A DECISION over the future of Vauxhall's Ellesmere Port plant has not yet been taken, the carmaker has confirmed.

Executives from parent company Stellantis have this week held discussions with UK officials over "different scenarios" for the North Road factory, which have been described as "productive but not conclusive".

It is understood that the carmaker is considering making electric vehicles at the site, which employs around 1,000 people, and expects a "binding commitment" from the Government in the near future.

It is being reported that Stellantis is seeking financial incentives from the Government, which would detemine the fate of the plant, along with commitments on the post-Brexit trade of auto parts including batteries.

A spokesperson for the carmaker said: "We do confirm that we have ongoing discussions on different scenarios for Ellesmere Port with UK authorities at both national and local levels.

"At this stage these discussions are productive but not conclusive.

"We expect an eventual binding commitment by the UK Government in the near future and will act accordingly.

"In the meanwhile no investment decision will be made."

Reacting to the news, Ellesmere Port and Neston MP Justin Madders said: "I am encouraged that discussions are ongoing and that there is still hope that we can secure the future of the plant.

"We will now see if the Government are as ambitious for Ellesmere Port, the car industry and the move to electric vehicles as they claim to be by putting their money where their mouth is."

A Government spokesperson said earlier today: "We are committed to ensuring the UK continues to be one of the best locations in the world for automotive manufacturing, and we’re doing all we can to protect and create jobs, while securing a competitive future for the sector.

"We regularly speak with all automotive companies, including Stellantis but do not comment on ongoing discussions."