Phase 2a of HS2, the stretch of the project between the West Midlands and Crewe in Cheshire, has been approved by parliament. According to HS2, Royal Assent for this phase of the scheme means the 58km route will be built earlier than originally planned, and its opening can now be planned to coincide with phase one between London and Birmingham, set for 2029-33. Prime minister Boris Johnson said the approval was a "landmark moment" in the country's "infrastructure revolution". He said: "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 the decision was a "clear sign that MPs recognise the enormous potential" of the scheme. He said: "As the first major railway built in the North for more than 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.As construction starts, this new phase of work will very quickly support 5,000 jobs in the North, with many more in the supply chain, further cementing HS2's critical role in Britain's economic recovery from the pandemic."
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