"The perfect moment to look ahead" - Gunwharf celebrates 25 years with plans to transform its waterfront

The plans will see the ground floor and first floor terraces overlooking the harbour enlarged and extended to improve the al-fresco dining options currently on offer. Other changes included in the proposals include a new staircase and lift to provide greater access to between levels.

Gunwharf’s owner, Landsec, has submitted the plans to Portsmouth City Council as the next stage of its £45 million investment project. It is hoped that the transformation of the waterside will help bring leading dining and leisure experiences to Portsmouth.

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Having opened in February 2001, the transformational plans fall serendipitously with its 25 year anniversary as well as the 100 year celebration of Portsmouth becoming a city.

Yvonne Clay, Centre Director at Gunwharf Quays, said: “This is an incredibly special year for us. As Gunwharf Quays celebrates 25 years and Portsmouth marks 100 years of city status, it feels like the perfect moment to look ahead, as well as reflect on all we have achieved.

“For a quarter of a century, Gunwharf Quays has been part of Portsmouth’s identity - welcoming millions of guests, supporting local communities, and helping to showcase this incredible waterfront city. These plans for the Waterfront represent our commitment to investing in the next 25 years of the destination.

“We are shaping a harbour-side experience unlike anywhere else in the UK – one that fully embraces our waterfront setting, attracts best-in-class brands, and creates a vibrant, high-quality place for our guests to spend time. If our submission is approved, this transformation will cement Gunwharf Quays’ position as the UK’s leading waterfront outlet destination, that complements the city’s proud heritage and exciting future, for decades to come.”

The Old Customs House, a Grade II listed building, will not be touched as part of the plans. If approved by the council, work will begin in early 2027.

Find pictures of the plans below: