Over the next 18 months Network Rail will be making significant changes to Paddington station to provide passengers with new and improved facilities.

The Grade 1 listed structure is currently benefitting from a renovation of its roof and an upgrade to its lighting system above the platforms.

Network Rail is now also starting a major programme of work to significantly improve the appearance of the station as a whole and provide growing numbers of passengers – 61 million forecast for this year - with a wider range of places to eat, drink and shop.

As part of the work, the area known as ‘The Lawn’, which houses the retail outlets at the back of the main station building, is to be renovated to provide passengers with better retail choices and more food and drink outlets.

Better waiting facilities, including more seating areas, will also be installed.

At the same time, the glazing on the roof of the station will be replaced with new, clear windows to let in more natural daylight, while the roof and the pillars, roof and steelwork will be repainted to improve the station’s appearance.

In addition, First Great Western will be carrying out work to their ticket office to provide 12 ticket counters, install new state-of the-art ticket machines and transform its appearance using a Brunel inspired design.

Natalie Holden, Network Rail’s senior commercial scheme sponsor for the project, said: “Paddington is one of Britain’s busiest stations and getting busier each year, so it’s only right that passengers have the facilities to make their travelling experience better.

“We’re working closely with English Heritage to preserve the heritage of this iconic building, making sure the changes we make are sensitive to the original structure and take account of its Grade 1 listed status.”

During the 18-month duration of the project, train services will not be affected by the work but passengers will notice changes to the layout of the station and to some of the retail outlets.