The Compositional Regulation of the Historic Environment and Urban Planning

Abstract

The paper provides a historical overview of issues concerning the refurbishment of old cities. It also presents summary information regarding current trends in urban reconstruction in Russian and oversea practice during the period from the end of WWII in the twentieth century to the beginning of the twenty-first century. The main section considers the practical aspects of regulating the historical environment. Factors here include: the social and aesthetic functions of historic sites; the essence and dimensions of such historic sites; the psychological dimensions of environmental impact; the cultural potential of historic heritage; and the theoretical and practical importance of state protection for historic and cultural monuments. All these factors underpin the importance of a comprehensive approach to studies of monumental legacy and the current issues in this field. This paper will also consider the role of public interest in the design of historical and cultural monuments and heritage, as well as the potential for conservation, and current issues of urban planning and renovation. We will describe the issues and potential of modern practices in refurbishing the historic environment, while establishing the main principles of its renewal. The conclusions herein underpin the need to introduce a system of justifying urban planning when it comes to the renovation of buildings and the environment. This must be a mandatory stage in project design and permit issuing, aimed at competently resolving issues of urban renewal.