The shopping centre was built on the former Hadfields' East Hecla steelworks, and before that by the 19th-century Meadow Hall Iron Works.
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.
Take a look back at the first shots of Meadowhall and relive the excitement again.
Want more Sheffield retro? Meadowhall shoppers over the years
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1. A view from a far
The enormous construction of Meadowhall Shopping Centre began November 22, 1988 Photo: Rachael Clegg
2. Hard at work
Meadowhall Shopping Centre, Sheffield, under construction - November 1988 with a Christmas tree on top of the roof to keep the festive cheer up for the construction workers Photo: Martin Smith
3. Aerial view
Aerial view of the land covering the Meadowhall Shopping Complex during its construction Photo: Richardson
4. Behind the scenes tour
Keith Barron is shown around Meadowhall during its construction. Photo: staff