It has been reported (only by 'Transport Briefing' so far AFAICT) that a
second Crossrail Paddington station design contract has been let that:

"...involves drawing up detailed plans for a coordinated scheme for the
north side of Paddington station. This will include a new station entrance
fronting Paddington Basin, complete redevelopment of the Hammersmith and
City line Tube station, a new taxi facility and provision for an over-site
development."

"Crossrail has awarded this latest design deal to accommodate the
significant increase in passenger demand predicted for Paddington station
and provide safe, smooth, step-free access through the station."

IIRC many of the discussions about the 'teacup service' alterations
mentioned the poor quality of the H&C platforms for interchange purposes. I
guess these proposed alterations to the overall station were already known
to LU's planners, and it is possible that part of the rationale for the
extended Circle service is to improve distribution of pax from Crossrail,
without needing to pass through the District/Circle station?

A couple of questions though, firstly why not do all the rebuilding first
and alter the service patterns later? Secondly, is the Network Rail 'Span 4'
work already integrated with this (apparently) new package?

Paul S