As part of Hounslow Council’s Infill Sites Programme, Clements Court was one of several developments in the borough which has delivered much needed council homes for social rent.
Single-storey garages were demolished to make way for four new residential buildings providing 48 affordable homes, two communal areas and play spaces, and secure cycle storage for 261 bicycles.
Designing Out Crime Officer (DOCO), Matt Scales from the Metropolitan Police, became involved from the early stages, as achieving Secured by Design (SBD) certification formed part of the planning requirements. However, it was his also first-hand operational knowledge that helped shaped the development.
Security was embedded throughout the development, including an enhanced CCTV system, strategically positioned to cover key locations, along with improved natural surveillance through ‘active rooms’ which overlooked amenity spaces and children’s play areas. Beyond the original planning requirements, the DOCO influenced the design and positioning of the cycle storage which had previously been associated with ASB and misuse and recommended secure access-controlled entrances, Secured by Design post boxes and upgraded communal doors to meet higher attack standards such as STS 202, LPS 2081 and LPS 1775.
Today, Clement’s Court represents more than just new modern residential buildings. Landscaped communal gardens, secure play areas and public spaces have helped create an environment designed around safety, accessibility and positive community use.
Since completion there has been no recorded crime or reported incidents of ASB. The benefits have extended beyond the residents of the new buildings, helping to create a safer, more welcoming environment across the wider estate.
Designing Out Crime Officer, Matt Scales, said: “This project is a strong example of how early collaboration between policing, the local authority and development partners can genuinely transform a previously challenged environment. Working with Hounslow Council, Wates Residential and Hunters, we’ve embedded security into the design to create a place that actively discourages crime while supporting positive community use. The results speak for themselves.”
Lee Bushell, Regional Managing Director at Wates Residential, said: “Clements Court shows working in close partnership can truly help us reimagine places for people to thrive. Working alongside Hounslow Council and local policing teams, we’ve embedded safety and thoughtful design from the outset to create homes where residents feel secure and proud to live. It’s hugely rewarding to see the positive impact extend beyond the new homes and into the wider community.”
Councillor Tom Bruce, Deputy Leader of Hounslow Council and Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development said: “Clements Court is a powerful example of how thoughtful regeneration can transform not just buildings, but the lives of the people who live there. This project reflects our commitment to delivering genuinely affordable homes, while ensuring that new developments are designed with community wellbeing in mind. We have turned a previously challenging environment into a place where residents feel safe, connected and proud of their neighbourhood.”
