Currently the M54 from Telford merges with the southbound carriageway of the M6 south of junction 10a, near Wolverhampton.

This means motorists wanting to travel north must leave the motorway network and take other routes to connect with the northbound M6 to continue their journey including the busy A460.

Construction of the new M54-M6 Link Road is expected to take around 22,000 vehicles a day off the A460 as well as ease congestion on the A449 and A5 by separating local traffic from long distance and commuter traffic.

The link road will include a two lane dual carriageway between the M54 at junction 1 and M6 at junction 11, with improved junction arrangements at both.

“We want to provide a road that works for both commuters and the local community living nearby,” said Highways England senior project manager Graham Littlechild.

“Since we chose the preferred route, we have been working with key stakeholders to address concerns raised and design the scheme further. We are now keen to speak to people to see what they think of our plans.”

Sub national transport body Midlands Connect’s director Maria Machancoses described the project as a potential game changer for the Midlands motorway network.

“It will make both short and long distance journeys quicker and less congested, benefiting both the regional and national economy,” she said. “We’re pleased that the project is reaching the consultation stage, where the essential views of residents, businesses and commuters will be heard.”

The public consultation will run for six weeks.

(Photograph: Highways England)