Chapter E1: Access for People with a Disability - Wollongong · Wollongong Development Control Plan 2009 i Part E – General Controls – Design Controls Chapter E1: Access for People

Wollongong Development Control Plan 2009 i

Part E – General Controls – Design Controls

Chapter E1: Access for People with a Disability

Contents

1 INTRODUCTION 1

2 STATUTORY FRAMEWORK 1 2.1 Commonwealth Disability Discrimination Act 1992 1 2.2 Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 4 2.3 Building Code of Australia and Australian Standard

as1428.1 4 2.4 Relevant Australian Standards for Access, Mobility and

Adaptability 5 2.5 Bridging the gap between the Building Code of Australia

and the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 5

3 DESIGN REQUIREMENTS 6

Appendix: 1 – DESIGN EXAMPLES 7

Part E – General Controls – Design Controls Chapter E1: Access for People with a Disability

Wollongong Development Control Plan 2009 1

1 INTRODUCTION

1. The purpose of this Chapter of the DCP is to outline the current statutory framework concerning the provision of equitable access for all people, including people with a disability.

2. This Chapter of the DCP also sets out the minimum requirements for the provision of equitable access for people with a disability in the built environment.

2 STATUTORY FRAMEWORK

2.1 Commonwealth Disability Discrimination Act 1992 2.1.1 General

1. The Commonwealth Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA) came into effect on 1 March 1993.

2. The objects of the DDA (section 3) are:

“(a) To eliminate, as far as possible, discrimination against persons on the grounds of disability in the areas of:

(i) Work, accommodation, education, access to premises, clubs and sport; and

(ii) The provision of goods, facilities, services and land; and

(iii) Existing laws; and

(iv) The administration of Commonwealth laws and programs.

(b) To ensure, as far as practicable, that persons with disabilities have the same rights to equality before the law as the rest of the community; and

(c) To promote recognition and acceptance within the community of the principle that persons with disabilities have the same fundamental rights as the rest of the community.”

3. The DDA aims to eliminate bias against people with disabilities and protect their rights to equality as a community member.

4. The DDA makes it unlawful to discriminate against people with a disability in all areas of public life, including access to and use of buildings and places. Public places include the following places or buildings:

• Government administration buildings;

• Public domain areas (footways and walkways);

• Educational establishments;

• Libraries;

• Retail shopping centres as well as specialty retail shops, supermarkets, department stores, discount department stores;


2 Wollongong Development Control Plan 2009

• Banks, financial institutions etc;

• Restaurants / cafes;

• Hotels;

• Professional offices;

• Theatres and other Places of Public Entertainment;

• Major sporting or recreational facilities;

• Registered clubs;

• Medical centres;

• Medical practitioner or other health care practices;

• Hospitals; and

• Public transport services.

5. Under the DDA, every area and facility open to the public should be open and available to people with a disability.

6. The DDA provides in section 23(1)(c) and (d) that:-

“It is unlawful to discriminate against another person on the ground of the other persons disability or a disability of any of that other person’s associates…..:

(c) In relation to the provision of means of access to such premises;

(d) By refusing to allow the other person’s access to, or the use of, any premises that the public or a section of the public is entitled or allowed to enter or use (whether for payment or not).”

7. Section 23(2) of the DDA also provides that it is not unlawful to discriminate in relation to access to such premises if:

“(a) The premises are so designed or constructed as to be inaccessible to a person with a disability; and

(b) Any alteration to the premises to provide such access would impose unjustifiable hardship on the person who would have to provide that access.”

8. The DDA concept of ‘unjustifiable hardship’ has been included in this part of the DCP to determine in what circumstances the provision of access and mobility is financially unreasonable or uneconomical.

9. Section 11 of the DDA states that in determining what constitutes ‘unjustifiable hardship’, all relevant circumstances of the particular case are to be taken into account, including:

“(a) The nature of the benefit or detriment likely to accrue or be suffered by any persons concerned; and

(b) The effect of the disability concerned; and



(c) The financial circumstances of the estimated amount of expenditure required to be made by the person claiming unjustifiable hardship; and

(d) In the case of the provision of services, or the making of facilities – an action plan given to the Commissioner under section 64.”

10. However, the ‘unjustifiable hardship’ is only relevant to changes of land use and some alterations and additions to existing buildings but does not apply to new developments used by the public. New buildings must provide satisfactory accessibility for all people, including people with a disability.

11. The Federal Court of Australia in Cooper v Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission [1999] FCA 180 reinforced the fact that both property developers and consent authorities are responsible for considering DDA principles in the design of new buildings or any redevelopment or alteration to an existing building, regardless as to whether or not a proposal requires access provision under the Building Code of Australia.

12. In Cooper v Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission [1999] FCA 180, the Federal Court also held that an applicant / property developer must provide sufficient written documentary evidence to the consent authority which conclusively proves that ‘unjustifiable hardship’ will be caused to the applicant if the consent authority was to impose a requirement for upgrading of an existing building to ensure that it provides suitable access and mobility requirements for all people, including people with a disability.

13. In determining what constitutes ‘unjustifiable hardship’, all relevant circumstances of the case will be taken into consideration including financial constraints, topographical constraints and other physical constraints in providing equitable access to and within a building for all people, including people with a disability.

2.1.2 Evidence Required to Prove Unjustifiable Hardship

1. Full written evidence must be provided by an applicant to conclusively prove that unjustifiable hardship will be caused to the applicant if the consent authority (Council) was to impose a requirement for upgrading of the existing building to meet equitable access requirements.

2. The documentary evidence must include a detailed breakdown of the actual costs of providing suitable access and mobility requirements for people with a disability in the existing building, in comparison to the actual total building costs of the project. The costs of each design option (with or without provision for disabled access) and a percentage of the total development cost required for providing the equitable access should also be provided. The costs should be prepared by either a quantity surveyor or alternatively, another suitably qualified and experienced consultant who can accurately assess the building costs for the project.

3. The written evidence should also outline the physical design constraints for each design option and provide reasons for any non-compliance with the DDA, BCA or relevant Australian Standard (if relevant).

4. Council reserves the right to seek additional documentary evidence from an applicant, where Council is of the opinion such additional information is necessary to determine as to whether ‘unjustifiable hardship’ will occur.

5. Further, Council reserves its right to seek the upgrading of an existing building to guarantee the provision for a continuous accessible path of travel from public domain or car parking areas to and within the subject building, where Council is of the opinion, the applicant has failed to prove that ‘unjustifiable hardship’ will occur.



2.2 Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 1. Section 79C of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 requires that a consent

authority in determining a Development Application to take into consideration a number of factors, including “the public interest”. The “public interest” may include the provision of suitable access and mobility within a building or facility for people with a disability.

2.3 Building Code of Australia and Australian Standard as1428.1 2.3.1 General

1. The Building Code of Australia (BCA) and Australian Standard AS 1428 – Design for Access and Mobility provide the main framework for regulating access and mobility requirements for people with a disability. The BCA regulates where access is required and Part 1 of AS 1428 – General Requirements for Access – New Building Work provides the requirements on how that access is to be provided. The BCA also calls up AS 1428.4 TGSI for the orientation of people with vision impairment.

2. The main parts of the Building Code of Australia which relate to access, mobility and the provision of sanitary facilities for people with a disability are:

• Part D3 Access and Egress for People with Disabilities;

• Part E Lift Installations; and

• Part F Sanitary Facilities for People with Disabilities.

2.3.2 Continuous Accessible Path of Travel

1. The BCA and AS1428.1 require the design of a “continuous accessible path of travel”, which aims to create paths of travel to and or within a building to provide people with a disability with uninterrupted and comfortable access to all areas and facilities, which are generally open to the public.

2. This accessible path of travel should not incorporate any steps, humps, stairways, revolving doors, escalators or other impediments that prevent the path of travel being utilised by all people, including people with disabilities. It should make provision for adequate lighting for night time use, and generally not include areas with the potential for entrapment. The provision of a continuous accessible path of travel is fundamental to creating a safe and accessible environment.

3. A continuous accessible path of travel must be provided:

(a) From accessible parking spaces and passenger drop off points to entrances of buildings;

(b) To connect buildings, facilities and spaces that are on the same block or part of the same, complex, where topographically possible;

(c) To connect accessible entrances of a building to all accessible spaces and facilities within the building;

(d) To minimise distances travelled between accessible elements of buildings and facilities; and

(e) From public spaces to entrances of buildings.



(f) From the allotment boundary site at the main point of entry.

(g) Through the principle public entrance.

2.4 Relevant Australian Standards for Access, Mobility and Adaptability

1. The relevant Australian Standards which provide requirements for access, mobility and adaptability in the design and construction of buildings and facilities are listed as follows:-

(a) AS1428.1 (2001) Design for Access and Mobility - General Requirements for Access - New Building Work;

(b) AS1428.2 (1992) Design for Access and Mobility - Enhanced and Additional Requirements - Building and Facilities;

(c) AS1428.3 (1992) Design for Access and Mobility - Requirements for Children and Adolescents with Physical Disabilities;

(d) AS1428.4 (2002) Design for Access and Mobility - Tactile Ground Surface Indicators for the Orientation of People with a Vision Impairment;

(e) AS4299 (1995) Adaptable Housing;

(f) AS1735.12 (1999) Lifts and Escalators Part 12: Facilities for People with Disabilities;

(g) AS2890.1 (1993) Parking facilities. Part 1: Off-street Car Parking Facilities;

(h) AS4586 (2002) Slip Resistance Classification of New Pedestrian Surface Materials;

(i) AS1158.3.1 (1999) Road Lighting - Pedestrian area (category P) lighting - Performance and Installation Design Requirements;

(j) AS1680.0 (1998) Interior Lighting - Safe Movement;

(k) AS2220.2 (1989) Emergency Warning and Intercommunication Systems in Buildings - System Design, Installation and Commissioning;

(l) AS2899 (1986) Public Information Symbol Signs - Part 1 General Information Signs; and

(m) AS3769 (1990) Automatic Teller machines - User Access.

2.5 Bridging the gap between the Building Code of Australia and the Disability Discrimination Act 1992

1. The Building of Australia (BCA) is currently under review (i.e. as of April 2009) to ensure that the BCA is more consistent with the DDA given that compliance with the BCA does not necessarily mean that developments meet the legislative requirements of the DDA. This has meant that development whilst complying with the BCA may nevertheless be subject to potential complaint to the Australian Human Rights Commission or subject to an appeal to the Federal Court of Australia in respect to the DDA legislation.



2. In April 2000, an amendment was made to the DDA to allow the Australian Government’s Attorney – General to formulate ‘Disability Standards for Access to Premises’ (Premises Standard), in order to help clarify the accessibility requirements under the DDA.

3. The Australian Building Codes Board was requested by the Australian Government to develop the draft Premises Standard. Once the Draft Premises Standard is adopted, the BCA will be amended so that in the future, compliance with the access provisions of the BCA will also mean compliance with the Premises Standard and hence, the DDA.

4. In the interim, it is recommended that applicants consider the Australian Human Rights Commission’s “Draft Access Code for Buildings” as well as the Building Code of Australia and relevant Australian Standards including AS1428.1 and AS1428.2 and the Draft Premises Standard.

5. The Draft Access Code for Buildings may be obtained via the Australian Human Rights Commission website at:

www.humanrights.gov.au/disability_rights/buildings/access_to_premises.html

6. Details of the Draft Premises Standard may be obtained by contacting the Australian Building Codes Board via their telephone number 1300 857 522 or their email address: [email protected].

7. Additionally, the Australian Human Rights Commission has published “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly – Design and Construction for Access April 2008” document which provides good and bad examples concerning access and mobility arrangements as well as sanitary facilities for people with a disability. This document may be obtained via the Commission’s website at:

www.humanrights.gov.au/disability_rights

8. Selected examples from this document of good and poor access and mobility arrangements for people with a disability are included in Appendix 1.

3 DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

1. Access and facilities for people with a disability must be provided in accordance with the requirements of the DDA, BCA and the relevant Australian Standards stated in Section 2.4.

2. Full compliance with the DDA, BCA, and Australian Standards will be required except in instances where unjustifiable hardship is demonstrated as outlined in Section 2.1.1.

http://www.humanrights.gov.au/disability_rights/buildings/access_to_premises.html

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.humanrights.gov.au/disability_rights



Appendix: 1 – DESIGN EXAMPLES All of these examples have been taken from The Good, the Bad and the Ugly – Design and Construction for Access publication, produced by Australian Human Rights Commission (April 2008).

HANDRAILS

Figure 1: (Top left) Correct application of returning the handrail down and back onto itself to form 180° return onto a post. The handrails also provide clearances on the top 270° arc of the handrail and the 15mm directly under the handrail to allow for uninterrupted transition along the full length of the handrail for fingers and thumbs.

Figure 2: (Top right) Correct application of returning the handrail down and back onto itself to form 180° return onto a post. The handrails also provide clearances on the top 270° arc of the handrail and the 15mm directly under the handrail to allow for uninterrupted transition along the full length of the handrail for fingers and thumbs.

Figure 3: (Top left) Handrails which do not comply with the specifications of AS1428.1 for handrails on stairs suitable for people with a disability since the handrails fail to return to a side wall or downwards and back on themselves at 180°.

Figure 4: (Top right) Handrails which do not comply with the specifications of AS1428.1 for handrails on stairs suitable for people with a disability since the handrails fail to return to a side wall or downwards and back on themselves at 180°.



Figure 5: (Top left) Correct return of the handrail to a side wall and the required 270° top arc clearance.

Figure 6: (Top right) Correct return of a handrail downwards and back on itself at 180°.

STAIRWAY NOSINGS

Figure 7: (Top left) The correct minimum luminance contrast and depth of treatment on the nosings of the treads / goings.

Figure 8: (Top right) The correct minimum luminance contrast and depth of treatment on the nosings of the treads / goings.



OPEN RISERS AND OVERHANGING TREADS ON STAIRWAYS

Figure 9: (Top left) Open risers and light sources coming from behind the stairway. Any person with a walking stick may loose their footing if their stick slipped through the stairway openings.

Figure 10: (Top right) An enclosed stairway but has protruding lips which may cause problems for people with a prosthesis since it restricts leg movements and may also cause trip hazards.

Figure 11: Correct enclosed opaque risers with no overhangs which meet the requirements of stairways suitable for people with disabilities, under AS1428.1.



LUMINANCE CONTRAST

Figure 12: (Top left) TGSIs which fail to comply with the specifications of AS 1428.4 since they fail to provide the required luminance contrast. Under AS1428.4, a minimum of 30% luminance contrast is required for TGSIs, compared to the surrounding floor/ground surface. These photographs also show other non-compliant features such as the handrails and the lack of colour contrasting nosings.

Figure 13: (Top right) TGSIs which fail to comply with the specifications of AS 1428.4 since they fail to provide the required luminance contrast. Under AS1428.4, a minimum of 30% luminance contrast is required for TGSIs, compared to the surrounding floor/ground surface. These photographs also show other non-compliant features such as the handrails and the lack of colour contrasting nosings.

Figure 14: (Top left) TGSIs which have a high luminance contrast, as required by AS 1428.4. The photographs also show the correct setback from the top nosings of 300 +/- 10mm and the minimum depth of 600mm.

Figure 15: (Top right) TGSIs which have a high luminance contrast, as required by AS 1428.4. The photographs also show the correct setback from the top nosings of 300 +/- 10mm and the minimum depth of 600mm.



TACTILE GROUND SURFACE INDICATORS

Figure 16: The correct interpretation of the requirements for TGSIs on an intermediate landing with no handrail break: there are no TGSIs on the landing.

DOOR THRESHOLDS

Figure 17: A threshold ramp with an automatic door into a retail premises which complies with the BCA and AS1428.1 (without the need for a landing area).



LIFTS

Figure 18: (Top left) Show call buttons which comply with the requirements of AS1735.12 in terms of their placement, luminance contrast application and raised tactile and Braille which are consistently placed adjacent to each button.

Figure 19: (Top right) Show call buttons which comply with the requirements of AS1735.12 in terms of their placement, luminance contrast application and raised tactile and Braille which are consistently placed adjacent to each button.

FLOOR SURFACES

Figure 20: (Top left) Very shiny and slippery floor surfaces which fail to meet the “R” rating, as required by AS4586 and HB197.

Figure 21: (Top right) Very shiny and slippery floor surfaces which fail to meet the “R” rating, as required by AS4586 and HB197.



Figure 22: (Top left) Show floor surfaces which meet the “R” rating under AS4586 and HB197.

Figure 23: (Top right) Show floor surfaces which meet the “R” rating under AS4586 and HB197.

HEIGHT AND DESIGN OF RECEPTION DESKS AND COUNTERS

Figure 24: (Top left) Reception counters which allow for a frontal approach with an adequate toe plate and knee space for people who use a wheelchair.

Figure 25: (Top right) Reception counters which allow for a frontal approach with an adequate toe plate and knee space for people who use a wheelchair.



ACCESSIBLE TOILET / WC FACILITIES

Figure 26: Correct placement of toilet and shower fittings as per the requirements of AS1428.1. Note: The toilet roll holders are placed below the grab rail, to ensure people who use a wheelchair are able to rise off the pan and transfer back onto their wheelchair unencumbered.

Figure 27: The correct installation of a washbasin and other fittings, including a shelf as required by Table F2.4 of the BCA.



Figure 28: The incorrect placement of the toilet paper holder too far forward of the WC pan, which forces patrons to lean excessively forward to get to the paper. This can result in patrons falling off the pan in attempting to reach the toilet holder.

Wollongong Development Control Plan 2009 i

Part E – General Controls – Design Controls

Chapter E2: Crime Prevention through Environmental Design

Contents

1 INTRODUCTION 1

2 WHAT IS CRIME PREVENTION THROUGH ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN (CPTED)? 1

2.1 What are the principles of CPTED? 1

3 DEVELOPMENT TO WHICH THIS PLAN APPLIES 2

4 EXEMPT DEVELOPMENT 2

5 GENERAL ISSUES 3 5.1 Lighting 3 5.2 Natural surveillance and sightlines 5 5.3 Signage 7 5.4 Building design 9 5.5 Land use mix 12 5.6 Landscaping 13 5.7 Spaces safe from entrapment 14 5.8 Management and maintenance 15 5.9 Public open space and parks. 17 5.10 Community facilities 19 5.11 Bus stops and taxi ranks 20 5.12 Public toilets 21

Figures Figure 1: Blind corners should be avoided where possible ....... 5 Figure 2: Landscaping example - Good line of sight from property to street.................................................................. 7 Figure 3: Landscaping example - Obstructed line of sight from property to street making it difficult to identify problems ....... 7 Figure 4: Car Parks - aspects of safe car park design .......... 10 Figure 5: Land use mix - Facilitating casual surveillance ....... 12 Figure 6: Delineation between public and private space ....... 17 Figure 7: Natural surveillance of public open space - no natural surveillance of playground from adjoining land uses ............ 19 Figure 8: Natural surveillance of public open space - Good natural surveillance of play ground form adjoining land uses.. 19

Part E – General Controls – Design Controls Chapter E2: Crime Prevention through Environmental Design


1 INTRODUCTION

1. This Chapter of the DCP outlines the objectives and general requirements of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED).

2. This Chapter of the DCP applies to all lands within the City of Wollongong LGA.

2 WHAT IS CRIME PREVENTION THROUGH ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN (CPTED)?

1. CPTED is based on a ‘situational approach’ to crime prevention. It aims to reduce the opportunities for crime by increasing the effort and risk for offenders, as well as reducing the rewards. CPTED recognises that any design strategy needs to be part of a holistic approach to crime prevention, incorporating social, environment and community development strategies.

2. CPTED is a tool which modifies the built environment to reduce opportunities for crime. Traditional tactics of CPTED include creating territoriality, natural surveillance and ‘eyes on the street’, and focusing on access into and out of buildings and neighbourhoods.

3. CPTED argues that criminals make rational choices about their targets and generally:

(a) The greater the risk of being seen, challenged or caught, the less likely they are to commit the crime;

(b) The greater the effort required, the less likely they are to commit the crime; and

(c) The lesser the actual or perceived reward, the less likely they are to commit the crime.

4. CPTED however is not just about crime prevention. It is about designing spaces that make people feel safe and therefore increase usage.

2.1 What are the principles of CPTED? The three (3) principles central to Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design are, as follows:

2.1.1 Natural Surveillance

1. Criminals usually do not want to be seen. Placing physical features, activities and people in ways that maximise the ability to see what is happening discourages crime. For example, placing cafes and kiosks in parks increases natural surveillance by park users. Another example would be placing clotheslines near play equipment in multiple unit developments, increases natural surveillance of the play area. Inappropriately placed barriers, such as bushes or sheds, can make it difficult to observe activity.

2.1.2 Access Control

1. Access can be restricted by physical barriers such as bollards, fences, doorways and landscaping or by security hardware such as locks, chains and alarms. Human measures can also be utilised such as security guards. All of these methods aim to direct and/or restrict access into an area and therefore increase the effort required to commit a crime.

2.1.3 Ownership (Territorial Reinforcement)

1. People usually protect territory that they feel is their own and have a certain respect for the territory of others. Fences, paving, art, signs, good maintenance and landscaping are some ways



to express ownership. Identifying intruders is much easier in a well defined space. An area that looks protected gives the impression that greater effort is required to commit a crime.

3 DEVELOPMENT TO WHICH THIS PLAN APPLIES

1. This Chapter of the DCP applies to the following types of development:

§ Multi – dwelling housing (villas and townhouses);

§ Residential flat buildings;

§ Mixed use buildings;

§ New business (commercial office) developments;

§ Retail shopping centres and retail developments greater than 3,500 square metres;

§ New industrial developments;

§ Warehouse distribution facilities;

§ New or major upgrading of educational establishments;

§ Child care centres;

§ Railway stations;

§ Major recreational facilities, including indoor recreation facilities and major outdoor stadiums;

§ Registered clubs;

§ Pubs / hotels – licensed premises;

§ Amusement centres;

§ Sex industry establishments and restricted premises (adult bookshops);

§ Gun shops;

§ Medical centres, pharmacies, methadone clinics etc;

§ Senior Living self-care & residential care facilities;

§ Service stations and convenience stores;

§ Fast food restaurants; and

§ Other development where in the opinion of Council requires appropriate CPTED controls.

2. All of the above types of development will be referred to Council’s Safe Community Action Team (SCAT) officer for appropriate review and consideration of safety and security issues. In certain cases, Council’s SCAT officer may also refer the Development Application to the relevant Local Area Command of the NSW Police Service for appropriate review / comment.

3. In circumstances where Council’s SCAT officer and / or NSW Police Service require amendments to a development proposal, the development may either be subject to appropriate conditions of consent (in cases of only minor change) or in cases where Council is of the opinion major alterations are necessary, Council will require (in writing) design amendments to be reflected on the architectural plans, prior to the granting of development consent.

4 EXEMPT DEVELOPMENT

1. This Chapter of the DCP does not apply to the following types of development:

(a) New dwelling houses;



(b) Alterations and additions to existing dwelling-houses;

(c) New dual occupancies;

(d) Alterations and additions to existing dual occupancies;

(e) Changes of use to existing retail, commercial or industrial buildings or premises (other than changing the use to a restaurant, brothel, adult book shop, amusement centre or methadone clinic or a change of use which involves trading after 9 pm);

(f) Minor alterations or additions to existing buildings

2. Whilst the above minor development does not need to specifically address the objectives of this plan, it is strongly recommended that these objectives and the accompanying design suggestions be considered when proposing any development or designing any building so as to minimise opportunities for crime.

5 GENERAL ISSUES

5.1 Lighting 5.1.1 General

1. Lighting is an important aspect of community safety and crime prevention, impacting on actual crime and fear of crime. For example, a poorly lit street with a low level of illumination and low usage will appear to the user to have a high potential to hide attackers, therefore increasing the fear of crime. Such a street also lowers the possibility of detection, recognition and apprehension for a person considering a criminal act, therefore increasing the likelihood of actual crime.

2. On average, forty percent of night-time street crime occurs when the lighting levels are at five (5) lux or below (a lux is a measure of lighting: a typical side street has a level of about two (2) lux at night and about 18,000 lux during the day). Only three percent of crime at night occurs when the lighting level is above 20 lux.i

3. Lighting levels in public spaces must be adequate for a person to be able to have a good look at another person when he/she is still at a reasonable distance away. Careful consideration needs to be paid to the users of an area to cater for people with a disability and older people.

4. When specifying lighting, it is important to consider both the life and efficiency of lamp types. All efforts must be made to ensure that sustainability is considered when selection of lighting occurs.

5.1.2 Objectives (a) To promote legitimate activity by users of public spaces after dark.

(b) To encourage the use of appropriate types of lighting fixtures.

(c) To ensure the appropriate placement of lighting to avoid shadows and glare which may put users of the area at risk.



5.1.3 Strategies Table 1: Light strategies

Strategy Recommendation

1. General Requirements

(a) Lighting should be treated in a comprehensive manner.

(b) For areas intended to be used at night, ensure that lighting supports visibility. Where lighting is located at a lower height to support visibility for pedestrians, ensure that the lighting is vandal resistant.

(c) Light heavily used spaces such as car parks, major pedestrian routes, entries to buildings and entries to public toilets at a higher level than other areas to cater for the increased potential safety risks.

(d) Ensure security lighting is consistent with AS4282 (1997) The Control of the Obtrusive Effect of Outdoor Lighting.

(e) Consideration should be given to light pollution effects and energy use of any lighting strategy.

2. Consistency of Lighting

(a) Ensure that lighting is consistent to reduce the contrast between the shadows and the illuminated areas; and

(b) Use multiple lights rather than single fittings to provide a consistent level of illumination.

3. Placement of Lighting

(a) In areas used by pedestrians, ensure that lighting shines on pedestrian pathways and possible entrapment spaces;

(b) Place lighting to take into account vegetation, in both its current and future form, as well as any other element that may have the potential for blocking light;

(c) Locate bright lights in heavily used spaces but ensure that they do not create a ‘wall of darkness’ beyond the light limit or create discomfort for pedestrians and motorists;

(d) Select and light ‘safe routes’ so that these become the focus of legitimate pedestrian activity after dark;

(e) Provide adequate illumination for directional signage and maps in locations used at night'

(f) Avoid glare by not placing any unshielded lighting at eye level (that is 1.5m to 3m above ground level);

(g) Careful consideration needs to be taken when selecting the placement of lighting and lighting equipment to eliminate the potential for them to be utilized for climbing to undertake unlawful activity.

4. Types of Lighting

(a) The lighting selected must be; vandal resistant, high mounted light fixtures which are less susceptible to vandalism;

(b) Protect light fixtures from casual vandalism;

(c) Provide fixtures which deflect light downwards;

(d) The use of photoelectric cells is encouraged over time switches;

(e) Time switch lamps are not encouraged if regular maintenance is not undertaken;



Strategy Recommendation

(f) Bollards are generally to encouraged for lighting purposes as they generally do not illuminate to a sufficient height for an oncoming person to be identified

5. Maintenance (a) Ensure that light fixtures are maintained in a clean condition and promptly replaced if required.

(b) Consider placing signage advising of who to contact to report faulty lighting;

(c) Ensure that lease arrangements specifically address who is responsible for the replacement/maintenance of lighting;

(d) Select and locate fittings for ease of replacement/maintenance.

6. Site Planning and Design

(a) Ensure that plans for new or redeveloped public spaces consider areas that will be utilized at night and include information on the position, quality and type of lighting.

(b) In areas to be used by less mobile and elderly people, design lighting with particular care, as higher levels of brightness will be necessary

5.2 Natural surveillance and sightlines 5.2.1 Gemeral

1. While formal surveillance is undertaken by police, caretakers and security guards, natural surveillance involves the casual observation of people and public spaces as people go about their daily lives. It can be facilitated by windows overlooking public spaces and gardens, the location and design of pathways, the quality of lighting and landscaping and the encouragement of legitimate activity in the area.

2. Natural surveillance is thought to be an ideal form for crime deterrence, not only because residents may see an offender, but more importantly because offenders think they will be seen.

Figure 1: Blind corners should be avoided where possible



3. Careful consideration must be given to the provision of natural surveillance and its impact on privacy.

5.2.2 Objectives a) To provide unimpeded sight lines, particularly along pedestrian pathways.

b) To encourage natural surveillance from surrounding buildings and land uses.

c) To improve natural surveillance through increased legitimate use of spaces.

5.2.3 Strategies Table 2: Natural surveillance and sight lines strategies

STRATEGY RECOMMENDATION


(a) Avoid blind, sharp corners especially on pathways, stairs or corridors

(b) Avoid or ameliorate sudden changes of grade on pathways which may reduce sightlines.

(c) Take particular care for visibility in areas where risk to personal safety is perceived to be high or where crime reports indicate that there are problems, such as stairwells, entrances, corridors toilets etc.

(d) Ensure that pedestrians can easily see what is at the end of tunnels/overpasses

(e) Seating should be located in areas of active use

(f) Avoid medium height vegetation with concentrated top to bottom foliage. Plants such as low hedges and shrubs (1 - 1.2m high), creepers, ground covers or high canopied vegetation are good for natural surveillance.

2. Improving Sightlines (a) Where sightlines are impeded, determine whether they can be improved through the use of hardware such as flat vandal-resistant security mirrors. A safety mirror with a larger radius may be required. Avoidance of convex mirrors should be undertaken as they distort images.

(b) Ensure that people can see through barriers along paths where possible.

3. Future Sightlines Impediment

(a) Avoid use of landscaping materials which could, when mature, serve as screens for barriers and impede views of pathways

(b) Avoid medium height vegetation with concentrated top to bottom foliage. Plants such as low hedges and shrubs (1 - 1.2m high), creepers, ground covers or high canopied vegetation are good for natural surveillance.

4. Informal Surveillance (a) Ensure that windows of activity rooms (e.g. kitchen windows not bathroom windows) rather than blank facades overlook pedestrian areas

(b) Ensure that where possible, windows of surrounding buildings overlook routes to and from problem areas such as car parks. Establish community focal points (e.g. common letter box locations within town house complexes) where they facilitate social interaction and therefore enhance formal surveillance.




(c) Collocate pedestrian, cycle and vehicular movement systems to encourage maximum surveillance of public areas.

(d) Ensure that bus shelter location and design do not impede natural surveillance.

5. Land Use − Encourage mixed use developments to facilitate day and night use of public spaces, taking into account the compatibility of uses and avoiding collocation of conflicting uses.

Lines of Sight

Figure 2: Landscaping example - Good line of sight from property to street

Figure 3: Landscaping example - Obstructed line of sight from property to street making it difficult to identify problems

5.3 Signage 5.3.1 General

1. A sign system should:

(a) Identify a place and indicate whether or not it is accessible to everyone;

(b) Indicate warnings where necessary; and

(c) Provide routing information.



2. Signs should be developed as a system with a consistent pattern, based on a hierarchy of most important to least important messages and be accessible to people with visual impairments.

3. All signage should be in accordance with AS1742.10 (1991) Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices – Pedestrian Control and Protection and AS1428.1 (1998) Design for Access and Mobility – General Requirements for Access.



5.3.2 Strategies Table 3: Signage strategies



(a) Prepare a signage plan focusing on the safe routes and indicating destinations, facilities and amenities en route.

(b) Ensure that signage is easily legible. Use strong colors, clear contrasts, standard symbols and simple graphics on signage so that it can be easily understood.

(c) Locate sign strategically at entrances and near activity nodes.

(d) Provide signage which indicates where to proceed to for assistance, the location of telephones, taxis, bus shelters and the nearest safe place.

(e) Provide clear and regular signposting to main pedestrian routes.

(f) Locate signs at every cross road or junction.

(g) Clearly indicate closing hours at entrances to public areas which are closed off to access at night.

(h) Provide clear signage at bus shelters, taxi ranks and public facilities.

(i) Clearly identify streets, courtyards and other easily identifiable common areas and encourage labeling of street numbers and names for businesses.

(j) Illuminate signs which are essential for night use.

(k) Incorporate Braille street names and numbering as important aspects of the signage plan.

(l) Locate signs so that they are not likely to be obscured by vegetation growth.

2. Entrapment and hiding spaces

(a) Ensure that the size and/or location of signs do not create entrapment opportunities.

3. Maintenance (a) Provisions should be made for the reporting of maintenance and vandalism on signs.

4. Location Maps (a) Maps should be provided in large public open spaces, such as parks, and orientated to be consistent with the viewers direction.

5.4 Building design 5.4.1 General

1. The design of buildings can contribute to community safety by reducing opportunities for entrapment and fostering natural surveillance. By providing opportunities for users to see inside the building before they enter and to survey the surrounding open space before they exit a building, especially at night or after hours, the safety and sense of safety are increased. Buildings can create problems in relation to crime and safety if they are not designed properly and maintained.



Figure 4: Car Parks - aspects of safe car park design

2. Poor sightlines from the building and inadequate lighting at entries are just some examples of potential problems. It is especially important that care be taken in the design of public buildings on locations where a mix of uses cannot be encouraged and where spaces are likely to be without significant pedestrian traffic at night or on weekends.

3. Encouraging a clear hierarchy of space from the public street to the semi-private areas of buildings can increase the ‘territoriality’ of the building and make it uncomfortable for offenders to loiter around entrances etc.

5.4.2 Objectives a) To integrate public buildings into the wider public realm;

b) To use buildings to support natural surveillance of adjacent open space;

c) To construct, sturdy, attractive, environmentally sensitive buildings to reduce temptations for vandalism and graffiti; and

d) To reduce the risk of public buildings contributing to crime or safety problems.

5.4.3 Strategies Table 4: Building design strategies


1. Building Entrances (a) Ensure that entrances to buildings are clearly defined, secure, well lit and face the street.

(b) Design the front entrances of public buildings so that they do not create entrapment spots or places where intruders may loiter.

(c) Design lobbies to be highly visible.

(d) Avoid the location of ramps and elevator entrances in isolated areas.

(e) Secure non-pedestrian entrances against illicit activities/entry.

(f) Locate lifts within secure entrances and incorporate graffiti and vandal resistant measures.

(g) If staff entrances are to be separated from the main entrance, ensure that they are well lit and maximize opportunities for natural surveillance and sight lines.




2. Building Design (a) Careful consideration should be given to the inclusion of crime prevention measures in the early design stages of the building, such as; locating the main entrance/exits at the front of the site and in view of the street; avoid blank walls fronting the street; provide windows overlooking public areas; avoid locating toilets and other facilities in areas of isolation; and avoid designing features that create entrapment spaces.

3. Material and Fixtures (a) Avoid the use of materials and fixtures on the exterior of buildings which might encourage crime, such as poor strength cladding and protruding pipes.

(b) Use transparent, unbreakable materials in door and walls at major entry points to provide sightlines through the door or wall.

(c) Reflective film can be used on windows overlooking car parks, as potential intruders will not know if they are being observed or not.

4. Storage Areas (a) Locate delivery hatches and bins so that they do not assist an intruder to gain access to a building.

(b) Ensure that loading and storage areas are either well lit or can be locked after hours.

5. Retail/Commercial Frontages

(a) Careful consideration should be given to the provision of retailing and other after hours uses in public buildings fronting public spaces.

6. Sightlines (a) Provide clear sightlines from the building foyer so that occupants can see outside before leaving the building (both at night and during the day).

7. Lighting (a) Areas are to be illuminated so that occupants can see out some distance from the entry before leaving the building.

(b) Ensure that lighting at entries/exits do not create a blinding effect through glare and/or shadows, thus making it difficult for eyes to adjust to different light levels.

(c) Exterior lighting needs to be very effective to facilitate good interior to exterior surveillance through windows.

8. Car Parking (a) Illuminate all external edges and access points to car parks.

(b) Lighting should be installed to allow for the for the adjustment of driver and pedestrian vision. Brighter lights should be used at entrances and pedestrian access ways with dimmer light to be installed elsewhere.

(c) Lighting should be sufficiently bright to enable a car park user to see into the rear seat of a parked car before they enter the car.

(d) Avoid large expanses of car parks.

(e) Where large expanses of car parks are proposed, consideration should be given to the provision of surveillance e.g. the installation of security cameras.

(f) Avoid hidden recesses.

(g) Locate disabled parking in highly visible and accessible areas.

(h) Minimize the number of entry and exit points.




9. Employee Car Parking

(a) Spaces should be reserved near the building entry for employees working after hours.

(b) Ensure that enclosed or underground car parking can only be accessed from inside the building not by pedestrians passing by.

5.5 Land use mix 5.5.1 General

1. As one of the primary means of creating a safe public realm is legitimate activity, it is important to vary land uses so that a range of activities at a range of times are supported. A public space has very little appeal after hours, when all surrounding land uses are office buildings which are closed at night and on weekends. It is essential that the mix of uses are capable of providing safe havens as well as areas with a high use of legitimate activities, especially pedestrian activity. One way in which to encourage greater use and ‘ownership’ of public spaces is to encourage land use mixes which enhance opportunities for cultural and/or recreational activities.

Figure 5: Land use mix - Facilitating casual surveillance

5.5.2 Objectives a) To promote natural surveillance, a wide range of legitimate activities, community

ownership and increased use of public spaces.

b) To create a mix of uses (such as restaurants, businesses and shops, which open at night and after hours) promoting round the clock surveillance and are compatible with neighbouring uses such as residential areas.



5.5.3 Strategies Table 5: Land use Mix strategies



(a) Land use mixes that promote activity, informal surveillance and contact between people during the day and night should be encouraged.

(b) Avoid strict separation of land uses which may result in facilities becoming isolated.

(c) Encourage land use mixes which are compatible in scale and consistent with neighbouring uses, especially in isolated areas.

(d) Balance activities which may be crime generators, such as pubs, with other night time uses such as restaurants and entertainment.

(e) Avoid placing pubs and other licensed premises close to each other.

5.6 Landscaping 5.6.1 General

1. Landscaping plays an integral role in making an area environmentally friendly, pleasant and safe. It can provide an appropriate balance between aesthetics and safety. An attractive area is more likely to be used. Studies have shown that the landscaping design and maintenance of a whole site correlates with user satisfaction and safety. It has also been demonstrated however, that poorly maintained and vandalised landscaping can increase crime opportunities.

2. Landscaping should not detract from pedestrian’s visibility or create secluded areas. Care should be undertaken in the selection of plants, bearing in mind their shape and size as they mature. Landscaping can be used to direct pedestrian movement.

3. It is important to balance the advantages of thorny as access deterrents against the disadvantages of litter trapped in shrubbery.

5.6.2 Objectives a) To create a friendly and pleasant environment that attracts users and at the same time is

safe.

b) To support ease of maintenance by not creating fragile landscaped areas in public use areas.

c) To support and reinforce security principles such as natural surveillance, by the careful selection and placement of appropriate landscaping.

5.6.3 Strategies Table 6: Landscaping strategies

STRATEGY REQUIREMENTS

1. Footpath Planting (a) Ensure that shrubbery and low-level planting associated with footpaths does not exceed 1m in height where abutting pavements.

(b) Implement a regular maintenance regime



STRATEGY REQUIREMENTS

2. Wall Planting (a) Grade planting, with taller plants next to walls. Careful consideration should be given to the type and location of plants so that climbing opportunities are not provided to gain access.

3. Planting at Entrances

(a) Avoid planting taller growing plants and trees in areas that screen doorways, entrances and windows.

4. Non-concealing Trees

(a) Select trees for critical locations which do not have branches below 1.5m (for the trees protection it is recommended that they do not have branches below 2.4m above ground level)

5. Graffiti Reduction (a) Carefully locate climbing plants to discourage graffiti.

6. Sturdy Plants (a) In areas of high crime, rather than planting saplings consider planting heavy standard (120 - 140 mm girth), extra heavy standard (140 - 160mm girth) or semi-mature trees (200 - 720mm girth) to make it more difficult to break the main growing trunk.

7. Hard landscaping (a) Use hard landscaping details such as low fencing and walls to deter pedestrian or vehicle movement.

8. Path Construction (a) If surfaces are constructed using cobbles or large pebbles, make sure that they are embedded for two thirds of their own depth. Avoid using gravel paths and borders as these provide loose materials which may be used as missiles and may cause difficulties for people that are mobility impaired.

5.7 Spaces safe from entrapment 5.7.1 General

1. Entrapment spots are small, confined areas that are adjacent to or near a well-travelled route and are shielded from view by some barrier or barriers. Entrapment spots may include lifts; storerooms; fire stairs, dark recessed entrances that may be locked at night; gaps in tall shrubbery; or loading docks off a pedestrian route.

5.7.2 Objectives a) To reduce the risk of attack by hidden persons.

b) To eliminate possible entrapment spaces and reduce the danger of people being attacked where they have no direct means of escape.

c) To ensure that the location and design of facilities, such as automatic teller machines do not create entrapment spaces.

5.7.3 Strategies Table 7: Spaces safe from entrapment strategies


1. Entrapment Spaces Adjacent to Pedestrian Routes

(a) Avoid creating entrapment spaces adjacent to main pedestrian routes, a predictable/unchangeable path or a private dead-end alleyway.

(b) Consider adding activities, such as food kiosks or vendors, to




make the space safer.

(c) Provide dead-locks for storage areas off pedestrian routes.

(d) Avoid creating entrapment spaces through identification in fencing.

2. Limiting Access (a) Specify appropriate heavy-duty hardware, such as dead-bolt locks, for storage areas off pedestrian routes.

(b) Limit access to loading docks and other restricted areas by measures such as lockable doors or gates. Where possible, close or lock potential entrapment spots after hours.

(c) Avoid gaps in the street such as entrances to interior courtyards which may create an environment that is isolated after dark.

3. Lighting and Sightlines

(a) Use full length polished aluminum mirrors (not convex mirrors) and other aids to sightlines to provide views around corners.

(b) Keep trimmed any low level vegetation in surrounding areas.

(c) Where possible use and maintain high branching vegetation.

(d) Where entrapment areas cannot be removed, (especially in highly used or problem areas), specify appropriate, high intensity lighting and aids to visibility such as mirrors.

(e) Arrange for regular police and security patrols to pay particular attention to entrapment spaces.

4. Location Design and Use of Facilities

(a) Reduce entrapment risks at Automatic Teller Machines (ATM's) by providing card access only, clear sightlines and not locating them in out-of-the-way areas or adjacent to licenced premises.

(b) Locate entrances to ATM's and other facilities, such as public telephones, with a direct view of pedestrian paths so that they can be overlooked from vantage points.

(c) Locate car parking away from potential entrapment spaces to reduce opportunities for abduction.

(d) Ensure signs outside building entrances and neat alcoves, rubbish hoppers and enclosures do not create entrapment spaces.

5.8 Management and maintenance 5.8.1 General

1. Management and maintenance are important issues for crime prevention as a run-down or vandalised appearance can contribute to the perception that an area is unsafe. Whether deliberate or not, damage which is not repaired is a cue to further misuse of the environment.

2. A planned maintenance cycle involving full electrical, mechanical and structural inspection is needed to assess the extent of wilful and accidental damage and natural deterioration. Another common approach is to protect equipment by improved construction of the use of vandal resistant materials.

5.8.2 Objectives a) To ensure prompt maintenance and repairs.



b) To facilitate prompt reporting of any damage or repair needs.

c) To promote a perception that an area is well maintained and is well cared for by its local community.

d) To discourage graffiti and vandalism.

e) To install equipment and fixtures that are vandal resistant and can be easily cleaned, repaired or replaced.

5.8.3 Strategies Table 8: Management and maintenance strategies


1. Maintenance (a) Place signage indicating contact details for emergency maintenance, in a prominent location.

(b) Promptly repair damage to public spaces to ensure safety for all users and to reduce the risk of crime. The use of innovative solutions to overcome vandalism problems is encouraged, such as wall murals painted by local street artists.

(c) In construction situations, delay installing equipment until the site is ready and require the prompt removal of rubbish.

(d) Develop a planned system of ‘preventative’ maintenance.

2. Graffiti Protection

(a) Use graffiti resistant materials/paints where appropriate.

(b) Require the prompt removal of graffiti.

(c) Avoid long expanses of light coloured walls, except in areas where the intent is to increase the luminance of lighting, such as parking lots.

3. Robust Materials

(a) Specify materials that can withstand normal use and can easily be replaced.

(b) Used standard sized panels, panes and fittings to facilitate replacement.

(c) Avoid the use of highly vulnerable materials such as ‘flimsy’ encourage, fragile light fittings and external fixtures which can be easily removed.

(d) Avoid extensive use of problem materials such as heavy duty mesh, cyclone fencing and grilles, which may encourage damage.

4. Protective Coatings

(a) Employ protective coatings able to withstand normal wear and graffiti, scratching and peeling.

5. Hardware (a) Use sturdy, non-corrosive catches, bolts and locks.

(b) Use flush mounted meter boxes or service points within a secure building/enclosure for protection.

6. Lighting (a) Protect all light bulbs with a suitable lantern bowl.

7. Security Education and Coordination

(a) Coordinate all security efforts with tenants and management of surrounding buildings.

(b) Develop a comprehensive crime reporting system, encourage reporting of all crimes and keep accurate records/statistics.



5.9 Public open space and parks. 5.9.1 General

1. The safety of public space is directly related to the design of the space and its ability to provide natural surveillance, sightlines, legibility and protection from entrapment. In designing new areas, it may be beneficial to undertake a risk assessment to ascertain where potential risks may occur. It is also important when designing public open space and parks, that these areas be interesting and inviting to attract legitimate users and incorporate adjoining land uses.

Figure 6: Delineation between public and private space

5.9.2 Objectives a) To encourage legitimate use public open space by a wide range of users.

b) To ensure that the design of public open space does not create unsafe environments such as entrapment spaces.

c) To ensure appropriate lighting and landscaping of public open spaces to reduce opportunities for crime

5.9.3 Strategies Table 9: Public open space and parks strategies





1. Design (a) The design of the public open space should foster legibility so that people can easily identify entrances and exits, find their way around and locate public amenities.

(b) Avoid creating unused or unusable spaces or isolated pockets.

(c) The design should cater for easy maintenance of well used areas.

(d) Open space should be located where it can easily be surrounded by a mix of land uses that generate activity both during and after hours.

(e) Locate children’s play areas so that they are visible from adjoining properties.

(f) Do not locate conflicting uses adjacent to each other.

(g) Provide adequate and appropriate equipment for all ages and both sexes so that one group does not dominate or damage recreation equipment intended for others.

(h) Provide shaded seating areas with good sightlines to children’s play equipment for adults supervising children’s play.

2. Lighting (a) Ensure that paths and areas of high pedestrian activity intended for night use are lit to the same level as the street to indicate that they are 'safe routes'.

(b) Use lighting and landscaping to demarcate areas that are likely to be deserted at night and areas where legitimate activity is likely and should be encouraged.

(c) Select and maintain landscaping so that it does not block light onto pedestrian areas.

3. Sightlines (a) Design pathways with unimpeded sightlines, particularly if there are curves or changes in grades.

(b) Avoid below grade pathways.

(c) Where possible ensure that parks or play areas are visible from the street and that housing or commercial buildings with active frontages overlook parks or edges of larger parks.

4. Entrapment Spots

(a) Ensure that any landscape border on a pathway is either low-lying or high branching vegetation. Trees or bushes that easily create entrapment spaces or reduce sightlines should be avoided. - provide multiple entrances/exits to all parks and playgrounds.

5. Location of Activity Generators

(a) Locate activity generators along the edge of parks or along pedestrian routes e.g. coffee vendors, chess boards, tables etc.

6. Maintenance (a) Ensure that open space and associated amenities are well maintained, indicating that the area is well cared for by ground staff and local people.

7. Community Involvement

(a) Promote community use and 'ownership' of a public open space through local events and activities.



Figure 7: Natural surveillance of public open space - no natural surveillance of playground from adjoining land uses

Figure 8: Natural surveillance of public open space - Good natural surveillance of play ground form adjoining land uses

5.10 Community facilities 5.10.1 General

1. A safe and pleasant environment within and around community facilities is very important to encourage the most effective use of the facility, particularly at night.

5.10.2 Objectives a) To encourage the use of community facilities during the day and night.

b) To support security measures by the use of planning and design principles.

c) To create a pleasing environment while ensuring the safety of staff and users of the facility.

5.10.3 Strategies Table 10: Community facilities strategies


1. Location (a) Locate community facilities near other activities to increase the level of legitimate use of the area.

(b) Consideration should be given to the location of public transport and pedestrian access for users of the community facility.

2. Car Parks (a) Consider parking arrangements that permit a shared use with other facilities.




3. Fencing (a) Provide secure fencing around play equipment.

(b) The location and material of fencing should delineate the boundary of the community facility, but not provide areas of concealment for intruders.

(c) If back fences are over 1800mm high, then the type of fencing selected shall have a 'see-through' quality.

4. Lighting (a) The inclusion of movement sensors should be considered in the design of the facility.

5. Community Participation

(a) The community should be involved in the design and construction of the facility, including outdoor community spaces, fencing, landscaping and play equipment to increase opportunities for community ownership and care.

5.11 Bus stops and taxi ranks 5.11.1 General

1. Safety at bus stops and interchanges is a significant issue that needs to be addressed when considering their design and location. Transport interchanges are used by different groups of people at different hours. Often it is not clear who is responsible for their management. They can be a source of fear, discomfort, confusion and crime, particularly for women and older people, and particularly at night.

1. It is important that the needs of all users be taken into account, as the design of the bus stop and seating can often be a cause of concern.

5.11.2 Objectives a) To maximise the use of public transport by a wide range of people, especially after hours.

b) To encourage users to feel safe in bus stops and taxi ranks by increasing safety provisions.

c) To promote natural surveillance of bus stops.

5.11.3 Strategies Table 11: Bus stops and taxi rank strategies


1. Lighting (a) Ensure that the areas adjacent to major bus stops and taxi ranks are well lit and protected from the weather.

(b) Ensure that lighting within bus shelters is not so bright as to affect the ability to see from the shelter into darker surrounding areas.

2. Visibility (a) Ensure that people waiting at bus stops and taxi ranks are clearly visible from the street and adjacent buildings where possible.

3. Sightlines (a) Remove or ameliorate any walls, landscaping, fences or other structures which block sightlines to the bust stop or taxi rank.




4. Location (a) Avoid locating bus stops and taxi ranks adjacent to vacant land, alleys, car parks and buildings set back from the street or possible entrapment spots.

(b) Provide short, safe routes to bus stops and taxi ranks from night time venues such as cinemas etc.

(c) Avoid locating interchanges at different levels from the main activity.

5. Entrapment (a) Bus shelters should be designed to reduce the possibility of entrapment and to improve sightlines.

6. Construction and Maintenance

(a) Construct shelters and graffiti-resistant and vandal-resistant materials.

(b) Ensure that bus stops are well maintained and free of rubbish and graffiti.

7. Signage (a) Provide adequate signage that is vandal proof and easily updated with current information. Signage is to include the provision of a number to call to report maintenance issues.

8. Telephones (a) Where possible ensure that public telephones are located near bus stops or taxi ranks.

5.12 Public toilets 5.12.1 General

1. The design, siting and maintenance of public toilets play a significant role in ensuring safe and legitimate use of these facilities. These facilities should be designed and located to reduce the possibility of entrapment or inappropriate use.

5.12.2 Objectives a) To ensure the safety of all people using public toilets.

b) To ensure that facilities are well maintained and that repairs are made promptly.

c) To locate facilities to take advantage of natural surveillance to discourage non-legitimate users.

5.12.3 Strategies Table 12: Public toilets strategies


1. Location (a) Locate public toilets adjacent to high traffic areas rather than in isolated locations, but do not place seats and phones in close proximity to toilets as this sometimes encourages loitering.

3. Secure Access (a) Ensure that external doors can only be opened by a legitimate key holder to reduce the danger of the entrapment

4. Visibility (a) Design approaches and entrances to be highly visible so that people cannot loiter or enter without being seen. - make entrances to public toilets in playgrounds visible from the



playground.

5. Maintenance (a) Ensure that facilities are well maintained with vandalism repaired and graffiti removed promptly. This will encourage usage and promote a perception of safety as well as reduce the likelihood of further damage.

i Stollard, Paul, ed, 1991, Crime Prevention through Housing Design, London, Chapman and Hall, p.49

Documents

Chapter E1: Access for People with a Disability - Wollongong · Wollongong Development Control Plan 2009 i Part E – General Controls – Design Controls Chapter E1: Access for People