Exploring and developing crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) audits: an iterative process

This paper utilizes an ecological perspective to explore the development of a crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) audit tool through an ongoing iterative process. We draw upon existing examples from criminology and research into auditing the built environment for physical activity and active travel. The purpose of the paper is to present a revised CPTED audit tool and process to assist those managing crime and anti-social behaviour in their streets, neighbourhoods and communities. It may also assist those seeking to use audits as part of the CPTED process set out in the recent International Standards on CPTED: ISO22341 (British Standards 2021). Following Ceccato (Crim Justice Stud 32:165–188, 2019), we briefly reflect on the validity, reliability and generalizability of the CPTED audit tool and consider further possible refinements for future iterations.