Research suggests that the levels of crime and disorder experienced on public transport systems generally reflect those of the local community. That is, the incidence of crime at a station or on a particular route is likely to be higher in areas where the incidence of crime is higher in the local community. One study into crimes committed on the London Underground found that the stations with the largest number of robberies were located in areas where the incidence of robbery was also relatively high in the local community (Department of Transport, 1986).

Research also suggests that the nature of the environment immediately around public transport facilities has an important influence on the nature and extent of crime occurring at facilities. For example, research into crimes committed at bus stops suggests that the existence of ‘bad neighbours’ surrounding the stop, such as bars, stores selling alcohol or adult book stores, is commonly associated with high levels of crime and disorder at the stop (Loukaitou-Sideris, 1999). However, there is evidence to suggest that the favourable design and management of some public transport environments can, to some extent, insulate public transport from crime and disorder in the local community.