Work inside the existing Wollongong Central kicked off this week to make way for an underground walkway and overhead bridge, which will link the complex with the new GPT site.

The centre’s Priceline and JB Hi-Fi stores will undergo some layout changes to accommodate the new bridge while minor works will also be carried out in the Market Street car park.

GPT development manager Steven Turner said the bridge would be more than just a critical link between the centres.

‘‘It will really turn that point outside Priceline and JB Hi-Fi into a busy spot,’’ he said.

‘‘It will be glazed the whole way down over three levels so it will open up that part of the centre; you’ll be able to see across the road to the restaurants and cafe, it will transform it.’’

Work to prepare the site for construction has already started and will continue until the development is completed.

Mr Turner said the project was still on track to be finished by the middle of next year.

Excavation work along Keira Street, which has caused the closure of two lanes on the western side of the road, has finished and workers are set to start digging along the eastern side to connect with the existing centre.

Site staff have also been testing materials for the complex’s facade, which draws inspiration from the Illawarra flame tree.

Mr Turner said the developers had also been busy liaising with the council to widen the footpaths along Keira Street to cater for outdoor dining at eight new restaurants.

While supermarket giant Coles has been announced as a key tenant in the new centre, Mr Turner would not be drawn yesterday on other potential stores.

Once completed, the six-storey complex will include a lower ground floor dedicated to fresh food; restaurants and cafes at street level; and a 600-seat food court on the first floor.

It will also include 80 specialty shops expected to attract a string of high-profile brands and 650 new car parking spaces.