Osborne welcomes 'huge boost' from HS2
Chancellor George Osborne said HS2 will be a "huge boost" in the North West and will create thousands of jobs.
The second phase of the HS2 high speed rail network is still subject to a consultation, but the government is proposing building could begin around 2025, with the line opening by 2033.
Osborne spoke to ITV News about the announcement at his visit to Lucchini UK, a Manchester-based manufacturers, which makes train wheels and other specialist items for the railway industry.
Osborne accused of trying to divert HS2 line from Tatton
Chancellor George Osborne has been accused of trying to divert the route the planned high-speed HS2 rail line will take.
Controversial high speed rail link set to boost economy
Plans to extend a high speed rail line to Manchester have been announced by the government