Double-decker London bus smashes into low-entry signed Paddington Station taxi rank

A London double-decker bus crashed into a low-entry bridge at Paddington Station's taxi rank this morning, causing major disruptions for black cab drivers and passengers.

Social media images show the bus attempting to enter the rank via Bishops Bridge Road. The front driver’s side of the upper deck struck the bridge, resulting in considerable damage to the red bus. The incident has blocked access to the taxi rank, causing significant delays for cab drivers trying to drop off and pick up passengers.

The entrance to the rank clearly indicates a maximum height of 3.6 metres. However, the double-decker bus, which typically start at around 4.5 metres in height, attempted to make the right turn into the taxi pickup and drop-off area.

Emergency services attended the scene, working to clear the bus and assess the structural integrity of the bridge. The area was cordoned off by police officers.

Thousands of passengers pass through the Paddington taxi rank daily, many coming from Heathrow Airport with heavy luggage. This incident has created delays and confusion for those relying on taxi services at one of London’s busiest stations.

More to follow…