Gunwharf Quays was officially opened in February 2001, with the Spinnaker Tower not far behind it, transforming the former HMS Vernon site into the leisure destination we know and love today.
Much-loved buildings such as Eastney Swimming Pool, Victoria Swimming Baths and The News Centre have also been demolished – and much of our city centre has changed with the loss of many high street brands and the much-lamented food court in the Cascades.
Southsea has seen a lot of change as a result of the new sea defences and promenade which has been created – with work still ongoing!
Portsmouth FC also celebrated an FA Cup victory, and the covid pandemic sent our city into lockdown.
9. Portsmouth in the 2000s
HMS Vernon making way for Gunwharf Quays: The Spinnaker Tower at Gunwharf Quays, Portsea, Portsmouth, seemingly dwarfed by the high tower crane used to construct the sails 19th April 2004. Picture: Michael Scaddan. 042003-0014 Photo: The News archive
10. Portsmouth in the 2000s
The basement-level food court at the Cascades Shopping Centre in Portsmouth was shut down in 2004. It closed as part of a major £20 million redevelopment of the centre's western end, which saw the removal of the iconic glass elevators to make way for new retail units, now occupied by stores such as Sports Direct and TK Maxx. To many in the city it is gone but never forgotten! Photo: -
11. Portsmouth in the 2000s
Fans celebrate with the players at the FA Cup Pompey parade in 2008. Picture: Malcolm Wells 082235-5585 Photo: The News archive
12. Portsmouth in the 2000s
Burton in Commercial Road was among the shops which shut as a result of the covid pandemic in 2020. It never reopened and is now a Wendy's. Photo: Habibur Rahman