Threats to the quality of urban life are apparent in many large cities: violent crime, theft, graffiti and anti-social behaviour all contribute to feelings of insecurity and alienation. Responding to these threats with more law enforcement is only part of the answer. Specialists now agree that safety and security are influenced by the interaction of a range of factors including the design of streets and spaces, traffic management, city maintenance, street lighting and effective security systems.

In run-down urban areas, the cycle of decay and deprivation is a breeding ground for fear of crime. This can result in the creation of gated communities where people retreat behind ‘defensible space’ – which in turn results in less community interaction, adding to the downward spiral. An early identification of risk allows the integration of active and passive security features into the built environment to reduce the opportunity for crime, such as CCTV, lighting, man-guarding and ‘natural surveillance’ by neighbours and passers-by.

Security has an important role to play in both reassuring people and protecting assets. Buro Happold works closely with clients to develop security masterplans and strategies that ensure safe and controlled environments under different risk and threat scenarios. We look at the interaction between people and spaces to devise strategies that are cost-effective yet as non-intrusive as possible, respecting personal freedom and aesthetics.

By understanding our clients’ needs, we are able to identify the opportunities offered by technology and how these can best be integrated into an efficient security solution.
Our consultancy team is drawn from a range of backgrounds, from engineering, installation and business continuity to security operations, enabling us to bring a full range of specialist skills to each project. Our service covers four main areas:

Security Masterplanning
Buro Happold works with clients to mitigate identified or potential threats – and the consequent risks – by developing a security strategy that identifies each component of the overall security programme and then integrates them into the design to provide a comprehensive solution. Our team draw on extensive experience to identify options for how every aspect of security is most appropriately addressed.

Integrated Risk Management
Organisations that understand and manage the risks associated with their activities are able to protect their assets and maximise returns and value. Buro Happold’s risk management team analyses the threats to our clients from internal, external, malicious and accidental sources. We review the current security and operational arrangements to identify areas of vulnerability and the potential consequences to the organisation.

Security Engineering
Buro Happold assesses the operational requirements for both electronic and physical security elements as part of a developed security strategy. We assist with the procurement and commissioning process to help ensure our clients benefit from cost-effective security systems. Our team advises on operational requirements for CCTV, intruder detection systems, automatic access control systems and provides full project management.

Security Management
After developing the security strategy, Buro Happold’s consultants are able to provide post-occupancy support and advice for effective implementation and future management of the plan. Our team has an in-depth knowledge of different operational environments and understands the practicalities of running facilities and equipment. Our services include interim security management, disaster recovery procedures and security training.