HS2 has been given the final seal of approval by government.

Transport secretary Justine Greening will tell the House of Commons on Tuesday afternoon that the much-opposed 250mph line must be built through Hillingdon, on its way to Birmingham.

The announcement represents a massive blow for local people who had staunchly opposed HS2.

However, the confirmation should at least provide some certainty over the future for homeowners who live near the proposed route adjacent to the Chiltern and Central railway lines and have suffered nearly two years' worth of blight.

Uncertainty remains over the prospect of a spur route to Heathrow Airport, which also threatens communities in Hillingdon village, Hayes and West Drayton.

Lottie Jones, chairman of Ruislip Against HS2, said: "We are not surprised at all. We are just going to step the campaign up a notch.

"Just because the government gave it the go ahead doesn't mean it is going to happen."

Keri Brennan, chairman of Hillingdon Against HS2, said: "It is a sad day for all British taxpayers, it is a classic example of fat cats getting their way at our expense."

And Doreen MacIntyre, chairman of Harefield Against HS2, said: "I'm struggling to see how they could have come to a decision to give it the go ahead based on the evidence available."