The Durban Metropolitan Area (DMA) is fortunate to have a very rich cultural heritage. Many significant sites have, however, been lost as a result of enforced resettlement, racial violence and urban development. Many significant sites are protected but these are not fully representative of the cultural heritage of all Durban's racial groups. Legislation (National Heritage Resources Act) currently provides for the protection of significant sites. Local government also offers a range of incentives. There are a range of initiatives currently being undertaken to preserve, and provide better access to the DMA's cultural heritage.	What can you do to improve the situation
	About Indicators In this Cultural Report In this SOE Report Global Set
The historical relocation of residents, racial violence, urban development and air pollution are resulting in the progressive loss of the Durban Metropoltian Area's cultural heritage.
Durban's three major cultural groups - Africans, Europeans and Indians have generated a rich cultural heritage for the metropolitan area. Many sites are formally recognised and protected, however, these are not fully representative of all the cultural groups in the DMA. Many important sites are still being lost through neglect.
The loss of the DMA's cultural resources is impacting on the social cohesiveness of the city and the quality of life of people living here. It is also resulting in the loss of economic opportunities available through the growing international market in cultural tourism.
Legislation currently makes provision for the protection of significant sites. In addition, local government in the DMA provides a range of incentives for the preservation of buildings. Other initiatives currently being undertaken include the compilation of a Heritage Atlas, the development of a Bluff Headland Heritage Park and the Inanda and Cato Manor Tourism Development Plans.