A South Australian builder has been chosen to construct a multi-million-dollar footbridge as part of a new waterfront housing development at Port Adelaide, connecting both sides of the project’s dock in a win for residents and the community.
BluBuilt, based in Largs North, will design and build the 80m bridge linking the Dock One project – a 750-home master planned community now being rolled out in the inner harbour – following a successful tender process, led by Renewal SA.
The jetty-style bridge will be located at the western end of Dock One and create a seamless pedestrian and cyclist link from Port Adelaide’s retail hub through to the emerging maritime heritage precinct at Dock Two.
It will also provide better access for current and future residents on either side of Dock One – being delivered by Adelaide-based developer Kite Projects – including good connections to public transport along St Vincent Street.
The new bridge will be a key feature of Dock One, which is set to deliver a significant housing boost in Adelaide’s west and support the future high-skilled worker population – to be based near Port Adelaide – for the AUKUS submarine program.
More than 120 jobs are expected to be created during construction, which is due to start mid-next year. To fuel local employment, BluBuilt will work with Port Adelaide subcontractor Maritime Constructions, which will construct the bridge’s piles.
BluBuilt’s low-profile, low-maintenance bridge design was selected for its smooth interface with the current promenade and surrounding landscape – reflecting community needs and maintaining the port’s views for waterfront residents – while being high enough for small vessels like kayaks and dinghies to pass underneath.
The bridge, jointly funded by Renewal SA and Kite Projects, is expected to be open to the public by late 2024, coinciding with Stage 4 civil and building works on the northern side of the Dock One development.
From the bridge, Kite Projects will also deliver a new 8m-wide waterfront promenade, which will wrap around the eastern side of the Port River and under the Port River Expressway to the City of Adelaide Clipper Ship – further transforming the area into a tourism drawcard.
BluBuilt’s other projects include the Minda Dunes Coast Park at North Brighton, the Sturt River Pedestrian Bridges, and the Hall Crescent Boardwalks.
For more information visit ourport.com.au
The Malinauskas Labor Government is delivering a $474.4 million housing package to boost supply and affordability, including abolishing stamp duty for first home buyers of new homes up to $650,000 and fast tracking the single largest release of land in the State’s history – more than 25,000 new homes across Adelaide.
As put by Nick Champion
We recognise the rapidly transforming Port precinct needs the right infrastructure in place to support its growing population.
Delivering this bridge is a vital component of the Dock One development, as more residents call the waterfront home and build their wider community.
Boosting housing supply in the heart of Port Adelaide is even more important in the wake of the AUKUS announcement – and a future jobs boom in Adelaide’s west.
As put by Susan Close
The bridge is the latest exciting addition to Port Adelaide which is undergoing a significant renaissance at the moment.
The whole community will benefit from the increased access this will provide.
The Port Adelaide waterfront is a lovely spot to live, to go for a walk or to grab a coffee with friends and this new bridge is going to add to this experience.
As put by Renewal SA Executive Director, Major Projects and Property Todd Perry
First and foremost we wanted something that would enhance connectivity and urban revitalisation of the waterfront area.
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.
The low profile of this bridge hits all the right notes.
As put by BluBuilt General Manager Owen Richards
We expect that this jetty-style design, whilst understated, will be a drawcard, in a similar way that the Granite Island Causeway or the Busselton Jetty are.
As put by Kite Projects Managing Director Damon Nagel
A river crossing is essential to connect Dock One and Port Approach. The Dock One pedestrian bridge will significantly benefit residents of Dock One and our future stages at Dock One North.
As put by City of Port Adelaide Enfield Mayor Claire Boan
This important development will greatly enhance connectivity and activate the entire area, supporting growth in the west and benefiting residents and visitors alike.
