We’re delighted to announce that Dorset Council has appointed Willmott Dixon and Milligan in a Regeneration Partnership as it prepares to take the next big step in shaping Weymouth’s future – creating new jobs, homes and cultural opportunities in the heart of the town.
As part of the partnership with Weymouth, 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 build on their experience of partnerships with other coastal towns in the UK, working to attract inward investment and engage with the wider community shaping a deliverable programme that brings forward priority sites and unlocks regeneration across the town.
The proposals aim to transform Weymouth into a thriving coastal destination while supporting Dorset Council’s priorities for economic growth, and stronger communities, protecting Weymouth’s unique heritage while creating sustainable spaces for future generations.
The Council’s full programme of regeneration focuses on several major sites and proposals for growth:
- Weymouth Peninsula: A hotel-led development by Hall & Woodhouse, featuring hospitality, leisure, and improved public spaces around the working harbour.
- North Quay and Weymouth Bowl: Mixed-use developments with new homes and commercial space.
- The Heart of Weymouth Cultural and Visitor Centre: A proposed £1.1 million investment of Government funding to acquire The Rectory on St Thomas Street and transform it into a cultural hub.
- Weymouth University Proposal: Plans for a new Allied Health Professional University are progressing, with funding already allocated for a Dental Faculty.
Regeneration in Weymouth is already underway, with key sites being redeveloped, land acquisition, archaeological works planned, and public spaces improved.
Cllr Richard Biggs, Cabinet Member for Property & Assets and Economic Growth, 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, said:
“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 at 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.”
