How do we define 'good quality housing' and what factors are considered in that definition?

What is it about?

Many housing developments considered excellent in terms of their design and architecture do not incorporate features associated with lower rates of crime. This does not matter if good design is of itself crime reductive. The key question for policy is whether good design creates a crime-reductive dynamic (for example by engineering community spirit), or whether good design must be supplemented by features specific to a crime reduction purpose for lower rates of crime to result. This question is here addressed, using data from three police forces and over 6,000 residential properties. The paper concludes that award-winning housing design (developments accorded Building for Life status) is neither a necessary nor a sufficient condition for low levels of crime victimization to result. Award winning design must be supplemented by the incorporation of crime-reductive design for residents to enjoy the quality of life conferred by good design, uncompromised by high crime rates.

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Why is it important?

This paper presents the findings of a detailed assessment of over 6000 properties to assess the relationship between design and risk of burglary. The sample included developments considered to be examples of 'good design' - assessed by their Building for Life status. The question asked in this research was, does 'good design' produce lower rates of burglary? Are well designed properties safer to live in. Key research for academics, planners, developers, designers and police.

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