Design Against Crime: Extending the Reach of Crime Prevention through Environmental Design

Abstract

This paper reviews the contribution of the UK Design Against Crime (DAC) programme to Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) thinking and practice. By focusing on design practice and drawing attention to the role of product, communication and environmental designers, DAC engages a wider group of design professionals in combating crime and fear of crime, harnessing their unique skills to develop creative and often subtle design-led solutions. DAC promotes a holistic, human-centred approach, where the aim is to incorporate crime prevention measures into the design concept without inconveniencing the user or creating the perception of a fortress society. In so doing, it extends the scope of CPTED approaches such as the UK's ‘Secured by Design’ scheme beyond the built environment.