HS2 is the biggest infrastructure project to be built in Britain for decades and is a vital part of the UK government’s long term economic plan.

The scheme presents an excellent opportunity for Scottish businesses large and small to compete for over £10bn worth of contracts on offer.

Scotland’s engineering base is well placed to benefit from the construction phase of the project when it begins in 2017.

Over 160 firms working in a range of sectors from across the country have now signed up to find out more about getting HS2 ready, including companies from Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Dundee and Inverness.

HS2 Ltd Chief Executive, Simon Kirby, said:“Britain’s high speed rail network is a major, long-term project offering a huge opportunity for Scottish companies to develop the necessary staff and skills base that will position them to bid for the billions of pounds worth of contracts available throughout the supply chain during construction.”

UK Transport Minister for HS2 Robert Goodwill, said: “The UK government’s ground-breaking HS2 programme provides a fantastic opportunity for businesses across the UK, including those here in Scotland.

“It will create some of the largest value contracts in UK construction history, creating job opportunities throughout the supply chain.”