Merri-bek’s Shopping Strip Renewal Policy ends in 2025. It is critically important that this be renewed and refreshed as a first priority in the next council term. Merri-bek needs greater focus and attention on local economic development to:
- support ratepayers access to needed products and services
- optimise and enhance amenity and livability of suburbs and strip shopping
- provide local employment, and
- be a good place to run a business
- recover from the impact of Covid lockdowns
Merri-bek has important cultural and historic commercial districts that should be maintained and strengthened. New business and employment markets should be targeted for Merri-bek. The prevalence of under-used shopfronts across the municipality should be addressed. Merri-bek has significantly under-exploited tourism potential to bring in new customers during traditionally quieter trading periods.
Council has neglected economic development, which should be a factor when considering streetscape renewal, parking, transport and local laws.
Mel Yuan for Brunswick 
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