Heritage Impact Assessment, beyond an Assessment Tool: A comparative analysis of urban development impact on visual integrity in four UNESCO World Heritage Properties

Urban development poses significant threats to the visual integrity of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, often leading to irreparable losses. A comparative analysis of four sites—Cologne Cathedral (Germany), Meidan Emam (Iran), Golestan Palace (Iran), and Vienna’s Historic Centre (Austria)—reveals divergent strategies in mitigating these impacts through Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA). While Cologne Cathedral and Meidan Emam faced similar urban pressures, their conservation outcomes differed due to varying state responses. The study underscores the need for multi-sectoral cooperation and capacity-building in HIA beyond mere assessment methodologies to effectively balance heritage preservation with sustainable urban growth.

Ashrafi, B., Kloos, M., & Neugebauer, C. (2021). Heritage Impact Assessment, beyond an Assessment Tool: A comparative analysis of urban development impact on visual integrity in four UNESCO World Heritage Properties. Journal of Cultural Heritage, 47, 199–207. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.culher.2020.08.002