Plans to demolish the YMCA building have left shop owners unsure about the future.

The early 20th century Deansgate building will have affordable flats aimed at young working people built in its place.

But business owners are worried about how the work will impact trade in the area.

Mr Shahzad, the owner of Don Tacos, said: "I was a bit worried when I saw this proposal, three shops have already gone from this row.

"We're thinking about moving out from here, we're down between 30 to 40 per cent in terms of walk-ins.

"When we started in 2016 there was a lot of footfall but after the post office closed and the bus stop was moved that had a huge impact."

A five-storey building was approved on the site by Bolton Council on Monday, the second proposal in two years to be given the green light at the town centre site.

Plans for 40 one-bedroom apartments with space for the youth charity on the ground floor originally offered 23 flats, with more space for activities and retail units on the ground floor when the former plans were approved last year.

Mr Shahzad added: "We're surviving because we have a customer base that we've built up over the last three years and presence online.

"It's a lot of uncertainty at the moment. I'm not sure what's going to happen.

"I can only guess that it will make a negative change, but if there's going to be parking and new shops then it would be good for the area.

Andrew Bovill, a volunteer with BAND charity and a loyal Don Tacos customer, supported the plans, and hoped the new development would help trade in the area.

He said: "I really want to see the town improving, and all power to Bolton Council if this helps pull the place up by its bootstraps.

"They appear to be trying hard with the odds against them, this area needs an injection of something, it's a bit tatty and unloved."