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Post by ianblokes492 on Nov 15, 2010 11:44:15 GMT 1
Hello
I am looking for some help and maybe some lively discussion!
As a student (and non-resident) I am currently undertaking a study of how the built Environment affects crime and the perception of crime.
With Poundbury being founded upon the principle that busy streets lower crime by providing a more visible deterrence. That the more permeability there is the greater use residents will make of walking and cycling. I would be interested in hearing if this is actually the reality?
Are the streets busy after dark? Do you feel that it’s safe to venture out after dark? Is there an active Home/Neighbourhood watch? Does the management role encompass crime prevention? Is there a specific individual responsible for community safety issues?
Please feel free to write to me personally Ianblokes492@hotmail.com or via this board as I would love to her first hand experiences.
Many thanks
Ian
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Post by locksecure on Nov 20, 2010 10:59:16 GMT 1
Basic values and good community spirit keeps a place safe. Having the moral courage to speak out or report if you see something wrong. For goodness sake do not develop any superstores in Poundbury as this will attract all waifs and strays. The youth are obviously occupied within their family units which is great and saves them hanging out around the streets. As Poundburys locksmith I often take the time to drive round and do my own neighbourhood security patrol. So if you see my little white van drove by a little man its only me doing my bit, please feel free to stop and say hello or even a wave.
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Post by ianblokes492 on Nov 27, 2010 13:49:03 GMT 1
I think you're absolutely correct when you state that community spirit is key to a low crime area. The way a place looks and the interactions of neighbours plays an important role in providing'capable guardians' that act as 'eyes on the street'.
Its also important to deter any would be offenders, as the fear of being caught outweighs the potential of reward when it comes to deciding where and when to commit to offences.
Part of this mental balancing act within the potential offender is determining how easy it would be to overcome physical barriers. Would this create a delay that would increase the risk of getting caught for a minimal return on effort?
I'm sure lock secure would endorse the benefits of British Standards locks and bolts as being part of a strong deterrent both for individual properties and Poundbury as a whole. As part of this I am currently researching the design standards for physical security that was given to the builders and designers for phase 1.
Does anyone have any knowledge of the level of security that was required at the initial build phase? How secure are the locks and bolts for your property?
Would lock secure be willing for me to contact them to discuss the standards of locks and fittings that are being repaired or replaced?
Many thanks
Ian
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Post by locksecure on Dec 5, 2010 17:31:05 GMT 1
Absolutley, please feel free to call anytime. You are right Britisih standard locks should be fitted to both front and back doors. Firstly they are good security and secondly they are Police and more importantly Insurance approved. On my website and when meeting customers I always advise them to check their home insurance policies as some companies will not pay out if home owners do not have British Standard locks fitted and the unthinkable happens. Its even worth a phone call to your Insurance company to find out exaclty where you stand. I also agree that there are door lock security issues around Poundbury that I have noticed, and would like to assist in rectifying them problems, however at the same time its a hard thing to approach as I do not want to cold call on people. I have put up my cards in the square on the notice boards but they are taken down not long after? I also thought of posting my cards through letter boxes. The problem I have is, as I am promoting myself as Poundbury's local locksmith my intention is to help rather than annoy residents of which the above may do. (I am open for any suggestions) I am more than happy to visit Poundbury residents to discuss any concerns they may have, I am local and never charge to visit customers who may have concerns. My message to all is simple, "I am an honest man trying to establish a name that everyone knows, trust and can rely on". lock-secure has carried out numerous locksmith work already in the area and those whom I have visited have passed on a good word on my behalf of which I thank you all kindly especially Mr Chris Hext. Customer info: The met police website gives a great example and requirements of home security. You can find this info at www.met.police.uk/crimeprevention/doors.htm I also advise to get other quotes as I feel sure you will not be dissapointed with price or service that I can provide. If any community police officers or representatives would like me to walk round the area and discuss security issues then please do not hesitate to call. Working together to provide a safer secure neighbourhood can only be a good thing. My name is Paul and my website is www.locksmith-dorset.com to find out more about my company and services. I always suggest to use my mobile number for a simple reasonthat I am always contactable 24/7 and also recommend you put it on your mobiles or cut out my ad which you will find in the view from advertiser and put it in your bag, purse or wallet. Simply because by using me you will always save money gaurenteed. Paul 07709 545701 or 01305 781589 Take care all and enjoy the fesitve season. |
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Post by locksecure on Dec 5, 2010 18:13:20 GMT 1
Ian, Just a quick note to state, I was nothing to do with any of the locks fitted on the build stages.
As you will see by my website I am a sole trader who independently rectifys problems that residents may have or inherited.
I do not know for sure but in the early stages of the build maybe the requirements were not as stringent or the importance was lower down the scale I wouldnt like to comment to be honest but am willing to help put things right, good luck with your research.
As I have mentioned the metpolice site is very good but in short, the minimum recommendation on a wooden door is a quality Nightlatch and either a mortice deadlock or sashlock 5L BS (british standard) visable by the BS kitemark. As for Upvc doors there is also a BS requirement. All prices vary due to the various amount of locks there are on the market and this can be discussed individually with residents if they choose to use my services, simply because If required, I like to show people the locks and they can actually see and read the difference in lock quality. I will of course always advise and recommend the minimum what is required, but as with most things the price range is varied from budget to high security especially on the UPVC door locks. You will no doubt come across this on your research.
Anyway I wont bore you any longer with technical stuff if you need me, you should have my number on your mobile???
Kind regards
Paul
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Post by doublem on Feb 16, 2011 14:26:24 GMT 1
Hi Ian - I think from your original post that you are focussed on the effect that the Environment / Built Environment has on levels of crime in an area. In this instance you have isolated Poundbury as a suitable location both from the point of view that any Crime Stats from Dorset Constabulary can be easily accessed from website (also Insp. Les Fry at Dorchester Police Station is relevant Sector Inspector and should be able to help) and perhaps an assumption that as construction work continues any lessons learnt in this respect could be built in. From the pure Crime Prevention perspective, this is possible both by the developers and the self-employed contractors. In addition, the good-citizens look after their own and are more than willing to have their say on matters such as the potential arrival of Waitrose contributing to an increase in crime levels. However, from the Crime Prevention Design perspective, relevant measures should have been implemented at the original design stage and, once an area has been constructed little can be done to address shortcomings. For example, if the layout of a residential cul-de-sac generates disproportionate crime then re-arranging the street furniture or even enhancing street lighting will achieve little but slight reductions - sometimes only demolition and re-building to the correct configuration will do. May I suggest that you talk with a Crime Prevention Design Advisor - your local police should be able to help - or Les Fry if you want to concentrate on Poundbury - and you read 'Space is the Machine' by Hillier. Also I seem to remember that University of London has a Department of the Built Environment. Hope this is of some use. kind Regards - Mike.
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Post by Poundbury on Feb 28, 2011 19:04:16 GMT 1
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Post by ianblokes492 on Nov 2, 2013 16:33:07 GMT 1
It's been several years since I first started this post and wondered if things had changed in the meantime? Has the economic climate reduced the capabilities of bushiness to survive? Are there many void retail properties and has your opinion on safety altered for the better of worse?
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