Sajid Javid is reportedly backing the controversial HS2 line linking London, Birmingham, Manchester and Leeds - sparking speculation the project will now go ahead.

The chancellor is reportedly planning to tell Prime Minister Boris Johnson he supports the rail link ahead of a crucial meeting today (Thursday, January 30).

A final decision will not be made this week, but a key meeting involving Transport Secretary Grant Shapps is expected to help shape the decision later.

The Prime Minister has promised an update "very shortly".

(Image: Dan Kitwood/Getty Images)

Sajid Javid is expected to throw his support behind HS2 after looking into Treasury analysis showing the impact on rail capacity and development within each region.

His decision comes after a leaked review on the project suggesting the cost could almost double the £56bn initially planned in 2015.

If plans go ahead, phase 1 of HS2 will run between London and Birmingham from December 2026, while a second Y-shaped phase will launch in two stages.

Phase 2a from the West Midlands to Crewe is due to open in 2027, followed by Phase 2b from Crewe to Manchester, and Birmingham to Leeds, in 2033.

HS2 trains will also serve destinations on conventional lines beyond the new high-speed network, including York, Newcastle, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh.