Police slam crime-risk Lynn shop design
POLICE have hit out at the design of Lynn's new shopping centre while urging anti-crime features for a proposed "shop in the sky" in the Vancouver Quarter.
A first-floor sports store bridging Broad Street near Peacocks clothing shop is being vaunted as a "sleek addition to the streetscape", but police fear it could create an "unauthorised youth shelter."
West Norfolk development control board members are due to consider plans for the new Sportsworld shop at their meeting on Monday.
Planning officers are recommending approval of the plan, which has been modified to address concerns that it would create a visual barrier between Lynn's old and new shopping areas.
A high level of lighting is proposed under the bridge, day and night, but police say: "It will place pressure on the surveillance of the area and additional CCTV coverage will be required."
They are also calling for windows and doors fitted in the building to have a high security rating and point out: "Fire escape staircases seem to be an attraction for youngsters to exploit and are used to gain access to the roof of retail buildings. It is recommended that designs are chosen to restrict this casual access."
Further criticism is voiced of "most of the new retail developments in Lynn town centre" for neglecting the principles of crime prevention through design.
Large, concrete and brick, windowless elevations did not provide natural surveillance. "It is obvious to any potential offender that they are out of view and anonymous. This feeling only encourages graffiti and damage," say police.
In a report to the board, planning officers recognise that the development, adjoining the existing Oldsunway bridge, would create a tunnel effect beneath.
"These areas are often perceived as having increased potential for conflict or criminal activity. However, by appropriate design the perceived risk can be reduced," states the report. There would be good visibility through the area as well as high footfall and good lighting underneath.
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Weather for King's Lynn
Thursday 09 February 2012
Today
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