Meadowhall sends new message to Sheffield shoppers over opening amid coronavirus fears

However, the centre will remain open, following the Prime Minister’s announcement that everyone in the UK should avoid non-essential travel and contact with others to curb coronavirus, as the country's death toll hit 55.

A statement from the shopping centre said: “We understand that this is a difficult time, and want to reassure you that the wellbeing of our teams, retailers and customers is our priority.“In line with Government guidance, our centre remains open. The evolving nature of the situation makes some disruption inevitable and we apologise if this causes inconvenience.

“To reassure visitors, we have enhanced our already stringent cleaning protocols and postponed our events schedule.

“The policies and opening times of individual stores will vary - so we always recommend that our customers check directly with retailers prior to setting off.

“Our retailers are working hard to help our local community, and we ask that our visitors shop sensitively and respectfully.

“Our site teams are available to help visitors with any questions they may have.”

Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced new measures yesterday (March 17), urging people to work from home if possible, stop all unnecessary contact and travel, and avoid pubs and restaurants.

Pregnant women, people over the age of 70 and those with certain health conditions should consider the advice "particularly important", he said.

More than 1,500 people have tested positive for the virus in the UK, but the actual number of cases is estimated to be between 35,000 and 50,000.