Vernon was established in 1876 as the Royal Navy's Torpedo Branch, also known as the Torpedo School, named after the ship HMS Vernon which served as part of its floating base. It was integral in the D-Day preparations.
After the First World War, HMS Vernon moved ashore, taking over the Gunwharf site where it continued to operate until 1996, when it was split up and moved to different commands.
Portsmouth City Council approved the planning application for the new Gunwharf development and construction work began in 1998.
Three years later in February 2001 the shopping centre opened its doors to the public for the first time – with the Spinnaker Tower opening in 2005.
See pictures below of the transformation of HMS Vernon to Gunwharf Quays.
1. Gunwharf Quays construction
Gunwharf on January 16, 2001. View of the Gunwharf development, taken from the site marketing office. Picture: Ian Hargreaves 010262-3 Photo: The News archive
2. Gunwharf Quays construction
Construction workers lay the concreate floor of the massive underground car park which will serve the Gunwharf development. Picture: The News 992549-1 Photo: The News archive
3. Gunwharf Quays construction
Gunwharf work 13th August 1998. Demolition work begins at the Gunwharf re-developement site in Portsmouth. Picture: Ian Hargreaves 4165-2 Photo: The News archive
4. Gunwharf Quays construction
Building at Wightlinks Gunwharf terminal in Portsmouth. Photo: The News archive