Oxford Street, one of London’s most iconic shopping destinations, could soon see a major revival. The former BHS site at 33 Cavendish Square, once also home to the London College of Fashion, is set to be redeveloped into a vibrant retail, office, and cultural hub under new plans submitted to Westminster City Council.

Plans for Oxford Street Redevelopment

The project is spearheaded by Berkeley Estate Asset Management (BEAM) in collaboration with architectural firm Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF). Their proposal outlines a mixed-use development featuring:

• 807,293 sq ft (75,000 sq m) of modern office space
• 37,673 sq ft (3,500 sq m) cultural hub
• Purpose-built auditorium and event venue

The cultural hub will be designed to host TED talks, product launches, exhibitions, and fashion shows, reinforcing Oxford Street’s identity as a global retail and cultural hotspot.

Historic Significance of the Former BHS Site

The landmark site holds deep ties to London’s retail history. BHS (British Home Stores) occupied the building from 1961 until its collapse in 2016, after which the London College of Fashion temporarily used the site before relocating to the Olympic Park.

Since then, much of the building has been underused, contributing to Oxford Street’s well-documented decline.

Economic Boost and Job Creation

If approved, the scheme is projected to:

• Generate £550 million annually
• Create nearly 4,500 jobs
• Re-establish Oxford Street as a magnet for global brands

Construction is expected to begin in 2029, with completion scheduled for 2033.

Architect’s Vision: Revitalising London’s Retail Heart

John Bushell of Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF) described the redevelopment as an “important step in rejuvenating Oxford Street.”

He emphasized that the project aims to deliver a world-class retail environment, capable of attracting leading international names back to the UK’s most famous high street.

Oxford Street’s Future as a Cultural and Retail Destination

This ambitious redevelopment reflects London’s broader vision to revive its high streets by blending retail, workspaces, and cultural experiences.

The addition of a cultural hub and state-of-the-art auditorium signals a shift away from purely traditional retail, offering immersive experiences that cater to both shoppers and cultural audiences.

Key Takeaways

• Former BHS Oxford Street site to become a retail and cultural hub.
• Plans include offices, shops, and an auditorium for events.
• Expected completion between 2029–2033.
• Projected to bring £550m yearly boost and 4,500 new jobs.
• Aimed at reviving Oxford Street’s status as a global destination.

FAQs

1. What is planned for the former BHS site on Oxford Street?

The site will be transformed into a mixed-use development featuring shops, offices, and a cultural hub with an auditorium for events.

2. Who is behind the redevelopment plans?

The project is led by Berkeley Estate Asset Management (BEAM) with designs from Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF).

3. When will construction begin and end?

Construction is expected to start in 2029 and finish by 2033.

4. How will this benefit London’s economy?

The development could generate £550 million annually and create 4,500 new jobs, while boosting Oxford Street’s retail appeal.

5. Why is this site significant?

The building was home to BHS from 1961–2016 and later the London College of Fashion, making it a landmark in London’s retail and cultural history.

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