Protesters gathered outside Oxford Town Hall today in a last-ditch bid to stop the old LMS railway station being dismantled.

City councillors were being recommended to agree to the removal of the Grade II listed building to a railway centre at Quainton, Buckinghamshire.

Direct Action campaigners have occupied the building since May and have persuaded 8,500 people to sign a petition against its loss.

They are fighting to keep the historic building and to stop plans for a new road in Park End Street as a result of the Oxford Transport Strategy.

Among those due to speak to the council's planning committee today were Dr William Filmer Sankey, director of the London Victorian Society, who claims the dismantling of the building will cause "irreparable damage".

Kate Wilson, of the LMS Direct Action group said: "We believe councillors will grant permission for the dismantling today. But we think it will become a bigger national issue yet.

"Once they have given permission to knock the building down, that is when we really start. We will do whatever is necessary."

Troy Whitehouse, who was due to speak to councillors, said: "What is important is that our opinions are voiced. I am going to say that you may not listen to me standing here alone but I have 8,500 people behind me."

Council officers say planning permission for a development behind Oxford Rail Station granted in 1989 and a decision to allow dismantling of the LMS building in 1996, set a precedent for today's decision.

They add that removing the building is essential to achieving the Oxford Transport Strategy.

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