A regeneration project in Dundee has been recognised for its safe and secure design by Police Scotland.

The new housing development at Mill O’ Mains was developed by Home Group.

The project, which is currently in its final phase, has been awarded Police Scotland’s ‘Secure by Design’ accreditation. The accreditation acknowledges the use of a set of design principles that aim to restrict criminal activity and promote safe neighbourhoods.

The Mill O’ Mains site is being transformed into a contemporary new neighbourhood as part of Dundee City Council’s strategic regeneration plans. The area was previously run down, uninspiring and deemed unsafe. Antisocial behaviour and criminal activity was on the rise and the layout was confusing, unsafe and badly lit. As the site nears its final phases, it is anticipated that the area will see a significant reduction in antisocial behaviour.

Stuart Dixon, head of development and delivery, Home Group, said: “Our imaginative masterplan, created in collaboration with HTA architects, has allowed us to transform Mill O’ Mains into a thriving, brighter and safer community that residents are proud to call their home.

“We have vastly improved road access, lighting and pathways and created new green and landscaped community spaces providing central areas for organised events and outdoor play.”

PC Mark Symons, police architect liaison officer, said: “Secured by Design is a police initiative, supported by the Home Office to design out crime and the fear of crime. Working with architects and builders from the planning stage, preventative measures can be used to create a welcoming safe place to live and visit.

“This was my first project since becoming Architectural Liaison Officer and I enjoyed working on it and seeing it through to its conclusion. This has been a large project with many challenges to overcome.

“I am proud to award the Secured By Design Certificate to Home Group and look forward to working with them again in the future.”

The Mill O’ Mains development was named by Inside Housing as one of the top 60 affordable UK housing developments in 2015.