Retro photos show what Sheffield city centre was like 50 years ago in 1970

These pictures taken way back in 1970 show what Sheffield city centre looked like 50 years ago - and how it’s changed since.

By Steve Jones

Published 22nd May 2020, 08:38 GMT

Updated 4th Jun 2020, 11:48 GMT

The photos were taken by Mark Wrigley from Sheffield on his Zenit 3M camera, which was made in the Soviet Union. They show the city centre’s main shopping areas in their former glory as well as the famous Hole in the Road landmark, and the former Top Rank nightclub.

Can you spot anyone you know?

A once-bustling King Street.

1. King Street

A once-bustling King Street. Photo: Mark Wrigley

A steady stream of shoppers during a midweek day on Fargate in 1970.

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A steady stream of shoppers during a midweek day on Fargate in 1970. Photo: Mark Wrigley

Pinstone Street, which is currently being developed as part of the Heart of the City II regeneration programme.

3. Pinstone Street

Pinstone Street, which is currently being developed as part of the Heart of the City II regeneration programme. Photo: Mark Wrigley

Chapel Walk, which Sheffield folk of a certain age will tell you was once the place to be.

4. Chapel Walk

Chapel Walk, which Sheffield folk of a certain age will tell you was once the place to be. Photo: Mark Wrigley