The Queen made a royal visit to the city, and the A3(M) had just opened for the first time after construction finished.
See what it was like to live in Portsmouth in 1980 and what happened in that year.
All of these photos are from The News’ archives – what are your memories of Portsmouth in 1980?
MORE RETRO PHOTOS: Commercial Road | How Buckland took shape | Eastney Barracks
9. Life in Portsmouth in 1980
The Gosport Bus Station and Ferry Terminus on May 9 1980. The News PP3277 Photo: The News archive
10. Life in Portsmouth in 1980
A Mini passes the Junction at Gladys Avenue, North End, May 1980.The News PP3267 Photo: The News archive
11. Life in Portsmouth in 1980
Aerial view of the A3M in January 1980. The News PP3725 Photo: The News archive
12. Life in Portsmouth in 1980
Southsea Castle from the hill with the sea and harbour in the background in March 1980. The News PP4137 Photo: The News archive