environmental tactics - gated lanes

Question 1

what are gated lanes?

Answer 1

Linking to defensible space, these are gates that are installed at the entrance to rear alleyways in order to deter burglars or other criminals from using them to gain unlawful access from the rear of houses.

Can also improve the aesthetic appearance of an area and reduce fear about crime and anti-social behaviour which links to broken window theory.

Government regulations came into force on April 1st 2006, giving local authorities the power to erect gates on public highways to combat crime and anti-social behaviour.

Question 2

what is an example of gated lanes?

Answer 2

Reduction in crime in Glasgow & Cardiff due to gated lanes.

In Preston, Lancashire they have proved popular with residents as they give them a feeling that they can reclaim their streets.

In Cardiff residents have suggested that they have reduced crime and prevented rubbish being dumped behind houses.

Question 3

what are the strengths of gated lanes?

Answer 3

In a review of 43 studies, Sidebottom et al found that gated lanes reduced burglary rates.
They suggest this is for the following reasons:

They provide a physical barrier, thus increasing the effort required to commit a crime.

Gates increase residents sense of territory.

Open alleys may suffer from ‘ broken windows’ problem of disorderly, uncared for space that invites crime.

Gating indicates it is a cared for space that doesn’t tolerate crime and reduces anti- social behaviour eg fly tipping, drug dealing etc

Question 4

what are the limitations of gated lanes?

Answer 4

While they may decrease criminals entering from outside, they don’t work against criminals who live within the gated area.

Can displace crime to other areas.

Cost- can cost around £4,000 - cost could be used elsewhere eg community centres to prevent crime.