Ynys Môn’s largest town continues to benefit from £3.25 million in heritage funding as renovation work to prominent historic buildings along its main shopping street progresses. JM Butchers, a well-known Holyhead business and one of Stanley Street’s longest-standing shops, is the latest to benefit from this regeneration scheme.
As part of the Holyhead Townscape Heritage Initiative, funded by UK Government and the National Lottery Heritage Fund through the Isle of Anglesey County Council, six shopfronts are being restored to their original authentic appearance. The initiative is designed to improve the town centre, attract more visitors, and encourage further investment in the area.
As one of the next businesses to benefit from the scheme, JM Butchers will see its shop front restored to its former glory, complete with original signage and features. For generations, the butchers has served the community with quality Welsh meat and provided local employment. Current co-owner, Josh Merrills first joined the business as an apprentice fifteen years ago, his business partner Justin McGrady joined seven years ago before taking over in 2022. They are both proud to continue its rich tradition as they look to the future.
Josh Merrills said: “The investment will allow us to preserve the shop’s heritage while giving it a fresh new look, and we hope it encourages more people to shop local and support businesses like ours in Holyhead. JM Butchers has always been about quality and community – we started here as apprentices, learnt the trade, and now as owners we’re looking forward to continuing the business’s tradition.”
Cllr Gary Pritchard, Leader of the Isle of Anglesey County Council, added: “This project is a key part of the Council’s ongoing efforts to support Holyhead’s regeneration, and we’re proud to be driving it forward. We’re confident it will have a lasting impact – boosting the economy and strengthening local communities.
“We want to build on Holyhead’s unique identity in a way that benefits residents and local businesses. Our goal is to help create a vibrant, welcoming town centre that reflects Holyhead’s potential and opens the door to new opportunities.”
As work gets underway, JM Butchers and the Council are keen to stress that they and Stanley Street remains open for business as usual. There may be some disruption during the renovation for safety and practical reasons, but arrangements will be put in place so that businesses are supported and can remain open.
