The establishment of a Northern Powerhouse has moved "a step closer" after powers to build the second phase of the HS2 rail line were included in the Queen's Speech, according to KPMG's UK head of infrastructure.
Accompanied by the Prince of Wales, the Queen confirmed that a new bill would be brought forward to allow work to start on the latest phase of the massive infrastructure project.
Richard Threlfall of KPMG welcomed the move and stressed that it is a "critical investment" that would allow Britain to "build the infrastructure needed to rebalance our country's economic wealth".
"Today's announcement connects more of our major cities to a high speed rail network, and takes us a step closer to creating a Northern Powerhouse," he added. "The commitment recognises the dismal state of links between the heart of the UK and its Northern cities today.
"This should finally turn the tide and help the North regain its historic prominence in the UK economy.
"Government, local political and business leaders now need to come together and develop the connectivity that HS2 offers into an overall vision for the development of the North. The objective is clear - a vibrant, successful and integrated northern economy that our children will be proud to inherit. Today's announcement brings us an important step closer to that."