Precinct shopkeepers worried about losing trade to a giant retail complex could be helped by a music festival.

The Dover Acoustic Festival planned for this summer is seen as just one new idea to help keep customers in the face of the massive St James’ retail and leisure development opening later this year.

The festival would have three different acts playing each day to bring in visitors during July or August to Biggin Street, Cannon Street and Market Square.

The organisers need the necessary permission from local authorities and £2,000 sponsorship and funding from local businesses.

Sandra Malho, owner of the La Salle Verte cafe in Cannon Street, is behind the project with Dover music events promoter Richard Esdale.

Mrs Malho said: “People want the new shopping complex being built in Dover to be a success but the precinct is being left behind.

“This is a tragedy as there are so many good things here.

“We need to invest in it and look at how to bring people into the shops that are already here. A week-long music festival is our idea how to support Dover.

“We want three different bands or performers to play each day, at different parts of the area, and to make it a real celebration of Dover.”

Mr Esdale said: “Our idea is to hold a festival using local musicians, singers and bands in the precinct to try to lift its profile and encourage people to use the businesses and area more.”

Mr Esdale has been behind the use of La Salle Verte as a cabaret wine bar, with live music, since February.

He said: “The wine bar really has had a positive effect. If we can take that outdoors and make this a community event, I’m sure it will be very popular and bring more people to Dover.”

Mr Esdale is executive producer of Dover-based events company JIGintheBOX .

The acoustic festival already has the backing of Dover town and district councillor Peter Wallace.

He said: “Sandra is a great advocate for Dover. Sandra and Richard have already been shortlisted for a People of Dover Business Award because they give so much to help other people.

“Their latest idea is brilliant. It will really help to draw people to Dover and keep them here. As a councillor I’ll give my full support to make this happen.”

Businesses which want to sponsor the event can call Mr Esdale on 07920 255493 or email jiginthebox@hotmail.co.uk.

Companies which donate £100 or more will have their logo on all publicity material.

For further details on this story see today's Dover Mercury newspaper.