Transport secretary: not opposed to public sector buying the M6 Toll to cut jams

The transport secretary Chris Grayling has told a West Midlands newspaper that he is not opposed to local authorities buying the M6 Toll, which is up for sale.

The Express & Star reported Grayling told them he had "no philosophical objection to the combined authority purchasing the road" after the West Midlands Combined Authority mooted the idea of buying the road - which costs £5.50 for cars to use - in order to alleviate congestion. But they said he asked whether it was better to "take over something already there" or invest in a new project.

The newspaper added that South Staffordshire MP Gavin Williamson has had conversations with ministers about the idea and told them: "A new approach has to be taken to the M6 Toll, which encourages people to use it. This would involve making it accessible and cheaper for people to use."

The M6 Toll has been put up for sale by its owners with a reported price tag in excess of £1bn.