The 80-metre bridge is set to be operational by the end of the year, creating a pedestrian and cyclist link from Port Adelaide’s retail hub to the maritime heritage precinct at Dock Two.

The bridge will also provide current and future residents of the 650 homes in the planned community on either side of Dock One with better access to public transport.

The Port Adelaide bridge is being designed and built by Largs North-based company BluBuilt, with architects Grieve Gillet Anderson engaged for detailed design work.

Port Adelaide’s Maritime Constructions will begin piling into the riverbed to create foundations while initial works on the bridge begin off-site, with around 120 jobs expected to be created during construction.

Jointly funded by Renewal SA and Kite Projects, the $5 million bridge will be owned and maintained by Renewal SA.

An eight-metre-wide waterfront promenade will also be built from the bridge, wrapping around the eastern side of the Port River and under the Port River Expressway through to the City of Adelaide Clipper Ship.

Renewal SA executive director, major projects and property, Todd Perry said the agency wanted something that would “enhance connectivity and urban revitalisation”.

“The intent is to make the inner harbour more accessible by foot. Ease of pedestrian and disability access was therefore crucial to this design, as was ensuring clear sightlines for residents living along the waterfront,” Perry said.

Kite Projects managing director Damon Nagel said the bridge was one of the “most talked about projects in the Port”.

“Once the bridge is complete, it will make a huge difference, connecting the precinct together in a way that will ensure residents and visitors can really explore and make the most of their new community,” he said.

Housing and urban development minister Nick Champion said the bridge was “another vital component of the Dock One development”.

“This foot bridge will provide important accessibility to the area, encouraging people to be active in their local community,” he said.

Announced in 2016, the $250 million Dock One development is part of planned developments set to deliver nearly 1300 homes across Cedar Woods in the North West and Fletcher’s Slip, and Kite in Dock One and Port Approach (South).

The first two stages of Dock One are sold out, with Kite Projects settling on a two-and-a-half-hectare allotment at Dock One’s eastern side to commence Stage 3 of the planned development.

Designs are also underway for the old Marine and Harbors Building on St Vincent Street, with plans for a 100-room hotel.