Police & private security industry collaborate as ‘Safe & Secure’ crime prevention garden proves a hit at prestigious show

The garden - a collaboration between Essex Police, Secured by Design and RHS Hyde Hall, with support from a number of SBD member companies and  local companies – showed how simple and affordable crime prevention measures could be incorporated into any front or rear garden to add an extra layer of security, help deter opportunistic burglars and protect a home.

Visitors to the garden not only got to enjoy the garden itself, but also had the opportunity to discuss the security features – which included information on security products and defensive planting - with Crime Prevention Officers from Essex Police.

Essex Police Designing Out Crime Officer Stephen Armson-Smith said: “I would like to thank the RHS and our sponsors for all their hard work and generosity in creating this wonderful garden, where collaboratively we were able to demonstrate how both nature and security can work together to create a beautiful, safe and secure Garden".

Head of site at RHS Garden Hyde Hall Ian Le Gros said: “Well thought out defensive planting as part of garden design can provide an element of security, whilst at the same time provide a pleasant environment to live and work. We hope visitors will be inspired by the garden and see for themselves that there are several things that can be done to improve security in the garden – most of which are relatively quick and inexpensive to do.”

Secured by Design Development Officer Lyn Poole said; “Garden security is such a great way to enhance the physical security of a home whatever size the house and garden".

Contributions to the garden:

- Jacksons Fencing
- King & Co
- Trimetals
- Poulton Portables
- Meadow Croft Garden Centre
- Pragmasis
- The Expanded Metal Company
- Solon Security
- Redline SecurityDefendaStrip
- Ring
- Uwatch