24 retro photos show late 1980s construction of Meadowhall and its opening in 1990

On September 4, 2026, it marks 36-years since the Meadowhall Shopping Centre first opened to the public. This gallery looks back at its construction to opening its doors

Sheffield's showpiece shopping centre Meadowhall opened on September 4, 1990, welcoming thousands of shoppers into the megamall for the very first time.

It was built on the site of the former Hadfields' East Hecla steelworks, which before that was the base of the 19th-century Meadow Hall Iron Works – from where the area gets its name.

When the centre first opened on September 4, 1990, it was the second largest shopping centre in the UK.

Thousands of people queued to get in on the first day and Bob Geldof performed outside HMV – There was even a police presence to ensure the safety of the bustling crowds.

Excitement at the opening of the regional retail powerhouse was immense following a highly-anticipated 27-month construction period.

Since its opening innumerable stores have come and gone, including a large Sainsbury’s, a Hamleys toy store, Debenhams, a Disney Store, Top Shop, Top Man and Miss Selfridge. But there have been no shortage of replacements over the years, with Sephora, Lego, Pull&Bear, JD Sports and the British luxury fashion brand, Belstaff opening recently.

Not only would it revolutionise South Yorkshire's shopping habits, but the initial £400m investment would put the Steel City on the map for retail and leisure far and wide.

We take a look back at the construction of the popular megamall and in these first photos relive the excitement of that moment in history all over again.