A High Wycombe pub's revamp plans have been given the green light - with new owners hoping they will "bring it back to its former glory".

The Bootlegger, under the new management of Wells and Co, will now get a refurbishment after Wycombe District Council planning officers said yes to their proposals on February 19.

The "narrow and steep" stairs to the upper level of the Grade II listed Amersham Hill pub - which dates from the mid-19th century and is in the High Wycombe conservation area - will be replaced.

Small changes will be made to the upstairs of the pub, with new toilets added in as well as an office area for staff.

The ground floor toilets will be taken out and replaced by a new kitchen area and pizza counter but an accessible toilet will be created elsewhere.

A raised area of floor at the back of the pub and the dated wooden cladding on the walls will be taken out on the ground floor - exposing the original walls.

The Bootlegger is hoping the "minor" works will help them to provide a better food options - which they say will help "sustain a viable business".

Planning documents submitted on behalf of Wells and Co say: "The company have been custodians of properties that, under other circumstances or in the ownership of other operators, would no longer be public houses; many would have been converted to residential or commercial properties.

"The availability of take-home drink from supermarkets and off-licences and take-away and chilled foods, together with increasing fixed costs and increased tax on beer, has in so many instances accelerated pub closures – some seven public houses are closing each day at present.

"Following the much needed works, The Bootlegger, it is hoped, will be brought back to its former glory and re-establish its popularity within the town."

A number of pubs have already closed in the High Wycombe area in recent years - including the Junction pub on London Road and the Beaconsfield Arms - both of which look likely to become flats.