Mike and Eileen Rubery live in the shadow of the M6 Toll

Some 8,000 claims have been received, but concerns have been raised about a report that appears to show noise levels have fallen in some areas.

It was revealed last week the number of vehicles using the road in October was 44,583, down 5% when compared to 2004.

The Highways Agency is using a noise map as one of the methods of deciding the levels of compensation.

Mike and Eileen Rubery, from Sutton Coldfield, said they cannot believe the map shows parts of their property are quieter since the road opened.

'Property devaluation'

Mrs Rubery said: "It can't be quieter, this was only a bridle path before with very few cars passing."

But David Field, from the Highways Agency, said: "The important thing is that we pay people compensation for the depreciation in the value to their properties.

"Clearly if their properties have not been devalued then they are not entitled to compensation. But where they have, then we are willing to pay it."

The claims are now set to be settled in the middle of next year.