Part I - Other Considerations - Richmond Valley Council

Richmond Valley Development Control Plan 2012(2) Suggested Application of CPTED Principles(a) Natural SurveillanceAvoid Blind Corners—'Blind corners' or concealed areas make people feeluneasy and unsafe. Not knowing 'what is around the next corner' candiscourage genuine users of a space to use and maximise it.‣ Avoid blind corners in pathways, stairwells, hallways and car parks.‣ Pathways should be direct. All barriers along pathways should bepermeable (see through) including landscaping, fencing etc.‣ Consider the installation of mirrors to allow users to see ahead of themand around corners.‣ Install glass panels in stairwells where appropriate.(b) Communal/Public AreasProvide natural surveillance for communal and public areas Naturalsurveillance of communal and public areas serves two main purposes:‣ Makes legitimate users of a space feel safe as they 'are not alone' in asecluded area. There is always the potential for someone to 'help' ifthere are any problems.‣ Deters illegitimate users as their presence in and misuse of the spacewill be rapidly noticed. A ‘positive feedback’ effect is created as peoplefeel safer using the area encouraging additional use.To achieve this:‣ Position active uses or habitable rooms within dwellings etc withwindows adjacent to main communal/public areas (eg playgrounds,swimming pools, gardens, car parks).‣ Communal areas and utilities (eg laundries and garbage bays) should belocated in areas where they may be naturally surveyed..‣ Where elevators or stairwells are provided, open style or transparentmaterials are encouraged on doors and/or walls of elevators/ stairwells.‣ Waiting areas and entries to elevators / stairwells should be close toareas of active uses, and should be visible from the building entry.‣ Seating should be located in areas of active uses.Part I – Other Considerations – CPTED I.116