Biggest local train and bus depot on course to open in 2026

98% of architectural, structural works done for East Coast Integrated Depot in Changi

- Lee Nian Tjoe

Structural and architectural works on Singapore's largest train and bus depot are about 98 percent completed, while works in other areas such as plumbing, electrical and other systems are 83 percent done.

The East Coast Integrated Depot in Changi is on track to open in 2026, said the Land Transport Authority (LTA). Its original 2024 opening was pushed back twice, first to 2025 because of hold-ups caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, then to 2026.

The remaining construction works include the fitting of rail tracks, architectural finishes, roadworks, and the installation of perimeter walls and fences.

LTA provided this update during a media visit to the 36ha worksite on Nov 27, ahead of the suspension of train service between Tanah Merah and Tampines MRT stations from Dec 7 to 10 to connect tracks from the East-West MRT Line (EWL) to the depot.

Construction on the four-in-one depot started in 2016. When ready in 2026, the facility will house train depots serving three rail lines as well as a bus depot.

LTA said there will be two more planned service adjustments over the next two years, affecting different segments of the EWL, to facilitate the depot's construction.

The exact dates and details about how train services will be affected will be announced later, added the authority.