He hopes that removing all traffic from the area will create a “safer and more spacious place in the heart of London for everyone to enjoy”.

According to The Telegraph, each unit costs around £1,570, excluding expenses for importing the benches from Spain and installing them.

The green benches, totalling a cost of £86,000, are described by Spanish manufacturer Urbidermis as being “designed to enhance spaces”.

They add that the benches are a “tribute to the bench designed for the New York World Fair” by urban designer James Corner’s Field Operations.

The £1,570 green street seats, named Perisphere, are said to “exhibit a robust and stylish presence” and “stand out for their uniqueness”.

Only six have been installed so far, with another 50 yet to be placed along Oxford Street.

In September, members of the Oxford Street Development Corporation (OSDC) expressed “disappointment” with the Mayor’s choice of bench.

Lord Khan selected eight of the 12 board members.

Paul Swaddle, the leader of Westminster council, criticised the group for not sourcing the benches from a UK-based street furniture company.

Criticising Lord Khan, John O’Connell, Chief Executive of the TaxPayers’ Alliance, told GB News that the benches are “tacky” and a “waste” of taxpayer money.

He said: “Spending money to make the public realm beautiful can be worthwhile, but such a large bill for tacky furniture will leave taxpayers scratching their heads.

“Those making the decisions should pay more attention to the history and heritage of the areas they are responsible for and stop wasting taxpayers’ money.”

Praising the pedestrianisation of Oxford Street, Lord Khan previously said: “It is a truly momentous occasion for the capital. I encourage everyone to explore and enjoy the newly traffic-free street, as we create a new vibrant destination that welcomes Londoners and visitors from around the world.

“The transformation will turn the nation’s high street into a world-class pedestrian space, where flagship retailers will sit alongside new shops and workplaces – and we’ll bring exciting new experiences to the street, from sport to fashion and cultural events.

“Revitalising Oxford Street will boost jobs and economic growth in the capital, unlock the full potential of this key part of the West End, and help build a better, greener and more prosperous London for everyone.”

In a statement, a Oxford Street Development Corporation spokesman said: “As part of the first stage of work to transform the street, we will be installing over 50 new benches. Whilst some are already in place, more will be positioned ahead of the Christmas shopping period, with the remainder being installed in the new year.

“The seating options for this initial stage of work on the street were considered through a thorough procurement process, with the chosen B Corp supplier selected for its high quality, robustness and sustainability.

“Oxford Street had very few places to sit and rest, so this was an important factor in the transformation project. Locations have been carefully considered to ensure flow along the busy street and also from an accessibility perspective to ensure there is somewhere to rest at regular intervals.

“A variety of seating is being provided, alongside tables that can accommodate different ways of sitting, resting and rising so that a wide range of people can feel comfortable and welcome on Oxford Street.”

A spokesman for Oxford Street Development Corporation told GB News: “With over 15,000 people passing through Oxford Street each hour, our benches need to withstand significant use, as well as accommodating a variety of seating from an accessibility perspective.

“Due to commercial confidentiality, we do not discuss the cost of individual elements of the project, but all elements of the transformation project are within the agreed budgetary guidelines with suppliers selected following a full procurement process.”

Sadiq Khan Faces Fresh Headache as ‘Tacky’ Oxford Street Revamp Sparks Taxpayer Spending Row

London Mayor Sadiq Khan is facing fresh criticism over his ambitious Oxford Street regeneration project after expensive new street furniture sparked a heated debate about the use of taxpayers’ money. The controversy centres on more than 50 green benches being installed along one of Britain’s most famous shopping streets, with critics questioning whether the expensive furniture represents good value for money.

The dispute has emerged just weeks after Oxford Street officially became traffic-free, marking a major milestone in Khan’s long-running ambition to transform the area into a pedestrian-friendly destination. However, while the Mayor has presented the project as an important step towards revitalising London’s retail heartland, opponents have accused him of prioritising expensive cosmetic improvements over responsible public spending.

According to reports, each of the new benches costs approximately £1,570, with the total reported order reaching around £86,000 before additional expenses such as transportation from Spain and installation are included.

The benches, manufactured by Spanish company Urbidermis, are part of a wider plan to improve the public environment along Oxford Street. Nevertheless, their price has attracted criticism from politicians, taxpayers’ organisations and members of the public.

John O’Connell, chief executive of the TaxPayers’ Alliance, questioned whether such expensive street furniture was appropriate for a project funded through public resources.

He argued that spending money to improve public spaces could be worthwhile, but suggested that the cost of the benches would leave taxpayers questioning the decisions made by those responsible.

His criticism reflects a wider concern about whether the regeneration programme can deliver meaningful improvements without placing unnecessary financial pressure on public budgets.

Why Have the Benches Become Such a Controversial Issue?

The controversy began after reports revealed that more than 50 green benches would be installed along Oxford Street, with only six reportedly in place during the initial stages of the project.

The furniture is designed to provide shoppers and visitors with additional places to rest while exploring the pedestrianised shopping district.

According to the manufacturer, the Perisphere benches are designed to combine durability with contemporary urban design. Their appearance is inspired by an earlier public seating concept associated with designer James Corner’s Field Operations and the New York World’s Fair.

However, critics have questioned whether the modern design fits the historic character of Oxford Street.

Some opponents have described the furniture as “tacky”, arguing that the expensive benches do little to improve the overall appearance of an area that has traditionally been associated with Britain’s retail heritage.

Westminster Council leader Paul Swaddle has also expressed disappointment that the seating was not sourced from a British manufacturer.

His criticism raises a broader question about public procurement: should major regeneration projects prioritise domestic suppliers whenever suitable alternatives are available?

Supporters of international procurement may argue that councils and public organisations should select products based on quality, durability, sustainability and overall value rather than simply their country of origin.

Nevertheless, the issue has become politically sensitive because Oxford Street is one of the most recognisable commercial destinations in the United Kingdom.

For critics, the decision to purchase expensive imported furniture has become a symbol of wider concerns about the direction and financial management of the regeneration programme.

The Wider Oxford Street Transformation Comes Under Scrutiny

The benches represent only a small part of a much larger regeneration programme.

On October 26, 2026, Oxford Street officially became permanently traffic-free along the initial section between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street.

The pedestrianisation scheme is intended to create a more attractive environment for shoppers, tourists, businesses and pedestrians.

The wider transformation programme includes plans for more than 50 trees, over 100 seating spaces, two public squares, improved signage and additional areas where visitors can relax.

Khan has described the pedestrianisation as a historic development for London, arguing that the changes will help restore Oxford Street’s position as one of the world’s leading shopping destinations.

The Mayor wants the area to become more than a traditional retail street. His broader vision includes cultural events, sporting activities, fashion displays and public celebrations designed to attract visitors throughout the year.

However, the financial scale of the project has attracted considerable attention.

Documents discussed by the London Assembly’s Budget and Performance Committee indicated that the pedestrianisation programme for Oxford Street West could involve approximately £144 million in capital expenditure over five years.

That figure has intensified questions about the long-term funding arrangements and the extent to which public borrowing may be required.

It is important to distinguish the reported £86,000 bench order from the wider £144 million programme. They are separate figures, and the latter represents planned capital expenditure rather than an amount already paid by taxpayers.

Nevertheless, both figures have become part of the debate about transparency, financial accountability and the future of London’s most famous shopping street.

Taxpayers Demand Greater Transparency

One of the main issues raised by critics is the level of financial information available to the public.

The Oxford Street Development Corporation (OSDC), the organisation responsible for overseeing the transformation, has defended its procurement process.

A spokesperson explained that the seating options had been considered through a procurement exercise and that the selected supplier had been chosen because of its quality, durability and sustainability credentials.

The corporation also argued that Oxford Street previously offered very few places for people to sit and rest.

With thousands of pedestrians using the street every hour, officials believe that suitable seating is an essential part of creating an accessible public environment.

The organisation has also stated that the seating arrangements have been designed to maintain pedestrian movement and provide resting opportunities at appropriate intervals.

However, questions remain about the detailed costs associated with the purchase, including transportation, installation and future maintenance.

Critics argue that taxpayers should be able to examine the procurement arrangements and understand how decisions involving public money are reached.

The issue is particularly important because the regeneration project involves significant public investment and is expected to continue over several years.

Greater transparency could help demonstrate whether the selected products represent reasonable value and whether alternative suppliers were properly considered.

For Khan, the controversy highlights the difficulty of delivering an ambitious public project while satisfying demands for detailed financial accountability.

Early Results Offer Support for the Mayor’s Vision

Despite the criticism, the pedestrianisation project has also produced some encouraging early economic figures.

According to data released by London City Hall on November 9, visitor numbers in the newly traffic-free section increased by 16 per cent compared with the equivalent October 2025 half-term period.

International visitor numbers reportedly increased by 42 per cent year-on-year, while visits to the wider Oxford Street area after 6pm rose by 19 per cent.

Retail spending figures have also provided an encouraging indication of activity.

Data from payments company Adyen showed that spending at the Oxford Street businesses included in its comparison increased by 28 per cent, from approximately £2.9 million to £3.7 million.

The number of in-store transactions increased by 19 per cent over the same period.

Transport for London also recorded increased passenger activity at nearby Underground stations, while initial analysis suggested that traffic speeds on surrounding roads remained broadly similar to previous levels.

These figures provide some evidence that pedestrianisation may be helping attract visitors and encourage additional retail activity.

However, the results cover an early period and should not automatically be treated as proof of long-term economic success.

Seasonal shopping patterns, tourism, promotional activity and other factors can influence visitor numbers and retail spending.

The scheme will therefore need to demonstrate sustained benefits over a longer period.

Political Opposition Questions the Project’s Priorities

The controversy has also created another political challenge for Khan.

Westminster Council has previously expressed concerns about aspects of the pedestrianisation programme, particularly its potential impact on surrounding roads, local businesses and transport arrangements.

The council’s leadership has questioned whether the Mayor’s approach adequately reflects the historic identity of Oxford Street.

There are also concerns about whether diverting vehicles could create additional pressure on neighbouring streets.

For businesses, the central question is whether pedestrianisation will generate enough additional customers to compensate for any difficulties experienced by visitors who previously relied on taxis, buses or private vehicles.

Supporters argue that removing traffic creates a more comfortable shopping environment and encourages people to spend more time in the area.

Opponents, however, believe that accessibility must remain a central consideration, particularly for older people, disabled visitors and those who cannot easily use public transport.

The debate demonstrates that transforming a major shopping destination involves much more than changing its appearance.

It requires careful consideration of transport, accessibility, business activity, public safety and financial sustainability.

What Happens Next for Oxford Street?

The next stage of the transformation will be crucial in determining whether Khan’s ambitions can be translated into lasting improvements.

The Mayor will need to demonstrate that the project can deliver tangible economic benefits while maintaining public confidence in how money is spent.

This means providing clear information about procurement decisions, explaining the financial arrangements and ensuring that promised improvements are delivered within agreed budgets.

The Oxford Street Development Corporation will also face pressure to show that its decisions reflect the needs of businesses, residents and the millions of people who visit the area.

The benches controversy may appear relatively small compared with the overall scale of the regeneration programme. Nevertheless, it has become an important test of public accountability.

A project costing millions of pounds cannot be judged solely by the appearance of its new furniture. Its success will ultimately depend on whether it improves the experience of visitors, supports local businesses and creates a sustainable economic future for the area.

Khan has presented the pedestrianisation of Oxford Street as a defining achievement for London’s future. Early figures suggest that the traffic-free transformation has attracted additional visitors and increased spending among the businesses covered by the available data.

Yet the questions surrounding the cost of the benches and the wider funding arrangements cannot simply be dismissed.

For taxpayers, the issue is straightforward: public money should be spent carefully, transparently and with clear evidence of value.

For the Mayor, the challenge is to prove that the wider benefits of the transformation justify the financial decisions being made.

As more benches arrive and further improvements take shape, Oxford Street will remain under close public and political scrutiny.

Whether the regeneration becomes a lasting success will depend not on how expensive its furniture looks, but on whether it creates a more accessible, attractive and commercially successful destination for everyone.

For now, the debate over £86,000 worth of benches has become an unexpected symbol of a much bigger question facing City Hall: how can London modernise one of its most famous streets while convincing taxpayers that every pound is being spent responsibly?