Former Woolworths store to reopen in regeneration area

Since the retailer went into administration in 2008, its former branch in The Moor has remained empty, but clothing chain Peacocks is now set to open up in the shop on Thursday, June 24.

Many of the stores in the area, including Debenhams, BHS, Superdrug and Sainsburys, have had refits and refurbishments.

"Public realm" works costing 2.9m, which have involved repaving The Moor in new materials and putting in benches and street furniture, have also been continuing.

The new paving is designed to a "gold route" standard, similar to that used in the Peace Gardens and Bakers Pool.

Sandra Barley, The Moor's centre liaison manager, said: "It has been great to see the public realm investment being mirrored by the shops in the shape of refits and refurbishment work.

"The addition of Peacocks in the former Woolworths building is set to be a fantastic boost for the area as it moves forward following the transference of ownership to Scottish Widows Investment Partnership a few weeks ago."

Ms Barley added that a "major event" to celebrate the transformation of The Moor would be announced in the coming weeks.

Planning consent has also already been granted for a new market and eight large commercial units, which will front onto the pedestrian precinct, and building work is set to begin in the summer.

The new indoor market will have space for 200 modern stalls selling general produce, as well as space for food and cafes, over a total floor area of more than 5,650 sq m (61,000 sq ft).

It will replace Sheffield's run-down Castle Market at the other end of the city centre, which attracts some 85,000 shoppers a week despite many stalls being empty.