Dorset Council has appointed Willmott Dixon and Milligan to drive forward the regeneration of Weymouth.
As part of the partnership, Willmott Dixon and Milligan will lead the creation of a comprehensive commercial masterplan and strategic business case assessing six key development sites – alongside other identified opportunities – through feasibility reviews, market research and soft market testing with potential occupiers.
Willmott Dixon and Milligan will try to attract inward investment and engage with the wider community to develop a programme that brings forward priority sites and unlocks regeneration across the town.
The priority sites include: Weymouth Peninsula – a hotel-led development by Hall & Woodhouse, featuring hospitality, leisure and improved public spaces around the harbour; the mixed-use North Quay and Weymouth Bowl developments; and the Heart of Weymouth cultural and visitor centre.
Richard Biggs, cabinet member for property and assets and economic growth at Dorset Council, said: “These proposals are all about creating a Weymouth where businesses thrive, families flourish and visitors fall in love with our stunning coastline and vibrant community. It’s about more than just bricks and mortar – it’s about building a future rooted in opportunity, identity and pride. We’re investing in the heart of Weymouth to unlock its full potential, creating spaces that inspire innovation, support local enterprise and which celebrate the town’s unique heritage and natural beauty.”
David Atkinson, national head of land and development at Willmott Dixon, added: “We’re thrilled by the opportunity to help Dorset Council in shaping Weymouth’s next chapter. It’s a town with incredible heritage, a strong sense of community and huge potential to become one of the South Coast’s most vibrant destinations.
“This would mark our third partnership with Milligan, working together to turn councils’ ambitions into reality and create town centres that help local communities thrive. If approved, this programme will deliver meaningful economic, social and environmental benefits – attracting investment, supporting local jobs and skills, and creating sustainable spaces that serve residents and welcome visitors all year round.”
Stuart Harris, CEO of Milligan, said: “We are very excited by the opportunity to be working with Dorset Council and building on a strong track record of delivering coastal regeneration elsewhere in the UK and Europe. At Milligan, we specialise in curating places that blend leisure, culture, heritage and commerce creating spaces where people want to spend time, live and invest. We’re excited to bring that experience to Weymouth and work with our partners to unlock its full potential.”
