A Review on Territorial Development Planning: Putting the Great Zimbabwe World Heritage Site into Perspective

Abstract

Cultural heritage stands as a vital driver for sustainable development in the 21st century, embodying historical, symbolic and socio-economic values. This literature review scrutinises the Territorial Development Plan for the Great Zimbabwe World Heritage Site Area, examining the convergence of heritage conservation and local socio-economic development. Through an extensive review of literature from diverse sources, including books, journals, Google Scholar and government policy documents, this study employs textual analysis to elucidate the relationship between heritage policies and urban planning. The analysis reveals a paradigm shift in recognising heritage as a key contributor to national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and a catalyst for sustainable economic progress. The study highlights the necessity of addressing legal gaps and ambiguities to safeguard tangible and intangible aspects of Zimbabwe's cultural legacy. It draws valuable lessons from global, regional and local perspectives, emphasising the integration of heritage policies into urban planning as crucial for fostering global resilience and sustainable development. Major recommendations include collaborative efforts on local, national and international fronts to integrate heritage policies into urban planning, ensuring equitable growth and preservation of cultural identity. The conclusion underscores the intricate relationship between cultural preservation and sustainable development, advocating a holistic and inclusive approach.