NCJ Number
210330
Journal
International Journal of Police Science and Management Volume: 7 Issue: 2 Dated: Summer 2005 Pages: 123-136
Date Published
2005
Length
14 pages
Annotation
This study examined the importance of architectural design to feelings of safety and to declines in crime and nuisance behavior through a comparative analysis of two shopping centers in England.
Abstract
Criminological research has discovered that the design of buildings and their surroundings can have an impact on the levels of crime and nuisance behaviors in the area, as well as on feelings of safety among citizens. The current study compared the local perceptions of two shopping centers in England, the Tricorn built in the 1960s and Gunwharf Quays built in the late 1990s, in terms of citizen perception of crime and feelings of safety around these centers. Research methods included semi-structured interviews with 25 daytime visitors and 25 nighttime visitors of Gunwharf Quays, as well as 5 previous Tricorn stallholders. Additionally, 10 questionnaires were completed by business managers at Gunwharf Quay and researchers analyzed reports from local newspapers. Also interviewed were the key figures involved with the design of the centers and law enforcement in the area. The results suggested that Tricorn was perceived as poorly designed and a magnet for crime and nuisance behavior while Gunwharf Quay was perceived as well designed and maintained. The findings underscore the importance of architectural design to enhance feelings of safety among citizens and to lower crime rates around shopping centers. Several suggestions are offered in terms of the best architectural design components to bolster citizen confidence and reduce crime. Notes, references