"We expect strong interest": New era for Spinnaker Tower as iconic "city beacon" searches for new operator to "unlock" its "untapped" potential
A new chapter is on the horizon at the city’s “much-loved” Spinnaker Tower as it hunts for a new operator to “unlock” its “untapped potential”.
Portsmouth City Council has appointed Colliers’ licensed and leisure team to secure a new leisure or visitor attraction operator for Spinnaker Tower, as it embarks on an exciting journey to “take it to the next level” with the current operating agreement due to expire later this year.
The 170-metre tower, located on the entrance to Portsmouth Harbour provides unmatched panoramic views across the city, the Solent and over to the Isle of Wight.
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Councillor Steve Pitt, leader of Portsmouth City Council, said: “The Spinnaker Tower is our city’s beacon, and we are looking to unlock the next chapter for this much‑loved landmark.
“Working with Colliers, we want a new operator who will invest, innovate and deliver an even better experience for residents and visitors.”
Along with the three viewing decks, there is a kitchen and bar at the base of the tower with potential to develop above, and a café located on View Deck 2.
It also operates as an events space hosting functions and seasonal events, alongside welcoming visitors on a daily basis to enjoy the view and take on the Sky Walk.
Cllr Pitt added: “We’re opening the door to experienced leisure operators who can bring imagination and vision to one of the UK’s most recognisable waterfront attractions and take it to the next level.
“The right partner will not only help us grow Portsmouth’s thriving visitor economy but will also ensure it continues to be one of the country's premier attractions for years to come.”
Construction at the iconic tower started in 2001 and took four years to complete, with its official opening on October 18, 2005.
The £35.6 million building, also known as the “Millennium Tower”, welcomed over 1,000 guests in the first three hours of opening, and has seen more than 5 million visitors walk through its doors since.
Paul Bugeja, director in Colliers’ licensed and leisure team, said: “The Spinnaker Tower is not only an architectural icon, but also a proven visitor destination.
“We expect strong interest from a range of operators who will jump at the opportunity to reinvest and unlock the untapped potential to create a unique leisure destination within the south coast’s most recognisable landmark.”