Sustainable urban conservation in the context of South Africa: case studies of Port Elizabeth and Graaff-Reinet

Abstract

The sustainability of urban heritage conservation in the context of South Africa is problematic both because of the dynamic nature of our cities and because of our history of colonialism and Apartheid. Urban heritage conservation in South Africa is further impeded by the related problems of urban form, political will, difficulties in implementation and a problematic socio-economic context. These issues are explored and innovative case studies in urban heritage conservation in Port Elizabeth and Graaff-Reinet that address these issues, are described and evaluated. Notions regarding a
possible strategy for urban conservation are discussed.

Key words: conservation strategy, political will, South Africa, sustainable urban
conservation, urban form.