Anglesey County Council has approved a scheme to develop the space watch facility at Breakwater Country Park in Holyhead.
The astronomical project will be located on council-owned land in open countryside.
Breakwater Country Park At Holyhead (Image Google Map)
The proposal forms part of a scientific and educational initiative, led and managed by the Anglesey Astronomical Society in collaboration with the council’s countryside service.
An application had sought to restore and permanently house a 19-inch Newtonian Reflector telescope creating a small facility capable of supporting astronomy outreach, education and scientific observation.
It would “function as a multi-purpose science and education facility supporting astronomy, STEM learning and community engagement,” the plans stated.
It would not, however, operate as an unrestricted walk-in attraction, but access would be controlled through a structured booking and event system.
The observatory would be finished with dark green steel sheets, white metal sheets for the dome, whilst an education building will be finished with timber cladding. It would connect to the access road of the Breakwater Country Park by a boardwalk.
In early 2026 Anglesey Astronomy Society (AAS) was gifted an observatory hand-built in 1999 by the late Robert Smith, an amateur astronomer in Neston on the Wirral.
It comprised a 10.5ft-tall fibreglass dome and a ‘historically significant’ 19-inch Newtonian reflector telescope.
Speaking at the planning and orders committee meeting on Wednesday (September 2) Gavin Malone, for the Astronomical Society, said the project brought an “exceptional opportunity” to provide a permanent, dedicated educational and scientific asset to Holyhead and the wider island.
“In relocating and re-homing this observatory from the Wirral we aim to provide an inspiring facility that connects local schools, youth groups, residents and visitors with astronomy and STEM learning in a controlled dark sky-friendly environment,” he said.
“It will serve as a hub for public outreach, school visits and community star gazing sessions. It will offer young people across Ynys Mon, hands on access, practical science and technology right on their doorstep.
“Recent public astronomy events hosted by this society such as the solar eclipse viewing on Newry Beach, drew towards a thousand local attendees, and clearly demonstrates an immense appetite for accessible science and star-gazing initiatives.
“Located within the educational field of the Breakwater Park, the site naturally complements the park’s ethos of outdoor education and conservation, the structure has a modest footprint, operates quietly, and produces zero light pollution and promotes the natural character of the island, and its area of outstanding natural beauty landscape.”
How The Observatory Might Look (Image IOACC Plans)
Developed in “close collaboration” with the Isle of Anglesey natural landscape team, alongside “generous local industries and community support,” he said it would “deliver a lasting positive legacy” for Holyhead and Ynys Mon, fostering community pride and educational and inspirational eco-tourism.
Head of Development and Planning Rhys Lloyd Jones said the department had received no objections, but had nine letters of support.
The recommendation was to approve. Local member Cllr Glyn Haynes said: “What a fantastic concept this is for Holyhead.
“This is just another classic example of Holyhead leading the way again. What a great addition to the breakwater park.
“We know Jodrell Bank might be closing down shortly so this might be the beginning of something else for Holyhead, who knows.
“I have no hesitation whatsoever in proposing approval of this application. Fantastic.”
Cllr Bob Llewelyn Jones said it was “a very welcome development for Holyhead”.
He said: “Up to now we have kept it as a dark sky area, so I am hoping developers will recognise that, and that outside of the building there will be very little lighting, it is very important.”
Cllr Jeff Evans added: “This application is a no brainer.
“It is a wonderful, a fantastic opportunity for Holyhead….and for those people who will seek to use the facilities for education and learning, be they young or old.”