The Impact of Road Layout on Levels of Crime and Fear of Crime

Abstract

The design and layout of the development on which a property is located can have a significant impact upon crime, antisocial behaviour and the fear of crime, and must, therefore, be considered as an important factor in designing out crime. Issues to consider include the layout of the road on which the properties are located (should this be a through road or cul-de-sac?), the level and type of movement into and out of a development (how many access points are there? are these vehicular or pedestrian?) and the level of movement within the development (should there be footpaths within the development and what form will these take?). These factors have the potential to impact upon crimes such as burglary dwelling, burglary other and theft of and from motor vehicles — through the provision of access to a potential target, but also offences such as criminal damage, violent crimes and antisocial behaviour — where the road or footpath itself can provide a suitable location for the offence to take place.