The HS2 project regularly hit the headlines throughout 2013 as the Government pushed on with its plans, outlined in 2012, to build a £45 billion high speed rail link between London the north.

The scheme will see York connected directly to the line via a spur joining the London to Leeds route, with journey times between York and the capital expected to be cut from two hours to as little as 83 minutes.

However, the said spur has attracted local opposition as it is set to run through the outskirts of Church Fenton, near Tadcaster.

Several properties would face demolition but it is claimed many more would be badly affected by the line coming close to their homes.

Those in favour of the scheme argue HS2 will not only improve capacity on over crowded routes, and cut journey times, but as a result will bring business out of the capital and into Yorkshire.

But with a pricetag of £43 billion, at its lowest estimate, coming from the public purse, is it the best solution, and will York reap the benefits.

What do you think? Let us know.