Book excerpt: Containing the proceedings of the second International Conference on Defence Sites, Heritage and Future this book promotes the knowledge of the scale, design and functions of defence sites. It brings a better understanding of the issues raised by their redundancy and the implications of different disposal processes for the land. Redundant defence sites offer a range of opportunities to planners, architects and local communities to redevelop large areas, bringing new life to often neglected parts of towns. These opportunities are common to many countries and the papers in this book stress this common feature and help to share experiences of the transformation of defence sites to civilian uses around the world. The re-use of defence sites also raises questions regarding the need to recover brownfields and contaminated land which can have far-reaching legal responsibilities and environmental consequences. Achieving the sustainable development of these sites involves issues related to maintenance and conservation, as well as built and natural environmental controls, while also responding to the needs and aspirations of the community. Topics covered include: Military heritage history; Castles and fortresses; Fortified cities; Case studies; Transition from military to civilian life; Community involvement; Economic analysis; Risk assessment; Simulation and modelling; Funding and legal requirements.