Transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin has officially opened the Birmingham headquarters of HS2, signalling the transport system's move towards further construction.

As this section of the system is at the heart of the HS2 network, it expects to employ as many as 1,000 staff, according to the Department for Transport.

Government also heard the final petitions to request changes to HS2 Phase One hybrid Bill, which will see HS2 come much closer to construction.

The staff employed at the HS2 offices in Birmingham will range from engineers who will design the railway and procurement specialists for the project's various requirements.

Mr McLoughlin said: "HS2 will rebalance our economy, helping make the Midlands an 'engine for growth'. "

He continued: "The official opening of the headquarters here in Birmingham is proof that HS2 is already boosting jobs and skill, and will continue to do so as we head towards construction."

Phase One of HS2 between London and the West Midlands hopes to see the creation 14,600 construction jobs alongside thousands of other jobs in operations, maintenance and the development of other HS2 stations across its network.