After a community feedback period in June and July 2025, the Casey Council officers provided an update on the Draft Structure Plan for Berwick Village at the December council meeting.
According to the feedback, stakeholders and community members largely supported the draft plan, amassing approximately 70 per cent of respondents who backed the draft vision as well as its key directions and actions.
Key themes that were emphasised during the community feedback period was the strong desire to preserve the village’s character and heritage as well as supporting local businesses.
There were also calls for greener spaces and landscaping along with calls for better parking, accessibility and transport infrastructure.
The long term plan outlined in the draft set out a vision to guide how the area would grow and evolve which, in line with the feedback, would include preserving the historic character of Berwick, fostering business growth, bettering transport planning and supporting housing options.
During the meeting, Cr Scott Dowling of Akoonah Park vocalised his support for the developments outlined in the draft plan.
“It was interesting speaking to the residents of Akoonah about the Berwick village area and the expansion and rejuvenation of some areas,” said Cr Dowling.
“The thing that stuck out the most was that 96 per cent of the people we spoke to want to maintain the charm and the heritage overlay that Old Berwick has.
“And I’m pleased to say that’s the way we’re working.”
Officers have also engaged with the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) to confirm state support for the draft structure plan.
DTP has told the council to await the Housing Capacity Assessment tool before finalisation of the draft plan.
The final plan and a request for authorisation of the associated planning scheme amendment will be presented to the Casey Council in March 2026.
