• Preservation of cultural environment in territories' protected or proposed for protection
• Incorporation of cultural heritage monuments into City's functional urban environment

 General privatization of former public buildings, new commercial activities are putting pressure on the historic environment. Building Regulations are integrated into the Official Plan of Riga and act as long-term instruments to balance city development and sustainable protection of historic and heritage values. Development projects are not be implemented if they are in conflict with the Official Plan. City Architect's Department oversees the development of projects and so co-ordinates the political and administrative decision making processes with public sector and residents interests

 The historical city centre of Riga has been included on the UNESCO World Heritage list. With this international awareness of the urban qualities of Riga also increases the City's special obligation to maintain and develop the city centre as part of the universal heritage.In 1998, Riga formulated its cultural policy. For 2002, there are plans to formulate a plan for the preservation and development of Riga's historical centre