Case study

£20 million Levelling Up transformation for North Portsmouth

North Portsmouth is the gateway to the city, harbour, and the wider region. Now, over £20 million from the Levelling Up Fund will regenerate this area of the city.

The investment will:

  • develop the longest urban park in the UK
  • refurbish the much-loved Hilsea Lido
  • extend Portsmouth International Port
Aerial photo of North Portsmouth, showing dual carriageway, tennis courts and lidos.

UK’s longest urban park

The Linear Park will:

  • connect the West of Portsmouth to the Eastern edge
  • include enhanced cycling and walking facilities

Investing in Hilsea Lido

The levelling up investment will redevelop the lido to include:

  • good quality changing facilities
  • children’s water play
  • event space
  • spectator areas

Portsmouth International Port

Portsmouth International Port offers more destinations to Europe than any other UK port. Building on this success, the redevelopment will let the port manage an estimated 250,000 extra passengers a year.

The new port terminal will also include:

  • an exclusive cruise lounge
  • a new check-in area
  • a sky garden

With these works passengers will be able to enjoy a modern and accessible port.

Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson, Leader of Portsmouth City Council:

This development is fantastic news for the city, providing employment opportunities and promoting Portsmouth’s offer as the UK’s leading marine and maritime city. We expect the improved facilities to kick start further investment in the city, from hotel capacity to an increase in tourism spending. We are proud of our position as the UK’s most successful local authority owned port, and this new extension will see the port go from strength to strength. 

This investment will attract new visitors, create new jobs, and help level up a significant area of Portsmouth.

Find out more about levelling up.

Published 17 January 2023