Practical guidance
Safe parks are well used and well maintained. London’s parks are improving with more Londoners (84%) happy with the quality of these green spaces than last year (80%), while more also feel safe using these spaces after dark than last year. However, over a quarter of Londoners still avoid local parks and green spaces because they feel unsafe.
Fear of crime in parks is a real concern to many local communities, even though evidence suggests these areas are no more dangerous than surrounding streets. Tackling anti-social behaviour, crime and the fear of crime is therefore essential to give local people the confidence to make full use of and enjoy their parks.
The top three reasons for feeling unsafe are teenagers hanging around, lack of adequate lighting, fear of being mugged/physically attacked and dangerous dogs.
Across London groups are working together to tackle problems. The Safer Parks Awards is a great way to bring these ideas together and share good practice.
Below is information that showcases a range of activity and innovative practice taking place at a local level to ensure London’s parks are welcoming, attractive and safe places.
- Data and intelligence good practice outlines key points on police data, local authority data and public perception
- Public perception survey 2011 covers safety in parks and dangerous dogs
- Enforcement good practice covers bye-laws and lists possible enforcement activity
- Responsible dog ownership good practice outlines action to promote responsible behaviour and tackle irresponsible dog ownership
- Damage to trees - Practical action to protect trees from dog damage developed with the London Tree Officers Association
