Heritage for the future – Realising the economic and social potential of a key asset

The Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe, in co-operation with the European Association of Historic Towns and Regions and the City of Norwich, organised the major European Symposium on "Heritage for the future - Realising the economic and social potential of a key asset", which was held in Norwich (United Kingdom) on 9 and 10 September 2004. This publication contains the main statements and representations of the symposium. The event was attended by over 100 participants from across Europe, including national, regional and local authorities, professionals involved in heritage conservation, academic institutions and civic and community groups, who shared their experiences relating to the heritage of European towns. The symposium provided a platform for discussion on the economic and social importance of cultural heritage, mechanisms to facilitate the protection and enhancement of heritage, enhancing the potential of cultural routes, cultural heritage and technology and improving co-operation between international organisations and the public.