Accelerating Weymouth’s regeneration through a Pagabo-enabled partnership
Dorset Council has taken a significant step forward in shaping the future of Weymouth, appointing Willmott Dixon and Milligan through the Developer Led Framework which we manage on behalf of the contracting authority Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne & Wear NHS Foundation Trust, to lead a major regeneration partnership. The programme aims to deliver new jobs, homes, cultural opportunities, and investment across the town centre, helping transform Weymouth into a thriving coastal destination.
Using Pagabo’s compliant and transparent procurement route, the council was able to quickly bring together the expertise needed to accelerate delivery. Willmott Dixon and Milligan will now develop a comprehensive Commercial Masterplan and Strategic Business Case, assessing six key development sites and wider opportunities through feasibility studies, market research, and soft market testing with potential occupiers.
Drawing on extensive experience working with coastal towns across the UK, the partners will focus on unlocking priority sites, attracting inward investment, and shaping a deliverable programme that reflects the aspirations of the community. Public engagement on the proposals is expected to begin in spring 2026, giving residents and businesses the opportunity to contribute to the next phase of Weymouth’s evolution.
Regeneration programme highlights
The wider regeneration strategy includes a series of major projects already underway across the town:
- Weymouth Peninsula: A hotel-led scheme with hospitality, leisure, and new public spaces delivered by Hall & Woodhouse.
- North Quay and Weymouth Bowl: Mixed-use developments providing new homes and commercial uses.
- Heart of Weymouth Cultural and Visitor Centre: A £1.1m Government-funded proposal to transform The Rectory on St Thomas Street into a cultural hub.
- Weymouth University Proposal: Progression of a new Allied Health Professional University, including funding secured for a Dental Faculty.
These projects form part of a coordinated plan to support economic growth, strengthen communities, celebrate heritage, and create sustainable places for future generations.
What our partners say
Jonathan Parker, Development Director at Pagabo, said:
“This partnership demonstrates exactly how a compliant, outcomes-focused procurement route can accelerate regeneration. By bringing the right expertise together early, Dorset Council is able to move forward with clarity, confidence, and pace, ensuring that every decision contributes to a thriving, sustainable future for Weymouth.”
Cllr Richard Biggs, Dorset Council, said:
“This is about creating a Weymouth where businesses thrive, families flourish, and visitors fall in love with our stunning coastline and vibrant community. We’re investing in the heart of Weymouth to unlock its full potential and create spaces that inspire innovation, support local enterprise, and celebrate the town’s unique heritage.”
David Atkinson, Willmott Dixon, said:
“We’re thrilled to support Dorset Council in shaping Weymouth’s next chapter. This partnership will deliver meaningful economic, social, and environmental benefits, attracting investment, supporting local jobs and skills, and creating sustainable spaces for the community.”
Stuart Harris, Milligan, said:
“We’re excited to bring our experience in coastal regeneration to Weymouth. Our focus is on curating places where people want to live, spend time, and invest, and this partnership provides a fantastic opportunity to unlock the town’s full potential.”
Find out more about the Developer Led Framework
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