Holyhead’s Empire Complex has been officially reopened following a major £1.3 million refurbishment.
Funded by the UK Government, in partnership with Anglesey County Council and Holyhead Town Council, the project has transformed the complex into one of the largest play centres in North and Mid Wales.
The building was officially reopened earlier by Anna McMorrin MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State in the Wales Office.
Anglesey Council secured and administered the funding as part of its wider Town Centre Regeneration programme, which aims to revitalise key community, cultural and heritage assets, while boosting the local economy.
The complex now features a brand-new play frame designed to welcome increased visitor numbers. A new rear extension provides a party room, kitchen and improved facilities – including a private baby-feeding room. The addition of a sensory room also offers a calm and inclusive space for individuals or groups.
Visitors can also enjoy the refurbished cinema, which now boasts new seating, a modern sound system and screen, and updated décor. In addition, PV solar panels have been installed to reduce energy costs and improve the building’s sustainability.
Anglesey Council Leader and Economic Portfolio Holder, Cllr Gary Pritchard, said:
“This investment is a fantastic example of how working in partnership can deliver real benefits for our communities. The Empire Complex has already become a thriving hub for local families, businesses and visitors, and its success demonstrates the importance of investing in our town centres.”
Holyhead Town Council, the owners and operators of the complex, appointed local construction company, OBR Construction, to deliver the works.
Mayor of Holyhead, Cllr Cadi Evanson, said:
“The Empire Complex is already proving to be a thriving success story for our town. The demand we are seeing here is a clear sign of how important this facility is to the heart of our community. On behalf of Holyhead Town Council, I would like to thank the contractors, architects and county council for their outstanding work in delivering the new extension.
“I’m incredibly proud of our Town Council for their dedication, commitment and vision in making this project possible with the support of UK Government funding. This is a real investment in the future of our town, and it is fantastic to see the results already paying off.”
Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State in the Wales Office, Anna McMorrin MP, said:
“The UK Government is investing directly in communities across Wales to improve local facilities, drive growth and create jobs.
“It is fantastic to see that our funding for the Empire complex is already helping to bring more visitors to Holyhead town centre, and we will continue to deliver regeneration for our local areas right across the country.”
