The 36-mile phase 2a route will now be built earlier than originally planned at a cost of £4.5bn.

Contracts have still to be awarded for this part of the route which is expected to create 5,000 construction jobs, with many more in the supply chain.

Successful contractors will deliver two tunnels, 26 cuttings, 17 viaducts and 65 bridges on phase 2a.

Previously HS2 intended to split section 2a into two major civils worth together over £1.6bn. But latest thinking suggests the section will now be split up into seven civils packages.

The ‘Early Civils Work – Package 2’, will be worth £50m and will be awarded through the government’s existing Construction Works and Associated Services framework.

HS2 said this would streamline the procurement process allowing a contract to be awarded shortly.

In addition, the railway will support 140 permanent jobs at its maintenance base near Stone in Staffordshire.

Prime Minister, Boris Johnson said: “Today is a landmark moment in our infrastructure revolution.

“HS2 is the most significant expansion to our national railways in a generation – transforming connectivity between our towns and cities and vastly increasing the capacity of our rail network.

“By proceeding full steam ahead, we are delivering on our commitment to unite and level up the country.

“The construction of Phase 2a will support thousands of jobs and create opportunities for local businesses as we build back better.”

HS2 CEO, Mark Thurston said: “Parliament’s approval for extending HS2 beyond the West Midlands to the North is a clear sign that MPs recognise the enormous potential of this scheme and continue to give their strong support.

“As the first major railway built in the North for over 100 years, HS2 will spur massive economic growth for our towns and cities, help to level up the country, and provide cleaner, greener public transport for millions.”