Dutch seal rescue centre delays bankruptcy filing by a week

A Dutch seal rescue centre has postponed its planned bankruptcy filing by a week while it explores ways to stay open. The Wadden Sea World Heritage Centre (WEC) said renewed support from donors and movement in discussions with other parties had given it reason to keep talking about its future.

The WEC board announced the delay on Friday. It said discussions with relevant authorities had opened “some room” for further talks, while conversations with funds are under way about whether and how they might contribute.

The centre had announced on 12 October that it would file for bankruptcy within two weeks unless its prospects improved. It has faced serious financial problems after unexpected costs during construction and the opening of its new site.

The province of Groningen and the municipality of Het Hogeland said earlier this month that they would not provide further financial support. The WEC has not said that a rescue has been secured; the extra week is intended to allow it to examine possible ways to continue.