The department stores had a presence in the city for several decades but the doors were closed for the last time in August 2021 at a cost of 299 jobs.
The council is now considering three broad options for the future of the site. These are to retain and reuse the existing building, demolish the building and create a large public space, or demolish the building and create a public space with a smaller building.
Meanwhile, a global sports brand wants to open ‘Sheffield Rules’, a football-based cultural and wellbeing centre in the former Barker’s Pool store - or in a new building on the site.
The future of the site is always a talking point among Sheffielders.
Here are 14 photos that demonstrate the shop’s importance and long history.
1. Cole Brothers, new store, Barkers Pool, Sheffield, 1963 - opening day crowds
Cole Brothers' building in Barker's Pool, Sheffield opened in 1963 and was rebranded as John Lewis in 2002. Photo: JPIMedia
2. Cole's the name
John Cole, one of the store's founders, who lived from 1814 to 1898. Photo: Picture Sheffield
3. An imposing building
Cole Brothers department store, in its original spot on the corner of Fargate and Church Street where Pret A Manger traded most recently until last year, looks extremely grand here in July 1905. The streets are decorated for the Royal visit of King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra. Photo: Picture Sheffield
4. A busy scene
People can be seen going about their business at Coles Corner - as the site is still known today - in November 1952. Photo: Picture Sheffield