Our Vision, A Design Guide for Gunwharf Quays

Landsec is preparing a design guide to help inform and shape future improvements at Gunwharf Quays. The design guide will set out the broad objectives, principles and vision for Gunwharf Quays, across a range of areas such as design, landscaping and outdoor spaces, which will help create a plan for future improvements over the short and longer term.  

The design guide will form part of the technical evidence that is used to inform applications for planning permission.   

The Design Guide sets out the following vision for Gunwharf Quays:  

• Create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all visitors.
• Create a best-in-class retail environment to attract contemporary, aspirational and premium brands as part of a mixed retail offer. 
• Improve accessibility through improvements to routes and connections  
• Create an all-day destination with an enhanced and extensive mix of retail, food and beverage and leisure experiences. 
• Create a place that meets the needs of people of all ages, and with different sensory and mobility needs. 
• Increase complimentary uses and enliven quieter areas with activity. 
• Improve the public realm through landscaping, lighting, wayfinding and signage. 
• Reflect and celebrate the unique character of Portsmouth’s maritime heritage in a way that is sympathetic to its historical setting. 
• Create identities for each of the four proposed zones to enhance the unique and genuine character of Gunwharf Quays.

The vision for Gunwharf Quays focuses on transforming the centre, split into four zones, which will each have their own distinct character and architectural language to provide different experiences for visitors, whilst maintaining an overall level of cohesion across the centre that reflects and celebrates Portsmouth's unique history and heritage. Below is a map showing the four zones, these zones include:

The Avenues 

• The design guide proposes to create a high-quality, modern retail environment using glass, and timber cladding detailing, to make the most of the generous height and glazed roof to create a relaxed retail experience. 
• To find out more click here.

The Squares

• This zone includes Central Square, Marlborough Square and City Quay Square, the main entrance points to the centre. These spaces will become more welcoming and accessible for visitors.
• To find out more click here.

The Waterfront

• The Waterfront is unique to Gunwharf Quays and is a space to eat or simply enjoy the iconic view of Spinnaker Tower and Marina environment.
• To find out more click here.

The Wharfs

• The Wharfs includes Canalside and The Plaza.
• The design guide will reflect the naval heritage within the canalside and plaza, focusing on public realm and public art improvements.
• To find out more about our thinking towards the improvements in this zone, click here.

Landsec is seeking the views of interested stakeholders and local people on the draft design guide and feedback and ideas that will help shape the future of Gunwharf Quays to ensure it meets the requirements of visitors and businesses.   

To have your say on our proposals that will inform future improvements to Gunwharf Quays please click here.