Work has started on the controversial Paddington Cube, which will also include a new entrance to the Bakerloo line platforms under Paddington station.
As a project it has been subject to many delays, and the failed plans for a much taller tower, and still facing a court appeal in a few months time.
The 14-storey high building is expected to be completed in 2022 and replaces a former Post Office sorting office. As part of the development, passive provision is being included by the developer for a new entrance down to the Bakerloo line platforms.
London Underground has long wanted to increase their escalator provision to the platforms. But, they have struggled to find a possible location for a new escalator shaft within the confines of the existing ticket hall and the new building site could provide an opportunity for this shaft, by extending the ticket hall into the Paddington Cube site basement.
The new ticket hall area will be four times the size of the current cramped space, and will see the number of ticket barrier gates doubled to twelve.
The terms of the planning permission are for London Underground to look at developing its new entrance once the main block above ground has been completed.
Demolition of the current buildings on the site is due to start later this year, subject to the court of appeal hearing, which should be held in July.
When is the new Bakerloo Station due to open as there aren’t many details on this – my understanding was at the same time as the Cube itself in 2022?
Wow, the Mail Rail has an extensive presence in the area. Or under.
At long last the scruffy area outside Paddington Station will get improved just like Broadgate development did to Liverpool Street Station.
While the undersized Bakerloo Line entrance and access will also be improved given Paddington Station Bakerloo Line is served by just two escalators and a middle fixed staircase which should have become a middle escalator years ago …
Improved access will come later this year when the new interchange link to Elizabeth Line opens with escalators and lift step free interchange and thus step free access via Elizabeth Line .
Whether direct lift access from enlarging existing Bakerloo booking hall is not clear but should be included possibly using new ascending lift as at Liverpool Street Crossrail project.
Sounds like a great idea. Plus it could help with overcrowding during rush hour aswell.
What is the PO Railway tunnel disappearing south?
The design of Paddington looks good it will improve the area a lot