Streetscape improvements are desperately needed
Oxford Street has a long and fascinating history as Sydney’s most iconic shopping and entertainment strip. However, peak-hour clearways have increased traffic volumes and speed and reduced pedestrian amenity. Vibrancy is not helped by the shift of retail to malls and the internet and the rise of UberEats. Oxford Street is languishing and needs a bold plan to reinvent itself for the future.
The proposal by Transport for NSW for a protected cycleway on Oxford Street is not just about bikes.
It is an opportunity to reconfigure the street, diversify its transport mix, improve the urban environment and transform Paddington. Businesses, residents and visitors will benefit from widened footpaths, lower speed limits, reduced through traffic and upgraded public spaces that prioritise entertainment, dining and people rather than cars. Oxford Street will be a healthier, happier and livelier place.
Project status
A concept design was exhibited in February 2023. Read our submission here. We urged Transport for NSW to co-design with the community to achieve the best possible outcome for all road users. Another round of consultation took place in mid-2023 and Bicycle NSW sent updated feedback that reiterated the project's potential for urban renewal.
The December 2023 consultation report showed that there is overall support for the project and design work continued.
In July 2024, Transport for NSW asked for more ideas to ensure that the future Oxford Street has a vibrant public domain. We once again stressed that road space must be reallocated to create generous footpaths and plazas where people can thrive. The latest submission is here.
The Public Domain and Activation Strategy was finally published in November 2025 with new images and plans of key public space upgrades. Strong actions will help create a future Oxford Street that is better for everyone.
Of course, change is always hard and some residents and businesses are very anxious about the cycleway. There are concerns about parking, access and endless construction. Bicycle NSW has worked closely with Bicycle User Group BIKEast to develop positive sentiment so that decision-makers can confidently move forward with the project. Our petition has over 2,100 signatures. Many of our friends and Members wrote submissions and completed the Transport for NSW survey.
Thank you to everyone who has joined our campaign to Build a Better Oxford Street! If you haven't already, please sign the petition and share and continue your strong visible support.
