Ports group stays on course for takeover

The UK’s second biggest port operator said today it remained on track for a £780m (€1.1bn) takeover by the owner of Liverpool’s John Lennon Airport.

Mersey Docks & Harbour said talks with Peel Ports – a division of Manchester-based property and transport group Peel Holdings – were continuing with the two parties close to agreeing a structure for both boards to consider.