Portsmouth waterfront set for major hospitality and public realm upgrades at Gunwharf Quays

Portsmouth waterfront set for major hospitality and public realm upgrades at Gunwharf Quays

(IN BRIEF) Savills has secured planning permission on behalf of Landsec for a major redevelopment project at Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth as part of a broader £45 million investment programme. The approved plans include new food and beverage units, upgraded public spaces, improved accessibility and the modernisation of existing waterfront buildings. Scheduled to begin in 2027, the redevelopment aims to strengthen Gunwharf Quays’ role as a key waterfront destination while enhancing the visitor experience and preserving the site’s historic setting.

(PRESS RELEASE) LONDON, 19-May-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — Savills has secured planning permission on behalf of Landsec for a major redevelopment project at Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth, paving the way for a significant transformation of the city’s waterfront destination as part of a wider £45 million investment programme.

The approved plans will introduce a range of new food and beverage spaces, upgraded public areas and extensive improvements aimed at modernising the retail and leisure complex while enhancing accessibility and visitor experience across the site.

The redevelopment proposals include the creation of new outdoor terraces, enhanced public realm features and improved multi-level connectivity throughout the waterfront destination. Existing buildings within the development will also undergo modernisation works as part of the broader regeneration strategy.

Construction is expected to begin in early 2027.

The latest investment comes as Gunwharf Quays marks its 25th anniversary, having evolved into one of Portsmouth’s best-known waterfront retail and leisure destinations. The next phase of development is intended to strengthen the area’s position within the city while further enhancing its appeal as a tourism, shopping and dining location.

Savills’ Heritage and Townscape team also contributed to the project, providing specialist guidance to ensure the proposals respected the historic character and waterfront setting surrounding the site.

Alistair Ingram, Associate Director within Savills’ Planning team, said the project represents an important step forward for the future of Gunwharf Quays and reflects close collaboration between Savills, Landsec and HGP Architects in bringing the redevelopment vision forward.

He noted that the scheme will help further enhance Portsmouth’s waterfront environment while supporting the continued evolution of Gunwharf Quays as a major destination for residents and visitors alike.

The redevelopment reflects the continuing trend of UK retail and mixed-use destinations investing in experience-led upgrades focused on hospitality, accessibility and public space improvements as operators seek to adapt large waterfront and retail sites to changing consumer expectations.

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SOURCE: SAVILLS