1km between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street will shut to all traffic. Taxis, bikes and e-scooters will also be banned day and night.

Westminster City Council has warned of displaced traffic, noise and pollution on nearby streets.

Whether the traffic-free zone will boost or harm local businesses remains an open question as the closure takes effect.