Holyhead Market Hall
Mainer Associates was appointed to deliver the BREEAM Refurbishment & Fit-Out (RFO) Assessment and act as BREEAM Accredited Professional (AP) for the transformation of Holyhead Market Hall, a previously derelict Grade II listed building in the heart of Holyhead.
The historic structure had fallen into serious disrepair before being brought back to life by Purcell, who led a comprehensive restoration and adaptive reuse of the site. The reimagined building now serves as a vibrant and sustainable community hub, featuring a public library, event spaces, and multi-use facilities for local residents to meet, learn, and connect.
The project involved a full internal reconfiguration while maintaining the character of the original architecture. Despite significant challenges - including part of the delivery team entering administration during the process - Holyhead Market Hall successfully achieved a BREEAM ‘Good’ rating, a testament to the dedication and collaboration of the project team.
Mainer Associates played a key role in driving sustainability through the complex restoration process, helping to ensure that this cherished local landmark not only survived, but now thrives as a functional and environmentally conscious community space.
Highlights
Client
Purcell
Location
Holyhead, Wales
Specification
Non-Residential Institution
Services
BREEAM
Case Study: Holyhead Market Hall
Client: Isle of Anglesey City Council
Architect: Purcell
Location: Holyhead, Isle of Anglesey
Services: BREEAM Refurbishment & Fit-Out (RFO), BREEAM Accredited Professional (AP)
Certification Achieved: BREEAM ‘Good’
Overview
Holyhead Market Hall, a prominent Grade II listed building in the centre of Holyhead, had fallen into dereliction after years of neglect. The vision to bring it back to life was led by Isle of Anglesey County Council and architect Purcell, with a mission to transform the structure into a sustainable, multi-use space for the local community.
Mainer Associates was appointed to deliver the BREEAM Refurbishment & Fit-Out (RFO) Assessment and act as BREEAM Accredited Professional (AP), ensuring sustainability was integrated into every stage of this challenging heritage restoration project.
Our Role
As the BREEAM Assessor, Mainer Associates guided the design and construction teams through the complexities of restoring a historic structure while meeting modern environmental standards. This included advising on sustainable material choices, energy efficiency, and responsible construction practices in alignment with BREEAM criteria.
The role required ongoing coordination with stakeholders and navigating unforeseen project risks, including part of the delivery team entering administration mid-project. Despite these setbacks, Mainer maintained continuity in the sustainability strategy and helped ensure key BREEAM targets were met.
Project Highlights
Full interior reconfiguration of the historic market hall to support modern uses including a library, event space, and community hub.
Sensitive heritage restoration preserving key architectural features while upgrading environmental performance.
BREEAM ‘Good’ rating achieved, recognising strong sustainability performance across key categories including energy, materials, and management.
Community-focused outcome, delivering long-term social value for Holyhead residents.
Challenges Overcome
Restoration of a decayed and structurally compromised historic building
Adapting listed architecture to modern sustainability standards
Ensuring BREEAM continuity during project team disruption
Outcome
The completed Holyhead Market Hall is a successful example of combining heritage conservation with sustainable design. Mainer Associates' leadership on BREEAM and sustainability helped ensure the building could meet 21st-century environmental expectations while serving the evolving needs of its community.
This project stands as a model for restoring historical buildings with integrity, resilience, and a low environmental footprint.