High quality engineering across North Wales

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Our history

Founded in 1959, we remain a privately owned company based in the heart of Anglesey, operating throughout North Wales. Our core values are evident in all our projects and maintaining our reputation is imperative.

The company was founded in 1959 by William Hughes. The business comprised land drainage before small civil engineering works involving sewage connections and septic tank installations were undertaken together with expansion into general plant hire. William Hughes died in 1969, aged 48, leaving his three sons to progress the family business.
1959 - 1970
The business now specialised in all aspects of pipe-laying, surface water drainage, mains water and foul drainage for both private customers and public utilities. We also saw the first entire drainage scheme carried out for Valley Rural District Council in 1973.
1970 - 1980
A further period of consolidation sees the Company embark on larger projects. By the end of 1980, the first £1 million drainage contract had been successfully completed for Anglesey County Council.
1980 - 1990
The Company completes more sophisticated and complex projects involving major in-situ concrete structures. Emergence of partnering arrangements with major clients involves target costs, cost-plus and many newer forms of contract. Administration at head office and on site is computerised.
1990 - 2000
Third generation influences are incorporated whilst knowledge and experience is acknowledged and modern technologies embraced. Development of the workforce into a highly skilled and professional team, ensuring and maintaining continued reputation of reliability.
1990 - 2000
Formalise commitment to quality by gaining accreditation to BS EN ISO 9001:2008 through BSi Management Systems affirming that the service provided is professional and consistently reliable.
2000 - 2010
Formalise commitment to health, safety and the environment by gaining accreditation to BS OHSAS 18001 and BS EN ISO 14001 through BSi Management Systems ensuring our operations are thoroughly prepared, our workforce is always protected and environmental impact is minimised. Ensure client satisfaction and renewed framework contracts.
2010 - 2020
Ensure ongoing consistency in our services and demonstrate excellence in reservoir and in-river working. Continue to invest in environmental improvements ensuring our carbon production is minimised across the business. Welcome the fourth generation into the family business.
2020 - Present
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From the archive (Emyr, Bermo, David, Dic Mona, Les bach, Gwilym). Seven people stand side by side outdoors behind a pile of gravel, some holding shovels, with construction materials and a rocky hillside in the background.

Why work with us?

We offer a personalised service that has been adapted to meet the specific needs of our customers.

  • Experienced & knowledgeable team
  • High quality and health & safety standards
  • Pro-active approach ensuring effective solutions
  • Great feedback every time

Our team

Our success is built on the strength and stability of our people. We are proud to have a highly skilled and long-serving team whose professionalism, dedication, and technical expertise form the foundation of our reputation.

Many of our employees have been with the company for decades, reflecting our commitment to fostering loyalty, respect, and continuous development. Together, our team shares a collective pride in delivering excellence and maintaining the values that define our organisation.

Construction workers lay a path

Our responsibility as a company

We aim to provide a high quality service that satisfies the needs of our clients within a safe and sustainable environment. We always engage with the communities affected by our work and offer bilingual communication. Whenever possible, we offer community support in order to leave a lasting legacy within those communities.

We are committed to the ongoing training and professional development of our staff, ensuring our team continues to uphold the highest industry standards, maintain technical excellence and adapt to the evolving needs of the industry.

Training and development are central to how we work. We continually invest in our people through accredited industry courses, safety training, and apprenticeships. This commitment ensures that our teams remain skilled, motivated, and capable of delivering complex projects to the highest standards.

The Welsh language is an integral part of who we are. At William Hughes (Civil Engineering) Ltd, we take pride in using Welsh and English across our operations — from workplace communication to community engagement — reflecting our deep roots in North Wales and our respect for local culture.

We take pride in supporting the communities where we live and work. Through regular charitable donations, sponsorships, and local initiatives, we contribute to causes that make a real difference across Anglesey and North Wales.

Safeguarding our environment is a priority. Accredited to ISO 14001, our management system ensures continual development and a commitment to preserving our precious and valued surroundings by lowering carbon emissions, conserving natural resources and reducing waste.

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A clear lake bordered by grassy hills, a road with a fence runs alongside, and trees line the horizon under a partly cloudy blue sky.

Our values

  • Quality: We take pride in doing things right, first time.
  • Safety: Our workforce, third parties and the public come first in everything we do.
  • Integrity: We build relationships based on honesty and trust.
  • Sustainability: We work responsibly to protect our local environment.
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