Healdtown College Sewage Treatment BAR.Pdf

PROPOSED ESTABLISHMENT AND OPERATION OF A SEWAGE TREATMENT PACKAGE PLANT AT HEALDTOWN COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL, FORT BEAUFORT, EASTERN CAPE PROVINCE OF SOUTH AFRICA

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

DRAFT FOR PUBLIC REVIEW

DEA REFERENCE NUMBER: 12/9/11/L894/1

Prepared for:

Gareth Mitchell BKS (Pty) Ltd. 35 Tecoma Street, Berea, East London, 5241 T | +27 (0) 43 721 0565 F | +27 (0) 43 721 0566 W | http://www.bks.co.za/

Prepared by:

Coastal & Environmental Services P.O. Box 934 Grahamstown 6140 Tel: 046 622 2364 Fax: 046 622 6564 www.cesnet.co.za

MAY 2012

(For official use only) File Reference Number: 12/9/11/L894/1 Application Number: Date Received:

Basic assessment report in terms of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2010, promulgated in terms of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998), as amended.

Kindly note that:

1. This basic assessment report is a standard report that may be required by a competent authority in terms of the EIA Regulations, 2010 and is meant to streamline applications. Please make sure that it is the report used by the particular competent authority for the activity that is being applied for.

2. The report must be typed within the spaces provided in the form. The size of the spaces provided is not necessarily indicative of the amount of information to be provided. The report is in the form of a table that can extend itself as each space is filled with typing.

3. Where applicable tick the boxes that are applicable in the report.

4. An incomplete report may be returned to the applicant for revision.

5. The use of “not applicable” in the report must be done with circumspection because if it is used in respect of material information that is required by the competent authority for assessing the application, it may result in the rejection of the application as provided for in the regulations.

6. This report must be handed in at offices of the relevant competent authority as determined by each authority.

7. No faxed or e-mailed reports will be accepted.

8. The report must be compiled by an independent environmental assessment practitioner.

9. Unless protected by law, all information in the report will become public information on receipt by the competent authority. Any interested and affected party should be provided with the information contained in this report on request, during any stage of the application process.

10. A competent authority may require that for specified types of activities in defined situations only parts of this report need to be completed.

SECTION A: ACTIVITY INFORMATION

Has a specialist been consulted to assist with the completion of this YES section? If YES, please complete the form entitled “Details of specialist and declaration of interest” for appointment of a specialist for each specialist thus appointed: Any specialist reports must be contained in Appendix D.

1. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION

Describe the activity, which is being applied for, in detail1:

HEALDTOWN COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL WASTEWATER TREATMENT WORKS, FORT BEAUFORT.

BKS (Pty) Limited is proposing the establishment and operation of a sewage treatment package plant at Healdtown Comprehensive School, Fort Beaufort. Such construction will aid the management of sewage and help eliminate the health and pollution hazard posed by raw sewage entering the nearby Kat River.

The school previously dealt with sewage by employing a system of septic tanks; and more recently a series of sewage treatment ponds situated on the property. Due to vandalism, neglect and old age, it is now necessary to construct an entirely new system at the school to manage sewage and to eliminate the health and pollution hazard posed by raw sewage entering the Kat River. A new gravity reticulation system is proposed with sewage flowing to a convenient point for treatment in a package plant. This eliminates the need for evaporation ponds, which are unsuitable due to their close proximity to residential houses.

There are two alternative locations (site alternatives) proposed, namely Location A and B). These locations are clearly shown on the locality map (Appendix A) and Site photographs (Appendix B) of this report. Important to note is that there is a borehole in the vicinity of Alternate Site 2 (Location B). Hence, Alternate Site 1 (Location A), would be better from the viewpoint of a lower risk of contaminating the groundwater should there be sewage overflow/spill. For the purpose of this report, alternative Site 1 (Location A) will be assessed as the preferred alternative.

There are also several options (activity alternatives) for the disposal of the treated effluent:  Discharge into the nearby river (Option 1);  Evaporation ponds (Option 2); or  Irrigation of agricultural fields or sports fields using the treated effluent (Option 3). This option would require either a lined holding pond or dam to cater for emergency overflow and a reed-bed type “polishing system”. The irrigation water will be used on agricultural lands (not to fruit or vegetables that are eaten without cooking, or to sports fields where there is not normally physical contact with the ground surface (that is, a golf course but not a rugby filed), or to gardens within the College grounds.

The sewage treatment package plant will process 30KL per day which equates to 10 950m³ per annum.

A Becon Bio-Filter Rotating Biological Contactor (RBC) sewage purification plant (Becon Bio-filter RBC plant) will be used to treat sewage from the college. The unit consists of a primary combined settlement tank and anaerobic digester, a secondary aerobic process consisting of the Becon Bio-Filter RBC plant fixed film reactor units, followed by a humus settlement tank and a disinfection tank. Figure 1 below illustrates the Becon Bio-Filter RBC plant flow process.

1 Please note that this description should not be a verbatim repetition of the listed activity as contained in the relevant Government Notice, but should be a brief description of activities to be undertaken as per the project description. 2

Figure 1: Becon Bio-Filter RBC plant flow diagram

Source: Becon Watertech Information Brochure entitled “Becon Bio-Filter Rotating Biological Contactor Sewage Purification Plants for Smaller Communities”.

Listed Activities

INDICATE THE ACTIVITY NUMBERS DESCRIBE EACH LISTED ACTIVITY NO. & DATE OF (AS LISTED IN THE THE RELEVANT WASTE MANAGEMENT NOTICE ACTIVITY LIST) NEM: Waste Act Category A: Activity 11 The treatment of effluent, wastewater or (Act No. 59 of sewage with an annual throughput capacity of 2008) more than 2000 cubic metres but less than Government 15000 cubic metres Notice No. 718 – 3 JULY 2009 NEM: Waste Act Category A: Activity 18 The construction of facilities for activities listed (Act No. 59 of in Category A of this Schedule (not in isolation 2008) to associated activity) Government Notice No. 718 – 3 JULY 2009

2. FEASIBLE AND REASONABLE ALTERNATIVES

“alternatives”, in relation to a proposed activity, means different means of meeting the general purpose and requirements of the activity, which may include alternatives to— (a) the property on which or location where it is proposed to undertake the activity; (b) the type of activity to be undertaken; (c) the design or layout of the activity; (d) the technology to be used in the activity; (e) the operational aspects of the activity; and (f) the option of not implementing the activity.

Describe alternatives that are considered in this application. Alternatives should include a consideration of all possible means by which the purpose and need of the proposed activity could be accomplished in the specific instance taking account of the interest of the applicant in the activity. The no-go alternative must in all cases be included in the assessment phase as the baseline against which the impacts of the other alternatives are assessed. The determination of whether site or activity (including different 3 processes etc.) or both is appropriate needs to be informed by the specific circumstances of the activity and its environment. After receipt of this report the competent authority may also request the applicant to assess additional alternatives that could possibly accomplish the purpose and need of the proposed activity if it is clear that realistic alternatives have not been considered to a reasonable extent.

Paragraphs 3 – 13 below should be completed for each alternative.

3. ACTIVITY POSITION

Indicate the position of the activity using the latitude and longitude of the centre point of the site for each alternative site. The co-ordinates should be in degrees and decimal minutes. The minutes should have at least three decimals to ensure adequate accuracy. The projection that must be used in all cases is the WGS84 spheroid in a national or local projection. List alternative sites, if applicable.

Site Alternative: Latitude (S): Longitude (E): Alternative S12 (preferred or only site alternative) 32o 43.985‘ 26o 42.197‘ (Location A) Alternative S2 (if any) (Location B) 32o 44.021‘ 26o 42.407‘ Alternative S3 (if any) (Not Applicable) o ‘ o ‘

Activity Alternative: Latitude (S): Longitude (E): Alternative A13 (preferred or only activity alternative) 32o 44.022‘ 26o 42.341 ‘ (Discharge into the nearby Kat River) Alternative A2 (if any) (Evaporation ponds) 32o 44.012‘ 26o 42.523‘ Alternative A3 (if any) (Irrigation of fields) Unknown at ‘ o ‘ this stage

In the case of linear activities: (NOT APPLICABLE)

Alternative: Latitude (S): Longitude (E): Alternative S1 (preferred or only route alternative)  Starting point of the activity o ‘ o ‘  Middle/Additional point of the activity o ‘ o ‘  End point of the activity o ‘ o ‘ Alternative S2 (if any)  Starting point of the activity o ‘ o ‘  Middle/Additional point of the activity o ‘ o ‘  End point of the activity o ‘ o ‘ Alternative S3 (if any)  Starting point of the activity o ‘ o ‘  Middle/Additional point of the activity o ‘ o ‘  End point of the activity o ‘ o ‘

2 “Alternative S..” refer to site alternatives. 3 “Alternative A..” refer to activity, process, technology or other alternatives. 4

For route alternatives that are longer than 500m, please provide an addendum with co-ordinates taken every 250 meters along the route for each alternative alignment.

4. PHYSICAL SIZE OF THE ACTIVITY

Indicate the physical size of the preferred activity/technology as well as alternative activities/technologies (footprints):

Site Alternative: Size of the activity: Alternative S14 (preferred or only site alternative) (Location A) 358.04m2 (Pipeline and sewage plant) Alternative S2 (if any) (Location B) (Pipeline and sewage plant) 550.17m2 Alternative S3 (if any) (NOT APPLICABLE)

Activity Alternative: Size of the activity: Alternative A15 (preferred or only activity alternative) (Discharge Location A: 358.04m2 into the nearby river) (Pipeline and sewage plant) Location B: 550.17m2 Alternative A2 (if any) (Evaporation ponds) 6644m2 Alternative A3 (if any) (Irrigation of fields) Unknown at this stage or, for linear activities: (NOT APPLICABLE) Length of the Alternative: activity: Alternative A1 (preferred activity alternative) m Alternative A2 (if any) m Alternative A3 (if any) m

Indicate the size of the alternative sites or servitudes (within which the above footprints will occur): Size of the Alternative: site/servitude: Alternative A1 (preferred activity alternative) m2 Alternative A2 (if any) m2 Alternative A3 (if any) m2

5. SITE ACCESS

Does ready access to the site exist? YES If NO, what is the distance over which a new access road will be built m

Describe the type of access road planned:

Not applicable

Include the position of the access road on the site plan and required map, as well as an indication of the road in relation to the site.

4 “Alternative S..” refer to site alternatives. 5 “Alternative A..” refer to activity, process, technology or other alternatives. 5

6. SITE OR ROUTE PLAN

A detailed site or route plan(s) must be prepared for each alternative site or alternative activity. It must be attached as Appendix A to this document.

The site or route plans must indicate the following: 6.1 the scale of the plan which must be at least a scale of 1:500; 6.2 the property boundaries and numbers of all the properties within 50 metres of the site; 6.3 the current land use as well as the land use zoning of each of the properties adjoining the site or sites; 6.4 the exact position of each element of the application as well as any other structures on the site; 6.5 the position of services, including electricity supply cables (indicate above or underground), water supply pipelines, boreholes, street lights, sewage pipelines, storm water infrastructure and telecommunication infrastructure; 6.6 all trees and shrubs taller than 1.8 metres; 6.7 walls and fencing including details of the height and construction material; 6.8 servitudes indicating the purpose of the servitude; 6.9 sensitive environmental elements within 100 metres of the site or sites including (but not limited thereto): . rivers; . the 1:100 year flood line (where available or where it is required by DWA); . ridges; . cultural and historical features; . areas with indigenous vegetation (even if it is degraded or invested with alien species); 6.10 for gentle slopes the 1 metre contour intervals must be indicated on the plan and whenever the slope of the site exceeds 1:10, the 500mm contours must be indicated on the plan; and 6.11 the positions from where photographs of the site were taken.

7. SITE PHOTOGRAPHS

Colour photographs from the centre of the site must be taken in at least the eight major compass directions with a description of each photograph. Photographs must be attached under Appendix B to this form. It must be supplemented with additional photographs of relevant features on the site, if applicable.

8. FACILITY ILLUSTRATION

A detailed illustration of the activity must be provided at a scale of 1:200 as Appendix C for activities that include structures. The illustrations must be to scale and must represent a realistic image of the planned activity. The illustration must give a representative view of the activity.

9. ACTIVITY MOTIVATION

9(a) Socio-economic value of the activity What is the expected capital value of the activity on completion? R1m What is the expected yearly income that will be generated by or as a result of the None activity? Will the activity contribute to service infrastructure? YES Is the activity a public amenity? NO

How many new employment opportunities will be created in the development 1-3 phase of the activity? unskilled Supplier to use own employees for installation. Unskilled employment opportunities may be created to dig trenches for pipework. What is the expected value of the employment opportunities during the R10,000 development phase? What percentage of this will accrue to previously disadvantaged individuals? 100% How many permanent new employment opportunities will be created during the One (1) operational phase of the activity? What is the expected current value of the employment opportunities during the R300,000 first 10 years? What percentage of this will accrue to previously disadvantaged individuals? 100%

9(b) Need and desirability of the activity

Motivate and explain the need and desirability of the activity (including demand for the activity):

NEED: 1. Was the relevant provincial planning department involved in the YES application? 2. Does the proposed land use fall within the relevant provincial planning YES framework? 3. If the answer to questions 1 and / or 2 was NO, please provide further motivation / explanation: NOT APPLICABLE

DESIRABILITY: 1. Does the proposed land use / development fit the surrounding area? YES NO 2. Does the proposed land use / development conform to the relevant YES NO structure plans, SDF and planning visions for the area?

The Amathole Heritage Initiative (Amathole IDP 2009/2010) outlines Healdtown as part of the Maqoma Route (Nkonkobe and Nxuba Municipal areas). The Amathole Heritage Initiative aims to discover and showcase history and heritage resources in the area, safeguard available heritage resources while simultaneously contributing to local economic development. The sewage treatment plant is the first step (together with the erection of fencing) to providing basic infrastructure to allow for the larger project or restoring the college to its previous glory. The area of Healdtown is identified as being in Settlement Zone B: 7

Densification and/or formalization of existing settlements (Nkonkobe SDF 2004). This zone calls for settlement and infrastructure development, accompanied by the identification and maximization of livelihood opportunities through small scale agriculture projects. 3. Will the benefits of the proposed land use / development outweigh the YES NO negative impacts of it? 4. If the answer to any of the questions 1-3 was NO, please provide further motivation / explanation: NOT APLICABLE

5. Will the proposed land use / development impact on the sense of place? YES NO 6. Will the proposed land use / development set a precedent? YES NO

The proposed development may encourage other institutions to manage their sewage in a more environmentally responsible manner. 7. Will any person’s rights be affected by the proposed land use / YES NO development? 8. Will the proposed land use / development compromise the “urban edge”? YES NO 9. If the answer to any of the question 5-8 was YES, please provide further motivation / explanation. The proposed development may encourage other institutions to manage their sewage in a more environmentally responsible manner and will set precedence for others to follow.

BENEFITS: 1. Will the land use / development have any benefits for society in general? YES NO 2. Explain: The sewage treatment plant is the first step (together with the erection of fencing) to providing basic infrastructure to allow for the larger project of restoring the college to its previous glory. The proposed development may encourage other institutions to manage their sewage in a more environmentally responsible manner. 3. Will the land use / development have any benefits for the local YES NO communities where it will be located? 4. Explain: The proposed sewage treatment package plant will eliminate the health and pollution hazard posed by raw sewage currently entering the Kat River.

10. APPLICABLE LEGISLATION, POLICIES AND/OR GUIDELINES

List all legislation, policies and/or guidelines of any sphere of government that are applicable to the application as contemplated in the EIA regulations, if applicable:

Title of legislation, policy or guideline: Administering authority: Date: National Environmental Management Act, 1998 Department of 1998 (Act 107 of 1998) as amended Environmental Affairs (DEA) National Environmental Management Waste Act, Department of 2009 2008 (Act 59 of 2008) Environmental Affairs (DEA)

National Water Act, 1998 (Act 36 of 1998) Department of Water 1998 Affairs (DWA) Hazardous Substances Act, 1973 (Act 15 of Department of Labour 1973 1973) National Environmental Management Act: Air Department of 2004 Quality Act, 2004 (Act 39 of 2004) Economic Development and Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT) The Environment Conservation Act (ECA), 1989 Department of 1989 (73 of 1989) Environmental Affairs (DEA) National Heritage Resources Act (NHRA), 1999 South African Heritage 1999 (25 of 1999) Resources Association (SAHRA) Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), Department of Labour 1993 1993 (Act 85 of 1993) Nkonkobe Local Municipality Integrated Nkonkobe Local 2010/2011 Development Plan Municipality Amathole District Municipality Integrated Amathole District 2009/2010 Development Plan Municipality Nkonkobe Spatial Development Framework Nkonkobe Local 2004 Municipality Amathole Spatial Development Framework Amathole District 2008 Municipality

11. WASTE, EFFLUENT, EMISSION AND NOISE MANAGEMENT

11(a) Solid waste management Will the activity produce solid construction waste during the YES NO construction/initiation phase? If yes, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? 10m3 How will the construction solid waste be disposed of (describe)? Bins, with lids, shall be positioned within the working areas and shall be emptied daily. Waste and litter shall be disposed of into scavenger- and weather-proof bins. The Contractor shall remove the refuse collected from the working areas from site at least once a week. Where will the construction solid waste be disposed of (describe)? All solid waste shall be disposed of at a designated public disposal site. Will the activity produce solid waste during its operational phase? NO If yes, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? How will the solid waste be disposed of (describe)? The proposed sewage treatment plant will generate on a one to two year cycle 24m3 of sludge that would require disposal. The sludge will be transported in a vacuum tanker to the nearest wastewater treatment works to be disposed. As at time of concluding this report the disposal of the sludge at the Nkonkobe Municipality Wastewater Treatment Works was still being finalised. Where will the solid waste be disposed if it does not feed into a municipal waste stream (describe)?

NOT APPLICABLE If the solid waste (construction or operational phases) will not be disposed of in a registered landfill site or be taken up in a municipal waste stream, then the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA. Can any part of the solid waste be classified as hazardous in terms of the YES NO relevant legislation?

Sewage sludge is classified as hazardous waste (pers comm. Mrs Pumeza Skepe-Mngcita 7 September 2010). In terms of the NEM:Waste Act of 2008 (No. 59 of 2008), the listed activities for the proposed project falls under Category A and requires a Basic Assessment. It is the opinion of the EAP that a Basic Assessment is sufficient and a Full Scoping and EIA is not required for the project.

If yes, inform the competent authority and request a change to an application for scoping and EIA. (See Above) Dealing with minimal quantity of hazardous waste Is the activity that is being applied for a solid waste handling or treatment YES NO facility? If yes, then the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA.

11(b) Liquid effluent

Will the activity produce effluent, other than normal sewage, that will be YES NO disposed of in a municipal sewage system? If yes, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? m3 Will the activity produce any effluent that will be treated and/or disposed of on YES NO site? The application is for a sewage treatment package plant. As such treated effluent will be produced by the plant and would require disposal.

If yes, the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA.

Sewage sludge is classified as hazardous waste (pers comm. Mrs Pumeza Skepe- Mngcita 7 September 2010). In terms of the NEM:Waste Act of 2008 (No. 59 of 2008), the listed activities for the proposed project falls under Category A and requires a Basic Assessment. It is the opinion of the EAP that a Basic Assessment is sufficient and a Full Scoping and EIA is not required for the project.

Will the activity produce effluent that will be treated and/or disposed of at YES NO another facility? If yes, provide the particulars of the facility: Facility name: NOT APPLICABLE Contact person: Postal address:

Postal code: Telephone: Cell: E-mail: Fax: Describe the measures that will be taken to ensure the optimal reuse or recycling of waste water, if any: Three activity alternatives for the disposal of the treated effluent have been described in Section 1 above, namely:

 Discharge into the nearby river (Option 1): The outlet pipe of the sewage package plant will be gravity fed towards the watercourse of the Tyatyora tributary.  Evaporation ponds (Option 2); or  Irrigation of agricultural fields or sports fields using the treated effluent (Option 3). This option would require either a lined holding pond or dam to cater for emergency overflow and a reed-bed type “polishing system”. The irrigation water will be used on agricultural lands (not to fruit or vegetables that are eaten without cooking, or to sports fields where there is not normally physical contact with the ground surface (that is, a golf course but not a rugby filed), or to gardens within the College grounds.

If Option 3 (the irrigation of agricultural fields or sports fields using the treated effluent) is shown to be viable and is selected by the applicant, this will ensure optimal re-use of the waste water.

11(c) Emissions into the atmosphere

Will the activity release emissions into the atmosphere? YES NO If yes, is it controlled by any legislation of any sphere of government? NO If yes, the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA. If no, describe the emissions in terms of type and concentration: NOT APPLICABLE

11(d) Generation of noise

Will the activity generate noise? YES NO If yes, is it controlled by any legislation of any sphere of government? YES NO If yes, the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA. If no, describe the noise in terms of type and level: The construction phase will generate normal construction noise such as heavy machinery, building materials, welding, drilling etc. The Becon Bio-filter RBC plant is designed to have noise free operation. Even if the operational phase were to generate noise, it would be minor operational noises such as the buzzes and hums from the operation of the treatment machinery.

12. WATER USE

Please indicate the source(s) of water that will be used for the activity by ticking the appropriate box(es) municipal water board groundwater river, stream, other The activity will not

dam or lake use water If water is to be extracted from groundwater, river, stream, dam, lake or any other natural feature, please indicate the volume that will be extracted per month: NOT APPLICABLE litres Does the activity require a water use permit from the Department of Water YES NO Affairs? If yes, please submit the necessary application to the Department of Water Affairs and attach proof thereof to this application if it has been submitted.

13. ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Describe the design measures, if any, that have been taken to ensure that the activity is energy efficient: The Becon Bio-filter RBC plant units use low power and are rotated at 4 rpm by electrical motors. Describe how alternative energy sources have been taken into account or been built into the design of the activity, if any: None

SECTION B: SITE/AREA/PROPERTY DESCRIPTION

Important notes: 1. For linear activities (pipelines, etc) as well as activities that cover very large sites, it may be necessary to complete this section for each part of the site that has a significantly different environment. In such cases please complete copies of Section C and indicate the area, which is covered by each copy No. on the Site Plan.

Section C Copy No. (e.g. A):

2. Paragraphs 1 - 6 below must be completed for each alternative.

3. Has a specialist been consulted to assist with the completion of YES NO this section? If YES, please complete the form entitled “Details of specialist and declaration of interest” for each specialist thus appointed.

The details of specialist and declaration of interest forms are attached to this report as Appendix D-1. All specialist reports must be contained in Appendix D.

Property The property belongs to the Methodist Church of South Africa. The property description/physical has been occupied and operated as a school since the mid-19th century. address: The Project Surveyors NPM Geomatics Inc. have indicated that the two areas occupied by the Healdtown Comprehensive School fall on un-alienated, un- registered state land (i.e. the state owns it and there is no erf/farm number). This is based on the interpretation of the cadastral data as supplied by the Surveyor General office. As the cadastral data in the area dates back to the 1853 and 1928, the accuracy of the data supplied by the Surveyor General is doubtful, as it is likely to have been digitized from old plans and the position of the data shown on the plan could be quite incorrect.

Healdtown Comprehensive School, Healdtown, Fort Beaufort, Eastern Cape Province. (Farm name, portion etc.) Where a large number of properties are involved (e.g. linear activities), please attach a full list to this application.

In instances where there is more than one town or district involved, please attach a list of towns or districts to this application. Current land-use zoning: EDUCATION/INSTITUTIONAL. The property has been occupied and operated as a school since the mid-19th century. In instances where there is more than one current land-use zoning, please attach a list of current land use zonings that also indicate which portions each use pertains to , to this application.

Is a change of land-use or a consent use application required? YES NO

Must a building plan be submitted to the local authority? YES NO

The Project Engineers, BKS (Pty) Ltd will submit the building plans to both Nkonkobe Local Municipality and Amathole District Municipality.

Locality map: An A3 locality map must be attached to the back of this document, as Appendix A. The scale of the locality map must be relevant to the size of the development (at least 1:50 000. For linear activities of more than 25 kilometres, a smaller scale e.g. 1:250 000 can be used. The scale must be indicated on the map.) The map must indicate the following:  an indication of the project site position as well as the positions of the alternative sites, if any;  road access from all major roads in the area;  road names or numbers of all major roads as well as the roads that provide access to the site(s);  all roads within a 1km radius of the site or alternative sites; and  a north arrow;  a legend; and  locality GPS co-ordinates (Indicate the position of the activity using the latitude and longitude of the centre point of the site for each alternative site. The co- ordinates should be in degrees and decimal minutes. The minutes should have at least three decimals to ensure adequate accuracy. The projection that must be used in all cases is the WGS84 spheroid in a national or local projection)

1. GRADIENT OF THE SITE

Indicate the general gradient of the site. Alternative S1: Flat 1:50 – 1:20 – 1:15 – 1:10 1:10 – 1:7,5 – 1:5 Steeper than 1:20 1:15 1:7,5 1:5 Alternative S2 (if any): Flat 1:50 – 1:20 – 1:15 – 1:10 1:10 – 1:7,5 – 1:5 Steeper than 1:20 1:15 1:7,5 1:5 Alternative S3 (if any): Flat 1:50 – 1:20 – 1:15 – 1:10 1:10 – 1:7,5 – 1:5 Steeper than 1:20 1:15 1:7,5 1:5

2. LOCATION IN LANDSCAPE

Indicate the landform(s) that best describes the site:

2.1 Ridgeline 2.2 Plateau 2.3 Side slope of hill/mountain √ 2.4 Closed valley 2.5 Open valley 2.6 Plain 2.7 Undulating plain / low hills 2.8 Dune 2.9 Seafront

3. GROUNDWATER, SOIL AND GEOLOGICAL STABILITY OF THE SITE

Is the site(s) located on any of the following (tick the appropriate boxes)? Alternative S1: Alternative S2 Alternative S3 (if any): (if any): Shallow water table (less YES NO YES NO YES NO than 1.5m deep) Dolomite, sinkhole or doline YES NO YES NO YES NO areas

Seasonally wet soils (often YES NO YES NO YES NO close to water bodies) Unstable rocky slopes or YES NO YES NO YES NO steep slopes with loose soil Dispersive soils (soils that YES NO YES NO YES NO dissolve in water) Soils with high clay content YES NO YES NO YES NO (clay fraction more than 40%) Any other unstable soil or YES NO YES NO YES NO geological feature An area sensitive to erosion YES NO YES NO YES NO

If you are unsure about any of the above or if you are concerned that any of the above aspects may be an issue of concern in the application, an appropriate specialist should be appointed to assist in the completion of this section. (Information in respect of the above will often be available as part of the project information or at the planning sections of local authorities. Where it exists, the 1:50 000 scale Regional Geotechnical Maps prepared by the Council for Geo Science may also be consulted).

4. GROUNDCOVER

Indicate the types of groundcover present on the site:

The location of all identified rare or endangered species or other elements should be accurately indicated on the site plan(s).

LOCATION A AND B PRESENT THE SAME TYPE OF GROUNDCOVER.

Natural veld Natural veld with Veld Natural veld - good with scattered heavy alien dominated by Gardens conditionE aliensE infestationE alien speciesE Building or Sport field Cultivated land Paved surface other Bare soil structure

If any of the boxes marked with an “E “is ticked, please consult an appropriate specialist to assist in the completion of this section if the environmental assessment practitioner doesn’t have the necessary expertise.

Please refer to Appendix D-2 for the Ecological Assessment undertaken by Prof Lubke.

5. LAND USE CHARACTER OF SURROUNDING AREA

Indicate land uses and/or prominent features that does currently occur within a 500m radius of the site and give description of how this influences the application or may be impacted upon by the application:

LOCATION A AND B PRESENT THE SAME LAND USES AND/OR PROMINENT FEATURES.

5.1 Natural area √ 5.2 Low density residential 5.3 Medium density residential 5.4 High density residential 5.5 Informal residentialA √ 5.6 Retail commercial & warehousing 5.7 Light industrial 5.8 Medium industrial AN 5.9 Heavy industrial AN 5.10 Power station 5.11 Office/consulting room 5.12 Military or police base/station/compound 5.13 Spoil heap or slimes damA 5.14 Quarry, sand or borrow pit 5.15 Dam or reservoir 5.16 Hospital/medical centre 5.17 School √ 5.18 Tertiary education facility 5.19 Church √ 5.20 Old age home 5.21 Sewage treatment plantA 5.22 Train station or shunting yard N 5.23 Railway line N 5.24 Major road (4 lanes or more) N 5.25 Airport N 5.26 Harbour 5.27 Sport facilities 5.28 Golf course 5.29 Polo fields 5.30 Filling station H 5.31 Landfill or waste treatment site 5.32 Plantation 5.33 Agriculture √ 5.34 River, stream or wetland √ 5.35 Nature conservation area 5.36 Mountain, koppie or ridge 5.37 Museum 5.38 Historical building √ 5.39 Protected Area 5.40 Graveyard 5.41 Archaeological site 5.42 Other land uses (describe)

If any of the boxes marked with an “N “are ticked, how will this impact / be impacted upon by the proposed activity?

If any of the boxes marked with an "An" are ticked, how will this impact / be impacted upon by the proposed activity? If YES, specify and explain: The local residential area will be impacted on slightly during the construction phase. Increase in construction activity related noise, dust, and traffic will have a slight, short term, moderate negative impact on the local residents. During the operation phase, the proposed development will have a positive impact on the local residents as sewage from the school will now be environmentally responsibly treated to acceptable limits, thus eliminating environmental and health risks to the local residents.

If any of the boxes marked with an "H" are ticked, how will this impact / be impacted upon by the proposed activity. If YES, specify and explain: If YES, specify:

6. CULTURAL/HISTORICAL FEATURES

Are there any signs of culturally or historically significant elements, as YES NO defined in section 2 of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999, (Act No. 25 of 1999), including Archaeological or palaeontological sites, on or close (within 20m) to the NO site? If YES, Müller, L & Cultmatrix cc completed a comprehensive 125 page heritage explain: study in 2009 (see Appendix G-1). This report outlines the historic and cultural importance of the Healdtown College where the proposed sewage works will be located and makes recommendations. If uncertain, conduct a specialist investigation by a recognised specialist in the field to establish whether there is such a feature(s) present on or close to the site. Briefly A summary of findings is provided in Appendix G-1. explain the findings of the specialist: Will any building or structure older than 60 years be affected in any way? YES NO Is it necessary to apply for a permit in terms of the National Heritage YES NO Resources Act, 1999 (Act 25 of 1999)?

If yes, please submit or, make sure that the applicant or a specialist submits the necessary application to SAHRA or the relevant provincial heritage agency and attach proof thereof to this application if such application has been made.

The proposed project will not impact on the Healdtown Comprehensive College and the historical structure will not be in any way modified. The contractors will ensure that the historical structures are protected and not compromised during the construction phase.

SECTION C: PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

1. ADVERTISEMENT

The person conducting a public participation process must take into account any guidelines applicable to public participation as contemplated in section 24J of the Act and must give notice to all potential interested and affected parties of the application which is subjected to public participation by—

(a) fixing a notice board (of a size at least 60cm by 42cm; and must display the required information in lettering and in a format as may be determined by the competent authority) at a place conspicuous to the public at the boundary or on the fence of— (i) the site where the activity to which the application relates is or is to be undertaken; and (ii) any alternative site mentioned in the application;

Copy of the site notice

Photos of the site notice placed on the main road leading to the proposed site.

(b) giving written notice to— (i) the owner or person in control of that land if the applicant is not the owner or person in control of the land;

Copy of letter sent to landowner:

Proof of notification to landowner: Acknowledgement of Receipt of notification

(ii) the occupiers of the site where the activity is or is to be undertaken or to any alternative site where the activity is to be undertaken; (iii) owners and occupiers of land adjacent to the site where the activity is or is to be undertaken or to any alternative site where the activity is to be undertaken;

Copy of Email sent to all I&APS

Copy of letter sent to all I&APS

Copy of letter sent to all land owners and occupiers of land immediately surrounding and within 100m of the proposed project site

(iv) the municipal councillor of the ward in which the site or alternative site is situated and any organisation of ratepayers that represent the community in the area; (iv) the municipality which has jurisdiction in the area;

Copy of letter sent to Municipalities Amathole District Municipality

Nkonkobe Municipality

(vi) any organ of state having jurisdiction in respect of any aspect of the activity; and (vii) any other party as required by the competent authority;

Copy of letter sent to organs of state

South African Heritage Resources Association

Department of Water Affairs

All the letters above were sent via registered mail.

(c) placing an advertisement in— (i) one local newspaper; or (ii) any official Gazette that is published specifically for the purpose of providing public notice of applications or other submissions made in terms of these Regulations;

Copy of advert

Copy of newspaper of newspaper advert placed in the Daily Dispatch (provincial newspaper) – : Notification of process

(d) placing an advertisement in at least one provincial newspaper or national newspaper, if the activity has or may have an impact that extends beyond the boundaries of the metropolitan or local municipality in which it is or will be undertaken: Provided that this paragraph need not be complied with if an advertisement has been placed in an official Gazette referred to in subregulation 54(c)(ii); and (e) using reasonable alternative methods, as agreed to by the competent authority, in those instances where a person is desiring of but unable to participate in the process due to— (i) illiteracy; (ii) disability; or (iii) any other disadvantage.

2. CONTENT OF ADVERTISEMENTS AND NOTICES

A notice board, advertisement or notices must: (a) indicate the details of the application which is subjected to public participation; and (b) state— (i) that the application has been submitted to the competent authority in terms of these Regulations, as the case may be; (ii) whether basic assessment or scoping procedures are being applied to the application, in the case of an application for environmental authorisation; (iii) the nature and location of the activity to which the application relates; (iv) where further information on the application or activity can be obtained; and

(iv) the manner in which and the person to whom representations in respect of the application may be made.

3. PLACEMENT OF ADVERTISEMENTS AND NOTICES

Where the proposed activity may have impacts that extend beyond the municipal area where it is located, a notice must be placed in at least one provincial newspaper or national newspaper, indicating that an application will be submitted to the competent authority in terms of these regulations, the nature and location of the activity, where further information on the proposed activity can be obtained and the manner in which representations in respect of the application can be made, unless a notice has been placed in any Gazette that is published specifically for the purpose of providing notice to the public of applications made in terms of the EIA regulations.

Advertisements and notices must make provision for all alternatives.

4. DETERMINATION OF APPROPRIATE MEASURES

The practitioner must ensure that the public participation is adequate and must determine whether a public meeting or any other additional measure is appropriate or not based on the particular nature of each case. Special attention should be given to the involvement of local community structures such as Ward Committees, ratepayers associations and traditional authorities where appropriate. Please note that public concerns that emerge at a later stage that should have been addressed may cause the competent authority to withdraw any authorisation it may have issued if it becomes apparent that the public participation process was inadequate.

A PUBLIC MEETING TO INTRODUCE THE PROPOSED PROJECT WAS HELD ON 15 NOVEMBER 2010

A photo gallery of the public meeting

Attendance Register

Background information document sent to I&APS

PUBLIC REVIEW OF THE DRAFT BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

The Draft Basic Assessment Report (BAR) is made available for review by the public for a period of 60 days (to include dates). Interested & Affected Parties were informed of the released and availability of the draft BAR and as advert placed in the (Herald). In line with these newspaper advertisements a hard copy of the Draft BAR is placed at a strategic location that was easily accessible by the public. The draft BAR is made available at the Public Library in Fort Beaufort.

5. COMMENTS AND RESPONSE REPORT

The practitioner must record all comments and respond to each comment of the public before the application is submitted. The comments and responses must be captured in a comments and response report as prescribed in the EIA regulations and be attached to this application. The comments and response report must be attached under Appendix E.

No comments and response for the proposed project have been received till date.

6. AUTHORITY PARTICIPATION

Please note that a complete list of all organs of state and or any other applicable authority with their contact details must be appended to the basic assessment report or scoping report, whichever is applicable.

Authorities are key interested and affected parties in each application and no decision on any application will be made before the relevant local authority is provided with the opportunity to give input.

List of authorities informed: Nkonkobe Local Municipality Amathole District Municipality Department of water affairs South African Heritage Research Agency Department of Economic Development Environmental Affairs and Tourism Department of Environmental Affairs Eastern Cape Department of Education (king William’s Town)

7. CONSULTATION WITH OTHER STAKEHOLDERS

Note that, for linear activities, or where deviation from the public participation requirements may be appropriate, the person conducting the public participation process may deviate from the requirements of that subregulation to the extent and in the manner as may be agreed to by the competent authority. Proof of any such agreement must be provided, where applicable.

Has any comment been received from stakeholders? YES NO If “YES”, briefly describe the feedback below (also attach copies of any correspondence to and from the stakeholders to this application):

NOT APPLICABLE

SECTION D: IMPACT ASSESSMENT

The assessment of impacts must adhere to the minimum requirements in the EIA Regulations, 2010, and should take applicable official guidelines into account. The issues raised by interested and affected parties should also be addressed in the assessment of impacts.

1. ISSUES RAISED BY INTERESTED AND AFFECTED PARTIES

List the main issues raised by interested and affected parties. At the time of compiling this report no issue of concerns as well as comments and response for the proposed project have been received.

Response from the practitioner to the issues raised by the interested and affected parties (A full response must be given in the Comments and Response Report that must be attached to this report as Annexure E): No comments and response for the proposed project have been received till date.

2. IMPACTS THAT MAY RESULT FROM THE PLANNING AND DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, OPERATIONAL, DECOMMISSIONING AND CLOSURE PHASES AS WELL AS PROPOSED MANAGEMENT OF IDENTIFIED IMPACTS AND PROPOSED MITIGATION MEASURES

List the potential direct, indirect and cumulative property/activity/design/technology/operational alternative related impacts (as appropriate) that are likely to occur as a result of the planning and design phase, construction phase, operational phase, decommissioning and closure phase, including impacts relating to the choice of site/activity/technology alternatives as well as the mitigation measures that may eliminate or reduce the potential impacts listed.

Alternative S1 (preferred alternative) (Location A)

PLANNING AND DESIGN PHASE

Impact 1: Layout and potential for vegetation loss

Cause and Comment Should the Sewage Treatment Packaged Plant (STPP) be positioned in undisturbed vegetation resulting in the unnecessary clearing of natural bush, it would constitute an additional impact as a result of the construction phase

Significance Statement Alternative 1 is in an already disturbed area with scattered alien vegetation, and as such the clearing of natural bush would be considered a LOW NEGATIVE impact.

Mitigation Measures Avoid, where possible, the clearing of natural bush. Any species of special concern should be avoided.

Impact 2: loss of fauna and flora habitat

Cause and Comment The clearing of vegetation would also result in loss of habitat for fauna and flora.

Significance Statement Alternative 1 is in an already disturbed area with scattered alien vegetation, and as the impacted site is relatively small, fauna and flora habitats can be located in close proximity to the unimpacted site.

Mitigation Measures Avoid, where possible, the clearing of natural bush. Any species of special concern should be avoided.

Impact 3: Lack of appropriate toilet facilities for construction workers

Cause and Comment

The lack of appropriate toilet facilities for construction workers and inappropriate placement of latrines (i.e. near the tributary) can result in human waste contamination of rivers and site. The environmental impact of this occurring is determined to be low negative with mitigation.

If nothing were built on the site, the environmental significance would be a low negative.

Mitigation and Management

The following mitigation measures can be used to minimise the effects of this impact:  Chemical toilets shall be provided for all construction workers for the duration of the construction phase.  Chemical toilets shall be kept in a hygienic and sanitary condition, supplied with toilet paper and be emptied regularly by an approved sub-contractor.  Chemical toilets shall be placed as far as possible from the estuary on level ground to prevent them falling over in high wind conditions. Alternatively, the chemical toilets must be secured to the ground with guy ropes or similar. The toilets shall be placed on an impermeable surface.  All leaks and spills from the chemical toilets shall be reported to the site supervisor who shall take immediate action to remedy the situation.  The Environmental Control Officer (ECO) shall inspect the chemical toilets regularly for proper placement and functioning.  All employees are to undergo environmental awareness training to alert them to the impacts of their actions during construction.

Significance statement without mitigation (Sites A and B)

The impact of lack of appropriate toilet facilities on the environment will probably have moderate short term negative impacts. This would affect the study area and would be of MODERATE negative significance.

Significance statement with mitigation (Sites A and B)

The impact of lack of appropriate toilet facilities on the environment may have slight short term negative impacts. This would affect the local area and would be of LOW negative significance.

Cumulative impacts:

Impact 4: Accumulation of impacts.

Cause and Comment

Should additional projects be implemented, vegetation loss, soil erosion and sedimentation of watercourses would accumulate and increase the severity of the direct impacts discussed above.

Significance Statement No additional projects are planned at this stage and so the accumulation of impacts is considered to be LOW negative.

Mitigation Measures Any additional projects will have to undergo a basic assessment or EIA process which will highlight any negative impacts mentioned above, and mitigation measures will be suggested in the EMP.

CONSTRUCTION PHASE IMPACTS

Ecological:

Impact 1: Presence, introduction and spread of alien plants

Cause and Comment

As with all building operations, the introduction of alien and invader species is inevitable; with disturbance comes the influx of aliens. Alien invader species need to be consistently managed over the entire construction phase of the project. While alien plants are scattered at Alternate Site 1 (Location A), construction activities could potentially spread alien plants (through seed dispersal and cuttings), and introduce new alien plants from other sites (via construction vehicles).

Significance Statement The impact is moderate in severity (due to few construction vehicles and workers) but will impact at a localised scale in the short term (construction phase). If mitigated, this impact will be of LOW POSITIVE significance.

Mitigation Measures Mitigation measures to reduce the impact of the introduction of alien invaders, as well as mitigation against alien invaders that have already been recorded on the site should be actively maintained throughout both the construction and operation phases. Removal of existed alien species should be consistently carried out. Also, rehabilitation of disturbed areas after the construction of the STPP should be done as soon as possible after construction is completed. Invasive plant species are most likely to enter the site carried in the form of seeds by construction vehicles and staff, and construction vehicles should be cleaned before entering the site to prevent alien infestation.

Impact 2: Loss of plant species of special concern

Cause and Comment There are seven species of special concern at alternate site one (Location A). These are Aloe striata, Euphorbia obesa, Pleargonium reniforme, Crassula perfoliata, Brusvigia sp., Moraea sp and Delosperma sp. There may be additional species of special concern that will be found on site during construction that were not found during this study. These should be relocated if they need to be removed, and the required permits obtained in order to do so.

Significance Statement

Without mitigation in the construction phase of the project the impact will be restricted to the study area, long term and definite with a moderate impact, resulting in an overall significance of MODERATE NEGATIVE. With mitigation, this impact has a LOW NEGATIVE significance.

Mitigation Measures It is recommended that areas containing species of special concern be noted and every effort made to reduce the impacts of construction on these sections of vegetation. SSC in any area to be cleared should be identified and rescued. Some SSC will not transplant. These individuals should, as far as possible, be left untouched.

Impact 3: Disturbance to fauna and flora

Cause and Comment Animals and plants may be disturbed due to the clearing of vegetation and rocks. Burrowing animals and invertebrates utilising the immediate footprint area for habitat purposes will be affected by the construction as the soils and vegetation will be disturbed.

Significance Statement Due to the size of the footprint and the close vicinity to an already populated area, this impact is considered to be of a LOW NEGATIVE significance. Fauna will have the opportunity to disperse to more natural surrounding areas.

Mitigation Measures The construction activities are to be kept within as small a footprint area as possible. This area will be defined by the Engineers, and all employees and contractors are to be made aware of the footprint area.

Water resources (Aquatic)

Impact 4: Increased erosion

Cause and Comment

Vegetation clearing results in the soils on the land becoming more prone to erosion. This is because there are less structures within the soils, such as root systems (which “bind’ the soil) and plant cover (which reduces raindrop impact on bare soil). This can lead to excessive erosion. A secondary impact linked to this is the loss of topsoil. Topsoil is critical to successful plant growth and must be conserved at all times. It consists of the O and A horizons, which contain the large proportion of nutrients required for plant establishment. Once lost, topsoils are extremely difficult to restore.

Mitigation Measures

 The sewage treatment package will be required to have some ground slope to facilitate drainage. Where the slope encountered is steeper than 2%, then increased cross-slope interceptor drains should be installed to avoid erosion, and these may need to be sub-surface drains.  Ensure that a network of co-ordinated shallow drains are constructed during the land clearing phase  Filter strips (grass buffer strips) must be implemented wherever possible but as a minimum around the edge of the entire development footprint as soon as construction is initiated.

 Ensure that site infrastructure such as buildings and fences are aligned with the natural drainage lines to minimise additional erosion  Topsoil must be stockpiled and used for rehabilitation purposes. Any soil excavated and not utilised for rehabilitation must be removed from site and no large mounds of soil should be left behind after construction. If the unutilised soil is not excessive in quantity, it may be carefully spread within the environs, in particular, aggrade the Tyatyora banks opposite the settling ponds  Soils must not be left bare for long periods of time, and areas should only be cleared just prior to construction to avoid excessive erosion  No soil must be left exposed. It must be covered with mulch or vegetated.  Any gardening and landscaping should consider planting plants at a right angle to the drainage lines to slow water velocities down and decrease erosion where possible.  The sewage treatment package and related infrastructure must be designed in such a way that they do not concentrate flowing water (in other words that they consider the natural drainage of the site).

Significance Statement (Site A)

The impact of increasing erosion in the study area will probably have a medium-term severe impact on the Tyatyora tribuatary. This will be a MODERATE significant impact.

The implementation of all the mitigation measures listed above will decrease the severity of this impact to slight, resulting in an impact of LOW significance.

Significance Statement (Site B)

The impact of increasing erosion in the study area will probably have a short-term severe impact on the Tyatyora tributary due to its close proximity. This will be a MODERATE significant impact.

The implementation of all the mitigation measures listed above will decrease the severity of this impact to slight, aided by high vegetation cover, resulting in an impact of LOW significance.

Effect Risk or Overall Impact Severity of Total Score Temporal Scale Spatial Scale Likelihood Significance Impact Construction phase Site A Without Medium term 2 Study 2 Severe 4 Probable 3 11 MODERATE -ve mitigation With Short term 1 Study 2 Slight 1 May occur 2 6 LOW -ve mitigation Site B Without Short term 1 Study 2 Severe 4 Probable 3 10 MODERATE -ve mitigation With Short term 1 Study 2 Slight 1 May occur 2 6 LOW -ve mitigation

Impact 5: Increased sedimentation

Cause and Comment

This impact is directly related to Impact 1.1. Increased erosion will lead to increased sedimentation. Sedimentation can have severe negative impacts on surrounding aquatic environments including increased turbidity (which decreases light penetration into water thereby reducing photosynthetic activities in the water column), reduced oxygen concentration in the water column and benthic environment, smothering of benthic biota resulting in loss of food, smothering of spawning beds. This can have severe long term negative impacts on aquatic habitats. However sedimentation can also have a positive impact, providing the finer sediment needed for the establishment of riparian vegetation.

Mitigation Measures

The mitigations mentioned for Impact 1.1 should reduce the likelihood of this impact; however, in addition to those mitigations listed, the following actions should also be undertaken:  Maintain maximum vegetation cover outside the built areas, particularly in marginal and riparian areas, to act as silt traps, site B in particular  Ensure that all drainage lines are vegetated and not impeded.

All the vegetation along Tyatyora’s edge must be kept intact because:  The vegetation strip will act as a sediment trap.  The vegetation strip will maintain the ecological functioning of the riparian areas during the operation phase at site B

Therefore, although this impact is linked to construction, the mitigation measures will be applicable to the operation phase.

Significance Statement (Site A)

The impact of sedimentation as a result of erosion issues will likely result in slight long term negative impacts in the Tyatyora tributary. This will be a MODERATE significant impact.

The mitigation measures that have been recommended will ensure that sedimentation is reduced to a minimum. This will probably result in short term, slight localised impacts that will be of LOW significance.

Significance Statement (Site B)

The impact of sedimentation as a result of erosion issues will definitely result in slight long term positive impacts in the Tyatyora tributary. This will be a MODERATE significant impact.

Effect Risk or Overall Impact Severity of Total Score Temporal Scale Spatial Scale Likelihood Significance Impact

Construction phase Site A Without Long-term 3 Study area 2 Slight 1 Probably 3 8 MODERATE - mitigation With Short term 1 Localised 1 Slight 1 Probably 3 6 LOW – mitigation Site B Without Long-term 3 Study area 2 Slight 1 Probably 3 9 MODERATE – mitigation With Short term 1 Localised 1 Slight 2 Probably 3 7 LOW – mitigation

Impact 6: Contamination of soils

Cause and Comment

Construction activities could lead to the contamination of soils, for example by accidentally spilling hydrocarbons or heavy metals. These could contaminate the soil and subsequently be washed into the tributary. The accumulation of oils and other pollutants as a result of inappropriate location of vehicle parking and servicing areas can result in accumulation in soil and pollution of ground and surface water.

Mitigation Measures

All construction must be undertaken according to the Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP). Details regarding the management of vehicles and an emergency response plan for accidental spillages of hazardous chemicals should be prepared. This will ensure that all hazardous chemicals are contained within specifically demarcated areas and these will be lined to avoid any contamination. All hazardous materials will be properly disposed of, thereby eliminating any potential environmental hazards that these could pose.

The following mitigation measures can be used to minimise the effects of hazardous substance leaks onto soil:  Hazardous chemical substances used during construction must be stored in secondary containers (container within a container), and in a secure area in terms of the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)  The relevant MSDS must be available on site. Procedures detailed in the MSDS must be followed in the event of an emergency situation  If potentially hazardous substances are to be stored on site, the Contractor must provide a Method Statement to the Construction Manager (CM) or Environmental Control Officer (ECO), detailing the substances/materials to be used, together with the storage, handling and disposal procedures of the materials  No paint products may be disposed of on site and brush/roller wash facilities must be established to the satisfaction of the CM  Oil-based paints and chemical additives and cleaners such as thinners and turpentine must be strictly controlled. A Method Statement detailing storage and cleaning must be submitted to and approved by the CM and ECO  Roads and parking area surfaces will be on surfaces with no gradient, to prevent/ reduce runoff. Sufficient stormwater take-off points must be created in such a way that water does not have an opportunity to gather momentum. Stormwater ditches must contain structures that will reduce velocity of the runoff  Vehicles must be serviced and maintained to minimise the risks of leakages of hydrocarbons and other pollutants, by sing drip trays.

 Storage areas that contain hazardous substances such as oil and other pollutants must be bunded with an approved impermeable liner.  A designated, bunded area should be set aside for vehicle washing and maintenance.

Significance statement (Site A)

The impact of soil contamination during construction activities would probably have moderate negative impacts in the long term. This would affect the study area and would be of HIGH significance.

With mitigation, this impact may have slight impacts in the short term and would affect the local area. This impact is of LOW significance.

Significance statement (Site B)

The impact of soil contamination during construction activities would probably have severe negative impacts in the long term. This would affect the study area and would be of HIGH significance.

With mitigation, this impact may have slight impacts in the short term and would affect the local area. This impact is of LOW significance.

Effect Risk or Overall Impact Severity of Total Score Temporal Scale Spatial Scale Likelihood Significance Impact Construction phase Site A Without Long-term 3 Study area 2 Moderate 2 Probably 3 10 MODERATE – mitigation With Short term 1 Localised 1 Slight 1 May occur 2 5 LOW – mitigation Site B Without Long-term 3 Study area 2 Severe 4 Probably 3 12 HIGH – mitigation With Short term 1 Localised 1 Slight 1 May occur 2 5 LOW – mitigation

Impact 7: Solid waste pollution in the tributaries Tyatyora and KwaNegenu

Cause and Comment

Site B is currently vegetated, and tree stumps and other vegetation will need to be removed from the site. This waste could potentially pose a threat to the aquatic environment if it is not handled correctly (for example if it is dumped into other remaining riparian areas or into the Tyatyora itself).

Care must be taken when clearing the site to ensure that the vegetation is not allowed to enter the Tyatyora tributary as this could restrict flow, increasing sedimentation and negatively impact on river bank stability.

Mitigation Measures

Follow all recommendations provided in the CEMP regarding the rescue of any species and the use of the cleared vegetation for site rehabilitation once the construction is completed. All other cleared

vegetation must be removed from the site and transported to a suitable disposal site (for example a municipal composting facility).

Significance Statement (Site A)

As solid waste is minimal, the impact of solid waste pollution in the aquatic environment will probably result in slight short term negative impacts in the Tyatyora. Bank erosion and sediment loading will result in a MODERATE significant impact.

The recommended mitigation measures will ensure that the probability of the impact occurring are reduced to a minimum. This will probably result in short-term, slight localised impacts that will be of LOW significance.

Significance Statement (Site B)

As vegetative cover is high, the impact of solid waste pollution in the aquatic environment will probably result in severe long term negative impacts in the Tyatyora tributary. Bank erosion and sediment loading will result in a HIGHLY significant impact.

The recommended mitigation measures will ensure that the probability of the impact occurring are reduced to a minimum. This will probably result in short-term, slightly severe localised impacts that will be of LOW significance.

Effect Risk or Overall Impact Severity of Total Score Temporal Scale Spatial Scale Likelihood Significance Impact Construction phase Site A Without Short-term 1 Study area 2 Slight 1 Probably 3 7 LOW – mitigation With Short term 1 Localised 1 Slight 1 Unlikely 1 4 LOW – mitigation Site B Without Long-term 3 Study area 2 Severe 4 Probably 3 12 HIGH – mitigation With Short term 1 Localised 1 Slight 1 Unlikely 1 4 LOW – mitigation

Impact 8: Liquid waste pollution in the Tyatyora tributary

Cause and Comment

Liquid pollution during the construction phase can have many sources and will generally be a result of runoff which carries pollutants down-slope to the tributary and seepage which pollutes groundwater. Pollutants include cement-laden water, oil and fuel from construction vehicles, and hazardous waste substances such as chemicals used to treat wooden structures and paint residue.

Mitigation Measures

The following mitigation measures must be used to minimise the effects of stream contamination:

 The contractor must set up a contaminated water management system, and a Method Statement for approval is required in this regard. The Method Statement must state the collection facilities that are to be used to prevent pollution, as well as the proposed method of disposal of the contaminated water.  The Contractor must notify the CM and ECO immediately of any pollution incidents on site.  Wash areas must be placed and constructed in such a manner so as to ensure that the surrounding areas, which include groundwater, are not polluted.  A Method Statement is required for all wash areas where hydrocarbon, hazardous materials and pollutants are expected to be used. This includes, but is not limited to, vehicle washing, workshop wash bays, paint washing and cleaning areas.  Wash areas for domestic use must ensure that the disposal of contaminated “grey” water is approved by CM.  The Contractor must prevent discharge of any pollutants, such as cements, concrete, lime, chemicals and fuels into any water sources.

Significance Statement (Site A)

The impact of contaminating the Tyatyora tributary and Kat River would definitely have severe medium- term negative impacts. This would affect the regional area (due to the downstream flow toward Fort Beaufort) and would be of HIGH negative significance.

The implementation of all the above mentioned mitigating measures will greatly reduce the likelihood of this impact occurring, making it unlikely. Should such an impact take place, it would be regional, moderately severe and short term, therefore of LOW negative significance.

Significance Statement (Site B)

The impact of contaminating the Tyatyora tributary and Kat River is unlikely to occur due to locality of site, but will have severe medium-term negative impacts. This would affect the regional area (due to the downstream flow toward Fort Beaufort) and would be of HIGH negative significance.

Effect Risk or Overall Impact Severity of Total Score Temporal Scale Spatial Scale Likelihood Significance Impact Construction phase Site A Without Medium- Regional 2 3 Severe 4 Definitely 4 13 HIGH –ve mitigation term area With Short term 1 Regional 3 Moderate 2 Unlikely 1 7 LOW –ve mitigation Site B Without Medium- Regional 2 3 Moderate 2 Unlikely 1 8 MODERATE–ve mitigation term area With Short term 1 Regional 3 Moderate 2 Unlikely 1 7 LOW –ve mitigation

Socio Economic Impacts

Impact 9: Noise generation

Cause and Comment The construction of the STPP would result in a noise impact due to the operation of the construction vehicles.

Significance Statement This impact will be slight and localised, persisting for the short term only, meaning the significance is LOW NEGATIVE. Unmitigated, this impact is likely to remain LOW NEGATIVE.

Mitigation Measures  The duration of the construction phase should be as short as possible  Construction vehicles should be well maintained to limit noise  Construction activities to be limited to day hours  Construction should be done during working hours to reduce noise impacts on neighboring communities  It is suggested that it will be favourable to establish the STPP over school holidays as construction noise will have an impact at the Healdtown Comprehensive School.

Impact 10: Visual Impact

Cause and Comment The construction site will be highly visible from the road adjacent to the site and to settlements on the hill overlooking the site.

Significance Statement The visual intrusion of the construction site will definitely occur for the short term and effect the study area. The visual impact is considered of MODERATE NEGATIVE significance.

Mitigation Measures There is little that can be done to mitigate the visual impact of the construction site. However, in terms of site location and visibility, alternate site two (Location B) would be the preferred option due to it being less visible compared to alternate site one (Location A).

Impact 11: Dust generation

Cause and Comment Dust may be generated due to the clearing of vegetation and levelling of soil.

Significance Statement Due to the very short term duration of the construction phase, this impact is considered a LOW NEGATIVE and will be restricted to the study area having a slight impact.

Mitigation Measures The construction activities are to be kept within as small a footprint area as possible. This area is to be defined and all employees and contractors are to be made aware of the footprint area..As the development footprint is only a few square metres, The contractor will need to, together with the Engineers, find a suitable location for construction equipment, a mixing area, ablution facilities etc.

Impact 12: Rubble from construction works

Cause and Comment: The construction will produce minimal building rubble that will need to be removed from the site.

Significant Statement: This will result in a MODERATE NEGATIVE impact, but can be mitigated to no significance with the implementation of the EMPr.

Mitigation Measures: Rubble/ construction waste that will be produced during construction will be re-used in most cases and where it is not possible it will be taken to an approved waste disposal facility.

Impact 13: Inappropriate location of solid waste collection and storage areas

Cause and Comment: Inappropriate location of solid waste collection and storage areas may lead to litter, pollution, general nuisances and health hazards.

Significance Statement: This is of HIGH NEGATIVE significance, but with mitigation measures can be reduced to low significance

Mitigation Measures:  No on-site burying or dumping of any waste materials, vegetation, litter or refuse shall occur.  Bins, with lids, shall be positioned within the working areas and shall be emptied daily.  All solid waste shall be disposed of at a designated public disposal site.  Receipts for hazardous waste disposal shall be copied to the ECO.  Waste and litter shall be disposed of into scavenger- and weather-proof bins. The Contractor shall remove the refuse collected from the working areas from site at least once a week.  The contractor must where possible limit the amount of waste produced on the construction site, and ensure that wherever possible, waste materials are re-used or recycled, or donated or sold to an organisation for this purpose.  Biodegradable items should be separated from other waste and used either in composting or mulching.

Impact 14: Temporary job creation

Cause and Comment Construction of new infrastructure means job creation.

Significance Statement This impacts is considered short term and of LOW POSITIVE significance due to the high rates of unemployment in the surrounding communities, although only a few job opportunities (probably only one or two) will be created.

Impact 15: Expectations of jobs by many unskilled workers

Cause and Comment

Although this development is not large, there may be some expectations in the surrounding areas that employment could result from the development. Construction companies usually arrive with their workers, and thus there will be limited employment opportunities.

Significance Statement This is a moderate impact that can be lessened somewhat to low significance with the suggested mitigation measures.

Mitigation Measures The Contractor must communicate the expectations of the job creation during the construction phase to the local community to avoid this impact occurring.

OPERATIONAL PHASE IMPACTS

Ecological

Impact 1: Presence, introduction and spread of alien plants

Cause and Comment As with all building operations, the introduction of alien and invader species is inevitable; with disturbance comes the influx of aliens. Alien invader species need to be consistently managed over the entire operational phase of the project. Sustained management effort will be required.

Significance Statement For the operation phase of development; the overall significance of the impact is a MODERATE NEGATIVE without mitigation. With mitigation, however, it is a possible HIGH POSITIVE if the present few alien species are removed.

Socio Economic

Impact 2: Visual Impact

Cause and Comment The sewage treatment package plant will be located in an open grassy area, highly visible to rural settlements on the hill to the south east of the site. The STPP will also be highly visible to commuters travelling along the access road directly alongside the site.

Significance Statement The visual intrusion of the STPP will definitely occur for the long term and will be localised. The visual impact is considered of MODERATE NEGATIVE significance.

Mitigation Measures There is little that can be done to obscure the visual impact of the STPP. However, in terms of site location and visibility, alternate site 2 would be the preferred option due to it being less visible.

Impact 3: Noise generation

Cause and Comment The proposed installation of a Becon Bio-filter RBC Plant is designed to have noise free operation. Even if the operational phase were to generate noise, it would be minor operational noises such as the buzzes and hums from the operation of the treatment machinery.

Significance Statement This impact is considered negligible.

Mitigation Measures The proposed installation of a Becon Bio-filter RBC Plant is designed to have noise free operation.

Impact 4: Odour

Cause and Comment As with most sewage treatment plants there may be an odour generated by the facility.

Significance Statement Considering the efficiency of the proposed Becon Bio-filter RBC Plant system, this impact is considered long term, localised and slight with an overall significance of LOW NEGATIVE. With mitigation, the impact will remain LOW NEGATIVE to negligible.

Mitigation Measures The proposed installation of a Becon Bio-filter RBC Plant is highly efficient in terms of odour control. The following measures should routinely be undertaken to contain odour generation:  Maintain all components in good working condition  Ensure continual compliance with all procedures for ongoing monitoring and maintenance of the operational efficiency of the works.

Impact 5: Defective functioning of the STPP

Cause and Comment Defective functioning of the STPP could affect the quality of the final effluent being discharged.

Significance Statement This could have a short term impact of medium to high intensity at the local level. Should the effluent be discharged in to the Kat River, this would impact water quality at a regional level, and as such this impact is considered a VERY HIGH NEGATIVE. With mitigation, this impact can be reduced to a HIGH NEGATIVE.

Mitigation Measures  Maintain all components in good working condition  Ensure continual compliance with all procedures for ongoing monitoring and maintenance of the operational efficiency of the works.  Implement a monitoring programme in accordance with the DWA Water Use Registration conditions of discharge. This monitoring programme shall include the following: - - The quantity and quality of the final effluent discharged must be metered and the total recorded weekly;

- quality of domestic wastewater discharges monitored on a monthly basis. The discharge volume shall be monitored for: Ph, electrical conductivity (mS/m) and faecal coliforms (per 100ml) as per DWA General Authorisations  Implement a management control system to ensure immediate remedial action if the outcome of the monitoring programme indicates non-compliance with specific DWA Standards.

Impact 6: Job creation

Cause and Comment Although the STPP requires minimal maintenance, routine preventative maintenance is essential. However, few people will be employed for operations and maintenance (It is likely that maintenance of the STPP will only generate one job).

Significance Statement This impact is considered long term due to the high rates of unemployment in the surrounding communities. However, the generation of only one job is a slight benefit of LOW POSITIVE significance.

Mitigation Measures It is unknown at this stage who will operate the package plant. It has been suggested that either a Person from Department of Infrastructure Facilities Management or a person from the community be trained to operate the plant.

Impact 7: Improved Health Standards

Cause and Comment The establishment of the sewage treatment package plant would serve to eliminate the health and pollution hazard posed by raw sewage entering the Kat River.

Significance Statement This impact will definitely occur and will be a HIGH POSITIVE. The impact would be restricted to the local area and persist for the long term.

Mitigation Measures To optimise and/or enhance the benefits of improved sewage treatment, the system should be well maintained and managed. Regular monitoring of effluent quality should also be conducted to ensure that the system is performing at its peak in accordance with the authorisation from DWA.

Another aspect is that the current water supply for the school comes from a borehole in the vicinity at alternate site two. Site alternative one is better in terms of having a lower risk of contaminating the ground water should there be a sewerage overflow/spill.

Water resources

Impact 8: Reduced soil contamination and water pollution

Cause and Comment The proposed installation of a Becon Bio-filter RBC Plant has the ability to improve the quality of sewage generated at the Healdtown Comprehensive School due to updated technology. The current sewage system of septic tanks does not meet regulatory standards. In addition, the existing tanks do

not treat or dispose of sludge to expected standards. The proposed technology is superior to the existing septic tank system and is therefore expected to meet DWA discharge standards.

Significance Statement A reduction in soil contamination and water pollution as a result of improved quality of effluent generated will definitely occur. The impact is likely to be permanent and will be realised even at the municipal level. With and without optimisation the benefit of the impact should be regarded as beneficial. The overall significance of the impact with and without mitigation will remain beneficial (MODERATELY POSITIVE).

Mitigation Measures To optimise and/or enhance the benefits of improved sewage treatment, the system should be well maintain and managed. Regular monitoring of effluent quality should also be conducted to ensure that the system is performing at its peak.

Impact 9: Poor sewerage system management leading to ongoing inadvertent sewage leakages

Cause and comment

Several negative impacts could result from the poor management and maintenance of the sewerage treatment package including the formation of unpleasant odours and the contamination soils, ground, surface waters and nearby streams as a result of leakage.

Mitigation measures

It is imperative that the sewerage treatment package is properly managed and maintained at all times to ensure that there are no leaks. This will involve regular maintenance and inspections. In addition to this, only SABS accredited materials should be used when building the system. In addition, water quality monitoring needs to be undertaken every alternate month to assess physio-chemical properties (such as e.coli levels) at point of entry of the Tyatyora tributary, downstream, midway between Healdtown and Fort Beaufort, and at Fort Beaufort.

Significance statement (Sites A and B)

The impact of poor management, maintenance and inspections of the sewerage treatment package would probably have very severe negative impacts in the long term. This would affect the region because of the Tyatyora tributary joins the Kat River further downstream, which is used heavily by local people from Fort Beaufort for everyday needs, hence the impact would be of VERY HIGH significance.

The implementation of the ongoing monitoring and inspections will reduce the severity of this risk to slight. However, due to the non-perennial nature and low flow gauge of the Tyatora, it is highly susceptible to high level contamination and eutrophication within the study area. This could have disastrous consequences for the immediate area and therefore despite the mitigations presented being the only possible measures; the impact remains MODERATE post mitigation.

Effect Risk or Total Overall Impact Temporal Scale Spatial Scale Severity of Impact Likelihood Score Significance

Operational phase Sites A and B Without Regional Long-term 3 3 Very 8 Probably 3 17 V.HIGH –ve mitigation Area With Short term 2 Study Area 2 Very 8 Unlikely 1 13 HIGH -ve mitigation

Impact 10: Treated effluent discharge from the sewage treatment package into Tyatyora tributary

Cause and comment

One of the effluent discharge options is to discharge treated effluent into the Tyatyora tribuatary. In light of this, it is important to ensure that the treated effluent has had repeated water quality testing to ensure that physio-chemical properties are similar to that of the natural state the water currently flowing in Kat river

Mitigation measures

Water properties for the study site need to be similar/ equivalent to that of the Kat River which remains in a natural state. Water samples from the study site need to fall within the following parameter ranges, namely: -  An alkaline water pH ranging from 7.6 to 8.1, reflecting the total alkalinity of the water ranging from 1.2 to 5.4 mg/L CaCO3.  Moderate water salinity levels, ranging from 13.3 mS/m to 64 mS/m. Nitrate and phosphate concentrations are very low (0.5mg/L NO3, 1mg/L PO4) (Everitt, 1999).

Studies have highlighted the presence of faecal coliforms and high nitrate concentrations near some communities (Soviti, 2001). Rigorous monitoring needs to measure for faecal coliforms and nitrate concentrations at the study site.

Point of discharge needs to be opposite Site B on the Fort Beaufort side of the bridge as currently there are heavy boulders and rocks lining the river basin which will accommodate discharge and will reduce erosion impacts.

Significance statement (Site A and B)

Due to the non-perennial nature and low flow gauge of the Tyatora, it is highly susceptible to high level contamination and eutrophication within the study area. This could have disastrous consequences for the immediate area. Consequently, if effluent discharge water quality is unmonitored and poor quality water enters the Tyatyora tributary, this could elevate nitrate levels promoting eutrophication within the study area and possible E.coli breakout due to high levels of faecal coliforms within the effluent. Such an outbreak will probably occur, having a long-term effect and will be of a very severe nature, thus will have VERY HIGH significance.

Due to the non-perennial nature and low flow gauge of the Tyatora, it is highly susceptible to high level contamination and eutrophication within the study area. This could have disastrous consequences for the immediate area. If well monitored, natural state effluent is discharged, the treated effluent will dilute such concentrations and will increase stream flow supporting surrounding biota and flora. The effect of discharging treated effluent into the tributary of the study area will probably occur over a long-term period and will be very beneficial, thus will have HIGH POSITIVE significance.

Effect Risk or Total Overall Impact Temporal Scale Spatial Scale Severity of Impact Likelihood Score Significance Operational phase Site A and B Without Long-term 3 Study Area 2 Very 8 Probably 3 16 V.HIGH –ve mitigation With Long-term 3 Study Area 2 Very Beneficial 8 Probably 3 15 HIGH +ve mitigation

Impact 11: Treated effluent discharge from the sewage treatment package onto Healdtown College recreational sport fields

Cause and comment:

The supplementation of municipal water source for treated discharge effluent in irrigating proposed rehabilitated Healdtown College recreational sports fields nearby of site A.

Mitigation measures

It is important to ensure that the treated effluent has had repeated water quality testing to ensure that physio-chemical properties are similar to that of the natural state the water currently flowing in Kat river The following mitigation measures should be implemented to minimise this risk:  Refer to water quality monitoring mitigation measures for impact 4.2  Either a lined holding pond or dam to cater for emergency overflow and a reed-bed type “polishing system” will be required.  The irrigation water will be used on agricultural lands (not to fruit or vegetables that are eaten without cooking, or to sports fields where there is not normally physical contact with the ground surface (that is, a golf course but not a rugby field), or to gardens within the College grounds.

Significance statement

If effluent discharge water quality is unmonitored and poor quality water enters both the Tyatyora and KwaNgenu tributaries via run-off or ground water seepage, this could elevate nitrate levels promoting eutrophication within the study area and possible E.coli breakout due to high levels of faecal coliforms within the effluent. Additional, this will have a very severe negative affect on human health both in the immediate vicinity and regionally. Such an outbreak will probably occur, having a long-term effect and will be of a very severe nature, thus will have VERY HIGH significance.

Using the proposed mitigation will make this impact unlikely, and would be a long-term local impact. It would be a very beneficial impact and would have HIGH POSITIVE significance.

Effect Risk or Total Overall Impact Temporal Scale Spatial Scale Severity of Impact Likelihood Score Significance Operational phase Site A and B Without Regional Long-term 2 3 Very 8 Probably 3 16 V. HIGH –ve mitigation Area With Localised Short term 1 1 Very 8 Probably 3 13 HIGH +ve mitigation Area

Impact 12: Treated effluent discharge from the sewage treatment package into rehabilitated settling ponds

Cause and comment: The redirection of effluent discharge into settling ponds for the onset of evaporation, will be both a costly exercise in the rehabilitation of the existing infrastructure (ruined settling ponds) already in place and the unnecessary excavation of land for the running of underground pipes to the ponds from the either of the proposed sites.

Mitigation measures It is imperative that the sewerage treatment package is properly managed and maintained at all times to ensure that there are no leaks. This will involve regular maintenance and inspections. It is important to ensure that the treated effluent has had repeated water quality testing to ensure that physio-chemical properties are similar to that of the natural state the water currently flowing in Kat river The mitigation measures suggested for impacts 4 through 9 should be implemented to minimise this risk:

Significance statement There will be an unpleasant odour dispelled from the settling tanks that will affect both the immediate hillside communities and Healdtown College. Additionally if effluent discharge water quality is unmonitored and poor quality water enters the Tyatyora tributary via ground water seepage from both pipes and pond wall or via pond wall breakage, this will elevate nitrate levels promoting eutrophication within the study area with E.coli breakout due to high levels of faecal coliforms within the effluent that will in addition affect the Fort Beaufort region. Additional, this will have a very severe negative affect on human health both in the immediate vicinity and regionally. Such a leakage may occur, having a long- term effect and will be of a very severe nature, thus will have VERY HIGH significance.

Using the proposed mitigation will make this impact unlikely, and would be a short-term local impact. It would be a slight impact and would have LOW significance.

Effect Risk or Total Overall Impact Temporal Scale Spatial Scale Severity of Impact Likelihood Score Significance Operational phase Site A and B Without Regional Long-term 2 3 Very 8 Probably 3 12 HIGH –ve mitigation Area With Regional Short term 2 3 Slight 1 Unlikely 1 7 LOW -ve mitigation Area

DECOMMISSIONING AND CLOSURE PHASE IMPACTS

Impact 1: Disturbance to soil and vegetation

Cause and Comment Once the STPP becomes redundant, the facility will be decommissioned by complying with the legislated requirements. The infrastructure will then be removed and the site rehabilitated to its original condition. It is expected that soils and vegetation will be initially negatively affected from the removal of the infrastructure; however, these impacts are necessary for the rehabilitation of the site which will have positive impacts on this site by landscaping the surface to be free-draining and re-establishing indigenous vegetation.

Significance Statement The disturbance to soil and vegetation will have a MODERATE POSITIVE impact.

Mitigation Measures The applicant will ensure that funds are available for the decommissioning and rehabilitation of all their redundant infrastructure, as outlined in the EMPr. This will ensure that rehabilitation results in a positive impact.

Impact 2: Establishment of alien invasive plant species

Cause and Comment Disturbed and newly rehabilitated areas are prone to the establishment of alien invasive plant species, this could negatively affect the efforts to re-establish indigenous vegetation.

Significance Statement This would be a MODERATE NEGATIVE impact. With mitigation, this impact is a LOW POSITIVE POSITIVE.

Mitigation Measures Seeding of rehabilitated areas should take place during the growing season of indigenous vegetation. Newly rehabilitated areas should be monitored for alien invasive plant species. These plants should be removed from the rehabilitated area. Newly rehabilitated areas should also be monitored for erosion and measures should be taken to prevent any erosion from taking place. Additional watering of the rehabilitated areas should be avoided so as to encourage natural vegetation to establish.

Three activity alternatives for the disposal of sewerage effluent have been proposed:

 Discharge into the nearby Kat River (Option 1);  Evaporation ponds (Option 2); or  Irrigation of agricultural fields or sports fields using the treated effluent (Option 3). This option would require either a lined holding pond or dam to cater for emergency overflow and a reed- bed type “polishing system”. The irrigation water will be used on agricultural lands (not to fruit or vegetables that are eaten without cooking, or to sports fields where there is not normally physical contact with the ground surface (that is, a golf course but not a rugby filed), or to gardens within the College grounds.

The impacts of each of these activity alternatives are discussed below:

1. Discharge in to the nearby Kat River (option 1)

Impact 1: Pollution of land and water (-)

Cause and Comment The disposal of effluent sewage in to the river that does not meet the minimum requirements as set out by DWA can result in the contamination of land and water. Other implications of poorly treated sewage are human health risks (e.g. increased risk of water borne diseases such as cholera). In addition, poorly treated sewage generally has a relatively high organic matter and nutrient content and if it leaks into surface water bodes, can cause eutrophication and, subsequently, collapse of aquatic ecosystems. Ammonia is particularly toxic to fish even in low concentrations. Effluent will not meet the standards only if sewage treatment was poor and this could happen for a number of reasons including:

 Theft or loss of vital system components: The loss of a pump or other vital equipment could disrupt the entire wastewater treatment system, resulting in increased environmental and health risks and associated economic costs.  Premature termination of the wastewater treatment facilities service life: This could occur if the “sercvicing resources” including technical expertise, maintenance and material specific to the technology needing repair cannot be easily accessed. It is accepted that most process units involving piping and machinery such as that used for the Healdtown Comprehensive School require adequate maintenance to ensure optimal and sustained performance. Due to wear and tear or breakdown, parts fall and need replacement. When this happens, unless replacement parts are accessible, the service life of the equipment will end abruptly resulting in environmental, economic and health impacts which could be severe.

Significance Statement The nature of this impact would be highly dependent on the effluent water quality standards that would be met by the sewage treatment package plant. Pollution of land and water resulting from the disposal of poorly treated sewage which does not meet the requirements set out by DWA as ‘safe effluent’ will definitely occur in the medium term and the effects of this will be felt even at the municipal level. Without mitigation the severity of the impact should definitely be regarded as severe but with mitigation, severity can be reduced to slight. The overall significance of the impact without mitigation will be HIGH but with mitigation overall significance would be reduced to MODERATE.

Mitigation Measures All wash water and sewage from the Healdtown Comprehensive School must be diverted to the Becon Bio-filter RBC plant and this plant must be correctly maintained and operated at all times. The quality of treated effluent should be monitored to ensure that it meets the required National discharge standards as set out by DWA.

The management of the treatment plant must also ensure that they have access to “servicing resources” and component parts. Parts requiring replacement are often those of a mechanical nature such as pumps. Maintaining a suitable supply of spare parts on-site and implementing a sound maintenance regime is therefore essential for maximising the service life of the system and reducing the ‘down time’ of one or more of the system’s components. Additionally, components of a non- mechanical nature (e.g. other personnel trained to manage the system in case the employee who usually does this is off sick) need to also be readily available.

2. Evaporation ponds (option 2)

Impact 1: Damage to ecological habitat and heritage structure of significance

Cause and Comment The construction and use of an evaporation pond would increase the footprint of the project and elevate the potentials of damage to both ecological environmental and the heritage structure of significance within the project site during the construction phase.

Significance Statement The damage to ecological habitat as well as the heritage structure of significance will definitely occur. Without mitigation the severity of the impact should definitely be regarded as severe but with mitigation, severity can be reduced to moderate. The overall significance of the impact without mitigation will be VERY HIGH but with mitigation overall significance would be reduced to MODERATE.

Mitigation Measures The Environmental Control Officer (ECO) during the construction phase must ensure that damage to any heritage structure of significance on site is avoided and damage to ecological environment, though inevitable, is minimised. In addition, the evaporation pond must be properly lined to prevent seepage and contamination of neighbouring water bodies and the access control to the evaporation pond should be restricted.

Should any archaeological artefacts or graves be encountered on site, construction activities must be suspended and the appropriate authorities contacted. The South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) or the National Monuments Council shall be contacted and they will appoint an archaeological consultant to record the site and excavate if necessary. Work may only resume once clearance is given in writing by the archaeologist.

3. Irrigation (option 3)

Impact 1: Pollution of land and water (-)

Cause and Comment If sewage does not meet the minimum requirements as set out by DWA, this could lead to contamination of land and water. Eurtophication and possible collapse of aquatic ecosystems could result from the high organic and nutrient content of poorly treated sewage. Low concentrations of Ammonia could impact on fish populations due to it being highly toxic to fish.

Standards will not be met if sewage treatment was poor and hence subsequent irrigation water would not be suitable. Poor treatment could happen for a number of reasons, including:

 Theft or loss of vital system components: The loss of a pump or other vital equipment could disrupt the entire wastewater treatment system, resulting in increased environmental and health risks and associated economic costs.  Premature termination of the wastewater treatment facilities service life: This could occur if the servicing resources including technical expertise, maintenance and material required for repair is not readily available. The waster water treatment plant at Healdtown Comprehensive School requires maintenance to ensure optimal and sustained performance. Due to wear and tear or breakdown, parts fall and need replacement. The service life of the equipment will end abruptly resulting in environmental, economic and health impacts which could be severe if replacement parts that fail are not readily available.

Significance Statement Pollution of land and water resulting from the use of poorly treated sewage which does not meet the requirements set out by DWA as Irrigation water will definitely occur in the medium term and the effects of this will be felt even at the municipal level. Without mitigation the severity of the impact should definitely be regarded as severe but with mitigation, severity can be reduced to slight. The overall significance of the impact without mitigation will be HIGH but with mitigation overall significance would be reduced to MODERATE.

Mitigation Measures All wash water and sewage from the Healdtown Comprehensive School must be diverted to the proposed Becon Bio-filter RBC Plant and this plant must be correctly maintained and operated at all times. The quality of treated effluent should be monitored to ensure that it meets the required National discharge standards as set out by DWA.

The management of the treatment plant must also ensure that they have access to component parts and a management team in order to avoid premature termination of the wastewater treatment technologies’ service life. Parts requiring replacement are often those of a mechanical nature. Maintaining a suitable supply of spare parts on-site and implementing a sound maintenance regime is therefore essential for maximising the service life of the system and reducing the ‘down time’ of one or more of the system’s components. Additionally, components of a non-mechanical nature (e.g. other personnel trained to manage the system in case the employee who usually does this is off sick) need to also be readily available.

Impact 2: Reduced water consumption (+)

Cause and Comment An improvement in the quality of sewage means that the Healdtown Comprehensive School can re-use its treated effluent as irrigation water, resulting in a reduction in their reliance on current sources of irrigation water.

Significance Statement A reduction in water consumption as a result of using properly treated effluent as irrigation water will definitely occur. The impact is likely to be long term and will be realised at the project level. With and without management measures the benefit of the impact should definitely be regarded as beneficial. The overall significance of the impact with and without management will be of HIGH POSITIVE significance.

Mitigation Measures To optimise and/or enhance the benefits of reduced water consumption, the sewage treatment system should be well maintained and managed to ensure that effluent produced is generally within the DWA requirements for irrigation water.

3. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT

Taking the assessment of potential impacts into account, please provide an environmental impact statement that summarises the impact that the proposed activity and its alternatives may have on the environment after the management and mitigation of impacts have been taken into account, with specific reference to types of impact, duration of impacts, likelihood of potential impacts actually occurring and the significance of impacts.

Alternative S1: LOCATION A (preferred alternative)

This site is adjacent to the road and is flat to slightly sloping to the SSW of about 1 degree. It is an old lawned area that has been invaded by indigenous grasses and herbs as well as some weeds. The site had been heavily grazed by cattle and donkeys. There were birds in the trees but little evidence of other indigenous animals. Important to note, however, is that the current drinking water supply for the school comes from a borehole that is eastward and less than 100m from the vicinity of site B. Due to this, site A is considered the preferred location for this assessment due to the lowered risk of groundwater contamination as a result of accidental sewerage overflow/spill at this site.

Alternative S2: LOCATION B

Please see above comment

Alternative S3: Not applicable

Alternative A1: (preferred alternative) DISCHARGE OF TREATED EFFLUENT INTO NEARBY RIVER

Construction in order to upgrade the site occurs on an already disturbed site, present with alien vegetation. The upgrading of the water treatment works results in many positive impacts, not only for the community (cleaner environment, reduced risk of infections) but also for the surrounding environment in terms of better water quality, thereby reducing the risk of contamination.

Alternative A1 (discharge of treated effluent into nearby river) is recommended as the preferred option as it would provide water back into the water resource for downstream users.

Alternative A2: DISCHARGE OF TREATED EFFLUENT INTO EVAPORATION PONDS

It was decided this option is not viable, as the evaporation ponds are very old, and would require rehabilitation in order to make them useable. Using the evaporation ponds would also mean the recovered water would be lost for downstream use.

Alternative A3: IRRIGATION OF AGRICULTURAL FIELDS/SPORTS FIELDS USING THE TREATED EFFLUENT

All sports fields in the area surrounding Healdtown College are used for contact sport, such as rugby and soccer. The Fort Beaufort area is rich in citrus fruits, with the majority of agricultural fields used to grow oranges and nartjies. This option of irrigating the sports and agricultural fields was therefore deemed not appropriate.

No-go alternative: (compulsory)

Due to the poor health status of Healdtown’s aquatic ecosystem, as compared to the healthy natural state of the majority of the Kat River Valley’s river systems, the consideration of a no-go alternate is strongly opposed. The construction of a sewage treatment package at either site A or site B, albeit site preference, promotes numerous positive impacts that will either increase flow gauge, decreasing eutrophic levels and benefiting immediate and surrounding biota and flora. It will also help aggrade tributary banks and promote riparian and marginal zone growth.

SECTION E. RECOMMENDATION OF PRACTITIONER

Is the information contained in this report and the documentation attached YES NO hereto sufficient to make a decision in respect of the activity applied for (in the view of the environmental assessment practitioner)?

If “NO”, indicate the aspects that should be assessed further as part of a Scoping and EIA process before a decision can be made (list the aspects that require further assessment): NOT APPLICABLE If “YES”, please list any recommended conditions, including mitigation measures that should be considered for inclusion in any authorisation that may be granted by the competent authority in respect of the application: CONSTRUCTION PHASE

1. Construction Environmental Management Plan (EMP) Due to the location of the site and its proximity to the areas of natural vegetation and some drainage lines, it is recommended that an EMP is prepared for the construction phase of the project. A suitably qualified Environmental Control Officer (ECO) should be appointed to ensure the provisions of the EMP are implemented and/or adhered to.

2. Employment As far as possible without compromising construction activities, local labour from the surrounding communities should be employed.

3. Disturbance of indigenous vegetation Before construction commences, the vegetation specialist should indicate which areas of sensitive vegetation should be avoided. These should be demarcated to as ‘no –go’ areas to avoid confusion during construction. Where necessary and possible, indigenous vegetation should be removed before construction, and kept in a nursery. During construction, as little vegetation as possible should be disturbed. Construction workers and vehicles should stick to marked out paths and areas. Sensitive vegetation should be avoided, and as much of the natural vegetation as possible should be left.

4. Soil Erosion  The sewage treatment package will be required to have some ground slope to facilitate drainage. Where the slope encountered is steeper than 2%, then increased cross- slope interceptor drains should be installed to avoid erosion, and these may need to be sub-surface drains.  Ensure that a network of co-ordinated shallow drains are constructed during the land clearing phase  Filter strips (grass buffer strips) must be implemented wherever possible but as a minimum around the edge of the entire development footprint as soon as construction is initiated.  Ensure that site infrastructure such as buildings and fences are aligned with the natural drainage lines to minimise additional erosion  Topsoil must be stockpiled and used for rehabilitation purposes. Any soil excavated and not utilised for rehabilitation must be removed from site and no large mounds of soil should be left behind after construction. If the unutilised soil is not excessive in quantity, it may be carefully spread within the environs, in particular, aggrade the Tyatyora banks

opposite the settling ponds  Soils must not be left bare for long periods of time, and areas should only be cleared just prior to construction to avoid excessive erosion  No soil must be left exposed. It must be covered with mulch or vegetated.  Any gardening and landscaping should consider planting plants at a right angle to the drainage lines to slow water velocities down and decrease erosion where possible.  The sewage treatment package and related infrastructure must be designed in such a way that they do not concentrate flowing water (in other words that they consider the natural drainage of the site).

OPERATIONAL PHASE

1. Operational Environmental Management Plan (EMP) An Operation EMP must be prepared by a suitably qualified person to determine the environmental management roles and responsibilities during the operational phase and how the site will be managed. This should include the rehabilitation and re-vegetation of disturbed areas and the removal of alien vegetation. In addition, the roles and responsibilities with regards to the waste disposal and sewage facility maintenance etc should be very clearly defined.

2. Employment Preference should be given to local people for for the alien eradication programme and for re- vegetation/maintenance work and operational work.

3. Visual The existing trees, such as the oak, Celtis africana, and the shrubs should be maintained on the site as far as possible to conceal the treatment plant.

4. Disturbance of indigenous vegetation. Indigenous vegetation should be disturbed as little as possible. Footpaths will be placed to avoid sensitive vegetation. They will be regularly maintained, and any further footpaths that are requested will be designed under the supervision of the vegetation specialist. The Applicant will be responsible for ensuring that footpaths are not created, and where they occur, are repaired and the natural vegetation reinstated. Care should be taken to prevent fires during construction.

5. Removal of alien vegetation. Alien plants should be removed from the site and care should be taken that any introduced aliens that come in with the machinery during construction are removed. A re-vegetation programme should be implemented to re-vegetate these areas where removal has occured.

6. Contamination of the Tyatyora and Kat River It is imperative that the sewerage treatment package is properly managed and maintained at all times to ensure that there are no leaks. This will involve regular maintenance and inspections. In addition to this, only SABS accredited materials should be used when building the system. In addition, water quality monitoring needs to be undertaken every alternate month to assess physio-chemical properties (such as e.coli levels) at point of entry of the Tyatyora tributary, downstream, midway between Healdtown and Fort Beaufort, and at Fort Beaufort.

7. Monitoring Programmes.

The following monitoring programmes will be required:  Ongoing water quality monitoring of the Tyatyora and KwaNgenu tributaries. This must take place monthly during the construction and operation phase of the project. This should focus on two components: a. Leaks in the sewerage system b. Treated effluent discharge quality  Monitoring of the riparian and marginal zone vegetation along the edge of the Tyatyora and KwaNgenu tributaries as well as at the edge of the site to ensure that the vegetation remains intact and is acting as a filter strip between the development and the tributaries.

Which locations? Due to the presence of the borehole and indigenous plants at location B, it is the opinion of the EAP that the construction and operation of the WWTW be at location A, as it is optimal from an environmental perspective.

Is an EMPr attached? YES NO The EMPr must be attached as Appendix F.

SECTION F: APPENDIXES

The following appendixes must be attached as appropriate:

Appendix A: Site plan(s)

Appendix B: Photographs

Appendix C: Facility illustration(s)

Appendix D: Specialist reports Appendix D-1: Declaration of Interest by Specialists Appendix D-2: Ecological Assessment Appendix D-3: Aquatic Assessment

Appendix E: Comments and response report Appendix E-1: Interested and Affected Parties Register

Appendix F: Environmental Management Programme (EMPr)

Appendix G: Other information: Heritage summary report

APPENDIX A: SITE PLAN

Figure A-1: Locality plan indicating the site at Healdtown Comprehensive School where the sewage treatment package plant is proposed and access roads

Figure A-2: Locality plan (Google Earth™) indicating the site at Healdtown Comprehensive School where the sewage treatment package plant is proposed

APPENDIX B: SITE PHOTOGRAPHS

Appendix B-1: Site Alternative 1 (Location A)

Picture 8 Picture 1 Picture 2

GPS point: 32o44.022’S; 26o42.341E Site Alternative 1 (Location A)

Picture 7 Picture 3

Picture 6 Picture 5 Picture 4 73

DESCRIPTION OF EACH PICTURE (Site Alternative 1 (Location A))

Picture 1: Picture 5:  Northerly view  Southerly view  Natural veld/grassland with scattered aliens  Natural veld/grassland with scattered aliens  Trees > 1 m present  Undulating topography;  Undulating topography  Bushes present  Old building rubble  Houses visible on hill (left corner of picture)  Bare, exposed soil in places  Access road visible

Picture 2: Picture 6:  North-easterly view  South-westerly view  Natural veld/grassland with scattered aliens  Natural veld/grassland with scattered aliens  Flat topography;  Undulating topography;  Bushes present  Bushes present  Chapel and other buildings visible in background  Bare, exposed soil in places  Trees > 1 m present  Access road visible  Trees > 1 m present

Picture 3: Picture 7:  Easterly view  Westerly view  Natural veld/grassland with scattered aliens  Natural veld/grassland with scattered aliens  Trees > 1 m present  Undulating topography;  Undulating topography  Bushes present  Old building rubble  Bare, exposed soil in places  Trees > 1 m present

Picture 4: Picture 8:  South-easterly view  North-westerly view  Natural veld/grassland with scattered aliens  Natural veld/grassland with scattered aliens  Trees > 1 m present  Undulating topography;  Undulating topography  Bushes present  Old building rubble  Bare, exposed soil in places  Houses visible on hill in distance  Trees > 1 m present

Appendix B-2: Site Alternative 2 (Location B)

Picture 8 Picture 1 Picture 2

GPS point: 32o44.012’S; 26o42.523’E Site Alternative 2 (Location B)

Picture 7 Picture 3

Picture 6 Picture 5 Picture 4

DESCRIPTION OF EACH PICTURE (Site Alternative 1 (Location A)) Picture 1: Picture 5:  Northerly view  Southerly view  Natural veld/grassland with heavy alien infestation  Natural veld/grassland with heavy alien infestation  Flat topography;  Trees >1m present  Bushes present  Flat topography;  Buildings visible  Bare, exposed soil in places  Trees > 1 m present  Bush clumps  Invasive alien plant (Lantana)  Road visible  Building visible (top right of picture)

Picture 2: Picture 6:  North-easterly view  South-westerly view  Flat topography;  Trees >1m present  Bushes present  Natural veld/grassland with heavy alien infestation  Buildings visible  Flat topography;  Trees > 1 m present  Bare, exposed soil in places  Bare, exposed soil in places  Bush clumps  Invasive alien plant (Lantana)  Road visible  Building visible

Picture 3: Picture 7:  Easterly view  Westerly view  Natural veld/grassland with heavy alien infestation  Natural veld/grassland with heavy alien infestation  Flat topography;  Trees >1m present  Bush clumbs present  Flat topography;  Trees > 1 m present  Bush clumps  Bare, exposed soil in places  Invasive alien plant (Lantana)   Building visible (top right of picture)

Picture 4: Picture 8:  South-easterly view  North-westerly view  Natural veld/grassland with heavy alien infestation  Natural veld/grassland with heavy alien infestation  Flat topography;  Trees >1m present  Bare, exposed soil in places  Flat topography;  Invasive alien plant (Lantana)  Bush clumps  Invasive alien plant (Lantana)  Building visible behind trees in background

Appendix B-3: Site Alternatives location map

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APPENDIX C: FACILITY ILLUSTRATIONS

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APPENDIX D: SPECIALIST REPORTS

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Appendix D-1: Declaration of Interest by Specialists (The original signed documents will be presented in the FINAL report.)

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D-2: Ecological Assessment Report

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D-3: Aquatic Assessment Report

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Appendix E: Comments and Response Report

No comments and response for the proposed project have been received till date. A list of all registered Interested and Affected Parties is provided below.

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Appendix E-1: Interested and affected parties (I&APS) register

Name and Surname Organisation/Company Telephone Cellphone Email Postal Address Healdtown 083 248 1644 Comprehensive School or 076 667 P O Box 142. Fort Beaufort. Mr Sigila – Acting principal 1161 5720 Liaise with Minister Methodist Church Tena and not Boship Bishop Siwa Healdtown Siwa 083 288 2877 Minister Zamikaya Methodist Church P O Box 440. Fort Beaufort.

Tena Healdtown 046 652 1930 072 125 8624 [email protected] 5720 SAIA - South African Stratford's Guest House. 31

Al Stratford Institute of Architects 043 726 9765 082 7711 539 [email protected] Frere Road, Vincent, 5427 Healdtown High School 25 Chruch Street. Fort

Francois Kulp – Past-principal 046 645 2185 083 286 5370 [email protected] Beaufort. 5720 Historic Schools Archbishop Njongo Restoration Project Postnet Suite 48. Provate Bag Ndungane Director 021 713 1450 X12. Tokai. 7966 Historic Schools Restoration Project Postnet Suite 48. Provate Bag

Carmel Fielies Archbishop’s PA 021 713 1450 [email protected] X12. Tokai. 7966

Laura Robinson Independent consultant 021 421 0287 083 463 4765 [email protected] 083 206 7323 or 083 254 P O Box 866. Fort Beaufort. Councillor Nqana Ward 7 Fort Beaufort 2353 5720 Nkonkobe Local Municipality: Environmental Health P O Box 36, Fort Beaufort, Mr Colani /Langa Department 040 653 1214 071 333 5855 5720

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Mr Phando Nkonkobe Local Mngxekeza (Area Municipality: Water and 046 645 1220 / 043 P O Box 42, Durban Street,

Manager) Sanitation Department 701 2286 083 881 4727 [email protected] Fort Beaufort, 5720 P O Box 320, East London, Amathole District

Andiswa Noholoza 043 703 5828 [email protected] 5200 Municipality: Regional EHP - Water Quality P O Box 320, East London, Amanda Mbidlana 043 703 5829 5200 SAHRA CAPE TOWN (Archaeology, 111 Harrington Street, Cape Dr Mariagrazia Palaeontology & Town, 8000; PO Box 4637,

Galimberti Meteorite Unit) 021 462 4502 [email protected] Cape Town, 8000 SAHRA EASTERN 071 150 5014 CAPE Grahamstown / 079 078 P O Box 758. Grahamstown.

Mr Lungile Office 046 622 8310 4261 [email protected] 6140 Department of Dept of Education. Zone 6. Infrastructure and [email protected] Private Bag X0032. Bhisho.

Mr E. Fray Facilities Management 040 608 4246 [email protected] 5605 Department of Water Affairs Port Elizabeth Private Bag X6041 Department of Water Port Elizabeth

Mr Pieter Retief Affairs 041 586 4884 082 887 6293 [email protected] 6000

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Appendix F: Environmental Management Programme (EMPr)

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Appendix G: Other information:

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Appendix G-1: Heritage summary report

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Müller, L & Cultmatrix cc completed a heritage impact assessment in 2009 at the Healdtown school campus Fort Beaufort, Eastern Cape. The findings of their study, with particular reference to the proposed Location A and B for the sewage treatment package plant, are discussed below: -

The analysis and assessment of the cultural landscape has been commissioned as a first phase of the restoration and development of the Healdtown High School Campus. The analysis has as aim to provide both a comprehensive picture of its site and form part of the brief to those consultants that will ultimately be engaged to design specific interventions. The analysis is part of a larger team effort that will provide sufficient guidance to inform all future development, rehabilitation, restoration or alteration of buildings and services, hard and soft landscaping, services infrastructure, access, security and any other planning requirements. It will serve as essential background information for the Historic Schools Restoration Project (HSRP) and its advisors when formulating a detailed brief around each school’s specific requirements, and when assessing the impacts that any such proposed interventions may have upon the physical, environmental and heritage aspects of the school campus.

Numerous written sources provide a clear narrative of the history of Healdtown.

The mission was founded in 1853 by the Rev John Ayliff for the Mfengu (or Fingo) people. Ayliff established the mission on the site of the earlier station of the London Missionary Society, founded in 1844 by the Rev Henry Calderwood and named Birklands.

1856-7: The erection of the Industrial Institution building (for training of Blacksmiths, Carpenters, Wagon makers and Shoemakers and the first Pupil Teachers) supervised by Rev Ayliff - completed May 26 of 1857 with thousands present at the opening (76 boys then boarding) (Ayliff’s writings, in Jubilee 1906: 9) – Note: Due to withdrawal of Government support this facility was later closed (Hewson 1955 1955: 20).

1862: Opening of new Church

1867-80: In 1867 there is the proposal to use the existing Healdtown buildings for the training of teachers and clergy and establishment of the training institution. In 1880 there is the transfer of the Theological Class to Lesseyton –from 1880 Healdtown is solely an Educational Institution. (Hewson 1955: 20).

The Girls Boarding Department was started in 1896 when Govmnt grants were withdrawn from smaller establishments - girls from the Ayliff Institution for girls at Peddie were transferred to Healdtown (Hewson 1955: 29)

Numerous expansions and new buildings were erected until 1955 when the changes brought about by the Nationalist government influenced African Education and the Institution of Healdtown radically [Standard Encyclopædia of Southern Africa, states: “Under the Bantu Education Act of 1953 these schools were transferred to the State” i.e. under Bantu Education Minister Hendrik Verwoerd]

The description and analysis of the cultural landscape of Healdtown has been structured according to a number of zones comprising the entire site.

Location A is contained in Zone 7: Primary School. The Junior Primary school located just south of the Chapel (Zone 1) featured the Standard 4 to 6 classrooms. This building used of be termed the "Jubilee Buildings", but their former layout has been changed through years of additions. The smaller buildings to the south of the chapel, immediately adjacent to the kloof, housed Sub A to Standard 3 classrooms. 96

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A water reservoir is located between the buildings originally allocated for Sub A & B, and St 1 to 3. The dilapidated boys' toilets are located to the extreme south of this area, next to the kloof. the entire area used to be properly lawned and featured flowering plants in proper garden beds. There also used to be benches overlooking the kloof. The houses to the east were teachers and staff accommodation (Dr Gqubule 2009) but presently these structures remain uninhabited and the gardens surrounding them are overgrown. The remnants of the onceverdant gardens should be retained (palms, Phytolacca trees and other indigenous and exotic shrub species).

The development and management guidelines recommended for Zone 7 include:  Determine a suitable use for the remaining buildings within the zone and remove all weeds and noxious plants.  Develop suitable and sensitive landscape design around the area to enhance its significance.  Retain palm trees at the corner of the road.

Locations B is contained in an unnamed zone bordered by Zones 3, 4 and 6.

Zone 3 is comprised of the dining hall, “Batch” and practicing school. The dining hall signifies a significant space in terms of Healdtown's heritage and cultural landscape. The open area in front of the hall, together with the fountain, presented an important gathering place, but also the preferred position for taking school photographs. The area in front of the dining hall was always paved and it used to feature a fountain (fishpond). The building complex immediately to the west of the dining hall used to function as the residence for single teaching staff members and was called the "Batch" This entire area is presently in a very unkempt state and is contrary to its significance.

The development and management guidelines recommended for Zone 3 include:  Protect all exotic tree species to south and north of complex and develop replanting scheme in the event of death or decay.  The courtyard of the Batch should be properly maintained and a planting scheme sensitive to its context developed.  The original walkway, drainage channels and remnants of the original vegetable garden should be investigated and preserved where possible;  The paved area in front of the Dining Hall, together with the original fountain, should be restored and properly maintained;  The foundation stone should be uncovered and the landscape surrounding it should emphasize its prominence.  The Kei appel hedge and boundary fence should be maintained and protected.

Zone 4 contains the senior boys' dormitory and domestic science classrooms. One of the main elements with significance within this zone is the original telephone booth to the south of the post office, primarily due to its rare nature and link to Healdtown's history. Other elements include the quad within the boys' dormitory block with its angled stone terrace supporting the direction of the original pathway. The additional terraces in front of the domestic science block are also of value and should be retained and protected as far as possible, including remnants of the original tennis courts. The pepper tree (Schinus molle) planted along the avenue is noteworthy for its edge and spatial definition. As in all other zones, indigenous vegetation carries inherent value and should be retained and protected as far as possible.

The development and management guidelines recommended for Zone 4 include: 97

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 Remove building rubble and construct proper paths within the area to the south of the dormitory buildings;  The drainage channels, original lights and the pepper tree (Schinus molle) planted along it serves to spatially define this area and should be incorporated into future development plans.  Rehabilitate terrace walls;  Preserve the original telephone booth;

The girls’ hostel is located in Zone 6. The entire Girls' hostel complex is considered a highly significant element of the Healdtown campus. Not only does it represent a significant period in the school history, but its individual components and overall layout all contribute to a harmonious whole with definite aesthetic value. The present condition of the stream belies its former glory and significance in terms of Healdtown's history. The Tyatyora stream located in this zone played an important role in the establishment of the school.

The development and management guidelines recommended for Zone 6 include:  Extensive rehabilitation work is required to address the safety concerns regarding the exposed drainage pits and channels.  Develop the space between the main building and the secondary hostel buildings taking its legacy but spatial indicators (trees & terraces) into consideration.  Re-establish the spatial and visual connection between this section and the main hub of the school.  Address the erosion problem to the east of the complex.

As can be gleaned from the zones surrounding the unnamed zone where the alternative location (Location B) is situated, erosion and protection of the historically important exotic plants is of importance to the application at hand.

REFERENCES

Müller, L & Cultmatrix cc, 2009, Healdtown school campus Fort Beaufort, Eastern Cape: Heritage analysis and assessment of the cultural landscape (September 2009).