This document explains how techniques of planning can be used to create a conservation plan for a heritage zone. It discusses using GIS mapping, basemaps, surveys, zoning maps, land use maps, SWOT analysis, and circulation/utilities planning. It also addresses transfer of development rights, public-private partnerships, and implementation/monitoring through local residents and NGOs. The goal is to balance urbanization with conservation of older areas as cultural heritage zones.

1. 2011
CONSERVATION PLAN FOR A HERITAGE ZONE 2011
School of Planning and Architecture
Shashikant Nishant Sharma
Plan of Delhi in 1857 and lower part is Shahjehanabad
[ CONSERVATION PLAN FOR A HERITAGE ZONE ]
This document explains briefly how the different techniques of planning can be used for making a
conservation plan for and area which is comparable to the area of a Local Area Plan in Delhi.

2. CONSERVATION PLAN FOR A HERITAGE ZONE 2011
Introduction
Techniques of planning have been found helpful in the preparation of conservation plan for large
areas strewn with elements of heritage importance. The fast urbanization of the town is ruthlessly
devouring the historical landscape of the older area. This is endangering the cultural identity of
the area & also a valuable event in the pages of history. Hence, it calls for a planning
intervention that can balance both, the need of the town to spread as well as the existing older
areas to be conserved as a Heritage Zone, closely linked to the cultural & religious sentiments of
numerous people & also find a way in which they can benefit each other.
Techniques of Planning
There are various techniques of planning which can be used for preparing the conservation plan for a
heritage zone.
GIS Mapping
The GIS mapping of the entire area should be conducted and if
possible take into account the context area of the heritage zone.
This should be followed by employing photogrammetric
techniques to study the slope of the area. The two studies will
help us in understanding the physical attributes of the area that
will be necessary when developmental activities are carried out.
This will also enable us to locate the probable sources of water
if we intend to encourage tourist activity.
Basemap of the Heritage Zone
Proper and detailed base map should be made with the help of modern softwares like GIS and
AutoCAD. The local municipalities, gram panchayats etc have to be consulted for maps &
layouts followed by ground surveys, that will help in earmarking the Heritage Zone. Once that is
done, public meetings have to be organized to sensitize people of the importance of the site and
the environs. This will help in designing a need based plan of the area.
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3. CONSERVATION PLAN FOR A HERITAGE ZONE 2011
Extensive Surveys
The area identified for heritage zone should be surveyed
extensively for various data like landuse survey, building use
survey, heritage identification survey, architectural survey to
know the importance of the existing old monuments and
buildings.
Zoning Map
Proper zoning map should be prepared after extensive surveys and subsequent analysis. This will
help in further detailing of the area which needs more attention. The zoning map may contain
zones like no development zone, Controlled Development Zone, Redevelopment Zone,
Renovation zone etc.
Land use and Building Use Map
There should be existing landuse map and proposed landuse map for the area. The detailed
building use map and data will help in further planning of the area.
SWOT Analysis
The study of the heritage zone and identification of areas around the identified heritage zone that
will act as buffer from urbanization should also be earmarked for regulated development. These
buffers apart from containing plantations of both religious & botanical significance will also
house certain complementary structures like pilgrim rest-houses, community hall. They will also
architecturally define a zone where no other developments can occur.
Circulation, Utilities and Services
Adequate circulation space should be provided and developed new standards for such congested
areas. Land suitable for water supply & sewage system can be identified by a slope analysis &
proximity to nearest water treatment & waste treatment plant. Proper parking facilities for both
buses & four-wheelers can be provided at the entrance of the area (preferably near the main road)
to prevent vehicular entry into the site.
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4. CONSERVATION PLAN FOR A HERITAGE ZONE 2011
Informal Sector Planning
To take care of the informal sector that is vital for the economic
viability of the area but at the same time needs special controls,
designed vending stalls can be provided as a part of the Heritage
Area development.
Transfer of Development Right
The owner of the land in the heritage zone should be given opportunity for relocating themselves
and for the restricted development control imposed on them. They can be given TDR of their
land in other areas of the city.
Public Private Partnership
For the sustenance of the development there must be more and more prospects for PPP in the
development of the city. The maintenance of the heritage zone and informal sector shopping and
vending should be allowed for the residents only. The service and utilities charges should be
collected by the residents association and NGO in the area.
Implementation and Monitoring of Development
For effecting implementation and monitoring of the project government agencies should take the
help of the local residents association and interested NGOs of the area. As the Heritage Zone
which has area comparable to the area of Local Area Plan in Delhi which is approximately 400
hectare is not only large in area but also complex in character. Planning in such area is a
continuous process and so the Urban Local Body should appoint
more urban planners and they should undertake such projects in
their own hand rather than outsourcing to the private consultancies
that do projects not planning in its true sense of term.
Conclusion
The techniques of planning can help a lot in preparing a
conservation plan for a heritage zone of larger area like the old
Shahjehanabad area in the core of nation capital Delhi.
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