Pre-planning of our public spaces in accordance with CPTED helps to deter criminal behaviour, reduce fear of crime, and increase public perceptions of safety in our city.
To help people feel safer going through our parks at any time of the day the team design spaces to be fully visible with multiple well-lit and accessible exits, and no dead-ends. The community is also involved in the design process so the space feels more inviting, says Liam.
“It’s important that the community know our spaces are for public use, so we involve them in the design process to create exciting, inviting, and inclusive spaces. Creating a community sense of ownership over our public spaces is an important factor in fostering mutual respect, and a shared sense of responsibility in maintaining the space.
However, CPTED doesn’t stop when we design our public places, as their management and maintenance are also vital.
Our in-house Hāpai Ake Community Wellbeing team monitor our streets to help discourage anti-social behaviour and connect vulnerable people in our community with available support services, says Hāpai Ake supervisor Penoa Tuigamala.
“We’re out there every day, striving to create a calm presence on our streets. It takes a lot of hard work to build relationships and trust in our community, our team are proud to be providing support to make people feel comfortable.”
By focusing on the CPTED philosophy that is recognised in our Pōneke Promise initiative, we’re designing and improving our city spaces so that all residents and visitors can feel safe, included, and supported.
You can read more about the Pōneke Promise on our website.