Beginning in July 2015, the station’s £13 million Paddington Lawn upgrade, includes 16 new-and-improved retail units. Commenting on the additions, commercial director of retail for Network Rail Hamish Kiernan said, “As footfall figures and retail sales at Network Rail managed stations continue to rise, the completion of Paddington Lawn gives commuters a new high-quality shopping experience.” The development marks the latest step in the station’s 163-year evolution, as Network Rail worked closely with English Heritage to prepare the site for a rise in footfall.