Using Contingent Valuation as a Planning Tool for Cultural Heritage Restoration in Municipality of Reşiţa (Romania)

Applying the contingent method for the evaluation of heritage buildings is a useful tool that requires a complex analysis based on the preferences expressed by the community members regarding cultural goods, especially those that are publicly owned. The purpose of this paper is to assess the non-use value of historical monuments in Reşiţa, a city where industry has shaped the local culture. The results of the study reflect the community’s identification with the local cultural heritage, including industrial monuments, and a concern of community for restoration of cultural goods. The heritage buildings selected by the community are representative of the local culture and play a significant role in creating the tourist image of Reşiţa, a city that has registered changes in its functional profile. The findings are particularly important in the territorial planning process for developing cultural policy focused on the preservation and sustainable valorization of cultural heritage. The contingent method is useful in the political and economic context of Romania in the post-socialist period where a large part of cultural heritage has been neglected and is characterized by degradation. Furthermore, few public funds have been allocated for restoration and adaptive reuse of cultural heritage assets.