Growthpoint’s new Sandton Drive link bridge connects to Sandton Central

Growthpoint Properties is proud to announce that construction has begun on the Sandton Drive Link Bridge – a project designed to greatly improve safety, accessibility, and connectivity in Sandton Central.
 
This landmark bridge will offer a straightforward and secure pedestrian route over busy Sandton Drive, connecting Growthpoint’s The Place at 1 Sandton Drive office building and the iconic Sandton City shopping centre. It is a game-changer for the precinct, seamlessly linking key locations within this vibrant hub and introducing an eye-catching new landmark.

Funded and driven by Growthpoint Properties, South Africa’s leading JSE-listed real estate investment trust (REIT), the R26 million bridge is more than just a safe crossing. It symbolises innovation, urban design, and community dedication. The bridge physically and symbolically unites both sides of Sandton Drive, integrating offices, residences, and retail spaces into a more cohesive precinct.
 
Designed for safety and built for the future
The Link Bridge is engineered to be safe, durable, and maintenance-free. Its distinctive architectural design features an angular balustraded walkway clad in stainless steel, enhancing both function and aesthetics.

At its core, the bridge features a central covered glass viewing deck offering stunning views of Sandton and the city’s spectacular sunsets. This eco-friendly illuminated viewing deck can change colour to celebrate seasons, festivities, and local events.

The stainless-steel sections and glass enclosure are currently being manufactured off-site in multiple components, while the concrete support columns and walkway are under construction beside Sandton Drive, between Rivonia Road and Alice Lane. The prefabricated parts will then be assembled on-site.
 
A strategic investment in Sandton’s growth
“We are thrilled that this long-held vision is now a reality,” says Neil Schloss, Head of Asset Management at Growthpoint. “This bridge delivers on Growthpoint’s promise to tenants of The Place at 1 Sandton Drive. With our partners—Sandton City, Sandton Central Management District, and the City of Johannesburg—we’ve overcome many hurdles to create a vital new link.”

Timothy Irvine, Growthpoint Head of Asset Management: Offices, states that the new Link Bridge not only enhances the value and appeal of The Place at 1 Sandton Drive but also improves mobility and connectivity across the entire area. “For tenants of The Place, the bridge adds an invaluable amenity to their prime location. The investment emphasises Growthpoint’s commitment to providing exceptional business spaces with sought-after features that distinguish our office properties in the South African market.”
 
Supporting Sandton’s key stakeholders
Sandton City has been a vital supporter of this project, recognising the bridge’s importance as a new link that offers visitors panoramic views of the lively hub around this exceptional shopping centre while prioritising pedestrian safety and convenience.

Dimitri Kokinos, Liberty Two Degrees Asset and General Manager for Sandton City and Nelson Mandela Square, says, “We welcome this new addition, as a transformative step towards improving urban connectivity. We believe the bridge will provide a safe and efficient route for pedestrians, making it easier to access Sandton City from Sandton Drive South side. This is a great move for the overall Sandton Central precinct.”

Elaine Jack, City Improvement Manager for Sandton Central, adds, “Sandton Central welcomes this significant enhancement to the precinct, as the Link Bridge will establish direct, safe pedestrian access between Sandton City and The Place on Sandton Drive. Growthpoint has always been highly supportive of Sandton Central, and the construction of the access bridge further demonstrates their ongoing commitment to the value of the node.”
 
Public access and security
The Link Bridge will be open to the public from Sandton City during the daytime, 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, guiding pedestrians safely across the street to Sandton City’s upper parking deck near the Woolworths entrance on the west side.

A key group of users will be visitors to the US Consulate in Johannesburg, neighbouring The Place, who will now benefit from a safer, more direct pathway across the road with direct street-level access to the building.
 
Investing in premier, people-friendly spaces
Growthpoint Properties has historically led the way in shaping Sandton Central’s skyline, placemaking, and public experiences, alongside investing in real estate, infrastructure, and green energy. The company owns a significant portfolio of office assets in Sandton’s core. The bridge is among several major investments Growthpoint is making to shape a more connected, accessible, and future-ready precinct.

Growthpoint’s Link Bridge across Sandton Drive will stand as a testament to a business that goes beyond constructing structures—creating stronger, safer, and more sustainable places.
“Thanks to all involved in this initiative over the years, Sandton Central is set to become an even more integrated, convenient and people-friendly destination for everyone who works, lives, plays and visits,” says Irvine.

Growthpoint Properties has announced that construction has begun on the Sandton Drive Link Bridge—a project set to significantly improve safety, accessibility, and connectivity in Sandton Central.