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.
13. Portsmouth in the 2000s
Allders in Portsmouth's Commercial Road closed in March 2005 after the department store chain collapsed into administration. The Commercial Road store was subsequently sold to Debenhams, which took over the site and reopened it by April 1, 2005. It then shut in 2020 as a result of Covid and never reopened. Plans to demolish the site and replace it with flats and shops have now been approved. Photo: -
14. Portsmouth in the 2000s
New sea defences have been created along Southsea over the past few years which have resulted in the transformation of much of Southsea. This includes this section of the promenade in front of Southsea Castle where the 'Theatre of the Sea' has been created Photo: Southsea Coastal Defence Scheme
15. Portsmouth in the 2000s
Gunwharf Quays (2001): The former HMS Vernon naval base was redeveloped into a major retail and leisure complex, featuring over 90 stores, restaurants, a cinema, and the iconic Spinnaker Tower. Photo: Shaun Roster
16. Portsmouth in the 2000s
U-Need-Us - Arundel Street, Portsmouth: So many were shocked when this popular family party shop announced its closure in 2019. It was open for more than 94 years. Photo: Chris Moorhouse