Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design

It is now well established that Building Design and Urban Planning can adversely impact upon crime. Poorly designed buildings can, amongst other things, conceal entry and exit points of offenders, reduce surveillance of surrounding areas, provide excuses for potential offenders to stray onto private property and provide places for offenders to hide.

Anti Money Laundering and Counter Terrorism Financing

Poorly lit locations can promote opportunities for offending and heighten people’s fear. Lack of consideration about how the purpose and function of one building will impact upon surrounding buildings can create tensions and promote crime.

These rudimentary examples demonstrate why it is important to consider crime and its prevention in the design of new buildings and the re-development of existing premises and areas.

Attempts to prevent crime through modification of the built environment are frequently referred to as Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED).

CHD Partners have developed a specific approach to Crime Risk Assessments that incorporates CPTED and Risk Management Principles.

The following steps are undertaken in our approach to crime risk assessments:

  • Review purpose and function of the site (and associated buildings) and identify potential crime risks linked to purpose and function of the site/buildings
  • Review local crime data
  • Consult critical stakeholders (including architects, landscape architects, police, surrounding residents/ businesses, local government authorities)
  • Conduct site visits (day/night)
  • Review all site plans and relevant documentation (including social plans, site drawings, landscaping plans, lighting plans)
  • Prepare a comprehensive report detailing potential crime risks, possible treatments and crime preventative benefits of the development.

CHD Partners has completed Crime Risk Assessments on mixed Land Use Developments, Retirement Villages, Licensed Premises, Residential Housing and Commercial Facilities.

Through this work we have developed an expansive understanding to Crime Risk Assessments. While the built environment is critical to designing out crime, we also understand the importance of designing in people.

Contact Michael Huggett on 0417 448 507 or via email michael@chdpartners.com.au to discuss Crime Risk Assessments.