Construction on the HS2 high speed rail link has officially begun, but billions have already been spent on preparing the new line by demolishing buildings and clearing sites.

Phase 1 of the development between London and Birmingham is due to open at the end of 2026, with the second phase to Leeds and Manchester scheduled for completion by 2032-33. It is designed to carry trains capable of travelling at 250mph.

In August 2019 BBC transport correspondent Tom Burridge took a look at the work which had been done so far.

Reporter: Tom Burridge, Edited by Tracey Langford