You’ll be going round in circles from July 12, as it’s been confirmed that Stage 6 of the Circle Line project will complete this year. Speaking on May 14, Acting Minister for Transport Jeffrey Siow revealed that final systems testing is underway at the three new stations, with the official opening date also confirmed. Joining the line will be Keppel, Cantonment, and Prince Edward Road stations, which will serve as the link between HarbourFront and Marina Bay MRT stations.
Before that happens, the Singaporeans are invited to discover the new stations during a public preview on July 4, between 9:30am and 9pm. During the preview, commuters will be able to ride for free between the new stations, and explore their features. LTA has promised more activities to celebrate the launch, so keep your eyes peeled for those too.
What does the Circle Line expansion mean for commuters?
There’s a reason you’ll hear a lot about ‘closing the loop’ with the completion of this project; the biggest shift will be connecting HarbourFront and Marina Bay stations with a much shorter commute. It also means that commuters from western areas such as Pasir Panjang heading to Marina Bay, and from eastern areas like Paya Lebar heading to HarbourFront, will be able to take the shorter route around the Circle Line.
What’s special about the new stations?
The new stations are designed to integrate as seamlessly as possible not just into the Circle Line, but to Singapore’s wider transport network. Each one will feature bicycle parking, as well as sheltered routes to connect to existing cycling and walking routes. All three stations are designed for accessibility, with features such as lifts, escalators, and barrier-free access making them accessible for all commuters.
Keppel Station will allow easier access for workers at nearby PSA International and Keppel Distripark, whilst also future-proofing the area with transport links for any housing or commercial developments in the area. At 20 metres below the ground, it’s the shallowest of the three new stations, and you’ll be able to spot it easily from its vent shafts, which pay homage to the nearby Singapore Cable Car.
Meanwhile, Cantonment Station makes use of Singapore’s transport heritage, as it sits beneath the old Tanjong Pagar Railway Station, and integrates the station’s original design into the new development. It’ll enhance Tanjong Pagar’s existing transport links, connect to the Singapore Art Museum via one of its exists, and serve the redeveloped Tanjong Pagar Railway Station when works are completed.
Finally, Prince Edward Road Station is the deepest of the new Circle Line stations, situated 30 metres below the ground. It takes design inspiration from Singapore’s maritime history, with curving lines throughout the concourse, and will allow easier access to offices in the area, along with landmarks such as Haji Muhammad Salleh Mosque.
Mark your diaries for July 4 to enjoy the public preview of the new Circle Line stations, and get ready to ride the full circle when they officially open on July 12!
