International Perspectives on Planning for Crime Prevention

Abstract

This chapter presents a review of the different approaches to embedding crime prevention within the planning system of four different countries — Australia, the Netherlands, Scotland and the United Arab Emirates (focusing specifically upon the region of Abu Dhabi). Whilst a review of four countries cannot be considered exhaustive, this does present an attempt to highlight the similarities and differences between these countries and the approach taken in England and Wales, and to consider the challenging of transferring CPTED principles to different countries and cultures. Australia, and specifically New South Wales (NSW) is included for two reasons. The first is that legislation has been enacted which requires new developments to be assessed for crime risk. This bears similarities to the approach adopted in Greater Manchester (England); however, this is state-wide legislation, as opposed to local planning policy. The second reason for including NSW is the means by which this legislation is delivered, which is primarily through the use of private security consultants and private planning companies, with little formal involvement from the police. In a time of financial constraints in England and Wales (as in many countries), when questions are being raised regarding the role and responsibilities of the police, privatisation of specific duties and the associated concerns that this raises regarding legitimacy and professionalism, this model should be considered for its strengths and weaknesses and for its relevance to England and Wales.