Developers invited to partner with council on regeneration in Weymouth

From today, Monday 7 October, developers are invited to submit formal proposals to work with Dorset Council on developing two key sites in Weymouth. 

The two sites currently being considered for development, subject to planning consent, are North Quay and Weymouth Bowl. Developers are expected to make formal applications to work together with Dorset Council to bring forward proposals for these two prime Weymouth sites.   

North Quay and Weymouth Bowl are the first two of four major sites to be put forward for redevelopment in this initial phase of the council’s flagship investment scheme: Unlocking Weymouth’s Waterfront Economy, made possible by £19.5m government funding package, previously known as Levelling Up Funding.   

Cllr Richard Biggs, Dorset Council’s Cabinet Member for Property & Assets and Economic Growth, said:   

“We have a clear vision for what regeneration in Weymouth might look like and hope that we see some strong, robust bids from developers to help us achieve that goal. We want Weymouth to be the best it can be and choosing the right external team to work alongside us, who can offer the skills and expertise we require, is a very important part of that.   

“The easiest option for us would be to simply sell the sites at their market values which would offer the council a significant injection of income. But we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to bring improvements to Weymouth through high quality, sustainable developments which will stimulate economic growth and bring long-lasting benefits for local people. Any plans that are brought forward must be achievable and realistic.”  

Developers are also invited to attend an open day on 16 October at the Hotel Prince Regent. The open day will be a chance for interested parties to speak to the project team and have tours of the two sites. Registration for this event can be found on the bid portal. 

In 2023 Dorset Council received £19.5m of government funding for regeneration of Weymouth. The bid was based around Weymouth’s need for investment and making the most of one of its biggest assets, its harbour and marina area, currently bordered by a number of car parks.   

Cllr Biggs continued:   

“This is a real milestone moment. Weymouth is already a national and international visitor destination, offering outstanding natural heritage, sea-to-plate dining experiences and an award-winning beach. Breathing new life into the town through regeneration will enhance those qualities and maximise further opportunities for growth.”   

Across the two sites, the council has an aspiration to provide a mix of housing, including affordable homes, together with commercial enterprise opportunities.  

Local people will be asked for their views on how they see these sites being used in the future. Public engagement sessions will take place in the new year.    

Developers have until early November to submit their bids to the council. All applications will go through a rigorous selection process before the council and its partners, including Weymouth Town Council, appoint their preferred firm next Spring.