Council Orders Removal of Shopfront Shutter Despite Burglary Fears

Oakleigh Cellars, a bottle shop in Melbourne’s east, has lost a tribunal appeal against Monash City Council’s order to remove its external roller shutter. The business installed the black shutter two years ago after suffering a significant burglary shortly after opening. Co-owner Chris Thompson argues the measure is essential for security, citing zero break-ins since installation, and claims internal shutters are structurally impossible without costly renovations. However, the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) upheld the council’s decision, ruling that the solid shutter creates a harsh, unappealing facade that contributes to inactive streetscapes and reduces pedestrian safety. VCAT member Jane Tait emphasized that planning policies aim to avoid dead frontages, which can negatively impact the local economy and community feel. The council advocates for internal or transparent grill shutters to maintain passive surveillance. This case highlights the ongoing tension between individual business security needs and urban planning regulations designed to preserve vibrant, safe public spaces in retail districts.