Activity support involves the use of design and signage to encourage intended patterns of usage of public space.
Although increased numbers of pedestrians may provide additional 'eyes on the street' and potentially discourage some offences, this may also actually encourage and provide other targets for crime (e.g. pick-pocketing).
There is a growing body of research on mixed-use neighbourhoods where it found that opportunities for crime are reduced by virtue of the increased range of activities in spatial and temporal terms. promoting street-level activity by encouraging the practice of residential provision above retail units is a relatively recent innovation.
