Traders bin Madonna ‘flashmob’ plans

PLANS for a Madonna-inspired “flashmob” in the West End have been scrapped after traders branded the move a “waste of time”.It is understood that business owners in the area rubbished plans for the event and are now back in consultation with tram chiefs over more constructive ways to boost the fortunes of ailing businesses in the area.

Traders are in favour of smaller, more localised events highlighting the different shopping sectors in the area rather than an impromptu dance to hits from the Queen of Pop.

The flashmob was first announced in May as part of a contingency plan to revive the area. But traders were less than enthusiastic, instead pleading for more signage to inform shoppers that the district is still very much open for business.

Grant McKeenan, who runs the Copymade shop in West Maitland Street, said: “Instead of spending money on traders, they are just spending it on useless events.

A council spokeswoman said: “We are responding to feedback and a variety of marketing and promotional activities are already under way.”