Vandalism: A product of environmental design?

This study presents findings on the spatial distribution of vandalism and the nature and extent of vandalism within Manenberg, a residential township in the Western Cape province of South Africa. The focus of the study is on the impact of the design of the built environment on vandalism. Design factors of the built environment, most notably, the distribution and type of buildings and open spaces are examined as possible influences on the incidence of vandalism, and population density, type and size of household, and property ownership are considered as relevant demographic variables. The methodology adopted for the study involves the collection and interpretation of official police statistics of vandalism over a sevenyear period (19921999). The statistical data are combined with the 1996 population census for the area. The statistical data are examined and presented in three focus areas: the frequency of vandalism, the nature of vandalism, and the location of vandalism. The study then examines the association between the design of the built environment and vandalism levels. In conclusion, the likely cost implications of vandalism are discussed.