Introduction
The Paddington area has undergone significant change over the past 25 years, with more than 20 major development schemes completed across 80 acres. This successful transformation has attracted many of the world’s leading corporate occupiers to the district, making Paddington one of London’s fastest-growing commercial locations. Although there is still much development in the pipeline, many estates are now mature and focusing on long-term sustainability and placemaking.
Today a thriving mixed-use community - the size of Soho - Paddington has been transformed into a destination rich in amenity, in which the canal is centred not squandered, where people live, work, learn, socialise and play.
Creating a sense of place and identity has required commitment and imagination from all parties. Members of The Paddington Partnership have between them taken oversight of the 80 acres that make up the Paddington Opportunity Area and opened up a district previously inaccessible for 200 years, re-connecting communities. Paddington now has a stunning, active waterspace, surrounded by striking public art and traffic-free public realm, home to a wealth of biodiversity.
More than Buildings
The physical achievements are plain to see, with over 1,000 metres of new towpath, magnificent open spaces, five new pedestrian bridges, 3 million sq ft of commercial space and more than 2,000 new homes delivered. But there is another story, one in which the commercial imperative has been integrated with the need to reach out from each space and demonstrate an appreciation of spatial and social context.
The Shift to a BID
The Paddington Partnership has played a vital role, one that has changed over time as Paddington matures. A highly respected and overwhelmingly successful community programme sees Paddington companies build on the achievements of developers, sharing their time, resources and skills with more than 50 surrounding schools, charities and community groups for the past 25 years. We have an impressive, established body of businesses in Paddington, with a strong sense of connection, evidenced in their commitment to place and community.
With this critical mass, the Grand Union BID represents an opportunity to create a permanent, sustainable forum to optimise Paddington’s potential as both a leading business community and a flourishing destination.
