Mesters’ Market announced it closure several days ago

04:00, 12 Jan 2026Updated 08:54, 12 Jan 2026

Ian Proctor outside Mesters' Market in Leah's Yard

Ian Proctor outside Mesters’ Market in Leah’s Yard(Image: Andrew Dowdeswell / YorkshireLive)

A central store in a flagship Sheffield city centre development has closed.

Mesters’ Market was a key retailer in Leah’s Yard, an industrial development as part of the Sheffield City Council’s Heart of the City regeneration project. The Heart of the City had aimed to kickstart the rejuvenation of a dilapidated city centre after the Covid-19 pandemic, but Mesters’ Market’s closure raises concerns about the viability of small and independent businesses there.

Ian Proctor ran Mesters’ Market, which sold local food produce, artisan sandwiches and coffees, art, gifts and much more. It was one of the first shops to open in Leah’s Yard and occupied one of the largest retail units. It seemed central to the development’s success.

The closure follows the departure of Dream Life Deli, which relocated to Moor Market. Shazad Abadi, owner of the rebranded Besty Tasty, told the Sheffield Star Leah’s Yard was “too quiet”.

Leah’s Yard was described as the “jewel in the crown” of the Heart of the City development. It features various retailers and office space, including Pete McKee’s gallery, Hop Hideout and the La Biblioteka book shop.

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