Discussions have been heated after it was announced the American restaurant chain Hooters might be on their way into Leopold Square.

Several groups for and against the establishment have popped up on the internet.

The groups opposing the restaurant in Sheffield claim the chain "discriminate employees on gender and sex, and promote the objectification of women."

They argue Hooters in Leopold Square: "Is a wrong step in the development of a contemporary and stylish city," and "(...)is likely to change the demographic of the area, impacting negatively upon Leopold Square's growing reputation as one of the most contemporary and sophisticated entertainment developments in Sheffield."

On the social networking site Facebook a member of the group 'Yes to Hooters in Sheffield' has written:

"The misrepresentation of this is incredible - a topless bar? A seedy joint visited by lonely old men? It's nothing like that at all, not even close. I've been to Hooters quite a few times visiting the US. It's a family restaurant, visited by as many men as women and kids in tow. Of course, once the usual n-i-m-b-y crowd heard about it they were probably already starting their campaign and making their cardboard banners."

Another Hooters supporter has commented on the Sheffield Telegraph website:

"This is just a restaurant. The fact the waitresses are scantily clad is just a feature. If people want to see topless women, they can go to Spearmint Rhino. No one is forced to work there, can't people see that this kind of thing is seen as empowering by some women?"

We have asked our panel what they think. Click on the names below to see their opinion.

Ihsan Caillau

Dr Matthew Fliners

Scott Barton

Robin Hughes

Tell us what you think in the comments field below


Read more:

Protest growing against 'sexist' Hooters

Latest Leopold offering 'in best possible taste'

Hundreds give a hoot over saucy new restaurant

Your letters:

Is this what we want in our city?

Plans at odds with 'prestige dining'

Council hoping for alternative to Hooters

This is a threat to square's quality