Work is expected to begin on cross-London train link Crossrail as early as 2010 after the bill required to build the link won royal assent at the end of July.

This work is expected to have a major effect on businesses in the Paddington area, as a new platform will be built below Eastbourne Terrace, the enabling works for this may start as early as next year.

But the finished product will have  a positive influence on the Paddington area by reinforcing the already strong transport links offered by direct trains to the South/ South East and Wales, along with the direct link to Heathrow via the Heathrow Express. 

For more information on Crossrail please visit http://www.crossrail.co.uk/

Dragon Boat Racing 2008

For the 6th year running PWP's Dragon Boat racing was a huge success, with over £10,000 being raised for local charities.  The 'Fastest Boat' prize was hotly contested by the 12 teams, with Merchant Square team to strong for Davy Process, piping them in the final by a couple of seconds. 

The 'Best Dressed' title was also  close to call, with Cosmic from St Mary's taking the first prize for a huge effort of creating a team of Smurf's including blue faces, matching white hats and even a Papa Smurf!

IWA 2008 Canalway Cavalcade

This year the Canal Cavalcade was a huge success, not only did the sun shine, the canal came alive with entertaining Morris Dancers, live music, craft stalls and kids activities. Paddington Waterside Partnership along with the Paddington BID funded an increased free guided walks programme which proved very popular with over 100 people attending.  The walks included the ever popular Brunel walk, Exploring Little Venice with Bryan & the updated Introducing Paddington Waterside walk with Imelda.

View more information on the walks.

James Glancy Design Plugs Up Paddington Basin

A new addition to Paddington Basin is attracting much interest. A giant plug and hole, by James Glancy Design, has been installed on the floor of Paddington Basin where the canal has been drained to enable construction work at Merchant Square.

Developers of the Merchant Square scheme, European Land and Property, commissioned the work to create a novel and fun focal point, visually representing the empty canal.

InterContinental Chooses Paddington

London Street, Paddington, gets a huge boost with the news that the InterContinental Group has entered into a 20-year deal with London Town Hotels to bring the first 'Hotel Indigo' from the USA to the UK.

Development Scheme Approved for North Wharf Road

Derwent London has secured planning permission for a 316,000 sq ft mixed-use canalside scheme at 55-65 North Wharf Road, Paddington.

Designed by architects Fletcher Priest, the office building features a striking 'diagrid' design, complemented by a timber-clad residential building.