Protecting past, present and progress: the reality of coexistence with National and World Heritage properties

A study on Murujuga, also known as the Dampier Archipelago, reveals that coexistence between industrial operations and cultural heritage can yield significant benefits while posing substantial challenges. The research highlights that formalizing and enumerating heritage values enhances targeted management, stakeholder collaboration, impact assessment, and a values-driven approach. However, it also identifies difficulties such as increased regulation, activism, and reputational risks. Despite these challenges, the study notes that certain structures inherent in heritage listing can be leveraged to mitigate these issues. The findings underscore the potential for positive outcomes when balancing industrial development with the preservation of cultural landscapes.

Thomas, D. (2020). Protecting past, present and progress: the reality of coexistence with National and World Heritage properties. The APPEA Journal, 60(2), 544–547. https://doi.org/10.1071/aj19136