The government has revised part of the route for the revolutionary High Speed 2 (HS2) transport network in order to accommodate a new rail freight hub in Leicestershire.

Details of the northern section of the line between Birmingham and Leeds were unveiled earlier this year and MPs raised concerns about the feasibility of the route.

The original plans would have seen the line dissect a proposed strategic rail freight interchange depot next to East Midlands Airport, which has the potential to create 7,000 jobs.

Having taken these issues on board, the authorities have tweaked the drawings so that a tunnel underneath the airport will be extended.

Transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin said: "These changes have the potential to deliver huge economic benefits for the East Midlands on top of the already considerable opportunities HS2 will bring the region."

Last week, the Queen confirmed in her latest speech that new legislation is to be introduced that will make it easier for developers to get started on the first phase of HS2.