Purpose

Weymouth
is entering a transformative phase, guided by a bold regeneration strategy that
weaves together heritage, hospitality, housing, skills and renewable energy. This
report sets out the strategic benefits, key risks and recommended next steps
for establishing a long-term Strategic Regeneration Partnership between Dorset
Council and Willmott Dixon, in collaboration with Milligan. The proposed
partnership officers a clear framework for investment, collaboration and
place-led development.

Content

Strategic Partnership - Willmott Dixon, in partnership with
Milligan

 

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 (Interim s151 Officer) to:

 

(i)      Assess the potential added
value of a long-term Strategic Regeneration Partnership with Willmott Dixon, in
partnership with Milligan.

(ii)    Finalise
the assessment of the use of the Pagabo Developer Led Framework and decide on
whether to appoint Wilmott Dixon directly or run a further competition in
accordance with the Framework terms.

(iii)   Award a contract to undertake the commercial masterplan, high level feasibility studies and strategic
business plan for 6 key initial Council-owned development sites up to a value of £250k (plus VAT)
with Willmott Dixon or other supplier, with an option to extend the contract
for further development works if desired.

(iv)   Negotiate
the fee structure for the Partnership and next stages; and

(v)    Implement the necessary governance arrangements to support
the Partnership.

 

Reason
for the decision

 

The decision allows
the Council to clarify
the partnership structure, fee model, and deliverables to determine whether this
collaboration offers added value beyond existing plans and whether it aligns
with the Council’s governance and procurement frameworks. It also provided the Council with a
commercial masterplan, high level feasibility studies and strategic business
plan to start the process of unlocking public and private sector investment.