Portsmouth City Council seeks new operator for Spinnaker Tower

Spinnaker Tower is a 170-metre landmark observation tower in Portsmouth
Spinnaker Tower is a 170-metre landmark observation tower in Portsmouth (©Spinnaker Tower)

Portsmouth City Council has appointed property agent Colliers to secure a new operator for Spinnaker Tower.

The 170-metre tower, located at the entrance to Portsmouth Harbour, provides panoramic views across the city, the Solent and over to the Isle of Wight.

Visitors travel up the tower in a high-speed lift to reach three viewing decks, one of which features the Sky Walk, where a glass floor offers views 100 metres down.

In addition to the viewing decks, there is a waterfront kitchen and bar at the base of the tower, with further development potential above, as well as a café on View Deck 2.

Opened in 2005, the tower also operates as an events venue, hosting private functions and seasonal events alongside its daily visitor offer.

At its base is Gunwharf Quays, which combines “aspirational” shopping and dining.

“The Spinnaker Tower is not only an architectural icon, but also a proven visitor destination,” says Paul Bugeja, director in Colliers’ Licensed & Leisure team.

“We expect strong interest from a range of operators who will jump at the opportunity to reinvest and unlock the untapped potential to create a unique leisure destination within the south coast’s most recognisable landmark.”

Councillor Steve Pitt, leader of Portsmouth City Council, adds: “The Spinnaker Tower is our city’s beacon, and we are looking to unlock the next chapter for this much-loved landmark. Working with Colliers, we want a new operator who will invest, innovate and deliver an even better experience for residents and visitors.

“We’re opening the door to experienced leisure operators who can bring imagination and vision to one of the UK’s most recognisable waterfront attractions and take it to the next level. The right partner will not only help us grow Portsmouth’s thriving visitor economy but will also ensure it continues to be one of the country’s premier attractions for years to come.”