ADMINISTRATORS to an oil refinery which went bust have received over 40 expressions of interest from companies around the world.

The news was described as “very encouraging” as efforts continue to secure the future of the Coryton site in Essex and its depot and marketing offices in Seal Sands in Billingham, which have a total of 60 staff.

Administrators PwC announced earlier this week it had acquired a cargo of oil which will allow refining work to continue.

Energy Minister Charles Hendry yesterday chaired a meeting of politicians, business officials and unions to discuss the future of the refinery.

The Minister said: “We have had another positive meeting at which the joint administrators updated those present on what they have achieved.

“I welcome the progress that the administrators have made. The deal that allowed petrol and diesel to be delivered to forecourts from the refinery was a crucial boost, while the crude oil delivery acquired on Tuesday was important to maintaining refining operations.

“The collaborative approach taken by the workforce and the refinery’s management has also been vital in making these things happen.

“There are critical issues to be resolved in the coming weeks. For the long term, I understand there have been over 40 expressions of interest in Coryton from companies around the world, which is extremely encouraging. Work will now focus on securing a sustainable long-term future for the refinery.”

The site, which supplies 20% of fuel in London and the South East, halted sales after its Swiss owner, Petroplus, placed the refinery in administration, prompting fears of 1,000 job losses.