JSE-listed real estate investment trust Growthpoint Properties says construction has started on the Sandton drive Link Bridge.

This bridge will provide a direct pedestrian route over Sandton drive between Growthpoint’s The Place at 1 Sandton drive office building and the Sandton City shopping centre.

The R26-million bridge is being funded and driven by Growthpoint.

It will provide a secure pedestrian crossing while linking key locations within this hub and also introducing a new landmark.

The Link Bridge will be open to the public from Sandton City during the day, with limited controlled access at night.

On the east side of the road, it will be accessible from The Place’s balcony nearest Rivonia road, leading pedestrians across the street and on Sandton City’s upper parking deck near the Woolworths entrance on the west side.

The Link Bridge is engineered to be safe, durable and maintenance-free, the company points out.

Its architectural design features an angular balustraded walkway clad in stainless steel.

At its core, the bridge boasts a central covered glass viewing deck offering views of Sandton. The eco-friendly illuminated viewing deck is a dynamic feature that can change colour to mark seasons, celebrations and events taking place in the area.

The stainless steel sections and glass box are currently being manufactured offsite in multiple parts, while the concrete support columns and walkway are being built beside Sandton drive between Rivonia road and Alice lane. 

The prefabricated parts of the bridge will be assembled on site.

“We are thrilled that this long-held vision is now a reality. This bridge delivers on Growthpoint’s promise to tenants of The Place at 1 Sandton Drive. Together with our partners on this journey – Sandton City, Sandton Central Management District and the City of Johannesburg, among others – we’ve overcome numerous obstacles to create a vital new link,” Growthpoint asset management head Neil Schloss says. 

Sandton City has been highlighted as a vital supporter of the project.