London’s iconic Carnaby Street could be transformed by a major revamp

One of London’s best known shopping streets could be about to undergo a big makeover. Carnaby Street – the shopping spot home to zeitgeisty brands including Rixo, Tala and Pangaia – could be transformed by plans to improve its public realm. 

The main improvements that developers Shaftesbury Capital want to make to the area include new signage, upgrading the lighting and introducing more planting. The plans also want to take Carnaby back to its roots by making it look more like a road again. The street would remain pedestrianised, but could have a ‘road’ and pavements re-installed. The developers want to un-do a lot of the changes that were made in the ‘80s and ‘90s when artificial stone paving was installed. 

‘We believe there is an opportunity to refresh Carnaby Street’s public realm with high-quality, contextually appropriate materials that celebrate the street’s heritage while improving comfort and accessibility,’ says the public consultation website.

‘This includes replacing existing artificial stone with a refined mix of natural stone and subtly reintroducing a visual distinction between pavement and carriageway, reflecting the proportions and character of the original street.’

There is also a proposal to create a new art and cultural programme in the area, which could see art integrated into façades, paving, and key sightlines. The plans are still currently in their very early stages. If you want to have your say you can take part in the public consultation online here. 

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