TRADERS in Chilwell are split over the impact that the tram works have had on their businesses.
Roads have been ripped up and trenches dug in High Road, blocking off traffic coming in from Beeston and elsewhere.
The tram route is due for completion by late next year and while businesses affected by the works will receive compensation for loss of revenue, concerns have deepened about the long-term damage.
Abdul Farid, manager of Beeston General Store and off-licence said sales had fallen dramatically since construction work started.
He said: "The amount of business I get has gone down by nearly half since they started.
"A lot of people would stop around here and cross the road to pop in and that's stopped completely."
"Usually I get 30 customers through the door every day. That's dropped to about 18."
Phillip MacCaulay, who owns John Kirk Hi-Fi, said fewer customers had led to increased pressure to balance his overheads.
"Being a specialist business, with a lot of expensive technology on display, means I have to pay more for insurance and security," he explained.
"It's killed business around here. I started a website for the business that coincided with the tram works but that's going to take time to pick up."
However, for some the changes appear to be having a benefit.
Jessica Noonan, co-owner of crafts supply shop Art Works said she has used the situation to her advantage.
She said: "We heard that works were to take place just over 18 months ago, so we got involved and helped to organise a street party.
"Now more people have started to come in as a result of us putting it on.
"We've had a lot of customers say that it's almost like it's pedestrianised, and they think it's a shame it's not going to be kept that way!"
Stephanie Wilkinson, manager of the Beeston Business Improvement District (BID), said they are working hard to ensure traders receive publicity and support.
She said: "We've been working closely with business owners and meeting them to come up with suggestions as to how we can help.
"The Beeston BID is for the benefit of the businesses and we are aware of the potential impact that these roadworks are going to have.
"With help from the city council and Broxtowe Borough Council we want to ensure businesses are kept safe and so fair it's gone very well."
