The HS2 Growth Taskforce is meeting key figures from Liverpool and the north-west today (January 8th) as it looks to make the economic benefits of the scheme clear. 

Once the project has been completed, travel between London and the north-west will become much quicker, reducing to only 1 hour 36 minutes by 2033. It is also set to boost job creation, regeneration and development.

HS2 is part of a wider investment in the rail network in this part of the country, as significant funding has already been made available for the electrification of many lines, while the Northern Hub programme is also going to be completed. 

Commercial secretary to the Treasury and chair of the HS2 Growth Taskforce Lord Deighton stated the region is fast acquiring a reputation as a "trade hub".

"An estimated 70 per cent of jobs from HS2 are expected to be outside London and the Growth Taskforce is determined to see the benefits of HS2 stretch far and wide," he added.