A HEALTH food cafe has opened its doors in Bolton despite predictions from an NHS boss that it will attract “undesirables”.

Entrepreneur Oliver Birchall was baffled after his plans to launch the Nutri-Bar health food cafe and takeaway in Chorley Street were objected to by a nearby NHS Diabetes Clinic.

In an email to planning chiefs, Tony Snowden, the general manager of estates and facilities at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, claimed the new cafe would damage the surrounding area.

The letter — which alleged that the nature and opening times of the cafe could attract “undesirables and drug users” — failed to prevent Mr Birchill gaining planning permission in February.

Mr Snowden has now said that his concerns have been addressed and he "fully supports" the venture.

He added: “I congratulate him on opening the store and I’m sure it will be a great success.

“Everything was addressed and I support what he is doing — it is good to see a healthy food venue open up.”

Mr Birchall, who is 21-years-old and from Manchester has now opened the cafe to the public and said he wants to put the issue behind him and move on.

He said: “It was a surprise to find out that the NHS had opposed our planning permission.

“It was a big blow at the time as it put all of our plans on hold.

“Fortunately, all went well and we were given the go-ahead to open our first Nutri Bar in February.

“We have now been open for two weeks and couldn’t be happier with the start we’ve made.

“We’ve had such a positive response from customers and met some really great people — it’s been amazing how helpful customers have been, from writing our menu boards to handing out leaflets and spreading the word to friends, we really appreciate everyone that has helped us out.”

The business, based in a former garage close to David Lloyd Leisure, is selling healthy food such as protein pancakes and granola to local workers, residents and gym users.

Mr Birchall gave up a full-time job to dedicate himself to launching the business with his mother and said they have both been through tough times during the process.

He added: “Having both lived healthy lifestyles for a number of years, we realised that there was nowhere serving fresh, nutritious food on the go — I remember my mum ringing me saying ‘I’ve had a crazy idea, tell me if it’s stupid or not,’ — but I loved it.”

He added: “I couldn’t begin to list the obstacles we have had to face to get to this point as it would be a book’s worth.

“If I could give anyone advice , it would be to find what you love and believe in and no matter what challenges you face you will find a way around them.”