Specially trained police staff help developer protect future residents and prevent crime

Specially trained staff helped a developer ‘design out crime’ and keep future residents safe ahead of three new social housing developments being built. 

Designing out crime officers, who work within Nottinghamshire Police’s Prevention Hub, specialise in crime prevention through environmental design, focussing on the physical and built environment.  

Their work has helped to maximise security at three new housing developments in the Beeston area (Gayrigg Court, Felton Close and Selside Court) by working closely with the developer right from the initial design stage all the way through to completion. 

They ensured that appropriate security measures, in line with local crime risk, were incorporated into the developments - including robust doors and windows designed to withstand attack methods used by burglars and ‘dusk til’ dawn’ lighting at the front and side of homes. 

It’s just one of many examples of the crime prevention projects our designing out crime officers have been involved in across the force area. 

They also continue to use their expertise to evaluate and make recommendations to address vulnerabilities regarding new housing developments, other buildings such as retail premises, and public open spaces.

The designing out crime officers are part of our Prevention Hub - a collaboration between force departments responsible for developing strategies to prevent crime and disorder throughout the city and county. 

Designing out crime and architectural liaison officer Nick Butler said: “If we’re able to ‘design out crime’ right from the outset of a development, then it not only ensures all aspects reach the highest standards of security, but it can also help to reduce the demand on policing for years to come. 

“A good working relationship with the developer helped ensure that all aspects of security were evaluated and addressed right from the very start. 

“Security was under review throughout the build process and an eagerness to ensure that the site achieved the desired Secured by Design (SBD) certification meant any issues that arose were resolved promptly. 

“We work with architects at the design stages of a development, we will carry out a design visit as the spade goes into the ground, and we will continue to provide further advice and guidance as appropriate until the development is complete. 

“Our work is about making sure the entire layout is as secure as it can be. This also includes giving our advice about improvements such as having clear and direct routes through an area to deter crime. 

“Security considerations were paramount throughout this development, and I’m really pleased with the final outcome.” 

The three housing developments achieved the Secured by Design silver accreditation for their levels of security.

This award ensures all aspects of a development reach the highest standards of security using approved products and specifications.