[Reposted] "We questioned whether the development of the city centre had to be retail-led"

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"London developer Hammerson promised to outline new proposals for the Barker’s Pool, Pinstone Street and Moorhead area this autumn.

"Construction was originally due to have started in 2010 with the first shops opening at the end of last year.

"Linda Cooley, spokeswoman for Sheffield City Centre Residents Action Group, said:

“We questioned whether the development of the city centre had to be retail-led, with prominence given to large retail establishments.

The group feels a city centre that caters for a variety of interests and age groups would support retail growth and establish the city centre as a destination not only for shopping, but also for cultural activities and socialising.”

"Hammerson project director Richard Brown said:

“Hammerson is still continuing talks with John Lewis as an anchor tenant for the scheme, alongside a range of other brands to complement the potential retail mix.

A retail-led scheme has been promoted in the city for many years, and is widely regarded to be essential to boosting the city; currently poorly represented in retailing terms.”