Most people love it - but the haters have just two words for Meadowhall

The mega-mall has free parking, undercover shops, and lots of them, a food hall and more. But it just turns some people right off.

Star readers gave their views on our Facebook page and fans were keen to describe what they liked about it - but many of the critics could only bring themselves to write two words: ‘Hate it’.

Carole Clarkson chose a different one: ‘Loathe it’.

Elaine Scarrott gave a few details: “Not for me, gets too busy and I feel hot and bothered.”

Caroline Race added: “Loathe it. Worked there as a teenager and can't forget the battle to get some lunch on a weekend and back on the shop floor in time. I avoid it at all costs unless it's absolutely necessary.’

But among the 220 commenters the majority like the place and explained why.

Maureen Downs: “Great in winter. Much better shopping choices than city centre.”

Hazel Kennedy: “Love the convenience of it which is a different thing. All under one roof, shopping not affected by the weather and free parking outside within easy walking distance. What’s not to like?”

Lou Mead: “I love the variety of places to eat. Not so much the queues in the Oasis. But love seeing all the different choices there are. Also, it’s great to go there mid-winter when walking round the city centres is cold and bleak. Meadowhall is always light and bright and cheerful and like others have said very pretty at Christmas.”

Victoria Sigsworth: “I love it. It's a child-friendly place and when I was unable to walk temporarily a good place to visit because of lifts and flat floors.”

Andrew Swales: “I go to Meadowhall every Christmas and other times. I’ve worked on numerous shops in there and managed the food hall refurbishment some years ago. Good place.”

Beau Monk had a more nuanced outlook: “Yeah I love it, it’s good for shopping in bad weather. I prefer to go to the city centre though, better to meet friends and nicer being outside and more stuff to do not everyone wants to shop all day.”