From October 2025, large projects must use CORENET X for building submissions

The new CORENET X platform, which aims to make building approval processes faster and smoother, was introduced at the recent International Built Environment Week (IBEW) 2025.

Starting in October 2025, all new construction projects with a gross floor area of 30,000 square metres or more must use the CORENET X platform for their building submissions. But this is only the first step in a broader rollout. By October 2026, the platform will be compulsory for all new projects, regardless of size. And by October 2027, even ongoing projects will be required to make the switch.

This clear timeline shows that the government is serious about moving our construction approval process into a fully digital and integrated system.

Purpose and benefits of CORENET X

The CORENET X platform is a joint initiative by the Building and Construction Authority Singapore (BCA) and the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA). They worked closely with other public agencies, industry groups, and professional bodies to design an integrated building approval system Singapore can rely on.

Instead of dealing with more than 20 separate approval checkpoints, you will now see just a few main gateways. This not only cuts down on time but also allows for better collaboration among agencies and professionals. In fact, the system complements our country’s move towards Integrated Digital Delivery (IDD), which already focuses on connecting workflows across the built environment sector.

Another major improvement is the replacement of paperwork-heavy submissions with a single, intelligent 3D model. Through this model, you can send in submissions to multiple agencies at once, without the need to repeat information.

With CORENET X, you can expect:

• Shorter approval times because of improved design coordination.
• Lower costs since fewer rounds of resubmissions will be needed.
• More transparency in how approvals are processed and granted.

All of this adds up to a smoother and more efficient construction approval process.

Industry testing and rollout

The journey to this point did not happen overnight. 

Work on CORENET X began as far back as 2018, with the goal of addressing long-standing inefficiencies in the way construction approvals were managed.

Before making it mandatory, the platform went through rigorous testing to ensure it worked well. A soft launch took place in 2023, where selected projects were invited to try the system. This careful approach allowed issues to be ironed out and gave agencies time to adjust.

Currently, the CORENET X rollout timeline is being managed in phases. This ensures that both large and small players in the industry can get used to the system without too much disruption. Agencies such as the Land Transport Authority (LTA), National Environment Agency (NEA), National Parks Board (NParks), Public Utilities Board (PUB), and the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) have all been part of the process. Their input helped balance compliance requirements across different areas, from safety to environmental standards.

How can your firm prepare for the mandatory adoption?

According to BCA Deputy CEO Clement Tseng, more than 100 firms have already come onboard, and over 50 projects have voluntarily submitted through the system.

Tseng highlighted three important steps you should take:

1. Attend training and seminars – It’s important to learn the new processes in detail. To help you with this, BCA is offering courses, workshops, and seminars that explain exactly how to use CORENET X.
2. Make organisational changes – You’ll need buy-in from your senior management. Firms are encouraged to appoint dedicated CORENET X representatives who can coordinate workflows and guide colleagues through the transition.
3. Check system readiness – To help firms adapt, BCA has created the IFC+SG Resource Toolkit. This tool, along with recommended third-party applications, can guide your teams in meeting the technical requirements of the system.

BCA has also promised to continue providing support. This includes not just training, but also resources that will make the switch less overwhelming. While there will be a learning curve at the start, the long-term benefits of using the CORENET X platform will outweigh the effort.

What’s next? 

The CORENET X construction approvals process is a big step forward for the industry. By replacing fragmented approvals with a single digital model, you will see fewer delays, lower costs, and smoother coordination across agencies. With its phased rollout timeline, Singapore is setting up the industry for success.

If you are part of the built environment sector, now is the time to prepare. Attend the training, get your organisation ready, and explore the tools provided by BCA. By doing so, you’ll be well-positioned to thrive in this new era of digital approvals.