Residents have been receiving anonymous letters asking them to object – and then to support – plans for a new Chinese takeaway in west Hull.
An application to change the use of 167 Chanterlands Avenue – formerly home to Tulip Estate Agents and before that a green grocer – into a takeaway has been submitted to Hull City Council.
Last week, a "concerned local resident" started posting letters through residents doors urging them to object to the application.
In the letter, which was posted to the Love Chanterlands Avenue Facebook page, they wrote: "Let's face it, no one will starve – Chants Ave already has 13 businesses selling a wide range of takeaway food and drink, six other cafes or restaurants (one a pub) and five supermarkets selling, amongst other things, sandwiches, drinks etc.
The writer also said applications to open a takeaway have been "turned down" in the past due to "local opposition".
The same residents then received another anonymous letter from a "local resident" on November 15 urging them to "support" a "proposed independent family business".
How do you solve a problem like Goddard Avenue?
They also indicated the "authentic" Chinese takeaway would open in the new year if approved.
They wrote: "As a local resident, I was deeply disappointed to receive a letter on my doorstep yesterday which encouraged objections to the proposal for the opening of a new hot food outlet at 167 Chanterlands Avenue.
"Please join me in encouraging this new business venture, which would raise the profile of the Avenue and provide a welcome alternative to the increasing number of less interesting commercial properties.
"Please don't allow others to stifle new and creative initiative – let's welcome with enthusiasm".
Should a Chinese takeaway take over the empty Chanterlands Avenue shop?
The writer then listed responses to "several issues" which the writer said had been raised in the previous letter.
The council would not allow a new venture causing noise or odour pollution.
Few Chinese Takeaways stay open until the early hours.
Cooked properly, Chinese food can be very healthy.
Many people responding to the post argued they would rather see the empty shop used than stand derelict.
Others criticised one neighbours attempts to encourage people to object to the plans.
To view the planning application, search for 17/01306/FULL on Hull City Council's planning portal.