AN indoor golf centre and sports bar could be open in High Wycombe town in time for Christmas after the plans were given the green light.

Wycombe District Council’s Planning Committee approved an application from father-and-son double act Chris and Neil Stretton to launch the American-style sports bar and restaurant in Castle Street.

It will feature an 18-hole mini golf course and five golf simulators, and it has been designed by the architects behind The Shard in London.

Neil, 27, said the Cryers Hill-based family were delighted their plan received the green light and they cannot wait to get started on the construction in hope of opening in time for Christmas.

He said: “We are really excited and everyone I have spoken to is looking forward to it opening, and saying how it’s a great addition to the town and they can’t wait to play golf with their kids etc.

“Once a few things have been signed off, we hope to get in there and start work with the aim of being open in time for the Christmas rush but, failing that, early January.

“My dad and I will be doing a lot of the build work and he, as the older gentleman who is perhaps a little wiser, will be overseeing it but I will be running the bar on a day-to-day basis. I can’t wait.”

The proposals attracted objections and fears about noise and anti-social behaviour from neighbouring residents.

WDC’s planning committee only approved the plan after imposing conditions around noise prevention, including sound-proofing and a double-door lobby on the Castle Street entrance to control any noise.

Mr Stretton added: “We’ve already submitted a detailed sound report and we will be putting in sound-proofing into the ceiling and the double-doors for extra sound protection.

“We have spoken to some of the neighbours and we are keen to work with them, as we are not here to cause them any trouble or have loud noise keeping them up late a night.

“This is a venue run by a local family for the whole family to enjoy.”