Reviewing Operator Licensing Arrangements to Improve Utilisation and Take-up Rates of Retail and Advertising Spaces Within MRT Stations

Written Reply to Parliamentary Question 

Ms Gho Sze Kee asked the Acting Minister for Transport 

a.      whether LTA has observed increasing vacancies or declining take up of retail and advertising spaces within MRT stations;

b.      whether it has assessed the impact of rail operators’ licence tenures on their ability to secure tenants; and

c.      whether it will review existing operator and licensing arrangements between LTA and the existing operator to improve commercial utilisation and take up rates.

Reply by Acting Minister for Transport Jeffrey Siow: 

1.     Across the network, retail occupancy rates and advertising revenue in MRT stations fell during the COVID-19 pandemic but have since exceeded pre-pandemic levels.

2.      As part of the transition to the New Rail Financing Framework, rail operators were issued fixed-term licences. It is the responsibility of the rail operator to anticipate any issues with sustaining occupancy and ensure that commercial spaces are properly utilised. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) will provide flexibility to the operators on arrangements to utilise commercial spaces closer to the end of their licences, including agreements beyond the licence period.