M6 motorway upgrade 'causing congestion'

Congestion on the M6 around Birmingham is up to three times worse since major roadworks began, according to research.

The Highways Agency's managed motorway scheme is designed to improve traffic flow and the organisation is spending £105m on the M6 work.

Research by the travel company Inrix showed that in April there were three times as many traffic problems on the motorway, compared with before the project began.

It found that at peak times the average speed was just 19mph.

The government said the project would bring long-term benefits, although the Birmingham Chamber of Commerce has said the work is damaging the local economy.

The work around Birmingham is due to be completed in April 2014.