Controversial plans to build a new Hooters restaurant in Salford Quays have left readers of the Manchester Evening News divided.
It comes after the American food chain was given the green light to open a bar and restaurant in the old Chiquitos building on Capital Quay - despite 91 objections to the plans.
The plans were approved at a licensing committee meeting on Friday, June 10, despite opposition from Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett, an the Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham.
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Female MPs including Rebecca Long-Bailey and Barbara Keeley, alongside the Women's Equality Party, Womanchester and GM4Women have also voiced their opposition to the restaurant which has been branded by some as "misogynistic."
But not everyone is against the proposal, with some Salford resident's welcoming the addition of a new venue instead of 'more flats' and others commenting that 'nobody's forcing the girls to work there.'
A post on the M.E.N's Facebook page appeared to leave readers more split, with some welcoming the idea of a new business to the area, whilst others arguing the venue will "sexualise" women.
Facebook user, Lindsey Reid said: "In the 90s I worked in a club and we went to work in low cut tops short skirts and knee length boots. I earned more in tips than wages. If the girls are happy to work there's no issue. I've eaten in a Hooters its not exactly Spearmint Rhino it was full of families eating.
Gill Hilton wrote: "As long as the girls are safe and happy at work, then there is no problem. Ricky Barber added: "I mean generally at this point any new businesses are good for local economies and as long as anyone working there is happy to work there then what's the problem.
Tracy Ashworth-Golden commented: "Go hooters & go ladies. The girls are not forced to work there, they get paid, they’re not naked or forced to be! I actually believe this is quite empowering for women! We all talk of body positivity these days, what’s more positive then getting a job because your body looks good better than no job no money."
But others said they would boycott the restaurant - which will be allowed to open from 9am to 11.30pm seven days a week, reduced from the 1am opening time originally put forward to the licensing committee.
Facebook user Mel Doyle said: "Despite whether you go there, work there ect or not, what's it's actually doing is cementing the idea that women are only valued by how they look and are there to serve.
"That women provide no other role than to be sexualised. I accept that some women will take advantage of that and think its powerful. It's not. And yes before anyone says, I won't be going there."
Helen Geaves wrote: "Just because no ones forcing them doesn't make it right women will often do anything when they have bills to pay...again women being exploited."
The proposals, which were submitted by Jullian Mills, who has run the Nottingham branch of the chain for 21 years received a total of 91 objections - but plans were still approved.
Labour MP Barbara Keeley tweeted: "The application for a Hooters restaurant in Salford has been approved. I am deeply disappointed by this decision. This negates the good work being done in GM on ending misogyny. There should be no place for this archaic & sexist treatment of women employees."
Following the decision, Mr Mills told the M.E.N: "My team and I are absolutely delighted to be opening in Salford Quays and working in the city. With great food, service and sports, Hooters is a restaurant for everyone. We’re all looking forward to opening the doors and welcoming you all soon."
His lawyer Mr Craig said: "I am so pleased for Julian and his team. I have worked alongside Julian throughout this process; from the application through to last Friday’s hearing: He is a great guy and a fantastic operator.
"Julian is also held in such high regard by all his staff, as was demonstrated by the incredible women that came to the hearing to speak positively about him and their time at Hooters Restaurant in Nottingham, along with the other females that came to lend their support. They were the best advocates in the room."
