The Queen included two pieces of legislation in her latest speech that will pave the way for work to begin on the High Speed 2 (HS2) rail network.

Speaking yesterday (May 8th), Her Majesty confirmed that one bill will provide legal powers to secure land between London and Birmingham, while the second will give the government scope to issue further funding for the preparatory work.

Detailed plans for the HS2 line were unveiled earlier this year and phase one of the project is expected to be ready by 2026. The northern sections - which will stretch to Manchester and Leeds - will be open by 2032/33.

"Legislation will be introduced to enable the building of the HS2 railway line, providing further opportunities for economic growth in many of Britain's cities," the Queen remarked during her speech.

The hugely impressive plans have already caused controversy, with a number of organisations up and down the UK expressing concern about the route the super-fast trains will take.

However, the High Court recently threw out nine out of ten challenges made against the government, although it did uphold a claim relating to the property compensation consultation that was carried out.