Landscape and heritage : exploring the trans-sectoral connections and their role in participatory governance

Abstract

The research examined the potential of the ‘‘landscape-as-heritage’’ to become a driver for transsectoral participatory governance. It employed qualitative methods, based on a case study of the heritage and landscape governance system in England. The primary data was gathered through a documentation study and in-depth semi-structured interviews complemented with an ethnographic approach. Thematic qualitative analysis of the collected data assisted to identify legal, policy, and institutional mechanisms supporting trans-sectoral integration and participatory decision-making. Critical discourse analysis was employed to understand the data in the context, establish crosssectoral thematic links, and interpret the results. The research highlighted that the ‘‘landscape-as-heritage’’ concept, in its broadest and informal understanding, carries an inclusive and cohesive potential, and as such, also benefits socialecological justice and sustainability. It also revealed that instrumentalizing ‘‘landscape-asheritage’’ for progressive democratic governance requires a closer look at social inequalities. A social class approach was found helpful for critical reflection on the role of heritage in social inclusion and participation. The research outcomes suggest that both - top-down and bottom-up approaches are important for trans-sectoral integration and participatory governance. Different scales and disciplinary realms interlock in the process of spatial and strategic planning, where sharing information and responsibility are fundamental. ‘Landscapes as heritage’ can be seen as a platform to accommodate such integration, nurture a vision of a shared living environment, and promote sustainable use of spaces embedded in the global social-ecological system.