How Town Planners and Designers Can Help in Fighting Urban Neighbourhood Crime
Town planners and designers can help in fighting Crime in urban areas by manipulating physical environments to deter criminal behaviour, reduce fear of crime and improve quality of life through an urban planning and architectural approach called Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED)
1). By thoughtfully designing spaces, planners and architects increase the perceived risk for offenders and encourage positive community use
2). The CPTED methodology relies on principles aimed at shaping human behaviour through design
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3). Maximizing visibility so that potential offenders feel exposed involves strategic placement of windows, sightlines and lighting so that residents, pedestrians and passing traffic can easily observe an area
4). Guiding the movement of people and limiting unauthorized entry into vulnerable areas is achieved by using design elements like fences, landscaping and single, well-lit entry points
5). Creating boundaries between public and private spaces clearly signals property ownership and discourages unwanted activity by showing that a space is actively cared for and monitored
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6). Ensuring the continuous upkeep of a well-maintained environment deters criminal activity by signalling that the community takes pride in its space and will not tolerate neglect or disorder
7). Trimming trees and bushes eliminates hiding spots and preserves sightlines for natural surveillance
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8). Use ample, continuous lighting around walkways, parking lots and building entryways to increase visibility and a sense of safety
9). Use low fences, planters or paving changes to define boundaries instead of tall, imposing walls that can block views.
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