AN indoor golf centre and sports bar will be a venue for all the family and is “exactly what High Wycombe needs”, the developer believes.

Residents in neighbouring streets have objected to plans for an American-style sports bar and restaurant featuring an 18-hole mini golf course and five golf simulators mooted for Castle Street.

They have raised concerns around increased noise, anti-social behaviour and traffic movements, with one resident also stating that the sports bar could encourage men ‘to abandon their families’ to visit the venue.

Developer Chris Stretton, Managing Director of Windsmeet Electrical Services in Cryers Hill, has moved to allay those concerns and said the idea was inspired by playing mini-golf with his son.

The 58-year-old said: “Everyone we have spoken to say Wycombe is desperate for something like this, it will be a family friendly venue.

“This building has been empty for six years, providing nothing to the community and I can see the potential for this type of establishment.

“It may not be to everyone's liking but we cannot hang back and let this part of the town fall into disrepair.

“We are not a soulless multi-national without a care for local opinion but a local family trying to add a little to the heart of Wycombe.”

Mr Stretton revealed the facility was being designed by the architects behind The Shard in London, with a focus put on ensuring neighbours would not be affected by additional noise.

He said: “I can see where people are coming from but we have no plans to make it a loud music venue.

"We have carried out extensive independent audio survey in and around the area of the bar.

“We will also be installing appropriate noise limiting fittings, doors and electronic monitors to prevent the escape of ambient noise. “Ventilation and extraction will all be on the opposite side of the building to Corporation Street, as will the smoking area.

“We are also going to provide an additional exit on to the High Street for after 11pm on busy nights out to minimise noise on to Castle Street.

“Along with the door staff and CCTV, we believe we can keep disruption to no more than can be expected for an active town centre.”

The proposals are expected to be discussed by Wycombe District Council’s Planning Committee on July 30.