Avoiding large rear parking courts and un-overlooked spaces, dealing carefully with corner properties and making parking more intuitive all help to reduce low-level crime, according to a new report by the Design Council.
The survey, commissioned by the Home Office and run in collaboration with the University of Huddersfield, coincides with EG’s Building a Better Britain campaign. It highlights design approaches to high-density urban housing developments to tackle crime, disputes and antisocial behaviour.
Elements to avoid include:
? Garages in unusual locations, such as the rear of properties accessed via side lanes or rear access are prone to burglary.
? exposed backs or rear access to properties
? public paths and other access at the rear of properties, or at the side if not overlooked properly
? “dead spaces” which can attract dumping of unwanted goods and lead to antisocial behaviour such as setting fires.
The Design Council said a combination of design quality and well-planned and delivered management and maintenance creates the best outcome for residents.
Lord Henley, minister for crime prevention and antisocial behaviour reduction, said: “This research shows that thoughtful design can play a key role in helping to reduce crime and antisocial behaviour, and make our communities safer. The study will help community groups, planners and developers understand what they need to consider when building new neighbourhoods.”
Click here for more on EG’s Building a better Britain Campaign
annabel.dixon@estatesgazette.com
