Controversy over proposed part-conversion of terraced house in Grimsby to Chinese herbal clinic

The property in Wellington Street - not everyone is happy with the proposed conversion

A CHINESE herbal clinic could be opening in  Grimsby in the New Year.

Rather than using the synthetically-manufactured drugs favoured in western medicine, the traditional Chinese herbal approach is to make use of flowers, leaves, stalks, seeds and roots, often administered as powers, fluids or capsules.

There is also an emphasis on treating the whole body - so as to strengthen its defence system  -   rather than focusing on individual symptoms.

In the west, doctors have tended to be dismissive of the traditional approach because scientific data about its efficacy is scant.

But the Chinese (and other Asian countries) have been practising it for thousands of years so who is to be certain that it does not work - perhaps where conventional therapies have failed?

The site of the proposed clinic is 338 Wellington Street where Mrs  Yumi Au Yang intends to conduct her business.

At present it is a house, but she has applied to North East Lincolnshire Council for planning consent to change the use of the ground floor.

However, Mrs Au Yang's proposal has met with objections, partly a reflection of antisocial behaviour that is said to have been occurring around the property.

Some of the activity has prompted complaints to the police, the fire brigade and the council. 

Among the objectors is the proprietor of the pharmacy next door.  

The application will be determined, probably by a case officer under delegated powers, either next month or in February.

If consent is granted, it is not known if acupuncture will be among the services offered.