The BID has worked closely with Westminster Council and TfL to make sure Paddington is ready to welcome people back.
Pavement widening barriers have been added to Praed Street, London Street and Spring Street to provide safer pedestrian and cycle routes. 2m distancing signage has been added to lamp posts and barriers throughout the area. We are also looking collectively at possible sites for cycle parking to accommodate the increase in commuters avoiding public transport. For more information from TfL on how to travel safely please click here.
Businesses that are reopening on July 4 must ensure that their workplaces are safe for customers and workers. The government has produced detailed workplace-specific guidance to help ensure workplaces are safe as possible, as well as further guidance for the retail sector on they can reopen and operate safely. Westminster Council has produced a guide to support businesses looking to manage queuing system’s including free floor stencils and stickers available to download here.
With many businesses now looking at reopening and adapting how they work in terms of social distancing it is crucial fire safety and water management (to avoid Legionnaires) needs are considered along side these changes.
The Paddington BID Community Safety Team have been on patch throughout lockdown and will be there to welcome workers, visitors and residents back to the area. The team will be on hand to take any questions in regard to safety concerns and also provide reassurance to those who have recently returned and might be unsure of the new environment by providing directions and area information.
The BID is making every effort to maintain the flower baskets, green spaces and pavements in the area so that the streets are clean and welcoming for your return. First Mile is ready to pick up where you left off in regards to recycling and by lobbying for more cycle space and parking, we hope this will contribute to long term air quality improvement in the area.
Communication is essential and has played a large part in our COVID response strategy. Whilst we keep you updated through newsletters and the dedicated Coronavirus: COVID-19 webpage, we have also spoken directly to many of you about your concerns, supported campaigns that will help you such as #Raisethebar and #NationalTimeOut and we will continue to do so.
Please contact us on askus@paddingtonnow.co.uk/wordpress or ring on 0203 145 121 if you have any questions.
