For decades, the monumental market master’s house in Purmerend had a central role in the market life of the city. That role is being revived by the relocation of the house to the other side of the square, where the house gets once again a prominent position. Relocation specialist Bresser recently moved the cultural heritage to the new destination on the beautiful square ‘de Koemarkt’.

The 52-tonne market master’s cottage from 1910 on the corner of the Koemarkt was relocated in one piece for 150 meters to the other corner of the market. The relocation from one side to the other took less than 30 minutes. In the meantime the house was also turned 180 degrees.

Heritage on wheels

Bresser, specialized in refoundation, jacking and relocation, carried out this technical masterpiece on behalf of Attica Vastgoed, which is building a new market hall in the center of Purmerend. The municipal monument has been equipped with a new concrete foundation plate, detached from the old foundation and subsequently jacked up. On 12 July Alderman Eveline Tijmstra (alderman of the City and Monuments), Pieter Dooper (Attica Real Estate) and Henry van Langeveld (Bresser) gave the starting signal for the relocation. The crowded audience could follow the entire journey at a safe distance.

The house was then transported in its entirety by means of transport wagons (SPMTs) from Mammoet to the new prominent place between the small and the large Koemarkt. In this new setting, the market house marks the transition to the second square space for the future market hall. The market master will use the house again and has a good view of both square spaces. In the new situation the house is completely free and is clearly visible.