Transport links in the West Midlands are set to receive a major boost with the construction of a new bridge.

The Department for Transport has given the green light to the A45 South Bridge in Solihull, which will improve a link that carries over 50,000 vehicles a day.

Funding of £8 million is being provided for the connection, which will directly serve Birmingham International Airport, the National Exhibition Centre, Jaguar Land Rover and other businesses in the area.

Main works are scheduled to commence at the site in January 2015 and the structure is due for completion in August 2016. The route will remain open while construction is in progress.

The bridge will replace the existing 150 year-old link carrying the westbound carriageway of the A45 over the West Coast Main Line.

Transport minister Baroness Kramer said: "This new bridge will reduce congestion and improve safety, and include new pedestrian and cyclist facilities."