The small and somewhat cramped accommodation on platform one at Paddington station has been replaced by a new a bigger unit right on the Lawn itself. The new Assisted Travel Lounge is sited near platform nine and it was formerly separate shop units (including a Whistlestop store) that were merged and refurbished to create this new, bright and arity disability reception unit. The unit was finished in mid December ready for use. It had been hoped to open the new unit before Xmas 2025 however that didn’t happen, and a number of times during December staff thought they had a definitive move date but these did not transpire. As the new year 2026 progressed one was wondering when it would in fact open!
Paddington’s new Assisted Travel Lounge on its first day of opening.
Assisted Travel Lounges provide a welcoming space for people with mobility and sensory needs, backed up by dedicated teams. These units are characterised by glass walls and doors which provide a visible manifestation. The new lounge highlights a commitment to prioritising passenger experience and inclusivity including the specific needs of those with disabilities. The two units create a far more welcoming and accommodating environment than the old one on platform one. The new lounge opened on 20th January 2026.
The new Assisted Travel Lounge follows other examples introduced at Network Rail’s managed stations – such as Birmingham New Street, Derby, Manchester Piccadilly, Reading and all the larger London termini. Basically these have specific requirements including 1000mm wide entrances with ample space for a wheelchair user to manoeuvre. Provision for passenger luggage and prams or push chairs is also included. Seating is contrastable against the background environment making it easy for those with vision disability to discern. Other aspects of these units is there should be an induction whilst the lighting within must be no less than 150 lux. And perhaps the most important aspect should be the accessible toilets and wash facilities. All of these are provided at the new Paddington Assisted Travel Lounge and compromises a substantial improvement compared to the old unit on platform one.
To continue reading: https://londonrail.uk/changes-at-paddington-new-unit-jan-2026/.