It is not enough to describe the physical characteristics and their attributes when defining the heritage significance of a place. It is essential to capture what is valued and why.

This goes to the heart of understanding people’s responses to their environment because they have an attachment to and ascribe value to it that goes beyond bricks and mortar. Places exhibit change that reflects people’s lives - their aspirations, needs and status. This is a constant in society; it needs to be articulated as part of understanding significance and managing change.
Why do places matter? written by Alison Worlledge