Architecture and Planning:

Title:           Proposal for a study on the social and environmental management in the waterfront of Amakusa, Kumamoto Prefecture
Authors:      Anita Nyapala Okoko, Naoto TANAKA
Abstract:     Waterfront is an area of a city (such as a harbour or dockyard) located alongside a body of water (river, canal or seaside). According to Amakusa city statistics, the GDP from all industries has been on a steady decrease since 1985. These coupled with depopulation, a slump in the fishing industry, a large ageing population and infrastructure would set the stage for a rapid urban decline process in Amakusa if more sustainable solutions of management are not explored and implemented. Preserving the heritage of seaside towns is essential in order to keep attracting both local and foreign tourists throughout the year and maintain a sustainable economy. Management practices must therefore accommodate a wider, more inclusive approach to heritage management and to a greater emphasis on community engagement. In the Japanese Law governing Cultural Property, the general public is encouraged to participate but parameters for participation are not very clear. Public participation therefore requires redefinition not just in law and policy but also by the public itself in order to evolve from passive to active. A participatory approach is vital to guide regeneration of historic cities to benefit the community and utilize existing indigenous knowledge and expertise to inform the planning framework.

Keywords:    Waterfront, Cultural Property, Participation, Sustainable
Pages:          455-459

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