A comprehensive and accessible approach to crime prevention in the planning and design of public spaces

Crime and fear of crime are two of the main aspects that can influence, in a negative way, society and the life of urban citizens. In an attempt to approach this complex issue through urban design measures, a new discipline emerged in the 1960/70s, based in particular on the works of Oscar Newman. Today there are several best-practice manuals, which have their limitations and are seldom known or applied. The first part of the article wishes to introduce the nature of the current theoretical debate related to this issue. The second presents an innovative proposal for a more complete, comprehensive and accessible ‘best practices’ manual addressed to local planning authorities, planning professionals and the public. This presentation is embodied in a case study of a housing estate in Porto, illustrating the potentials and limitations of the application of the manual's checklists and design guidelines.