Space, devices, activities: A Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) assessment in Kakogawa, Japan

Abstract

Despite numerous empirical studies evaluating Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) environments, few have conducted a comprehensive assessment covering multiple generations of CPTED principles, particularly in the context of Japan. This study developed and implemented a site inspection survey comprising 15 items structured around three domains: space, devices, and activities, in the city of Kakogawa, Japan. Inspection scores from three study areas with differing environmental and social atmospheres were inferentially compared with local crime statistics and residents’ perceptions of safety. The results showed that total scores aligned with both changes in crime rates and levels of safety perception, indicating that the intensity of CPTED qualities positively influences both objective and subjective security through the combined effects of space, devices, and activities. The study further explores the value of Eastern practices to the theoretical development of CPTED, discusses both perceived and unconscious aspects of preventive measures, and highlights the dynamic nature of CPTED assessment in response to evolving environmental and social conditions. It concludes by emphasising the importance of concurrently addressing inclusive spatial design, quality security devices, and informal social activities to foster safer and more liveable neighbourhoods.