Some conceptual tools for deciding and planning in built heritage conservation

Abstract

Conserving the built heritage today entails decisions and planning at several different levels. Firstly, analysis is necessary regarding what to conserve: values, authenticity and integrity are the key concepts at this macro level. Then, decisions on how to conserve them should consider the chief principles of good conservation practice, among which compatibility, retreatability and minimum intervention are prominent today. This report analyses these concepts and the different ways in which they were translated into the decision support systems that are nowadays resorted to, from values-based decision making and risk management in conservation to intervention planning and performance assessments. The ultimate goal of this analysis is to compile tools that promote a more rational decision making in conservation.