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.
13. Gunwharf Quays construction
23rd January 2001. Road signs point the way to the Gunwharf Quays development. Picture: Allan Hutchings 010395-1 Photo: The News archive
14. Gunwharf Quays construction
24th February 2004. Spinnaker Tower under construction at Gunwharf. Picture: Paul Jacobs 040989-2 Photo: The News archive
15. Gunwharf Quays construction
Gunwharf 16th January 2001. View of the Gunwharf developement, taken from the site Marketing Office. Picture: Ian Hargreaves 010262-5 Photo: The News archive
16. HMS Vernon making way for Gunwharf
HMS Vernon before being transformed into Gunwharf Quays. An aerial view of HMS Vernon, Portsmouth on October 5, 1981. The News PP4255 Photo: The News archive