Going around High Street in Berwick, safety remained the number one priority, as the central precinct gears up for the second consultation period of the Draft Major Activity Centre Structure Plan on 9 July.
Looking back through May 2025, La Baguette cafe owner Mush Rahaman held a meeting with neighbouring businesses in High Street, where the common concern consensus remained relatively the same.
Through an independent report that gathered responses from social media, direct messages and comments from businesses and residents, as well as polls, public safety and security remained high on the list.
Star News, during a short walk-through of the village in July, heard the same response, with one business staffer saying that “security has become a real issue”.
“Look, I’m not really too sure what the council can do about it, to be honest, but it’s definitely an issue.
“But just security as an overall thing; Berwick seems to be going downhill as a whole, there are shops leaving because they can’t afford the rent, but then again, they’re not the only ones, things are just difficult,” they said.
Speaking to the room of roughly 50 guests back in May, Mush said that Berwick is a place “shaped by rich stories, a remarkable heritage, and a deep sense of pride that we all share”.
He referred to Berwick Village as the suburb’s crown, but also added that running a business in the stretch is “both a privilege and a challenge”.
The report he provided detailed that alongside security, other areas of key priorities included lighting and public CCTV coverage, parking availability and access, as well as a greater emphasis on community events.
There were over 410 responses that were collected for the independent report by Rahaman, where, in reference to the mentioned priorities, recommendations included an expansion to parking (such as staff permits and time limit revisions), holiday decorations such as Christmas, Halloween, and other themed events, and further support for artisan vendors and other small businesses.
Another shopkeeper reflected that their specific area had some trouble, but that it also wasn’t uncommon for the village to experience levels of crime.
Talking about Harry’s Clothing, which has been burgled on multiple occasions, they said that “there’s been trouble here, and something needs to be done”.
“Not just that, though, but I think there should be more pride around the village, and something needs to be done on the actual cleanliness of it.
“I’m sure others have also brought it up, but big events and maybe even market days similar to what they do in Mornington would be a boon,” they said.
The independent report filed by Rahaman was then submitted to the City of Casey, with a public endorsement from the local businesses in the village for consideration by the council.
Looking at the new draft plan, it lists out seven key priorities which are: to preserve the historical charm, fostering business growth and building a vibrant village, improving movement and safety, supporting diverse housing options, elevating design and sense of place, promoting community facilities, and delivering a greener and more climate resilient centre.
The next scheduled community consultation period for the draft plan will take place in High Street between 12pm to 2pm on Wednesday, 9 July.
