Purpose

This
report proposes a strategic collaboration between Source Galileo and Dorset
Council to shape a transformation and innovation approach to advance the
development of onshore renewable and clean energy projects on council-owned land
and property.

Content

Weymouth
Peninsula Development Proposal

 

(a)      
That
authority be delegated to the Executive Director of Place, in consultation with
the Cabinet Member for Assets, Property and Economic Development and Corporate Director
Finance & Commercial (s151 Officer) interim to:

 

(i)     
Formally
invite Hall & Woodhouse to submit a proposal for a long leasehold
development on the Weymouth Peninsula.

(ii)   
Ensure
the proposal aligns with the Weymouth Town Centre Masterplan, including:

·     Provision of
hospitality and leisure facilities.

·     Delivery of public realm enhancements that
support placemaking and community benefit.

(iii)  
Report
any recommended proposal to the Harbour Advisory Committee, Weymouth Harbour
Consultative Group and Cabinet for approval.

North Quay,
Development

 

(b)       
That
authority be delegated to the Executive Director of Place, in consultation with
the Cabinet Member for Assets, Property and Economic Development and Corporate Director
Finance & Commercial (s151 Officer) interim to:

 

(i)   
Approve
the proposed disposal strategy for the North Quay site, based on a closed or
selective tender process.

(ii)  
Finalise
the tender framework, including developer selection criteria and disposal
conditions.

(iii) Request a further report to Cabinet
outlining the outcome of the process and recommending either a preferred
developer or confirmation that the site will be included in the strategic
partnership proposal.

 

Heart of Weymouth, Cultural and Visitor Centre,
the Rectory, St Thomas
Street

 

(c)          
To
approve the investment of £1.1 million from the Levelling Up Fund towards the
acquisition of The Rectory freehold and that authority be delegated to the
Executive Director of Place, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for
Assets, Property and Economic Development and Corporate Director Finance & Commercial (s151 Officer)
interim to approve and progress with the most appropriate to investment option, subject to:

 

(i)   
a
council review of investment options.

(ii)  the Weymouth Area Development Trust CIC
confirming that it has secured capital funding; and

(iii) submission and satisfactory review of:

·       
Architectural
plans.

·       
Cost
plan and development cashflow.

·       
Full
project programme.

·       
Evidence
of positive pre-planning consultation.

·       
A
viable business case to be produced by Weymouth Area Development Trust
CIC (WADT) for long term community
use, including operational plans, financial forecasts, market need, and a
fundraising strategy.

 

The proposal must demonstrate financial viability, strategic alignment
with Dorset Council’s regeneration objectives, and WADT secured capital funding
before Dorset Council commits its funding from its contribution as part of the
Weymouth Levelling Up Fund (LUF) Regeneration Programme.

 

Reason for the decision

 

To progress key regeneration
opportunities in Weymouth by inviting Hall & Woodhouse to formalise their
interest in a long leasehold development at the Peninsula, and by enabling due
diligence on proposals for North Quay and the Heart of Weymouth Cultural and
Visitor Centre. These steps would ensure alignment with the Council’s
masterplan, tourism strategy, and Levelling Up Fund objectives, while
safeguarding harbour interests and securing financial viability before any
disposal or investment was confirmed.