The role of CPTED in post-earthquake Christchurch

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe the contribution that Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) is making to the post-earthquake rebuild of Christchurch, New Zealand. The paper traces the uptake of CPTED in Christchurch pre-earthquake and describes the steps taken to ensure the increasing use of CPTED in the rebuild. Design/methodology/approach – The paper is a case study and discusses the author's experience of working within Christchurch before the earthquake and describes their involvement in the rebuild of Christchurch post-earthquake. Findings – There has been significant process made in incorporating CPTED into the rebuild of Christchurch. A formal mandate to consider CPTED is included in the Central Christchurch Recovery Plan and a range of other initiatives have been established. These are broadening the uptake of CPTED throughout public and commercial rebuild projects and improving local advisory and practitioner capacity. CPTED is being included earlier in planning and design. Originality/value – The Christchurch rebuild may be the most extensive application of CPTED yet. It is hoped that Christchurch's experience can be used as a model for other cities to increase their use of CPTED.