Road works for the new Crossrail project began on a key section of Oxford Street this week that are likely to affect footfall in the prime area around Bond Street station.

Oxford Street eastbound, between Duke Street and Vere Street, was closed from Monday as part of the Crossrail construction project and will remain shut for nine months.

Pedestrian access has been maintained but white fences have been erected, obscuring shops, and traffic is being diverted.

New West End Company chief executive Richard Dickinson said that, while the closure would cause disruption, the changes were expected to bring long-term benefits to West End retailers and shoppers.