Many are small, independent businesses – and their owners believe that trade has suffered ever since the bus and tram gates went in because car-borne shoppers have difficulty getting there.

According to the council, the shop vacancy rate has doubled over 17 years. However, other district shopping centres have fared much worse, with Hillsborough well below the average.

By far the worst hit is Stocksbridge, where 27% of units were found to be empty this year. Then came Firth Park, Woodhouse and Darnall. At the other end of the scale Chapeltown, Ecclesall Road, Gleadless Townend and Heeley have seen the fewest vacant shops, says the council survey.

Even so, the council accepts the case for helping traders in Hillsborough.

Shopkeepers "perceive the gates to be a significant trading disadvantage and this affects business confidence and traders' willingness to invest in their businesses," said an officers' report to councillors.

"This lack of confidence in the future of the Hillsborough centre is potentially damaging to the future of retail in the centre."



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