Next phase of £45m shopping centre revamp approved

Gunwharf Quays has been granted planning permission for next phase of £45m investment project

The second phase of plans to give a waterfront shopping centre a £45m revamp has been approved.

Portsmouth City Council granted planning permission for developer Landsec to transform the Marlborough Square area in Gunwharf Quays.

Changes will include enhancements to the entrance tunnel guests use when arriving via Portsmouth Harbour train station.

Phase one of the project, which will see changes to the Avenues section of the centre, is underway and work on phase two is expected to commence later this year.

The approved plans include a new retail space, more seating for guests, and improvements to the bathroom facilities.

They would also see improvements to the buildings’ external aesthetics, shopfronts, public realm and landscaping.

Yvonne Clay, centre director at Gunwharf Quays, said: “This planning consent marks a significant step in our long-term investment in Gunwharf Quays.

"We’re focused on making improvements to every moment our guests spend with us and ensuring we create the perfect environment for our retailers to continue to flourish."

A city council spokesperson said: "The scope of works covers new floorspace, a kiosk, refurbishment and associated new landscaping at the key pedestrian entrance to the site at Marlborough Square.

"This is part of a wider piece of investment and refurbishment work being carried out by the developer, which the council has been supporting."