THE long-term future of Vauxhall's Ellesmere Port plant has been secured, according to reports.

It is understood that an announcement is likely to be made this week – possibly as early as Tuesday – confirming that the North Road factory will produce an electric vehicle.

The plant employs around 800 workers.

Parent company Stellantis have been locked in discussions with ministers for a number of months over the provision of Government support to maintain production in the town.

Earlier this year, the carmaker confirmed that it was considering "different scenarios" for the future of the site, including the potential closure of the factory, adding that discussions with UK officials had been "productive but not conclusive".

It is understood that Stellantis was seeking financial incentives from the Government, along with commitments on the post-Brexit trade of auto parts including batteries, in order to make electric vehicles in Ellesmere Port.