Spatial distribution of subsidies to cultural landscapes

Background and Objective

A systematic overview of subsidies and programs for the preservation of cultural landscapes is important for the management of spatial conflicting uses as well as spatial planning. The main aim of the project that has been commissioned by the Federal Institute for Research on Building, Urban Affairs and Spatial Development was to define and systematically inventorise the promotion of cultural landscapes in the new member states of the Federal Republic of Germany for the years 2000 to 2006. Furthermore the findings have been stored in a comprehensive database for analysis purposes.

Approach

Within the scope of the project we developed a qualitative multi criteria analysis instrument based on literature findings. This instrument was used to systematically register and assess development schemes aiming at cultural landscapes due to their potential spatial implications as well as implications on cultural landscapes. Thereby programs that have a considerable impact or alter cultural landscapes have been defined as relevant for cultural landscapes.

Data and Methods

The analysis instrument has been developed inductively based on a literature analysis to the themes „ inventorisation of cultural landscapes“ as well as „formation of cultural landscapes“. It is based on the verbal-argumentative method of assessment but does also contain elements of the utility analysis as well as the ecological risk analysis. The analysis instrument has been steadily improved and adapted during the project.

Results

Central results of the project are: 1) The development of a multi criteria qualitative analysis instrument meant to support the spatial planning. This instrument allows the potential implication of programs on cultural landscapes to be assessed. 2) Suggestions for the delineation/definition of development schemes relevant for cultural landscapes. 3) A database that summarizes the development schemes that are potentially relevant due to cultural landscapes for the new member states for the years 2000 to 2006. 4) Selected, exemplary analyses on the incidence of development schemes relevant for cultural landscapes that give first indicative evidence for the regional distribution of grants in the new member states.