Weird headline, given most of the article is about the benefits of pedestrianisation. The only “warning” seems to be this bit:

He told the BBC that while opposition usually focuses on short-term disruption to local businesses, evidence does suggest that pedestrianisation increases the economic viability of high streets in the long run.

But he said pedestrianisation had to be paired with improvements in public transport to realise those economic benefits.

“If you want to defeat the argument that a reduction in the amount of traffic will reduce the amount of trade, then you need to also be able to make an argument that an investment in public transport infrastructure is actually going to be the vehicle that still keeps providing accessibility to the centre,” Professor Ivett said.

So just make sure you have enough buses to make up for people who would otherwise drive.

Who would drive to Oxford Street for a day out anyway?