KPMG has announced findings that suggest HS2 could improve capacity, as well as boost the economies of regions it goes through.

Commissioned by HS2 Ltd, the report states the high speed rail will boost Birmingham's city economy by between 2.1 per cent and 4.2 per cent. This figure was given as between 0.8 per cent and 1.7 per cent for Manchester and 1.6 per cent for Leeds. Greater London will improve its economy by 0.5 per cent.

The company's head of infrastructure, building and construction Richard Threlfall said: "It shows the UK will be £15 billion a year better off with HS2, recovering the cost of the scheme within just a few years."

Mr Threlfall also stated HS2 will help bridge the gap between the north and south of the country.

KPMG's findings have been met with approval by other parties in favour of HS2. A spokesman for the Association of Train Operating Companies said the project will deliver improved capacity, as well as potential new rail services that "incremental changes alone" could not achieve.