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Facilities will cater for an expected increase in people using the railway station |
UK. Graphic renderings of how a new retail and dining hub at London’s Paddington station will look have been released.
Network Rail said the existing retail area, known as The Lawn, would receive “significant” investment to create a modern facility for passengers, with renovation work taking place over the next 18 months.
The rail owner and operator is aiming to deliver a suitable mix of retail units for passengers, while creating a destination station in its own right.
An upgraded retail experience at Paddington has become necessary with the number of people using the station expected to increase significantly from the current figure of approximately 60 million per year, following the opening of the new Crossrail service in 2018 as well as continued development in the local area.
Renovation work will also need to respect the heritage of the Grade I listed station, which was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel and built in 1854. Improved waiting facilities, including more seating areas, will also be installed, while a barrel roof over some of the platforms will be restored.
Paddington station will remain open throughout the redevelopment, with Network Rail saying it would focus on maintaining passenger flow and safety while minimising disruption.
The retail area is called The Lawn as it was formerly the garden of the station master’s cottage, which originally occupied the site.
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A healthy mix of retail units is expected at The Lawn, according to Network Rail |
