The first test train has successfully travelled along the new Port Dock spur line in a major milestone for the $51 million project to return rail services to the heart of Port Adelaide.

The train was part of works to test the line and the signalling system, as the line gears up to open in late August.

During the testing, the train was driven from Woodville Station and along the Outer Harbor line, then into Port Dock Railway Station.

Once the project to re-establish the 1km Port Dock spur - which was decommissioned in 1981 - is complete, it will connect the new Port Dock station, plaza and bus interchange at Baker St to the existing Outer Harbor rail line.

It will also provide improved access for pedestrians and cyclists.

The test train was driven by experienced train driver Brett Watson (pictured below at the controls), who has been driving trains on the Adelaide Metro network for almost 14 years.

"It is great to see the Port Dock Railway Line Project moving closer to completion, and I’m proud to have been chosen to drive the first test train along the re-connected line," Mr Watson said.

"The testing of the signalling system is a vital part of the project, to make sure everything is working as it should or to identify any issues that might need to be rectified.

"It was a successful test, and I can’t wait to have the opportunity to regularly drive trains to Port Dock Railway Station once regular services commence."

The Port Dock Railway Line Project is funded by the South Australian Government and is supporting 100 full-time equivalent jobs during construction.

Once complete, it will be the first time in more than 40 years that rail services have been in the heart of Port Adelaide, and contribute significantly to the ongoing renewal of the Port precinct.

For more information, visit Port Dock Railway Line.