Deterring Anti-social Behaviour and Crime in the Public Train Environment by Design

The Melbourne metropolitan train network has experienced incidents of anti-social behaviour and crime among the three tiers of stations; premium, host and unmanned over the recent years. The identification of this problem has lead to design research aimed to explore ways that may minimise anti-social behaviour and crime, and to improve passenger security and the perceptions of Melbourne's rail system. A literature review was conducted to collate available information related to design of public railway systems' passenger security and crime prevention measures. It was found that a combination of a poorly designed environment, the presence of other uncivil people, the lack of apparent security measures and negative media exposure, heavily influences people's insecurities when they travel in a railway network. It was also suggested that the built environment affects people's behaviour and perceptions, and areas with criminal opportunities and inadequate security measures tend to attract offenders in carrying out varying degrees of social disorder or crime. The authors have identified that a pleasant and well-maintained designed environment with a combination of good regulations, policing and management contribute to a successful rail system. They conclude that while there are many potential design opportunities that exist in improving train station environments, it appears that increased lighting, better sightlines and visibility are potentially the most fruitful areas to opt for in developing a design solution that will improve the quality of life and deter anti-social behaviour in Melbourne's rail system.