A popular family pub in Prestwood is set to undergo a complete overhaul as the owners prepare for a £1.7 million makeover.

The historic Polecat Inn – which dates back to the 17th century and is Grade II Listed – will get a revamp if plans submitted to Chiltern District Council are given the go-ahead.

Oakman Inns, which has put forward the plans for the pub on Wycombe Road, wants to demolish the current restaurant extension and replace it with a new one, while also making changes to the car park and internal alterations so disabled toilets and baby-changing areas can be added.

The company says the “well-liked” pub suffers with a “lack of good kitchen space and storage and the number of covers available is not sustainable for the business”.

Their plans include a new “contemporary” building which will be linked to the main pub with glass and a new re-sited car park – to replace the currently “inadequate” one - nearer to the main entrance.

Oakman Inns CEO, Peter Borg-Neal, said: “CAMRA suggested that the UK loses around 21 pubs every week, largely because they cannot expand, develop or provide what customers want in the 21st Century.

“Our investment would create 40 jobs, generate an increase for the council in business rates and help to drive the local economy from additional visitors.

“The current owners, Mr and Mrs Whitehouse, are convinced that The Polecat must expand, and it has to grow regarding the breadth of its offer and the number of customers it can accommodate.”

The pub group will put the plans on display at Prestwood Village Hall on January 5 between 2pm and 7pm.

All residents are welcome to view the plans before they go in front of the planning committee at Chiltern District Council on January 11.