SECURING A SAFER NEIGHBOURHOOD

When embarking on the planning stage of a new social housing development, there are many issues to consider in order to ensure future tenants are adequately provided for. Paul Painter, Managing Director of Zaun Fencing Solutions, looks at the issue of security and how fencing can help create a secure environment whilst being aesthetically pleasing. Housing associations are major players in the building and nurturing of communities, not just as developers and landlords but also through their social investment role. The requirement to create a safe and secure environment for people to live, work and play is key and by working with experienced manufacturers and suppliers housing associations can fulfill their commitment to provide this. Research has shown that developing and maintaining a positive image of an area can have long term benefits, by creating a sense of pride and enhancing the life style of those within it. Known as the ‘broken windows theory’, it states that people obtain their cues from the environment about how well cared for an area is. One broken window, left unfixed, leads to another and so continues the downward spiral. Fixing that first broken window will go a long way to reinforcing a positive image. If security measures can be subtly and positively incorporated at the early planning stages then it is more likely that it will tick all the boxes in terms of functionality, practicality and cost effectiveness. Initial considerations include deciphering exactly what the security requirements are for the facility in question, be it residential, commercial or leisure. Just as fencing can be used to secure many difference buildings and open spaces, it is not a case of one fence fits all. The variety of different solutions available to specifiers is extensive and can be tailored to suit the application whilst avoiding the creation of a ‘fortress’ which is often a stereotype associated with perimeter fencing. Whether a fencing system is installed to keep people in or out, the products currently available can transform a fence into a feature, contributing to that all-important positive image. Through the use of softer lines and an injection of colour Zaun has a diverse product range that offers the benefit of being attractive yet safe. For communal areas such as children’s play grounds, schools and gardens Bow Top Play is an attractive system that follows RoSPA guidelines to make it as safe as possible. Bow Top Play safety features include carefully spaced bars and optional self closer gates so children can play safely whilst parents are given an unhindered view. An alternative perimeter fencing solution for schools, playgrounds, parks and shopping centres is Zariba. Combining the robust Duo8 platform and a ring top design it provides an extremely durable segregation fence with a contemporary feel. Available in a variety of eye-catching colours, Zariba can be customized with its unique lettering option designed to bring names, mottos and logos to life. Raising the bar In line with improvements to building quality standards, housing associations are also looking to raise the bar when specifying security measures such as fencing systems. Instead of purely focusing on British Standards more and more are now looking at testing procedures in line with the Loss Prevention Council (LPC) to ensure high performance and quality. The Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB) can help manufacturers like Zaun to work towards the 1175 standard that provides a rigorous vetting process for security fencing. Once products are approved, they are given an internationally recognised ‘mark of trust’ and are listed within the LPCB’s ‘Red Book’ to highlight their effectiveness against security breaches such as burglary and vandalism. At Zaun, we believe close attention to detail, high quality manufacturing and the ability to provide a

For more information on SECURING A SAFER NEIGHBOURHOOD talk to Zaun Ltd