For some it’s retail paradise, while for others dragged along to carry the bags it can feel like a form of purgatory – but after 35 years Meadowhall continues to draw in shoppers.
The mega mall – the region’s largest shopping complex – welcomes millions of visitors a year and its distinctive design is a recognisable part of South Yorkshire’s skyline.
Built on the site of a former steelworks, the centre, which opened on 4 September, 1990 employs thousands of people and, a decade ago, was said to contribute almost a fifth of the business rates collected by Sheffield City Council.
Aside from the financial benefit, it represents a landmark with decades of personal memories for shoppers and staff alike – including singer Self Esteem who sported a version of the site’s distinctive domes as part of a Glastonbury outfit.
Centre manager Darren Pearce has worked there for more than three decades.
He started out in 1994 as a “young chartered accountant” and recalled being “absolutely blown away by the place”.
He said: “I’ve been here 31 years, which is quite incredible. I never thought I would stay that long.”
The shopping environment back then was very different – it was an era of no Sunday trading with the centre only opening late one day a week.
Over the years, Mr Pearce said the transformation in retail had been “incredible to see” with the centre undergoing major refurbishment as well as adapting to changing shopping habits.