Pippa Catterall, Professor of History and Policy at the University of Westminster, was recently a panellist on a roundtable on this important theme organised by, and published in, The Architects' Journal and sponsored by the building group Marshalls.
As Professor Catterall pointed out in the discussion, "We live in public space designed by our forebears", and as society changes this requires us to rethink how we make our cities and who they are for.
The discussion drew attention to the need to move beyond measuring lighting or sound levels in public space to considering their effects on perceptions of safety.
Biodiversity was also highlighted for its positive effects on safety and mental health. Yet, as Professor Catterall pointed out, this can still be problematic, particularly if not properly maintained. For instance, so many local authorities have installed spiky shrubs as low-maintenance solutions, yet they also convey a sense of danger and - by collecting rubbish – of neglect.
Instead, designing in good maintenance, soundscapes and adaptable spaces attractive to a diversity of people were among the approaches highlighted by Professor Catterall and the panel.
Read the full summary of the panel discussion on the Architects' Journal website.
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