Singapore’s first dedicated bus driver residence opens with aircon, games room and a depot next door

“We believe that the people who live here are the best people to tell us what makes a place comfortable and welcoming,” he said. 

Mr Sim added that Ms Yeo Wan Ling, the executive secretary of the National Transport Workers’ Union, had provided practical input on the needs of the residents. 

The standout feature, he said, was the ease of commute.

“Living right next to the depot means almost zero travelling time between home and work,” he said. “The time saved can now be spent resting, exercising, pursuing hobbies, preparing meals or simply enjoying time with friends and colleagues.”

Bus driver Tian Yinfu, 55, who moved in in May, said the new arrangement has given him more time to rest. Previously living in a HDB flat in Hougang, he had a roughly 20-minute commute via employee shuttle. He used to wake at 5am for the earliest shift; now he can sleep until 5.40am.

“The entire environment is great. I can cook here, shower, and also can come back here immediately after work,” said the Chinese national, who has been a bus driver for 17 years.

The Sengkang West Bus Depot opened in January 2025 as the first multi-storey depot to support large-scale electric bus deployment.