Planning permission has been granted for company Urban Splash to renovate the former John Lewis building, a grade II listed site.
The building in Barkers Pool opened in 1963 under the Cole Brothers, later becoming the John Lewis Building in 2002 and closing in 2021.
Urban Splash, which also renovated Park Hill flats, outlined its plans to turn it into a space for offices, cafes, retail and event spaces.
Urban Splash Regeneration Director, Mark Latham, said: “We want to bring this building, this icon, back to its rightful place as a centre piece and focal point of city life.”
The old department store has remained empty since 2021.
Shef-Live spoke to people in Sheffield about what they thought should happen to the building.
Jason Fitzpatrick, 50, a head chef from Rotherham said: “I think it’s a bit of an eyesore to be honest. I think they should basically pull it down.”
The building holds a grade II status due to its dated architecture and brown mosaic panels, many of which will be removed as a part of the renovation.
Zoe Fogg, 19, a Sheffield University student said: “I understand that it’s listed, but with it being empty at present with no plans in place, a renovation would breathe new life into it.”
Local businesses have voiced concern towards the implications of this development.
Robert Mitchell, from take-away Sandwich Division on Division street, said: “Yet another example of a council killing local high street businesses instead of supporting them with the long term development of the city.
“Competition is always going to be around, I would just like to see local small businesses that are already struggling every day on the high street supported and able to work with the council and public to benefit and support one another.”
Despite plans to decrease parking spaces in the attached carpark by 60% local residents remain concerned about increased traffic in the area.
Paul Steade, Chair of Burgess House Residents’ Association said: “Hold ups on this route brings the whole city centre to a standstill within minutes.”
