Cultural resources form an important part of the 'fabric' of the Durban Metropolitan Area (DMA). They play an important spiritual, aesthetic and educational role in the life of DMA's residents. Cultural resources help create a sense of place and of belonging to a tradition. They help us to obtain a better understanding of history and the diverse range of cultures in the DMA. Cultural resources can also reflect human achievement and greatness to which we all aspire.

The loss of the DMA's cultural resources therefore impacts on the social cohesiveness of the city and the quality of life of people living here. It also results in the loss of economic opportunities available through the growing international market in cultural tourism.