In many neighbourhoods in South Africa, especially Johannesburg, residents have acted in an apparent attempt to prevent crime in their areas. In several instances this results in enclosed neighbourhoods with controlled access. These people firmly believe that life within an enclosed neighbourhood provides a solution to crime and an improved quality of life. Yet, conclusive evidence of its effectiveness is lacking. City planners are being confronted with requests for permission to enclose entire neighbourhoods. The question is however, what the implications of these types of developments are for future urban environments and includes a scenario affecting the future of the urban poor.