A CAMPAIGNER has hit out at news a controversial plan to run a high-speed train line through the Oxfordshire countryside is set to go ahead.

Finmere resident Mike Kerford-Byrnes spoke out after it was reported the £17bn line from London to Birmingham will be approved by ministers this week.

The route would pass near Finmere, Mixbury, and Chipping Warden, north east of Banbury.

A Network Rail report this weekend ruled out suggestions the existing West Coast Main Line should be upgraded.

It said this would cause too much disruption and not tackle overcrowding.

Mr Kerford-Byrnes said: “I’m very disappointed with this report. The Government has commissioned it because other reports have been too negative.

“I care about this for my children and grandchildren.

“All evidence seems to point towards this being the wrong decision. And it’ll be my descendents who have to pay for it.”

Oxfordshire County Council was among local authorities who opposed the plans, saying it cost too much.

If approved, the HS2 line would be built between 2016 and 2026 and would aim to cut the journey time between London and Birmingham to 49 minutes.

It would be extended to the North West and North East by 2033 at a total cost of £32bn.

A Network Rail spokesman said: “HS2 will not only transform travel between our major cities, it also represents the best solution for solving the looming capacity crunch on the West Coast Main Line.”