Bardenhagens IGA owner, Robert Wragg Snr, said he was fed up with people breaking into his store as well as the family’s cafe across the road.

The latest incident saw thieves attempt to enter the supermarket through the side door about 3.30am on Friday. While they were unsuccessful, Mr Wragg said they caused “significant damage”.

“This is a heritage building, it can’t just be replaced,” he said.

Having operated the family business for six years, Mr Wragg said he has spent about $20,000 on security cameras and seen his insurance excess rise after multiple claims as a result of break-ins.

“We just expect it to happen now, but we shouldn’t have to,” he said.

“People are constantly worried about their security – we are just living in fear and having to fork out for even more security.”

The Lilydale police station was closed down when the previous Labor-Green government made statewide police cuts.

However, Tasmania Police northern district Commander Brett Smith said the Lilydale area was still “actively policed by officers from Newnham with 24 hour coverage provided by Launceston”.

“Tasmania Police is actively investigating the recent incidents in Lilydale. Police urge residents of Lilydale to report any suspicious behaviour in their community to police,” Commander Smith said.

Police Minister Rene Hidding said community safety was the number one priority for Tasmania Police.

“The government understands community concerns regarding the savage cuts to police numbers, which is exactly why we committed to restoring numbers back,” he said.

“We will continue to work with the community on the best strategy moving forward to reduce crime.”