FAQs

Heritage refers to significant places, objects and stories inherited from the past that are to be protected for future generations. It provides a connection to lived experiences while also forming a part of our contemporary culture and identity. Heritage can encompass intangible values that may be associated with tangible objects and places. Heritage places may also have different meanings for different people that can change over time.

In broad terms, heritage encapsulates natural heritage, Aboriginal cultural heritage and environmental heritage including built heritage (significant buildings and structures, as well as remnants of built fabric, conservation areas, precincts and constructed landscapes), archaeological heritage, movable heritage, cultural landscapes and collections of objects such as historical artefacts, archives, and fossils. Natural landscapes, gardens, views and settings are also key aspects of heritage, particularly in the Blue Mountains.

Our heritage is an expression of the historic development of our community identity. It contributes to defining a sense of place and promotes feelings of connectedness and community pride that ultimately enrich daily life.

Council recognises the rich and diverse legacy of culturally significant places and objects within the Blue Mountains. Council is committed to conserving, enhancing, and celebrating our heritage, both tangible and intangible, for the aesthetic, historic, scientific, social and spiritual values it embodies, in partnership with the community, for the benefit of current and future generations. Council is committed to promoting an honest and complete account of First Nations people and their history as outlined in Council’s Statement of Recognition and Commitment, as well as incorporating a better understanding of other aspects of heritage including ethnicity, gender and class.

Blue Mountains City Council has prepared this Heritage Strategy 2026-2030 with the contribution and assistance of key stakeholders. The updated Strategy carries forward the principles established in the 2021-2025 Heritage Strategy.

The Heritage Strategy sets the strategic direction for heritage management over the next four years and focuses on the proactive management of heritage in the Blue Mountains, structured under four key themes:

Knowing: Gathering, collecting and sharing resources and stories of heritage places provides a firm foundation for improving the identification and assessment of heritage significance.

Protecting: Protecting and managing our heritage ensures that conservation is a primary consideration in all elements of planning and place-making.

Supporting: Council will continue to support the conservation of heritage places through advisory services, incentives and grant opportunities.

Promoting: Council will raise awareness and increase understanding and appreciation of the tangible and intangible heritage of the Blue Mountains.

The Draft Heritage Strategy is a guiding document that will set a long-term plan for the heritage of the Blue Mountains.

The development of priorities and actions under these themes has been influenced by and responds to previous heritage work, current Council projects, and existing studies and reports. It is acknowledged that the implementation of some identified actions require support from key external organisations and service authorities.