The City of Casey acknowledges and values the wonderful work of Bk 2 Basics, and the important role they play in supporting vulnerable members of our community.
At the June Council Meeting, Councillors considered a planning application submitted by Bk 2 Basics to continue operating on Vesper Drive in Narre Warren. In their application, Bk 2 Basics provided Council with detailed descriptions of their operation.
An alternative motion was proposed and moved by Councillors, aiming to support Bk 2 Basics in continuing their valuable service to the community. This motion approved a planning permit for the charity, with a number of conditions to ensure that they will operate appropriately in the industrial precinct.
Since moving to its currently location on Vesper Drive in 2019, Bk 2 Basics have significantly grown and expanded their operation into two factory units. Bk 2 Basics identified in their application that they service approximately 7,000 people per week. Vesper Drive is identified as an Industrial 3 Zone, and the surrounding area is home to several industrial businesses.
Following complaints from neighbouring businesses, it was identified that Bk 2 Basics were required to submit a planning permit.
The approved conditions will ensure that Bk 2 Basics are considering important matters related to being in an Industrial Zone. They ensure the community members who access the services delivered by Bk 2 Basics can do so safely.
Another condition, which is also consistent with the information provided by Bk 2 Basics in their planning application, is for all op shop signage to be removed and only allowing charity users on-site with a booking to access op-shop goods. We want to reassure our community that you will still be able to make monetary donations to Bk 2 Basics.
A notice of decision to grant a planning permit has now been issued to Bk 2 Basics. Both the applicant and objectors can appeal this decision at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).