Closed Path to Polygon - Export SVG

We are building an interactive SVG file and I am trying to understand how we can convert the closed paths drawn into polygons. Polygons in the SVG are used in our web application to zoom amongst other things, for what ever reason havent been able to get paths to work in a similar way.

I assumed a closed path would convert to a polygon and behave in a similar way as a rectangle, but comes out as a path when exported.

I have attempted to convert the paths to shapes but havent had any success, still presents as paths in the saved SVG.

Object -> Shape -> Convert

Really keen to avoid redrawing everything as an actual rectangle, adding points and then adjusting everything. I would hate to think what effort that would take

What is the best method to achieve the desired outcome?