Construction on the controversial HS2 project looks set to begin in the spring after the first phase of the new line was given Royal Assent by the Queen.

The new railway line completed over three years of Parliamentary scrutiny to get the green light.

The High Speed Rail (London – West Midlands) hybrid Bill – essentially the planning application for HS2 – received overwhelming support from MPs.

In the Bill’s third reading in the Commons MPs voted 399 to 42 in favour.

In the Lords, the figures were 386 to 26 in support of the Bill passing.

Transport Secretary Chris Grayling hailed the go-ahead as a “massive boost to the UK’s future economic prosperity” while David Higgins, Chairman of HS2 described the Royal Assent as “monumental.”

He said: “We have a long journey ahead of us to build the railway and secure permission for Phase two to make sure that the full benefits of HS2 are realised.

“Throughout this process HS2 remains committed to mitigating the environmental impacts whilst continuing to engage with each individual community which is making sacrifices to enable a 21st century railway network to be built in Britain." 

Chesham and Amersham MP, Cheryl Gillan, said it was a "sad day." 

She said: "A sad day for all those directly affected by losing their homes/businesses and for all tax payers who will pay through the nose for HS2."