Dorset Council has appointed Willmott Dixon and Milligan in a new Regeneration Partnership to help shape the next phase of Weymouth's transformation, delivering new jobs, homes, and cultural opportunities in the heart of the town.

As part of the partnership, the two organisations will develop a comprehensive Commercial Masterplan and Strategic Business Case for six key development sites across Weymouth, supported by feasibility reviews, market research, and engagement with potential occupiers through soft market testing.

Building on their experience working with other UK coastal towns, Willmott Dixon and Milligan will focus on attracting inward investment and working closely with the local community to create a deliverable programme that prioritises key regeneration sites and unlocks long-term economic growth for the town.

The proposals aim to transform Weymouth into a thriving coastal destination, balancing the creation of sustainable new developments with the protection of the town’s historic character. The initiative aligns with Dorset Council’s wider priorities for economic growth, community strength, and environmental sustainability.

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The Council's regeneration plans cover several major projects:

• Weymouth Peninsula: A hotel-led scheme by Hall & Woodhouse featuring hospitality, leisure, and enhanced public spaces around the working harbour.

• North Quay and Weymouth Bowl: Mixed-use developments incorporating new homes and commercial space.

• Heart of Weymouth Cultural and Visitor Centre: A £1.1 million Government-backed investment to acquire The Rectory on St Thomas Street and convert it into a new cultural hub.

• Weymouth University Proposal: Ongoing plans for a new Allied Health Professional University, with confirmed funding for a Dental Faculty.

Regeneration work is already progressing across Weymouth, with land acquisitions, archaeological assessments, and public space improvements underway.

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, 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 marks our third partnership with Milligan, working together to turn councils’ ambitions into reality and create town centres that help local communities thrive. 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."