Update letter from The Friends of Exploris Trust:

Dear all

Exploris the only public aquarium and seal sanctuary in Northern Ireland. Its future has been uncertain for the last four months.

On Wednesday evening this week, Ards Borough Council’s Development Committee was to be presented with a business plan to map out the future of Exploris aquarium. There has been a lack of communication from Ards Borough Council following that meeting. Friends of Exploris Trust must assume that the Council has not yet made a firm long-term commitment to Exploris.

There has been a huge amount of public concern over the future of Exploris since Ards Borough Council voted to “close and dispose” of the attraction in September 2013. That decision still stands, although its implementation was delayed. The final outcome will be decided next Wednesday 29 January.

Exploris is a world class aquarium that showcases the natural diversity of Strangford Lough and Northern Ireland, and is dearly loved.

We invite everyone concerned about Exploris to show their support at Ards Borough Council offices, Newtownards, on Wednesday 29 January at 6:30pm (fish fancy dress optional).

Warm regards,

Dr Julia Sigwart
Chair, Friends of Exploris Trust