Exploring the Community Perspective to Participate in the Built Heritage Conservation

Abstract

This research focussed on exploring the intentions and perspectives of the community to participate in built heritage conservation in different roles. Communities play a pivotal role in the conservation of built heritage due to their indigenous knowledge, cultural practices and lived experience that usually shapes the identity of the place. This research employed qualitative research design for exploration of the community understanding, views, motivation and perceived roles in the conservation process. The results revealed a strong willingness among community members to engage in the built heritage conservation process. The study concluded with the living heritage concept that is mainly focussed on the involvement of the community, being the main custodians for sustainable heritage conservation. The recommendations defined the role of community at various levels of built heritage conservation process including decision-making, knowledge sharing and interpretation for long-term stewardship.