Hertiage: a cornerstone of sustainable development

by Riccardo Bobisse




Historic England recently released a report highlighting the essential role of heritage investment in revitalising English Towns — a stance that aligns firmly with AR Urbanism’s ongoing commitment to the integration of heritage in urban regeneration projects.


The case for investing in heritage and conservation is compelling from several sustainability standpoints:

1. In terms of structure and materials, reusing and preserving existing buildings can dramatically lower levels of embodied carbon released compared to new construction.
2. In social terms, the preservation and enhancement of heritage structures and environments can add cultural continuity and support community memory and identity.
3. And thirdly, successful heritage-based town or village centre regeneration actively contributes to economic regeneration.

However, our hands-on experience in towns like Boston, Lincolnshire and King's Lynn, West Norfolk, and Shrub Hill, Worcester reveals a significant challenge: the scale of heritage assets can often pose significant barriers to effective regeneration. While Historic England's Heritage Action Zone and Local Councils’ funding is crucial for unlocking potential and kickstarting key projects, these funds are limited.

We have seen what Homes- and Heritage England are capable of when they join forces through their partnerhsip on Bristol’s Temple Quarter and York Central. Aligning their objectives further, as well as pooling resources and seeing more collaboration between these already closely linked bodies could help to build momentum and ensure long-term success in heritage conservation in urban planning.

Historic assets are more than just buildings—they are the tangible connections to a place’s past, contributing to its unique character and charm. By advocating for contextual urbanism, we emphasise the importance of blending new developments with the existing historical fabric, creating spaces that resonate with local communities and enhance their pride in their surroundings.

The "heritage role in regenerative urbanism" goes beyond mere preservation; it's about celebrating and integrating the rich tapestry of local history into vibrant, modern communities. By doing so, we ensure that regeneration efforts amplify the distinctive qualities that make each place unique.

Let’s continue to champion heritage as a cornerstone of sustainable urban development.