Willmott Dixon and Milligan to lead regeneration plans in Weymouth

Dorset Council has appointed Willmott Dixon and Milligan to a new regeneration partnership tasked with delivering a commercial masterplan for the coastal town of Weymouth. The agreement marks a major step in the council’s strategy to unlock investment, bring forward key development sites, and support long-term economic growth.

Under the partnership, Willmott Dixon and Milligan will work alongside the council to produce a Strategic Business Case covering six priority locations, alongside other potential opportunities. The work will include feasibility assessments, market research and early-stage engagement with prospective occupiers.

The aim is to create a deliverable programme that transforms underused or strategically located parts of Weymouth into new spaces for housing, jobs, education and culture, while supporting the town’s heritage and appeal as a coastal destination.

Among the sites highlighted in the council’s wider regeneration programme are the Weymouth Peninsula, where a hotel-led development by Hall & Woodhouse is planned; mixed-use schemes at North Quay and the former Weymouth Bowl site; and proposals for a new cultural and visitor centre on St Thomas Street. The latter project has secured £1.1 million of government funding for the acquisition and transformation of The Rectory into a community-facing cultural hub.

Plans are also progressing for a new Allied Health Professional University in Weymouth, with funding already allocated to establish a Dental Faculty, in line with regional education and healthcare priorities.

Cllr Richard Biggs, cabinet member for property, assets and economic growth, said the programme would help deliver “a Weymouth where businesses thrive, families flourish, and visitors fall in love with our stunning coastline and vibrant community.” He added that the approach is “about more than just bricks and mortar—it’s about building a future rooted in opportunity, identity, and pride.”

Willmott Dixon brings experience from similar coastal regeneration partnerships across the UK. David Atkinson, national head of land and development at the company, said the scheme has the potential to deliver “meaningful economic, social and environmental benefits” and contribute to a year-round, sustainable local economy.

Stuart Harris, CEO at Milligan, said the firm’s focus on integrating leisure, culture and commerce into town centre regeneration would help unlock Weymouth’s full potential. The company has worked on a number of coastal regeneration schemes both in the UK and internationally.

Early-stage works are already underway across several parts of Weymouth, including site preparations, archaeological surveys and public realm upgrades. The regeneration partnership is expected to shape investment strategies and delivery plans in the coming months.