Plans to improve the M6 between Manchester and Birmingham will be set out by the Highways Agency.

Two options are being considered - either to widen the existing motorway or build a new toll road alongside it.

The Highways Agency was asked by government ministers to study options to increase the capacity of the road between Knutsford and Cannock.

The agency will meet local councils, emergency services and other interested groups on Tuesday to discuss the plans.

A Government consultation on plans for a second toll road in the UK received little public backing in July 2005.

Drivers pay to drive along the 27-mile route, formerly known as the Birmingham Northern Relief Road.