The firm has demolished an existing derelict jetty at the site and piling specialist CMP Thames will start piling the first of two river anchor points next week.

These will support two bridges between a triangular viewing platform halfway along the pier and the river ferry terminal.

Designed by London-based architects Nex, Royal Wharf Pier is being funded by the housing development and will be used by the Thames Clippers riverboat service from later this year.

The 130m ferry pier just south of City Airport as part of a £3.5bn regeneration area.

Ballymore group managing director John Mulryan said: “Non-road travel is an essential part of the sustainability and growth of London’s commuter network, and this pier will soon be a part of that.”

Sheltered waiting area creates a timber ‘island in the Thames