Civil works for Circle Line Extension to start in first quarter of 2018

The 4km extension will have three stations and will make the Circle Line a full circle when it is completed in 2025. PHOTO: ST FILE

SINGAPORE - Advanced preparatory works for a project to join the MRT Circle Line from Harbourfront to Marina Bay stations have begun.

In response to press queries a week ago, the Land Transport Authority said on Tuesday (April 11) that tenders for civil works are expected to be awarded by end of this year, and construction will begin first-quarter 2018.

The 4km extension will have three stations - namely Keppel, Cantonment and Prince Edward - and will make the Circle Line a full circle when it is completed in 2025.

The entire project is expected to cost $3.7 billion, with the Government stating in its latest Budget book that the advanced works would cost $30.6 million.

The preparatory works include relocating affected facilities in PSA Keppel Terminal for the construction of Keppel station, dismantling the platform canopy structures of Tanjong Pagar Railway Station (which will be repaired and reinstated after the construction of Cantonment station), and the relocation of Shenton Way Bus Terminal for the construction of Prince Edward station.

Besides reaching new commuters with the four additional stations, the extension will allow those travelling between the south-western and south-eastern ends of the line - such as from Pasir Panjang to Nicoll Highway - to have a more direct access.

Currently, they have two options: traverse the entire Circle Line or change lines.

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