Shoppers flock to Portsmouth's Gunwharf Quays as centre throws open its doors after coronavirus lockdown

Portsmouth’s retail hub had been out of action since the coronavirus lockdown began more than 11 weeks ago.

But the easing of government measures finally allowed non-essential stores to lift their shutters and welcome shoppers.

And hundreds of people took advantage, with 62 of the destination’s 92 outlets opening.

But it was a different experience for those hitting the stores, with a raft of new safety measures in place to limit numbers and protect people.

A one-way system has been introduced, with marks on the floor to guide visitors. Hand sanitiser stations are dotted throughout and numbers coming into Gunwharf are strictly controlled.

But in spite of all the new precautions, Gunwharf’s boss has insisted shoppers should have nothing to fear – so long as they abide by the rules.

Colin Wilding, senior centre director for Gunwharf, said: ‘People should feel confident shopping at Gunwharf Quays.

‘Our main concern is people’s health and safety. The measures that we have put in place – social distancing, hand sanitisers, flow management and capacity management of the centre – will all stay in place.

‘Clearly we may need to adjust them to make sure that we’re fully protecting our guests as they arrive. But that will remain our main priority over the next few weeks and we look forward to seeing our customers return.’

Among the first to step into Gunwharf was Claire Harper, 31, and son, Harley, seven, who queued outside the Nike Factory Store.

Claire, of North End, said: ‘We’ve been desperate to get to the shops – Harley needs new shoes because he has grown out of them. He has grown out of everything so far. It’s a relief.’

Southsea couple Tony Rothwell and Tina Holland were also in the queue hunting for new sportswear. Tony, 62, said: ‘This is the new world. This is here to stay for quite some time. But as long as people abide by social distancing rules, we’ll be fine.’

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Tina, 46, added they visited Primark in Commercial Road but changed their minds after seeing the length of the queue.

‘There must have been thousands of people there, it was crazy,’ she said.

Speaking of Gunwharf, she added: ‘All the preparation here makes me feel good. It makes me feel confident to come shopping. We have not been able to do it for months. So it’s great to get out of the house.’

It was an exciting day for shop staff too.

Sam Beckett, 25, of Southsea is the assistant manager at the Calvin Klein store. He said: ‘There’s been just so much to do, the shops were just untouched for three months so there was stock coming out of our ears.

‘But I’m quite excited. I have sat around for three months and I haven’t done much. So it’s nice to see people again.’

Anthony Sherwood, 37, of Gosport was one of the first shoppers to leave Gunwharf – with bags full of sports kit, trainers and some Father’s Day gifts.

He said: ‘I’ve missed the shops. I’ve been doing it all online but it just doesn’t feel the same as going to a real shop. It’s been a bit strange today as I’ve had to come in through a maze to get to the shop. But I’m glad they’re open again.’

More stores at Gunwharf are expected to open later this week – the current list of those open is here.

People are urged to check online for shop opening times.

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