Heinola weighs closing popular bird care centre

Heinola is considering closing its bird care centre, which attracts more than 20,000 visitors a year, Yle reports. The city is assessing the centre’s costs, investment needs and options for raising more money as part of a wider review of its services.

The assessment is due to be completed by the end of 2026. City decision-makers are expected to consider the centre’s future in spring 2027, as part of preparations for the 2028 budget.

Closing the centre is one of the options under genuine consideration, said Liisa Koski-Lukkari, Heinola’s director of wellbeing. The review will also examine what closure would mean for the city, its residents and the care of the birds.

The centre costs more than 400,000 euros a year and is funded mainly by the city. The Ministry of the Environment contributes between 60,000 and 90,000 euros annually. Entry is free, so the centre does not earn revenue from ticket sales.

The Friends of the Bird Park association helps with marketing, supplies and volunteer work, and has also covered veterinary costs. Local businesses have donated food and other supplies.

The centre is Heinola’s second most popular tourist attraction, after the market square, according to a visitor survey last year. Koski-Lukkari said the review would consider its value for nature, wellbeing and tourism, as well as its financial costs. She said the centre accounts for a small share of the city budget.

The centre employs a few permanent staff and also takes on apprentices and trainees. Staff views will be gathered during the review, and the city plans to hold a public meeting before the end of the year. The city says it has made investments required by regulations in recent years and has no major repair needs currently identified.