Carrots, sticks and apples - mechanisms to encourage the use of CPTED

Abstract

This paper discusses various mechanisms that could assist in the promotion of CPTED as an essential and useful crime prevention approach and support its effective implementation at the macro as well as micro level. Mechanisms that could be utilised at a national as well as a local level to encourage or enforce the use of CPTED are examined, such as policies and strategies, certification of buildings and developments, manuals and guideline documents etc. The argument is supported with practical examples that the CSIR has been involved with, including the development of a national CPTED guideline document, a provincial CPTED strategy, municipal CPTED guidelines, a strategy to mainstream CPTED into the core business of a local authority, CPTED guidelines for a large urban renewal project etc. The paper is based on experiences within South Africa, but it also draws on an understanding of international practice. This comparison assists in highlighting the importance of considering the local context when deciding on mechanisms to regulate or guide the use of CPTED and when deciding on a particular CPTED intervention.