The Fleming Centre
Work to create the Fleming Centre, a global centre for antimicrobial resistance in Paddington, started this month.
A partnership initiative between Imperial College London and Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust through the Fleming Initiative, the Fleming Centre will transform the historic Bays building into a new research and public engagement hub focused on tackling antimicrobial resistance, one of the most significant global health challenges.
The cobbled pathway, known locally as The Bays, will be closed from 29 September 2026 to October 2029, when final completion of the building is expected.
Temporary Pedestrian and Cycle Routes
Those travelling to appointments at St Mary’s are encouraged to allow a little additional time for their journey, particularly during the first few weeks of the closure, and to follow the temporary signs around Paddington Station, South Wharf Road and the canal.
All pedestrians wishing to move north/south/north between South Wharf Road and the canalside should use Paddington Station's taxi facility, where lift access is available from the canalside entrance. The route is fully accessible, including access between the station concourse and the route via lifts and escalators. This route is open between 07:00 and 22:00 and runs parallel to the existing closed route, meaning it adds little or no additional time to most journeys.
Cyclists are asked not to use the taxi rank as a through-route. Where possible, cyclists should dismount and walk through this section of the station, or use the alternative route via Bishop's Bridge Road and Eastbourne Terrace to access Praed Street.
The closures of The Bays enables works for the Fleming Centre to be carried out safely and efficiently. These include the demolition of the Paterson Cabins, the removal of services along the station wall and other site preparation work.
As part of the wider project, the existing historic cobbled pathway in front of the Bays building will be resurfaced and levelled. This will be similar in appearance to the existing materials, but creating a more accessible route for all users.