How can parks be designed to increase safety using CPTED principles?

Designing parks using CPTED principles focuses significantly on creating environments that enhance safety through strategic design elements. Ensuring visibility from surrounding areas is paramount because it allows for natural surveillance, which can deter potential criminal activity. When park users and passersby can see into the park, it increases the likelihood that suspicious behavior will be noticed and reported, thereby reducing the chance of crime.

Visibility encourages people to use and enjoy the park, fostering a sense of community ownership and presence, which further contributes to safety. This aligns with the CPTED principle of natural surveillance, where well-lit and unobstructed views can significantly lower the risk of criminal behavior occurring.

On the other hand, dense seating areas can create hiding spots and reduce visibility, while secluded playgrounds might isolate children from view, posing safety risks. Thick shrubbery can also obstruct sightlines, which contradicts the idea of open visibility and can result in creating hidden areas where unwanted activities may occur. Effective park design prioritizes clear sightlines and open areas to promote safety and deter crime, which is why ensuring visibility from surrounding areas stands out as the best approach within CPTED principles.