North-South Corridor delayed to 2029; noise relief by end-2027

Singapore’s North-South Corridor will open two years later than planned, with the viaduct now expected in 2029 and the tunnel in 2031, Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow announced in Parliament on October 6. Harder rock, fractured ground, and groundwater beneath existing MRT lines caused the delay. The project was originally budgeted at S$7.47 billion and costs are expected to rise. The government will not compensate businesses for delays but will continue rental rebates for affected HDB shops.

When the noisiest work ends

Major structural works creating the most noise and dust will finish by end-2027, Siow said. The Land Transport Authority will then reinstate roads, footpaths and other affected spaces from 2028. Lentor Avenue and Sembawang Road surfaces should be fully restored by mid-2028. Siow asked LTA to prioritize surface works so conditions improve from 2027 onward.

Why the two-year delay happened

Foundation works at Gambas Avenue and Woodlands Avenue 8 took longer due to utility diversions and harder rock. The tunnel near Novena faces fractured rock and groundwater beneath the North-South Line and Circle Line, both still operating. Thomson stretch has higher rock levels and large boulders. LTA added manpower, equipment, and changed construction methods but could not compress the schedule further without safety risks.

Support for affected businesses and residents

Businesses in HDB rental shops most affected by construction have been receiving rental rebates on a case-by-case basis, and HDB will continue extending them where grounds exist. The government does not generally compensate stakeholders for project delays, as this would add significant upfront costs and require insuring against multiple unknown scenarios. LTA has installed signs and banners to guide customers and will establish more direct walking routes to shops and eateries.

Project cost and timeline uncertainty

The original S$7.47 billion budget will likely increase, but LTA has not provided an updated figure. LTA is still assessing contractual claims and will release updated costs later. The viaduct from Admiralty Road West to Lentor Avenue will open in phases from 2029. The tunnel from Lentor Avenue to East Coast Parkway will open in phases from 2031.

Final Thoughts

The two-year delay extends disruption for residents and businesses but brings relief from peak construction noise by end-2027. Affected HDB businesses retain rental rebates, though no general compensation applies. Investors and property owners along the route should plan for extended construction impact through 2028.

FAQs

Disclaimer:

The content shared by Meyka AI PTY LTD is solely for research and informational purposes.  Meyka is not a financial advisory service, and the information provided should not be considered investment or trading advice.