An Investigation of the Sustainability of Crime Prevention in the Built Environment: Impact and Implementation Factors

This case-study investigation (Yin, 2014) examines the long-term sustainability of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) at seven high-rise tower blocks located in Nechells – a district of inner-city Birmingham. Constructed during the 1950s/early 1960s, three decades later major refurbishments included CPTED measures delivered by the Secured by Design (SBD) award incentivisation scheme. However, changes in central government funding caused different grades of CPTED to be used at the two sites. The investigation adopted the 5Is process model of crime prevention to analyse quantitative and qualitative data emanating from the study.

Significant findings can be grouped as follows. First, the potential conflict between security and fire safety requires careful/creative design, rather than compromise; necessity to consult the tenants/residents; and importance of victims’ views. Second, knowledge of crime in high-rise tower blocks. Third, effectiveness of CPTED and SBD approaches; how the quality and durability of the entrance doors to each flat and ground floor communal entrance doors, produced an 89.2 per cent sustainable reduction in burglary over a near quarter century. Fourth, importance of the DOCO/CPTED practitioner role in seizing the once in a 30-year opportunity to get things right. Fifth, value of 5Is as a research tool and means of analysis over a unique 25-year timeframe. Ultimately, this investigation adds to the canon of existing research regarding the effectiveness of CPTED, SBD and as a means of analysis, the 5Is. It demonstrates the benefits of cross-agency partnership working (including with the tenants) and what works in practice at the coalface of practical application. It should also assist local authority and police managers to decide where to deploy resources.