Monumental Dutch market master’s house relocated

For decades, the Market Master’s House in the dutch town Purmerend played a central role in the city’s market life. In July 2018, this historic building was successfully relocated by Bresser to the other side of the Koemarkt, restoring its prominent role in the city center.

This cultural heritage ‘het Marktmeestershuisje’ from 1910 was moved over a distance of 150 meters to the other corner of the market. This impressive building relocation project was completed in less than 30 minutes, during which the building was also carefully rotated into position.

Heritage on wheels

As a specialist in in re-founding, jacking and relocation, Bresser carried out this technical ‘tour de force’ on behalf of Attica Vastgoed, developer of the new market hall in the centre. Prior to the move, the monument was fitted with a new concrete foundation plate, detached from its original foundation, and jacked up to prepare for transport. On 12 July, Alderman Eveline Tijmstra (Alderman of the City and Monuments) gave the startsignal together with Pieter Dooper (Attica Vastgoed) and Henry van Langeveld (Bresser). People could follow the relocation at a safe distance.

The 52-ton stone house was transported over a distance of 150 meters using self-propelled modular transporters (SPMTs) to the new destination. In the new setting, the market house marks the transition to the second square space for the future market hall. The market master will again use the house and has a view of both squares. In the new situation, the house is completely free and is more visible.

In its new location, the hous once again serves its original function and offers clear views of both market squares. The relocation not only improves the visibility but also supports the preservation of cultural heritage in Purmerend, ensuring the historic landmark remains part of the urban landscape for future generations.