"'Notice to proceed' marks the formal approval for the project to begin the construction phase...At a time when the construction sector faces uncertainties during the coronavirus outbreak, issuing 'Notice to proceed' provides a vote of confidence in construction companies and the wider supply chain supporting HS2," the Department for Transport (DfT) said in a statement.

The construction of the multi-billion dollar project will begin in line with Public Health England's advice during the outbreak, the DfT added.

The first phase of HS2 will see the line constructed between London and Britain's second biggest city Birmingham. Phase two will take the line further north to Manchester and Leeds.

A notice to proceed has been given to four joint ventures previously awarded the contracts, according to the DfT.

Despite its escalating cost, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson in February gave green light to HS2, the country's biggest infrastructure project since World War II, warning that Britain was being held back by its inadequate infrastructure. Enditem