SHOPPERS are being tempted back to Clifton shops with cash prizes.
Many traders in Southchurch Drive have experienced a significant drop in sales since the tram works began – with works covering much of the road.
But tram operator NET and Nottingham City Council are offering fortnightly cash prizes totalling £500 to tempt shoppers back to the high street and more than 50 have signed up to the scheme.
John Barlow, owner of 1st4Pets which has been in Southchurch Drive since 2000, said: "It can't do anything but good, so yes, it's a good idea. It is going to help."
The tram works have hit Mr Barlow's shop particularly hard.
He said: "Takings are down on average between 65 and 70 per cent. It is not good. Hopefully when it's done we'll see the benefits.
"I do think that until the roadworks are complete we won't see things get back to normal."
Eric Palmer, owner of Dawn's Cards in Southchurch Drive, said: "It is worth an effort and I am glad they are trying.
"I'm not mocking it, anything to try to help, but we are really struggling.
"Last year we took around £380 a day and today I don't think I even made £200. It's like a ghost town."
Leaflets indicating how to access the shops and where transport links are running are also being distributed in the area in an effort to bring people back to their local shops.
To enter the prize draws, people have to buy goods at stores on Varney Road or Southchurch Drive and fill in a Clifton Cash prize draw entry form.
The forms are held by store assistants or market stall holders.
Winners will be announced online at thetram.net/cliftoncash.
Councillor Jane Urquhart, city council portfolio holder for planning and transport, said: "The council identifies Clifton as an important retail centre and, as we recognise there is some disruption during the tram works, we are keen to assist retailers, including market traders which may be affected.
"Among a number of initiatives we have established, the Clifton Cash fortnightly prize draw will give local residents an extra incentive to shop on Southchurch Drive, including at Varney Road, as well as boosting local businesses during this difficult period.
"When trams are operational at the end of next year, they will provide a fast and frequent service, making Clifton more accessible to shoppers, visitors and businesses, while providing vital links to the city and beyond."
The council will collect forms from shops every fortnight and vouchers – which can be spent in participating shops in the area – will be sent to the winners by recorded post.
Each voucher is worth £5 and winners can receive up to £25 each week.
