THE decision about whether to build a Thames Gateway bridge has been delayed once again as the inquiry has been reopened.

After considering a number of reports and applications regarding the bridge, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government Hazel Blears, said she did not feel she was in a position to determine the application and that further information and research needed to be carried out and looked at.

Jacqui Wise from SAY NO to the THAMES GATEWAY BRIDGE group said: "It's fantastic news. It would have been great if they had turned it down, but this is the next best thing."

Plans for a new bridge over the River Thames, linking Thamesmead and Beckton, east London were announced by Transport for London in 2004.

It would consist of six lanes and is part of the regeneration of the Thanes Gateway area.

However, the plans were met with much concern from residents and local MPs and councillors and a public enquiry, which closed in May last year, was launched.