CONSULTATIONS over a phase of HS2 have been launched – with bosses behind the route saying Warrington residents will 'reap significant benefits'.

The construction of the phase one route between Birmingham and London is well under way, with 7,000 jobs supported through the project so far.

Two new public consultations have now been launched on phase 2b, which includes the Golborne link.

Last month, Warrington Borough Council confirmed it is working on 'world class mitigation' in case it fails to derail the controversial spur between Warrington and Wigan.

The ten-week consultations, which close on December 21, will give communities the opportunity to formally respond to HS2 Ltd's designs and proposed mitigation measures.

The consultations are on the working draft environmental statement and working draft equality impact assessment report.

A consultation event will be held at Rixton with Glazebrook Community Hall, on Manchester Road, on November 14, from 2pm to 8pm.

And another one will take place at Culcheth Sports Club, on Charnock Road, on November 28, from 2pm to 8pm.

Leonie Dubois, HS2's head of consultation and engagement, said: "HS2 is coming to the Warrington and the area will reap significant benefits as a result.

"High speed rail will play a crucial role in rebalancing Britain's economy, driving business growth, stimulating investment and creating jobs right across the country.

"Through the public consultations, we are providing a more detailed account of how we propose to build the railway and minimise its impacts during construction and operation.

"We actively encourage people to have their say on the plans we have published."

Warrington North MP Helen Jones is also urging people to make submissions.

She said: "HS2 have said that feedback will be used to develop their proposals and will help shape the report which will be submitted to Parliament alongside the Hybrid Bill in mid-2020.

"If any changes are to be made, they will only stand a chance of occurring if enough people make their views known through these consultations."

For more information visit hs2.org.uk/phase2b