APPLICATION OF CRIME PREVENTION THROUGH ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN (CPTED) IN THE DESIGN OF A SHOPPING MALL IN MINNA, NIGER STATE

Abstract

Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) is a place-based crime strategy. It affirms that, the proper design and efficient use of the built environment can lead to a reduction in the fear and incidence of crime and an improvement in the quality of life. Crime has been a growing social problem in Nigeria, due to rapid urbanization. The challenge for shopping malls is the creation of an environment that is at the same time entertaining and safe. The aim of this study was to assess CPTED principles in shopping malls and how they relate to the perceived safety of users. The study was conducted in Minna, Niger State. Data for the study was obtained from case studies. The instruments used for the data collection in this study were a structured questionnaire and CPTED Audit. The findings suggest that traditional CPTED principles are being implemented within the design and built form of the study areas. The CPTED audit and the personal safety surveys both reported high levels of CPTED features within the environments. Although exploratory, these findings suggest CPTED is identified within the environment in similar ways by a CPTED audit and by citizens in the personal safety survey. CPTED concepts appear to be intact. Some of the study recommendations are: CPTED should be integrated into building process right from the design stage to completion and people should be educated about CPTED; they should be aware of its role as part of a comprehensive crime prevention strategy.