The future of historic cities: A practitioner's experience

This paper on future trends for the development, conservation and management of historic cities emanates from practical work I have carried out. Over the years, it became evident to me that physical-built heritage and human development were two sides of the same coin and unless taken 'as a whole' there would be no point in undertaking any conservation programme as such in isolation. It is now widely recognized that a holistic approach should be taken in the conservation of historic cities and urban spaces. I have formulated guidelines for effective project implementation, as well as basic criteria for urban/historic city development/management. For developing countries/cities, holistic development policies and programmes should be put in place directly related to heritage considerations. By this I refer to Sustainable Human Development, summed up in the words 'enlarging peoples' capacity'. This approach is aimed at empowering people and creating growth and employment. Development in historic cities would have to concentrate on housing, health and education. Adaptive reuse of historic buildings as well as implementation of contemporary architecture in old settings is an example for the conservation and development of historic cities. We need to implement local level project units which can relate to the local population, developmental agencies and public private partnerships. Sustainable tourism has to be related to the two sided coin of developmental heritage. We hope to see in the future historic cities that are just, beautiful, creative, prosperous, and environmentally friendly.