A project to reopen a river through High Wycombe would be the "best thing to happen to the town in 50 years", says a councillor, as the first meeting to discuss the plans went ahead. 

In June, the Bucks Free Press announced that Wycombe District Council were considering a "radical" £2 million plan to reopen the River Wye through the town centre. 

The river flows for around 10 and a half miles from West Wycombe down to the River Thames in Bourne End, but much of the river in High Wycombe town centre is underground, with the likes of the Abbey Way flyover built over the top.

Updating cabinet on their plans on Monday evening, Cllr Ron Gaffney, who sits on the improvement and review committee, says a new "task and finish" group has been formed - with Cllr Hugh McCarthy at the helm - and the group met for the first time last week. 

He said the project would "put a smile back on our electorates' faces" amid "all the misery and death in the world at the moment". 

He said: "In my opinion, if this actually takes place, it will be the best thing the town has ever seen in over 50 years.

"I appreciate that finance is a major concern. However, with a bit of ingenuity and thinking outside the box, nothing is beyond us and I am confident that the large majority of our town and indeed our district will be in support." 

He added: "As word begins to spread, I have not heard one adverse comment regarding this project. Even Sir Edward Dashwood has written to me in full support." 

It is hoped that if the river is reopened through High Wycombe, the town will become more attractive as a tourist destination, similar to other towns like Reading.