September Glencoyne Update: Designing Out Antisocial Behaviour and Crime
16/09/2025
In August our update addressed residents’ questions on social housing and antisocial behaviour (ASB). This month we would like to share how we have addressed the ASB issue from a design perspective.
One of the key benefits of the Glencoyne Square development is its role in reducing ASB in the Southmead shopping area, a priority that has been central to this community-led project from the very beginning. The Southmead Masterplan, developed in response to the Southmead Community Plan, highlights some of the problems with the square:
‘As a result of the lack of frontage (windows and doors facing the square) and use of the space more generally, community safety is a particular issue, which has in the past led to anti-social behaviour. In discussions, many members of the community referred to burned out cars being left on the space, which undermines feelings of personal safety and the image of the area.’
Our community-led development directly addresses these concerns by introducing more windows, doors, and homes overlooking Glencoyne Square, alongside increased community presence.
These changes are proven to deter ASB and foster a safer, more welcoming environment. To further strengthen safety, local police officers have actively participated in our design consultations. This includes advice from a Secured by Design officer, who reviewed the updated public space and courtyard layouts following our 2024 community consultation.
In August 2025, we submitted an application for the Council to approve the changes made to the design since the summer 2024 consultation workshops. We should receive a decision notice for this application before the end of September.
If you are curious about how the Glencoyne Square community-led project has evolved over the years, including the design, you might like to click on the links below to explore our archive from The Mead magazine. We are gradually digitising all the old editions.
For all info visit our page HERE
Contact us, email: info@southmead.org, tel: 0117 950 3335