THE delayed inquiry report into the proposed Mersey Gateway was delivered to Transport Secretary Lord Adonis.

Lord Adonis is now under pressure to deliver his verdict ahead of the expected May 6 General Election.

His officials are now studying the planning inspector’s document and should produce a ministerial summary within weeks.

Halton MP Derek Twigg said that the final verdict should be made as quickly as possible.

He said: “I have expressed concerns that the report has been submitted later than expected, having been due in November.

“I and my Merseyside and Cheshire colleagues will now continue to press ministers for a quick and affirmative decisions for this vital infrastructure project for Halton and the wider region.”

The former transport minister said pre-Christmas congestion on the existing, elderly bridge showed the importance of a second crossing.

He said that construction would provide hundreds of jobs, while the boost to the region’s economy would deliver up to 5,000 long-term jobs.

Junior transport minister Sadiq Khan told him: “We have taken on board all your points and the sense of urgency.

“But the recommendations have to be considered carefully.”