Heritage And Urban DESIGN (The Future of The Past) Page 6

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HERITAGE & URBAN DESIGN
Urban design Conservation has evolved dramatically during the last 30 years or so as an urban design discipline necessary for dealing with older city districts that were previously reduced to being the location of monuments worthy of architectural restoration. Recent international experiences in urban conservation vary greatly in their focus and intent and still demonstrate the conflicting interests of archaeologists, who focus on monument restoration, and urban designers whose interest is in Conserving the spirit of the past. However, it is probably best for the skills of planning, archaeology and urban design to collaborate to create a truly lasting and significant urban experience that has a historical identity.

sustainability, a global issue of our time, is not yet so well-defined or covered by practical policies or guidance, but is readily integrated into both conservation and urban design. It is concerned with how we develop in this generation. without taking from the next.

 Authenticity in urban design needs to be dealt with sensitively, as it involves conserving streets, alleys, buildings, social practices and community cultural beliefs that are spread over a large urban area. There is danger of the urban designer ending up with a 'Disney-esque' version, which is merely an illusion that bears little or no Connection to the history of the area. Authenticity is vital to the honesty of the urban Conservation project but there need not be false accuracy or unnecessary Sensitivity about all the urban or social details of the project.

To pursue this idea, it is essential to differentiate between a conservation concept and a conservation methodology. A methodology is a practical way of following a process for conservation, while a concept is the central bonding idea behind the choices made during the practical process. In most cases, the urban designer's task shall be limited to formulating the urban conservation concepts and putting in practice a part of the conservation methodology. Seldom will an urban designer make managerial or financial decisions for a community. Consequently, the urban design conservation concept becomes a part of a larger consideration for the area. However, the concept can go a long way in influencing the project and can ensure, for example, community Support and the encouragement of local businessmen.
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