The formation of urban centres has historically been a particular focus of scholarship and heritage conservation. In recent decades the processes of urbanization have become accelerated and heritage centres are taking on the full brunt of the impacts of diverse forms of globalization. At the same time as celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the World Heritage Convention, we are crossing another critical threshold in the history of humanity, with more than half the population of the world living in cities and towns. The case studies in this chapter illustrate the range of community engagement approaches taken in different parts of the world to address the challenges of conservation and sustainable development at World Heritage sites.

At the Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison site (Barbados), the key challenge is for heritage practitioners to help Barbadians come to terms with the historical legacies of slavery and colonialism, while forging an ‘independent’ identity.

The implementation of projects in the Medina of Marrakesh (Morocco) during the past decade has had a positive impact on the living conditions of people within the historic city. These include restoration of the sewage system, paving of lanes, repair of public fountains, creation of small parks in various places, inventory of houses at risk of collapse and the revalorization of the old urban fabric.

In the town of Luang Prabang (Lao People's Democratic Republic), constituent villages to benefit from infrastructure projects were selected on the basis of the inhabitants' willingness to participate in a ‘village contract’ for the maintenance of the streets, streetlights and sewage systems.