Value perception of the economic cultural capital of socialist-modernist dissonant heritage from the perspective of local authorities in Poland

Abstract

The aim of the article is to identify the value of architectural resources from the cultural heritage of socialist-modernism as perceived by municipal officials responsible for spatial planning, cultural heritage, and urban development policy. The perception that those resources are valuable is a crucial factor in ensuring effective heritage protection, while also generating multiplier effects that stimulate socio-economic development, influence a sense of local identity, and contribute to the revitalization and aesthetic enhancement of urban spaces. The research presented focuses on specific sites, namely relatively new buildings, often unique from an architectural and urban planning perspective, but marked by the ‘stigma’ the challenging history of the Polish People’s Republic period. This distinctiveness may lead to ambivalence in their reception, hence the frequent use of the term ‘dissonant heritage’. This raises the question: do buildings that fall into this heritage category have developmental potential? The study’s findings indicate that, despite their problematic origins or often significant levels of physical deterioration, socialist-modernist structures are deeply rooted in the local environment. However, they are not being effectively utilized. The results presented form part of a larger study on conditions for strengthening the endogenous potential of cities based on the resources of socialist-modernist cultural heritage. The research utilized the VRIO model as well as a declared preference method known as willingness to pay (WTP).