The Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL) continues to reshape Singapore’s transportation landscape by improving connectivity between the north and east of the island. The recent opening of Stage 4 on 23 June 2024 marks another significant milestone, with future stages set to extend this important rail link further.
In this article, we delve into the impact of TEL, focusing on the recently opened Stage 4, the upcoming (but delayed) Stage 5, and the future extension to Changi Airport.
Supplemental reading: Full list of BTO projects hitting MOP in 2024/2025 & Our top picks near the MRT
Table of contents:
- Overview of the Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL)
- Stage 4: Enhancing connectivity on the East Coast
- Future Developments: Stage 5 and Founders’ Memorial Station
- How these expansions will impact nearby properties
- Extension to Changi Airport
Overview of the Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL)
Covering a distance of 43 kilometres and with 32 stations, the TEL is one of Singapore’s most ambitious MRT lines. It connects key districts from Woodlands in the north to the East Coast. Each phase of development has brought additional benefits to commuters as the developers worked on this line in stages.
Since the first stage opening in 2020, which linked Woodlands North to Woodlands South, the TEL has continuously expanded to include multiple interchange stations connecting with other MRT lines, such as the North-South Line, East-West Line, and Downtown Line.
Stage 4: Enhancing connectivity on the East Coast
The introduction of seven new stations – Tanjong Rhu, Katong Park, Tanjong Katong, Marine Parade, Marine Terrace, Siglap, and Bayshore – significantly improves Stage 4 of the TEL. This extension significantly improves connectivity for residents on the East Coast, providing about 235,000 households within a 10-minute walk to an MRT station. In addition, this extension has reduced travel times.
The new stations prioritise the community in their design. For example, some stations have Singapore’s first underground bicycle parking facilities, which support the city’s efforts towards more sustainable and active mobility options. The architectural designs of the stations also mirror the character of their surroundings. For instance, the Marine Parade station incorporates elements inspired by the seaside and the greenery that define the area.
On 21 June 2024, during the public preview of Stage 4, attendees enjoyed various exhibitions. One highlight was the ‘Reasons to Move Lite’ gallery at Marine Parade, promoting sustainable commuting. The preview event also included exclusive TEL4-themed merchandise, which helped to boost community engagement and create anticipation for the official launch.
Future developments: Stage 5 and Founders’ Memorial Station
Stage 5, scheduled to open in 2026, will extend the TEL from Bayshore to Sungei Bedok, adding Bedok South and Sungei Bedok stations to the line. The Sungei Bedok station will serve as an interchange with the Downtown Line, enhancing accessibility for residents and creating a seamless connection between eastern and central Singapore.
An additional station, Founders’ Memorial, is set to open in 2028 between Gardens by the Bay and Tanjong Rhu stations. The Founders’ Memorial, which celebrates the contributions of Singapore’s pioneers, will have a close link to this station. Its strategic location will make the memorial more accessible, strengthening the TEL’s role in connecting people to important cultural landmarks.
How these expansions will impact nearby properties
The improved connectivity offered by the TEL has significantly increased the appeal of surrounding properties, making the East Coast region an attractive option for homebuyers and investors. Residential developments near TEL stations such as Marine Parade, Siglap, and Bayshore have sparked interest because of the reduced travel times to the city centre and other important business districts.
Properties around Marine Parade and Tanjong Katong are desirable, given their proximity to the MRT line and popular lifestyle amenities, including East Coast Park and the Katong food district.
Properties in Marine Parade and Tanjong Katong
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The upcoming Stage 5 stations at Bedok South and Sungei Bedok will increase property values in these neighbourhoods. They will provide residents with direct access to the MRT network and enhance the appeal of developments like Bayshore Park and Seaside Residences.
As the TEL expands, the MRT line is expected to have a positive impact on Singapore’s real estate market by raising property demand and values in the surrounding areas.
Extension to Changi Airport
The Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL) will be expanded to include Changi Airport, covering Terminal 1 to 5. This expansion is projected to be finished by 2040. It will involve transforming the current Changi Airport branch of the East-West Line into a section of the TEL. This modification will offer effortless transportation between the airport and different areas of Singapore, improving convenience for travellers.
The extension will also play a crucial role in supporting the development of Changi Airport Terminal 5, which is expected to be one of the world’s largest airport terminals. With direct MRT access, the TEL will cater to increasing passenger volumes, connecting Changi Airport with Singapore’s heartlands and commercial hubs.
Last time we covered the TEL: The Thomson-East Coast Line: Transforming Singapore’s public transport landscape
Closing remarks
The Thomson-East Coast Line is revolutionising Singapore’s public transport system, particularly for East Coast residents. Stage 4, which has recently opened, is already changing commuting patterns, making daily travel faster, more convenient, and more sustainable. Future developments, such as Stage 5 and the extension to Changi Airport, will further strengthen TEL’s position as a crucial link in Singapore’s growing MRT network.
As these projects come to completion, the TEL will enhance connectivity, support the city’s growth, and improve the quality of life for its residents.
We will watch this article for changes and updates.
Read more about future developments and expansions in our Insider section!
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