Book Description

Containing the proceedings of the third International Conference on Defence Sites: Heritage and Future, this book deals with the scale, design and functions of defence sites. It facilitates a better understanding of the issues raised by their decommissioning and the implications of various disposal processes for the land. Defence sites due to be decommissioned offer a range of opportunities to planners, architects and local communities to redevelop large areas, bringing new life to previously neglected parts of towns. However, the re-use of defence sites also raises questions regarding the recovery of brownfields and contaminated land, since these can have far-reaching legal responsibilities and environmental consequences. Achieving the sustainable development of these sites involves issues related to maintenance and conservation, as well as built and natural environmental controls, while also responding to the needs and aspirations of the community. Many of the opportunities and problems in the re-use of defence sites are shared by a number of countries and the book stresses these common experiences. Topics covered include: Fortified cities; Community involvement; Economic analysis; Risk assessment; Simulation and modelling; Funding and legal requirements; Military engineering in the modern age; Conservation and restoration; Transition from military to civilian uses; Fortified heritage, culture, tourism & education; Military heritage history; Castles and fortresses; Case studies.