12/07/10 - Designing Out Crime

The Secured by Design (SBD) initiative has been running since 1989 and in addition to aspects of design and layout has tested and then endorsed the security products of over 350 companies. And it is not just the security of new homes that have benefited during these 20 years as the scheme also covers refurbished homes, commercial premises and even car parks.

The latest project to be given the seal of approval by the SBD scheme is a residential development at Chester Road, Boldmere, developed and managed by Waterloo Housing Association. By working closely with Thomas Vale Construction and Sutton and Wilkinson Architects the police were able to offer advice on security measures at every stage of the project which included perimeter treatment, access control, car parking provision and appropriate physical security of doors and windows.

Ian Cox, Partnership and Development Director at Thomas Vale Construction comments: “We are delighted to work with all Stakeholders and in particular the Crime Prevention Design Advisors, to ensure our new homes are as safe and secure as possible."

PC Nigel Charlesworth, Crime Prevention Design Advisor (CPDA); “The principles of Secured by Design have been proven to achieve a reduction of crime risk. This is not just a scheme that is in response to high crime levels. A lot of crime, especially burglary, can be opportunistic so by taking simple steps at the first stage of any development you can create a much safer environment for the people who will eventually be living, visiting or working in the building.

“The suggestions we make can be relatively simple. They may include ensuring all car park spaces are overlooked, that lighting is sufficient, that there are no easy access points or that fences, walls or even plants are used to restrict unauthorized access.”

PC Charlesworth continued “Although this scheme is primarily for new developments homeowners can adopt their own ‘Secured by Design approach’ and consider the security of their property, especially during the summer months when levels of burglary can increase as intruders exploit the opportunities provided by open windows and insecure doors.

“Having secured locks on the doors and windows of a house you and your family have lived in for years will go a long way towards preventing a possible burglary.”

For further crime prevention advice log onto www.west-midlands.police.uk.

More information on the Secured by Design initiative can be found at www.securedbydesign.com.