Designing visible counter-terrorism interventions in public spaces

This chapter explores publicly visible counter-terrorism measures – uncovering the
strategic role of design in creating controlled disruption in public spaces to reduce threat
while at the same time reducing anxiety. Evidence of counter-terrorism security design is
now essential in the planning process and projects will need to demonstrate how such
issues have been addressed (Royal Institute of British Architects, 2010). This emphasis
on design is highlighted in a recent Home Office report (2012) which provides advice on
how to integrate such measures at different stages, from conception to development so
that ‘vulnerability of crowded places to terrorist attack can be tackled in an imaginative
and considered way’ (Home Office, 2012, p. 3). This last point is critical if we are to
develop and manage public spaces in way that will not have a detrimental effect on the
quality of the public realm, but will be socially responsive, enhancing a sense of vitality
and well-being.

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