Refurbishing the Holyhead Breakwater

Holyhead Breakwater was constructed between 1848 and 1873, creating a Harbour of Refuge which can be accessed during all weather conditions and at all states of the tide. The breakwater currently: provides refuge to cruise ships, ferries, fishing vessels and pleasure craft; provides a well-used recreation space for locals and visitors alike; and reduces the risk of coastal flooding for seafront amenities.

The breakwater is deteriorating and at risk of breaching unless some form of intervention is undertaken in the near future. Royal HaskoningDHV were appointed by Isle of Anglesey County Council (IoACC) and Stena Line Ports Ltd (Stena) to investigate and develop a long-term solution to maintain the Grade II* listed structure as a robust coastal defence for the next 100 years.

This paper outlines some of the studies undertaken to develop a viable refurbishment scheme for the breakwater whilst respecting its value as a heritage asset and contribution to Holyhead’s community and sense of place.