The town centre regeneration of Dover has taken a big step forward with Dover District Council appointing Willmott Dixon and Milligan to drive the project forward.
The two companies will now review several council-owned sites in the town centre to bring forward plans for their regeneration as a strategic alliance, facilitated through the Pagabo framework. This will help Dover realise its full potential as a vibrant, modern, and attractive destination in the South East.
As home to Europe’s busiest ferry port, alongside its landmark coastline, rich heritage and medieval castle, Dover has plenty of potential for growth. The alliance aims to realise this opportunity by enhancing Dover as a destination and challenging its public perception as just a place you pass through.
This is a significant milestone in the Council’s vision to revitalise the town centre, creating new opportunities for residents, businesses and visitors. Willmott Dixon and Milligan will now work with Dover District Council on a review that will focus on improving public spaces, increasing town centre living, and bringing together mixed-use developments, including potentially the creation of a public sector hub, which will provide accessible health and public services in the heart of the town.
Previously, Dover District Council’s projects in the town include the award-winning residential development in Leyburne Road, the re-imaging of the historic Maison Dieu (due to open in May), and the revamp of the Market Square with the ‘Bench’ building – a business, education and creative centre - due to complete next year.
Nadeem Aziz, Chief Executive of Dover District Council, said: “Dover has incredible potential, but it has not yet been fully realised. Meaningful regeneration takes time and needs collaboration between the public and private sectors. We are excited to be working with Willmott Dixon and Milligan to help us take the next steps towards a transformational masterplan, blending public and private sector investment to create a thriving town centre.”
With a track record of delivering impactful, sustainable regeneration projects, Willmott Dixon and Milligan will work alongside the Council and key stakeholders to ensure that Dover’s new developments complement its heritage while introducing fresh, forward-thinking urban design and the needs of the community.
David Atkinson, National Head of Land and Development at Willmott Dixon, commented: “We are thrilled to be continuing our partnership with Milligan and working alongside Dover District Council on this ambitious regeneration programme. Dover is uniquely positioned for growth, and we are committed to delivering high-quality, sustainable solutions that will enhance the town centre and benefit the community for generations to come.”
Stuart Harris, Chief Executive at Milligan, added: “Dover’s assets - its coastline, history, and connectivity - make it a prime location for transformation. Working collaboratively with the Council and local stakeholders, we will help shape the next chapter, creating a vibrant town centre that blends public space, residential living, and mixed-use developments. The tourism opportunity at Western Heights has exciting potential to enhance the town’s heritage and tourism offer by introducing something new and very unique.”
This marks a bold step forward in Dover’s long-term regeneration strategy, setting the foundation for a town centre that is both commercially successful and serves the community. As plans take shape, further details on the development sites and proposed projects will be released in due course.
