Government upgrades Bishan Town Centre with new amenities

The proposed changes include a new hawker centre, a new polyclinic, and a revamped, air-conditioned bus interchange.

Bishan–Marymount residents can expect significant upgrades under the Draft Master Plan 2025, with plans to enhance everyday living through better amenities, job access, and connectivity.

Minister Chee Hong Tat, speaking at the plan’s exhibition launch, announced that Bishan Town Centre will be developed into a Sub-Regional Centre.

The proposed changes include a new hawker centre, a new polyclinic, and a revamped, air-conditioned bus interchange. New office spaces are also being considered to bring workplaces closer to homes.

Nationwide, the government aims for 8 in 10 households to live within a 10-minute walk of an MRT station by the 2030s. The cycling network will be expanded to 1,300 km, and new infrastructure—such as a pedestrian bridge connecting Marina Centre and Bay East Garden by 2029—aims to improve connectivity.

In a Facebook video, Chee addressed topics raised by residents, including infrastructure, economic concerns, and public finance. He stated that reducing the Goods and Services Tax (GST) from 9% to 7% could affect funding for programmes such as senior care and economic support.

He also discussed ongoing initiatives under the Singapore Economic Resilience Taskforce, which include helping businesses adapt to changing market conditions and supporting workers through skills development and regional cooperation.

On public transport, Chee provided updates about the SimplyGo rollout delay, fare review processes, and steps being taken to improve rail system reliability.

The URA plans to bring the Draft Master Plan 2025 exhibition to various heartland locations to gather more public feedback before finalising the plan.