Plans for a new bar and flats as part of a major redevelopment of Amersham have been agreed in principle.

The proposals to redevelop the area between Chesham Road and Hill Avenue were emphatically approved by members of Chiltern District Council's planning committee last night.

However, the amount the developers behind the scheme, Coda Planning, need to contribute towards the council's fund for future affordable housing projects still has to be confirmed.

Committee member Cllr John Gladwin, a chartered accountant, said council officials should cast their eyes over the figures for a second time before formal planning approval could be given.

But the principle of the development - to create 31 flats, a restaurant/bar and a retail unit - was agreed by members, meaning building work can start once a satisfactory financial contribution has been agreed.

Cllr Nigel Shepherd said: "This is an attractive development. I will be supporting this proposal - it will be an asset to the town."

Prior to the application being considered, the council received 33 letters of support from residents. The scheme also had the backing of the Amersham Action Group.