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 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.