Eskom Gamma Kappa Powerline Corridor Project Town Planning Analysis Report February 2021 Town Planning Analysis Report

ESKOM GAMMA KAPPA POWERLINE CORRIDOR PROJECT TOWN PLANNING ANALYSIS REPORT FEBRUARY 2021 TOWN PLANNING ANALYSIS REPORT

in support of the Environmental Screening Process for the 2nd PROPOSED ESKOM GAMMA-KAPPA 765Kv POWERLINE

PREPARED BY:

Unit 10, 10 Plein Street, Durbanville, 7550 Tel: (021) 300 6384 Cell: 084 6034370

Contact Person: CANDICE MAASDORP Pr. Pln. (A1224/2002) Email: [email protected]

ON BEHALF OF: MDT Environmental (Pty) Ltd. 673 Glossoti Street, Garsfontein, Pretoria 0081, SOUTH AFRICA

FOR:

ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED

PROJECT REF: 3.019 FEBRUARY 2021

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

ESKOM proposes to construct the 2nd 765kv powerline, extending from Kappa (near Victoria West) to Gamma (close to Touws River), in the Karoo, as promulgated in GN R113 (dated 16 February 2018) relating to the Strategic Transmission Corridors.

Given the extent and complexity of this proposal, Eskom have now embarked on an environmental screening process to determine the alignment of the proposed transmission line. The aim of this screening process is to assess the three powerline corridor alternatives by evaluating their potential impact. This comparative assessment between the 3 alternatives will allow the professional team to recommend a preferred powerline corridor.

ESKOM have appointed NAKO ILISO for this project, who in turn, have appointed MDT Environmental (PTY) Ltd to lead a multi-disciplinary team of professionals to assess the three alternative corridors.

This report is in support of making a recommendation from a town planning perspective as to which powerline corridor is best suited for the proposed 765kv transmission line. The town planning recommendation for the preferred alignment was based on the potential impact that the proposed powerline corridors would have on the biophysical environment. Aspects such as biodiversity, heritage significance, servitudes, agri-tourism, hydrological, mining, infrastructural and more, were taken into consideration.

The research methodology applied was through the assessment of qualitative data which were obtained from various sources. These included the following:

▪ Latest, relevant Spatial Development Framework (SDF) Plans. ▪ GIS information as provided by one of the project team members (Lourens du Plessis of LOGIS). ▪ Additional GIS information obtained from other national departments such as the Department of Water Affairs and the Department of Agriculture (Capefarmmapper). The information obtained from the Department of Agriculture (Elsenburg) via the Capefarmmapper website was extremely helpful.

The study area, which lies in extent of 360km in length, was split into 8 different viewpoints. Each viewpoint was assessed in terms of the potential impact that the proposed powerline corridors affect the biophysical environment.

Based on the assessment of each corridor per viewpoint, as recommendation was made. The recommendation made is that powerline corridor 1, be implemented as it has the least impact on the biophysical environment; with the proviso, that certain minor deviations to the alignment be considered to avoid sites of environmental- (such as Steenbokkie Private Nature Reserve), historical/heritage significant (Merweville), and mineral resources (pceudocoal (sic) deposits in Laingsburg) be circumvented from the impact of the powerline corridor.

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CONTENTS

LIST OF FIGURES ...... 6 LIST OF IMAGES...... 7 LIST OF DIAGRAMS ...... 7 LIST OF ANNEXURES ...... 8 LIST OF ACRONYMS ...... 8 1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 9 1.1 BACKGROUND INFORMATION ...... 9 1.2 DEVELOPMENT AND PROJECT INTENT ...... 9 1.3 NATURE OF THE REPORT ...... 10 1.4. STUDY AREA ...... 10 1.5. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY ...... 12 2.0 GEOGRAPHICAL CONTEXT ...... 13 2.1. NATIONAL CONTEXT ...... 13 2.2 DISTRICT MUNICIPAL ...... 14 2.3. LOCAL MUNICIPAL ...... 15 3.0 POLICY FRAMEWORK ...... 16 3.1. POLICY HIERARCHY ...... 16 3.2. NATIONAL POLICY ...... 17 3.2.1. NATIONAL SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK PLAN (2019) ...... 17 3.3. PROVINCIAL POLICY ...... 18 3.3.1. WESTERN CAPE PROVINCIAL SDF (2014) ...... 18 3.3.2. NORTHERN CAPE PROVINCIAL SDF (2018) ...... 19 3.4. LOCAL DISTRICT LEVEL POLICY ...... 20 3.4.1. CAPE WINELANDS DISTRICT COUNCIL SDF (2019) ...... 20 3.4.2. NAMAKWA DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY SDF (2012)...... 22 3.4.3. CENTRAL KAROO DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY SDF (2020) ...... 24 3.4.4. PIXLEY KA SEME DISTRICT SDF (2018) ...... 26 3.5. LOCAL MUNICIPAL POLICY ...... 27 3.5.1. WITZENBERG SDF (2012) ...... 27 3.5.2. KAROO HOOGLAND SDF (2018) ...... 28 3.5.3. LAINGSBURG SDF (2017) ...... 30 3.5.4. BEAUFORT WEST SDF (2013) ...... 31 3.5.5. UBUNTU MUNICIPALITY SDF ...... 32 4. SITE CONTEXTUAL ANALYSIS ...... 33 4.1 REGIONAL CONTEXT ...... 33

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4.1.1. CORRIDOR PATHWAY ...... 33 4.1.2. AFFECTED FARMS ...... 33 4.1.3. OWNERSHIP ...... 33 4.1.4. CLIMATE ...... 33 4.1.5. ZONING ...... 33 4.1.6. LAND USE ...... 34 4.1.7. AGRICULTURAL ENTERPRISES ...... 34 4.1.8. AGRI-TOURISM ENTERPRISES ...... 34 4.2. VIEWPOINT GRID ...... 35 4.3 VIEWPOINT 1 ...... 36 4.4. VIEWPOINT 2 ...... 38 4.5 VIEWPOINT 3 ...... 40 4.6. VIEWPOINT 4 ...... 42 4.7 VIEWPOINT 5 ...... 44 4.8. VIEWPOINT 6 ...... 46 5.0 RECOMMENDATION ...... 53 5.1. SUMMARY OF CORRIDORS and their POTENTIAL IMPACT ...... 53 5.1.1. CORRIDOR 1 ...... 53 5.1.2. CORRIDOR 1a ...... 53 5.1.3. CORRIDOR 2 ...... 53 5.3. WAY FORWARD ...... 54 5.4. RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 55 6.0 REFERENCES ...... 56

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LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1: National Context

Figure 2: District Municipal Context

Figure 3: Local Municipal Context

Figure 4: Overall Viewpoints

Figure 5: Viewpoint 1

Figure 6: Viewpoint 2

Figure 7: Viewpoint 3

Figure 8: Viewpoint 4

Figure 9: Viewpoint 5

Figure 10: Viewpoint 6

Figure 11: Viewpoint 7

Figure 12: Viewpoint 8

Figure 13: Agri-Tourism Map

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LIST OF IMAGES

Image 1: Study Area

Image 2: National Spatial Development Framework (NSDF) (2019)

Image 3: Western Cape PSDF (2014)

Image 4: Northern Cape PSDF (2018)

Image 5: Cape Winelands District Municipality SDF (2019)

Image 6: Cape Winelands District Municipality SDF (2019)

Image 7: Cape Winelands District Municipality SDF (2019)

Image 8 Namakwa SDF (2012)

Image 9: Central Karoo District Municipality SDF (2020)

Image 10: Central Karoo District Municipality SDF (2020)

Image 11: Pixley Ka Seme District Municipality SDF (2013)

Image 12: Witzenberg Municipality SDF (2012)

Image 13: Karoo Hoogland SDF (2019)

Image 14: Hoogland SDF (2019)

Image 15: Karoo-Hoogland SDF (2019)

Image 16: Laingsburg Municipality SDF (2017)

Image 17: Beaufort West SDF (2013)

LIST OF DIAGRAMS

Diagram 1: Policy Hierarchy

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LIST OF ANNEXURES

Annexure 1: Ownership Information (Spreadsheet per corridor)

Annexure 2: Relevant Servitude SG information LIST OF ACRONYMS

CBA: Critical Biodiversity Area

DM District Municipality

EIA Environmental Impact Assessment

GIS Geographical Information System

IDP Integrated Development Plan

LM Local Municipality

LUM Land Use Management System

NEMA National Environmental Management Act (Act 107 of 1998)

PSDF Provincial Spatial Development Framework

SDF Spatial Development Framework

SG Surveyor-General

SPLUMA Spatial Planning Land Use Management Act (Act 16 of 2013)

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1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND INFORMATION

By virtue of a public tender process ESKOM has appointed NAKO ILISO (PTY) LTD, who have appointed MDT Environmental (Pty) Ltd to lead a multi-disciplinary team of professionals to undertake the environmental screening process for the proposed 2nd 765KV Gamma Kappa Power Line Project.

The 2nd 765KV Gamma-Kappa Power Line project essentially aims to expand on the existing Gamma substation (located near Victoria West in the Northern Cape), and the Kappa substation (near Touws River in the Western Cape).

This project falls within the promulgated Strategic Transmission Corridors as per the GN R113 (dated 16 February 2018).

Sustainable Planning Solutions has been appointed by MDT Environmental as the town planning consultancy to assist with the environmental screening process by undertaking a town planning assessment. This assessment includes a comparative analysis of the 2 proposed powerline corridors which will lead to the recommendation of a preferred corridor option, from a town planning perspective.

1.2 DEVELOPMENT AND PROJECT INTENT

The overall development intention is to identify a corridor within which Eskom can negotiate a servitude for the 2nd 765KV Powerline to be built.

There are 2 main powerline corridors proposed, corridors 1 and 2, which broadly spans from the Gamma substation to the Kappa station.

A 3rd corridor option (Corridor 1a) which predominantly coincides with the alignment of corridor 1 but offers an alternate route for a short section between Farm Spitze Kop 42 to the Kappa substation, in the Cape Winelands District.

A 4th option (corridor 1b) offers a route which essentially is a combination of Corridor 1a and corridor 1. The difference between 1a and 1b is the point of connection with corridor 1. For corridor 1b the connection is at Farm Rheebokke Fontein 209.

The intention of this specific phase of the project is for an assessment be undertaken to determine the potential impact of all three proposed alternative corridors after which a preferred corridor option will be recommended.

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1.3 NATURE OF THE REPORT

The nature of this report is twofold: 1. to complete an analysis of the three proposed powerlines by considering relevant spatial planning policy, basic property information (SG information) and GIS information for the respective area; and 2. making a recommendation for a preferred proposed powerline corridor based on the information analysed in point 1 (above).

1.4. STUDY AREA

The Study Area broadly covers approximately 380km of farmland located in the Karoo.

The proposed corridors span from the Cape Winelands Region across the Central Karoo Region to the Pixley Ka Seme Municipal Region in the Northern Cape Province. Refer to the image below.

The proposed corridors each maintain a width of approximately 4km, but vary in length, ranging from between 348km and 380km.

The alignment of the proposed corridors follows a north-east – south-westerly direction.

The study area affects 638 farms located across 2 provinces, 4 local district municipalities and 5 local municipalities.

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Image 1: Study Area

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1.5. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

To complete this specialist study, qualitative data was obtained to assist in the analysis and assessment of the powerline corridor options.

The qualitative data used included the following:

GIS information was used to create maps to illustrate relevant town planning-related information.

VARIABLES Not all Municipalities have SPLUMA-compliant SDFs in place. In this investigation it was found that Ubuntu Local Municipality does not have a SPLUMA-compliant SDF. As a contingency the SDF for the relevant district, i.e. Pixley Ka Seme District Municipality, that has an approved SDF, was consulted. Fortunately, this SDF provided sufficient information to draw some conclusions in respect of the proposed uses for the affected area in the Ubuntu Municipal Area.

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2.0 GEOGRAPHICAL CONTEXT

This section of the report demonstrates the national and municipal context (local and district level) of the three proposed powerline corridors.

Kindly refer to the Section: List of Figures at the end of this report for the detailed plans mentioned below and further in the report. 2.1. NATIONAL CONTEXT

The proposed powerline corridors affect two provinces, namely, The Western Cape and Northern Cape Provinces. As previously mentioned, The 2nd 765kV gamma-Kappa Power line is part of the “Cape Strengthening Phase 4 project” which extends from Zeus Substation (near Bethal in the Mpumalanga Province) to Sterrekus substation which is located near Melkbosstrand in the Western Cape Province.

Figure 1: National Context

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2.2 DISTRICT MUNICIPAL

The proposed powerline corridors affect 4 district municipalities, namely, Cape Winelands, Namakwa, Central Karoo and Pixley Ka Seme district municipalities.

The plan below illustrates a little more detail than the previous plan but most importantly highlights the key structuring elements affecting the study area such as Main Towns (Touws River, Laingsburg, Beaufort West, Victoria West), key mobility routes (N1, N12, N9, etc), perennial rivers (Leeu, Gamka, Sak, Vis etc), National Parks and the municipal boundaries.

Figure 2: District Municipal Context

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2.3. LOCAL MUNICIPAL

The proposed powerline corridors affect 5 local municipalities, namely: • Witzenberg Municipality • Karoo Hoogland Municipality • Laingsburg Municipality • Beaufort West Municipality and • Ubuntu Municipality

The plan below illustrates these municipalities by defining the boundaries more clearly than the previous plan.

Figure 3: Local Municipal Context

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3.0 POLICY FRAMEWORK

This section discusses the spatial planning policies relevant to the entire extent of the proposed powerline corridors.

The policies discussed below provide varying degrees of detail and information. For this reason, the policies have been grouped in terms of their relevance which are either National, Provincial, Local District- or Local Municipal level.

Further to this, it should be noted that each SDF constitutes of several different plans illustrating the spatial planning objectives and directives for the respective administrative area. In light hereof, only plans which illustrate a potential impact have been highlighted in the paragraphs below.

Kindly refer to the Policy Hierarchy below for an illustration of the spatial planning policies applicable to the proposed powerline corridors.

3.1. POLICY HIERARCHY

Diagram 1: Policy Hierarchy

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3.2. NATIONAL POLICY

3.2.1. NATIONAL SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK PLAN (2019)

Image 2 Source: National Spatial Development Framework (NSDF) Draft (2019)

NATIONAL SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK WHAT DO THE POLICY PROPOSALS MEAN FOR THE PROPOSED POWERLINE CORRIDORS?

POLICY STATEMENTS

• That Beaufort West is strategically located on key routes (N1, N12, R61, etc) and that this unique feature should be leveraged to the region’s advantage. • Accordingly, Beaufort West is identified as a Regional Development Anchor, which implies, amongst other things, that the town is important for the region and should act as a catalyst for regional-rural development. • The Policy reiterates the need to prioritise, strengthen and support towns such as Beaufort West: towns that are considered to be under stress but that are strategically located along the N1 route. • That the N1 national route remains to serve as a key National Road between different districts/regions/provinces. • The policy identifies the study area as part of the Arid-Agri Innovation Region which includes a vast portion of the country (western and central) and that are subject to future climate change trends.

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3.3. PROVINCIAL POLICY

3.3.1. WESTERN CAPE PROVINCIAL SDF (2014)

Image 3 Source: Western Cape PSDF (2014)

WESTERN CAPE PSDF (2014) WHAT DOES THE POLICY’S PROPOSALS MEAN FOR THE PROPOSED POWERLINE CORRIDORS?

POLICY STATEMENTS

• That there are several landscapes and scenic assets associated with this region that should be retained, such as the mountains and scenic routes. See encircled areas on image above. • The PSDF recommends that strategies for the protection and sustainable development be prioritized. • The tourism potential of these scenic features should be strengthened. • The Proposed powerline corridors should take cognisance of the location of these scenic routes (R353, R354 and R381) and the mountains.

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3.3.2. NORTHERN CAPE PROVINCIAL SDF (2018)

Image 4 Source: Northern Cape PSDF (2018)

NORTHERN CAPE PSDF WHAT DOES THE POLICY’S PROPOSALS MEAN FOR THE PROPOSED CORRIDORS?

POLICY STATEMENTS

• Infrastructure

That the proposed alignment of the Powerline corridors falls within an area designated for an Eskom Solar Power Corridor which forms part of the proposed Renewable Energy Development Zones (REDZs). See encircled area (label 1) on image above.

The proposed alignment of the powerline corridors also impacts the area designated for a wind energy plant and a solar energy plant. See encircled area (label 2) on image above.

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3.4. LOCAL DISTRICT LEVEL POLICY

3.4.1. CAPE WINELANDS DISTRICT COUNCIL SDF (2019)

Image 5 Source: Cape Winelands District Municipality SDF (2019)

Image 6 Image 7 Source: Cape Winelands District Municipality SDF (2019) Cape Winelands District Municipality SDF (2019)

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CAPE WINELANDS SDF WHAT DOES THE POLICY’S PROPOSALS MEAN FOR THE POWERLINE CORRIDORS?

POLICY STATEMENTS • BIOSPHERE RESERVE CATEGORIES

The alignment of the proposed powerline corridors affects farmland that is designated as either Buffer or Transition, as per the Biosphere Reserve Categories. These categories are defined in the table below:

BIOSPHERE DESCRIPTION POLICY REGIONS STATEMENTS CORE Core Areas are made up of wilderness areas, statutory protected areas, critical Pristine area where biodiversity areas (CBA), Ecological Support Areas (ESAs), rivers and ecological no intrusive corridors. Sections of the Core Area also form part of the extensive Cape Floral development is Regional Protected Areas World Heritage Site. allowed.

Buffer Areas are to be found next to Core Areas and are intended to reduce Protects the Core. BUFFER: the impact of human activities on Core Areas as well as link Core Areas by creating biodiversity corridors. They mostly consist of natural and near- natural land which is not formally conserved in accordance with the Protected Areas Act and could include private nature reserve and other conservation areas. TRANSITION . Sustainable Land use Areas identified through systematic biodiversity plans as areas not yet Practices are exhibiting high levels of biodiversity loss, but which should be protected and supported. restored in order to ensure biodiversity patterns and that ecological process targets can be met.

• OTHER POLICY STATEMENTS (properties affected the proposed corridors): ▪ That the affected area (encircled) is earmarked for the location of 3 new telecom masts (refer to image 6). ▪ That the proposed powerline corridor area affects a site subject to a wind farm application (refer to image 7).

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3.4.2. NAMAKWA DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY SDF (2012)

Image 8 Source: Namakwa SDF ()

NAMAKWA DISTRICT SDF WHAT DOES THE POLICY’S PROPOSALS MEAN FOR THE POWERLINE CORRIDORS?

POLICY STATEMENTS • SPATIAL PLANNING CATEGORIES

The alignment of the proposed powerline corridors affects farmland that is designated as either Buffer (B.b) or Agricultural Areas (C.a). These categories are defined in the table below:

SPC DESCRIPTION POLICY STATEMENTS Buffer (B.b) (i)Ecological corridors including river corridors and Should serve as an interface between wetlands intensive agriculture and urban development areas but in some instances these land-use categories may directly abut Core areas. A minimum 32m setback zone is required from the banks of all river and water bodies unless otherwise delineated by hydraulic engineers (flood lines) and or ecological set back lines (fresh water ecologists) or the 1:50 year floodline.

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Agricultural Extensive Agricultural /grazing Large areas of vegetation do not comprise Areas (C.a) CBAs but their responsible grazing management in terms of improving their biodiversity can create a double benefit in improving stock carrying. These areas can also be used for game farming, tourism and hunting. These areas comprise 60% of the district.

• OTHER POLICY STATEMENTS (properties affected by the proposed corridors): Prime area for wind energy projects.

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3.4.3. CENTRAL KAROO DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY SDF (2020)

Image 9 Source: Central Karoo District Municipality SDF (2020)

Image 10 Source: Central Karoo District Municipality SDF (2020)

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CENTRAL KAROO SDF WHAT DOES THE POLICY’S PROPOSALS MEAN FOR THE PROPOSED POWERLINE PROJECT?

POLICY STATEMENTS

• SPATIAL PLANNING CATEGORIES (SPCs): The pathway for the two proposed powerline corridors affects farmland that is designated as one of the following: 1. Core 2. Core 2, 3. Buffer 1 and 2.

SPC DESCRIPTION POLICY STATEMENTS Core 1 Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBAs) and Protected No-Go area for development. Areas: habitats NO further loss of natural habitat and degraded areas should be rehabilitated.

Core 2 Consists of 2 areas, namely, Critical Biodiversity Area These areas should be maintained in a 2 (degraded) and Ecological Support Area 1. natural or near-natural state with no These areas are in a degraded or secondary condition further loss of natural habitat. that are required to meet biodiversity targets, for species, eco-systems, or ecological process and infrastructure.

Buffer 1 These areas may be degraded but still play an These areas should be restored and/or and 2 important role in supporting the functioning of Core managed to minimize impact on ecological areas (either protected areas or CBAs), and are infrastructure functioning: especially soil essential for delivering eco-system services. and water-related services.

• OTHER POLICY STATEMENTS (properties affected the proposed corridors): 1. Merweville – a historical settlement that should be revitalised (refer to image 9). 2. An existing set of Eskom major High voltage powerlines overlap the proposed corridors (refer to image 10)

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3.4.4. PIXLEY KA SEME DISTRICT SDF (2018)

Image 11 Source: Pixley Ka Seme District Municipality SDF (2013)

PIXLEY KA SEME DISTRICT SDF WHAT DOES THE POLICY’S PROPOSALS MEAN FOR THE PROPOSED POWERLINE CORRIDORS?

POLICY STATEMENTS

• The proposed corridor area (encircled) is not subject to any specific future planning proposal mentioned in the policy. • Most notably though is the designation of the N1 national route as a Development Corridor. This implies that the N1 route, an existing major movement corridor, should be enhanced through the placement of economic activities along this route. This will bring much-needed economic value and investment to the region.

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3.5. LOCAL MUNICIPAL POLICY

The spatial proposals contained in the SDFs of the 5 relevant local municipalities are discussed below:

3.5.1. WITZENBERG SDF (2012)

Image 12 Source: Witzenberg Municipality SDF (2012)

WITZENBERG MUNICIPALITY SDF WHAT DO THE POLICY PROPOSALS IMPLY FOR THE PROPOSED POWERLINE CORRIDORS?

POLICY STATEMENTS

• SPATIAL PLANNING CATEGORIES The proposed powerline corridors affect farmland that have been designated as one of the following: 1. A.b - Critical Biodiversity Area 2. B.a – Ecological support Area 3. D.a – Extensive Agriculture

SPC DESCRIPTION POLICY STATEMENTS Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBAs) The highest statutory protection must be Core 1 Areas identified through systematic biodiversity plans as afforded to SPC A areas. Category irreplaceable in terms of meeting representation and/or Only non-consumptive activities are permitted, pattern targets. These areas are known to support high for example, passive outdoor recreation and A.b biodiversity or recognised as being important for more than tourism, traditional ceremonies (eg. Grave one taxonomic group (eg. Plants and birds). sites), research and environmental education. Core 2 Ecological Support Areas (ESAs) Same as above. Category Areas identified through systematic biodiversity plans as B.a areas not yet exhibiting high levels of biodiversity loss, but which should be protected and restored in order to ensure

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biodiversity patterns and that ecological process targets can be met. Buffer 2 Extensive Agriculture SPC D.a designation does not take away any of Category Agricultural areas covered with natural vegetation, used for the landowner’s rights, nor does it grant any D.a extensive agricultural enterprises eg. Indigenous plant rights. It merely indicates that the particular harvesting, extensive stockfarming, game-farming, eco- tract of land is of important to biodiversity tourism (i.e. areas zoned agricultural). conservation. Only activities that have an acceptable ecological footprinted are permitted in SPC C and D.

3.5.2. KAROO HOOGLAND SDF (2018)

Image 13 Source: Karoo Hoogland SDF (2019)

Image 14 Source: Karoo Hoogland SDF (2019)

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Image 15 Source: Karoo-Hoogland SDF (2019)

KAROO HOOGLAND SDF WHAT DO THE POLICY PROPOSALS IMPLY FOR PROPOSED POWERLINE CORRIDORS?

POLICY STATEMENTS

• SPATIAL PLANNING CATEGORIES The area affected by the 3 proposed powerline corridors is designated as: 1. Critical Biodiversity Area (CBA) 1 2. Critical Biodiversity Area (CBA) 2, 3. Ecological Support Areas (ESA).

Policy statement: CBAs, ESAs, Protected Areas and watercourses: maintain the integrity of and enhance the continuity of formally Protected Areas, Critical Biodiversity Areas, wetlands, rivers, aquatic Critical Biodiversity Areas and Ecological Support Areas.

• OTHER POLICY STATEMENTS (properties affected by the proposed corridors): 1. The proposed strengthening of connectivity to the south, via the R354. 2. Proposed powerline corridors fall within the area designated for the Cellphone tower buffer. 3. The Renewable Energy Development Zone (REDZ), which constitutes: • Eskom Solar Corridors, • areas for solar energy opportunities, and, • wind energy generation.

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3.5.3. LAINGSBURG SDF (2017)

Image 16 Source: Laingsburg Municipality SDF (2017)

LAINGSBURG SDF WHAT DO THE POLICY PROPOSALS IMPLY FOR THE PROPOSED POWERLINE CORRIDORS?

POLICY STATEMENTS

• SPATIAL PLANNING CATEGORIES The proposed powerline corridors affect farmland that have been designated as one of the following:

SPC DESCRIPTION POLICY STATEMENTS Core Areas Formally protected conservation areas Primarily “no-go’ areas for urban development; • Core 1: Anysberg, Klein Swartberg and Conservation management activities including alien Gamkaspoort Nature Reserves; clearning, research and environmental education (EE). • Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBAs) including “non-consumptive low impact eco-tourism including visitor Karookop, Komberg and unprotected overnight accommodation portions of Klein Swartberg; and Harvesting of natural resources subject to EMP. • Major dams, rivers and tributary corridors. If buildings cannot be located in adjacent buffer areas they should in existing disturbed areas and “touch the earth lightly” principles and off-grid technologies used. No ploughing or urban development within river eco- corridors. Buffer • All Land outside of Core, intensive Game and Stock farming according veld management and agriculture and urban development SPC’s. rotational grazing principles that improve bio-diversity. • Includes Extensive Agriculture on commonages.

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Following development options to be confined to existing disturbed areas and farm homestead precincts. Intensive Irrigation farming along rivers and dry land All existing and potential land suitable for intensive Agriculture crop and pasture farming. agriculture shall be protected from conversion to other uses including conservation.

• OTHER POLICY STATEMENTS (properties affected by the proposed corridors): 1. The two proposed corridors fall within the area where a few applications for uranium mining have been approved or are in process. 2. The pathway for both main corridors fall within the area where high levels of Pceudocoal (sic) deposits have been found (north-eastern corner) of the Laingsburg municipal area.

3.5.4. BEAUFORT WEST SDF (2013)

Image 17 Source: Beaufort West SDF (2013)

BEAUFORT WEST SDF WHAT DO THE POLICY PROPOSALS IMPLY FOR THE PROPOSED POWERLINE CORRIDORS?

POLICY STATEMENTS

• BIO-REGIONS Both corridors (1 and 2) fall (predominantly) within the Nuweveld Highlands Bio-region. Prominent features and/or activities of this bio-region include stockfarming. • SPATIAL PLANNING CATEGORIES The proposed powerline corridors affect farmland that have been designated as one of the following.

SPC DESCRIPTION POLICY STATEMENTS Core 1a Formally protected conservation areas Land should continue to enjoy the highest levels of protection.

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Municipality should engage with the conservation authorities to ensure that economic growth and employment opportunities from these areas are maximized. Core 1b Critically Biodiversity Areas Conservation of endangered vegetation areas shall be (CBAs)/outside of formally protected encouraged through the promotion of conservancies and conservation areas stewardship projects with limited eco-tourism development rights and/or donations to formal conservation agencies. Core 2 River corridors and wetlands (Ecological River corridors and wetlands including ephemeral pans must support areas) be protected from urban, agricultural and mining activities to a distance of at least 32 metres from their banks unless closer setback lines have been determined by a professional. Buffer Extensive agriculture/ grazing Rotational grazing and other veld management best practices shall be promoted livestock grazing so as to improve biodiversity and stocking rates. Intensive Irrigation and dry land crop and pasture All existing and potential land suitable for intensive Agriculture farming agriculture shall be protected from conversion to other uses including conservation.

Core 1a – include the following: Karoo National Park, Steenbokkie Private Game Reserve, and Henry Kruger Private Nature Reserve. Corridor 2 Falls within The Central Karoo National Park. Corridor 1 cuts through the Steenbokkie Private Nature Reserve. • OTHER POLICY STATEMENTS 1. ENERGY Potential open cast uranium open cast mine, except in the Karoo National Park Reserve. Fairly good location for renewable energy opportunities such as solar and wind. 2. LANDSCAPE AND SCENIC ASSETS The Steep Mountain ranges which is integral to this region’s identity creates the impressive backdrop for the municipality and should be protected. The following Scenic gravel routes are affected by the proposed Corridor 2: • Beaufort West to Loxton route (R381) • Merweville to Beaufort West route (unknown route) • Fraserburg to Leeu-Gamka route (R353)

3.5.5. UBUNTU MUNICIPALITY SDF

The Ubuntu Local Municipality lies in the Northern Cape Province and is one of the local municipalities that form part of the Pixley Ka Seme District Municipality.

Since the two powerline corridors merge a few kilometers south of the Ubuntu - Beaufort West municipal border, only one corridor, namely corridor 1, is affected by the spatial planning policies of this municipality.

Research and consultation with officials of this municipality confirmed that (at the time of this report) the Ubuntu Local Municipality does not have a SPLUMA- compliant Spatial Development Framework (SDF) Plan. An assessment of corridor 1 is therefore not possible.

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4. SITE CONTEXTUAL ANALYSIS

4.1 REGIONAL CONTEXT

4.1.1. CORRIDOR PATHWAY

The 3 proposed Corridors follow a pathway that is closely located to the mountain range, particularly corridor 2.

All three corridors are located north of the N1 (from the Cape Town side) and attempt to run parallel to the N1 national route until Beaufort West where the two main corridors converge and then split shortly thereafter again.

From Beaufort West towards the Ubuntu municipal boundary, the two corridors split and run on either side of the N1 national route until they converge (once again) at the N1- N12 intersection. At this point, corridor 2 ends whilst Corridor 1 continues to its destination which ends in the vicinity of the Skietkuil holiday farm. 4.1.2. AFFECTED FARMS

The 3 proposed powerline corridors affect 638 farms in total. However, 556 farms are directly impacted by the proposed alignment of the three corridors.

There are certain farms that are affected more than others. In this section of the report, where more than 50% of a farm’s extent is affected by the proposed alignment of the three corridors, it is raised as an impact and concern. 4.1.3. OWNERSHIP

Apart from the Nature Reserves and Parks which is owned by the government of South Africa (RSA), ownership of most of the farms vest with private entities (Trusts, companies, etc). Roads and infrastructure are owned by the local municipality, SANRAL or TRANSNET.

The ownership of each affected farm portion has been confirmed in the Deeds Office. A spreadsheet containing a list of all the farm portions affected, per corridor, is attached as Annexure 1. 4.1.4. CLIMATE1

The climate for the study area is classified in terms of the Koppen-Geiger Climate Zones (1980-2016) as BWK, and described as “Arid, Desert Cold”. 4.1.5. ZONING

Apart from Merweville and Beaufort West, the proposed corridors affect land that is chiefly outside of the urban edge of any towns, therefore, farmland or protected areas such as nature reserves.

1 Source: Capefarmmapper https://gis.elsenburg.com/apps/cfm/ Project 3.019_Eskom Gamma Kappa Town Planning Assessment Report_February 2021 Page | 33

Farms are mainly zoned as Agriculture I, II or III, depending on the primary use.

Protected Areas are either zoned as Open Space III or IV, depending on the status of the nature reserves. These could either be public-owned entities such as the Karoo Nature Park that are proclaimed nature reserves, or, private nature reserves such as the Steenbokkie Primary Nature Reserve. 4.1.6. LAND USE

The key land use activities on affected farms including farming/agricultural enterprises such livestock and game farming. There are a limited number of farms that have agri- tourism enterprises but these are mentioned further below.

Properties belonging to the SA Government and parastatals are either proclaimed nature reserves/parks or infrastructure such as roads.

4.1.7. AGRICULTURAL ENTERPRISES2

According to Capefarmmapper key agricultural enterprises for the study area includes the farming of livestock and game. 4.1.8. AGRI-TOURISM ENTERPRISES3

The proposed powerline corridors affect several agri-tourism enterprises in the region. Refer to Figure 13 for an illustration of the agri-tourism enterprises located closely to the proposed alignment of the powerline corridors.

Agri-tourism enterprises include the following activities: • 4x4 • Accommodation • Birding • Camping • conference & function venues • ecotourism • farm market • farm stall • Fishing • Hiking • horse-riding • mountain biking/ quad biking • olive/wine cellar/ Breweries/wine tours • ostrich farms • picnics • restaurant

2 Source: Capefarmmapper https://gis.elsenburg.com/apps/cfm/ 3 Source: Capefarmmapper https://gis.elsenburg.com/apps/cfm/ Project 3.019_Eskom Gamma Kappa Town Planning Assessment Report_February 2021 Page | 34

4.2. VIEWPOINT GRID

The extent of the powerline corridors is vast. to view all relevant detail on a single plan is a challenge especially if the detail needs to be discussed and reflected in a report. For this reason, the powerline corridors have been divided into 8 Viewpoints (as labelled) which, collectively, are illustrated in a Viewpoint Grid. Refer to the plan below for an illustration of this Viewpoint Grid/ overall plan indicating the 8 Viewpoint sections.

Figure 4: Overall Viewpoint Map

Each of these viewpoint maps look at a specific section of these powerline corridors critically to understand the full extent of each corridor’s impact. Each of these Viewpoint maps reflect relevant information as obtained from the various sources previously mentioned.

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4.3 VIEWPOINT 1

Please refer to the map for Viewpoint 1. Refer to the end of the report for a better quality of this map.

Figure 5: Viewpoint 1

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VIEWPOINT MAP 1 CORRIDOR 1 and 1b CORRIDOR 1a CORRIDOR 2 and 1b Length of Corridor 76.8km 80km 79.8km Number of Farms affected 30 31 35

GEOGRAPHICAL CONTEXT Provinces Western Cape and Northern Cape Provinces District Municipalities affected Cape Winelands -, Namakwa and Central Karoo DMs Local Municipalities affected Witzenberg-, Laingsburg and Karoo-Hoogland LMs Closest major Town Touws River (not visible on plan due to scale) Closest major Route R354 (north-south link road between the Karoo Hoogland and Laingsburg Municipalities) – runs through the proposed corridors.

BIOPHYSICAL CONTEXT Rivers (perennial) none Presence of Other Bulk none Infrastructure

AGRI-TOURISM FEATURES (Source: Cape Farm Mapper) National Game Parks/Reserves The proposed corridors lay in close proximity (east of) the Inverdoorn Private Nature Reserve. However, there is no direct impact on this Nature Reserve. Accommodation and eco- Gatsrivier Holiday Farm [Farm Gats River RE/156] tourism sites

SUMMARY OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS IDENTIFIED Policy Impact • Telecommunications The construction of 3 telecom masts are proposed for this area (refer to policy framework). • R354: The Karoo Hoogland SDF earmarks the R354 as an important, north-south connecting mobility route, which connects the two provinces and municipalities. This route is earmarked for improvement. The details of this proposal are not clear in the SDF.

• Spatial Planning Categories (Refer to Policy Framework section 3 of this report for an illustration and explanation of the information below): The Cape Winelands Policy earmarks the affected area as Transition and Buffer zone (as per Biosphere regions) The Witzenberg SDF earmark the affected area as CBA and ESA, Extensive agriculture. The Laingsburg SDF earmarks the affected area as Core 2 and Buffer 1. The Karoo-Hoogland SDF earmarks the affected area as ESA, CBA1 and CBA2

Biophysical Impact • Farms Corridors 1, 1a and 2 Wetlands are affected by these corridors (refer to plan) Approximately 9 farms are subject to a potential coverage of 60%+ by the proposed powerline corridors Corridor 2: The Gatsrivier holiday farm is affected by the proposed powerline corridor.

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4.4. VIEWPOINT 2

Please refer to the map for Viewpoint 2. Refer to the end of the report for a better quality of this map.

Figure 6: Viewpoint Map 2

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VIEWPOINT MAP 2 CORRIDOR 1 and CORRIDOR 1a CORRIDOR 2 1b Length of Corridor 91km 14.7km 88.1km Number of Farms affected 35 9 38

GEOGRAPHICAL CONTEXT Provinces Northern Cape and Western Cape Provinces District Municipalities affected Namakwa and Central Karoo DMs Local Municipalities affected Laingsburg, Beaufort West and Karoo Hoogland LMs Closest major Town(s) Laingsburg (south of designated corridor area) and Merweville (east) Closest major Route R354 (north-south link) and the N1 (south of Corridors)

BIOPHYSICAL CONTEXT Rivers (perennial) none Presence of Other Bulk Refer to Annexure 2 Infrastructure • Electric Power Transmission Servitude: 6824/1995001 which runs parallel with the R353. Mining/Geology High Pceudocoal mineral deposits are found.

AGRI-TOURISM FEATURES (Source: Cape Farm Mapper) National Game Parks/Reserves None in the immediate vicinity or pathway of the corridors Accommodation Kareedoringkraal [Farm Spitze Kop, 2/42] Nova Vita Holiday Farm [Farm Rheebokkenfontein, 1/4] Gemsbokfontein 4x4 Route [Farm Taayboschkraal, 4/12]

SUMMARY OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS IDENTIFIED Policy Impact • Mining The pathway of the two proposed Powerline corridors (1 and 2) fall in an area subject to high Pceudocoal mineral deposits. Merweville is identified as a historical settlement.

• Spatial Planning Categories (Refer to Policy Framework section 3 of this report for an illustration and explanation of the information below): The Central Karoo DM SDF earmarks the affected area as Core 1, Buffer 1 and Buffer 2. The Laingsburg SDF earmarks the affected area as Core 2. The Beaufort West SDF Core 1b. The Karoo-Hoogland SDF earmarks the affected area as CBA2. Biophysical Impact • Farms Approximately 13 farms are subject to a potential coverage of 60%+ by the proposed powerline corridors.

• Infrastructure See above.

• Agri-tourism Corridors 1 and 1a affect the Kareedoringkraal Facility. Corridor 2 affects the 3 Agri-tourism facilities (Kareedoringkraal, Nova Vita Holiday Farm and the Gemsbokfontein 4x4 route).

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4.5 VIEWPOINT 3

Please refer to the map for Viewpoint 3. Refer to the end of the report for a better quality of this map.

Figure 7: Viewpoint Map 3

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VIEWPOINT MAP 3 CORRIDOR 1 and 1b CORRIDOR 2 Length of Corridor 24.5km 8km Number of Farms affected 10 3

GEOGRAPHICAL CONTEXT Provinces Western Cape Provinces District Municipalities affected Central Karoo DM Local Municipalities affected Beaufort West LM Closest major Town(s) Leeu-Gamka (south) and Merweville (west) Closest major Route N1 (south of the corridors), R353 cuts midway through this study area

BIOPHYSICAL CONTEXT Rivers (perennial) Leeu, Klip and Gamka Rivers lay south-east of the proposed corridors. Mining/Geology No information available. Presence of Other Bulk Apart from the existing Powerline - No other information is available. Infrastructure

AGRI-TOURISM FEATURES (Source: Cape Farm Mapper) National Game Parks/Reserves Henry Kruger Private Nature Reserve is located south-east of the corridors. The positions of the corridors do not impact the nature reserve directly. Accommodation none

SUMMARY OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS IDENTIFIED Policy Impact

Biophysical Impact • Farms Approximately 6 farms are subject to a potential coverage of 60%+ by the proposed powerline corridor.

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4.6. VIEWPOINT 4

Please refer to the map for Viewpoint 4. Refer to the end of the report for a better quality of this map.

Figure 8: Viewpoint Map 4

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VIEWPOINT MAP 4 CORRIDOR 1 and 1b CORRIDOR 2 Length of Corridor 0km 6.5km Number of Farms affected 0 2

GEOGRAPHICAL CONTEXT Provinces Western Cape Province District Municipalities affected Central Karoo DM Local Municipalities affected Beaufort West LM Closest major Town(s) Beaufort West Closest major Route N1 (south of Corridor)

BIOPHYSICAL CONTEXT Rivers (perennial) None Presence of Other Bulk Apart from the existing Powerline - No other has been identified. Infrastructure

AGRI-TOURISM FEATURES (Source: Cape Farm Mapper) National Game Parks/Reserves None present Accommodation None present

SUMMARY OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS IDENTIFIED Policy Impact

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4.7 VIEWPOINT 5

Please refer to the map for Viewpoint 5. Refer to the end of the report for a better quality of this map Refer to Viewpoint Map 5.

Figure 9: Viewpoint Map 5

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VIEWPOINT MAP 5 CORRIDOR 1 and 1b CORRIDOR 2 Length of Corridor (as per map) 73.1km 89km Number of Farms affected 22 37

BIOPHYSICAL CONTEXT Rivers (perennial) The Leeu River follow a north-south alignment through the proposed corridors. The Gamka River lies south of the two proposed corridors. Presence of Other Bulk Refer to Annexure 2. Infrastructure The existing electrical powerline servitude.

AGRI-TOURISM FEATURES (Source: Cape Farm Mapper ) National Game Parks/Reserves The Karoo National Park is affected by the alignment of corridor 2. Accommodation/camping/eco- • Karoo National Park [Farm 184-Re] tourism sites • Teri-Lemveli Lodge (Conference & • Function venue, mountain biking, Hiking, Restaurant, etc) [located on Farm 433/2]

SUMMARY OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS IDENTIFIED Policy Impact • Scenic Gravel Roads R356 – a north-south scenic route that connects Leeu-Gamka to Fraserburg in the Northern Cape Province. R381 – a north-south scenic route that connects Beaufort West to Loxton in the Northern Cape Province. • Protected Conservation Area The Karoo National Park is affected by Corridor 2 (only). • Mining The pathway of the two proposed Powerline corridors (1 and 2) fall in an area designated as the Shale gas Exploration Exclusion zone.

• Spatial Planning Categories (Refer to Policy Framework section 3 of this report for an illustration and explanation of the information below): The Central Karoo DM SDF earmarks the affected area as Core 1, Buffer 1 and 2. The Beaufort West SDF Core 1a, Core 1b, Core 2 and Buffer. Biophysical Impact • Farms Approximately 6 farms are subject to a potential coverage of 60%+ by the proposed powerline corridor 2. Approximately 4 farms are subject to a potential coverage of 60% by the proposed corridor 1.

• Infrastructure See above. • Agri-tourism Corridor 1 affects the Teri-Lemveli Lodge. Corridor 2 affects the Karoo National Park.

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4.8. VIEWPOINT 6

Please refer to the map for Viewpoint 6. Refer to the end of the report for a better quality of this map.

Figure 10: Viewpoint Map 6

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VIEWPOINT MAP 6 CORRIDOR 1 and 1b CORRIDOR 2 Length of Corridor (as per map) 82km 69km Number of Farms affected 80 44

GEOGRAPHICAL CONTEXT Provinces Western Cape and Northern Cape Provinces District Municipalities affected Central Karoo DC and Pixley Ka Seme DMs Local Municipalities affected Beaufort West and Ubuntu LMs Closest major Town(s) Beaufort West Closest major Route(s) N1, N12, R61 and R381

BIOPHYSICAL CONTEXT Rivers (perennial) The Gamka River follows a north-south alignment and cuts the proposed corridors on the western side of this Viewpoint Map. Presence of Other Bulk Infrastructure Annexure 2 “Gebiedsserwituut”: 6599/81 bulk water main servitude: 5530/2000 Electric Servitude: 6441/1951001 Area Servitude: 399/1987002 Electric Servitude: 6516/1987001 Electric Servitude: 6714/1986001 Rural Servitude: 4314/1986001 Electric Servitude: 5464/1989001

AGRI-TOURISM FEATURES (Source: Cape Farm Mapper) National Game Parks/Reserves • The Karoo National Park is affected by the alignment of corridor 2. • Steenbokkie Private Nature Reserve is affected by the alignment of corridor 1. Accommodation/camping/eco-tourism 1. Steenbokkie Private Nature Reserve [Farm Gansfontein enterprises Annexe no 2/162], 2. Lemoenfontein Game Lodge [Farm Lemoenfontein 1/158] 3. Karoo Gateway Guesthouse and Airport [Farm Kuils Port 11/161] 4. The Vale Karoo Farm [farm Waai Kraal, RE/4/120] 5. Badshoek Game Lodge [Farm Re 408] 6. Thornhill Game Lodge [Farm No 67] 7. The Shed Farm and Lucern Lodge [Rhenosterkop RE/2/15]

SUMMARY OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS IDENTIFIED Policy Impact • Rail A section of the existing rail-route from Cape Town to Gauteng is evident on the SDF plan. • Mining The pathway of the two proposed Powerline corridors (1 and 2) fall in an area designated as the Shale gas Exploration Exclusion zone.

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• Conservation Area The Kromrivier Conservancy Area is affected by the alignment of corridor 2 (only).

• Spatial Planning Categories (Refer to Policy Framework section 3 of this report for an illustration and explanation of the information below): The Central Karoo DM SDF earmarks the affected area as Core 1 and Core 2. The Pixley Ka Seme DM SDF (no SPC’s are indicated in this SDF) The Beaufort West SDF – Core 1b, Core 2 and buffer. Biophysical Impact • Farms Corridor 1: Approximately 14 farms are subject to a potential coverage of 50%+. Corridor 2: Approximately 19 farms are subject to a potential coverage of 50%+.

• Infrastructure See above.

• Agri-tourism Corridor 1: Steenbokkie Private Nature Reserve [Farm Gansfontein Annexe 2/162] The Shed Farm and Lucern Lodge [Rhenosterkop RE/2/15]

Corridor 2: The Lemoenfontein Game Lodge [ Farm Lemoen Fontein 1/158] Thornhill game Lodge [Farm nr 67] The Vale Karoo Farm [ Farm Waai Kraal RE/4/120] Karoo Gateway Guest House and Airport, Badshoek Game Lodge [Farm RE/408] The Shed Farm and Lucern Lodge [Rhenosterkop RE/2/15]

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4.9 VIEWPOINT 7

Please refer to the map for Viewpoint 7. Refer to the end of the report for a better quality of this map.

Figure 11: Viewpoint Map 11

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VIEWPOINT MAP 7 CORRIDOR 1 and 1b CORRIDOR 2 Length of Corridor (as per map) 37.6km 21.8km Number of Farms affected 13 15

GEOGRAPHICAL CONTEXT Provinces Northern Cape and Western Cape Provinces District Municipalities affected Pixley Ka Seme DM Central Karoo DM Local Municipalities affected Beaufort West LM Ubuntu LM Closest major Town(s) Beaufort West, Murraysburg and Victoria West Closest major Route(s) N1, N12 and R63

BIOPHYSICAL CONTEXT Rivers (perennial) none Presence of Other Bulk Infrastructure Annexure 2 • Electrical Servitude ID 5464/1987001 • Right of Way Servitude on Farm Taayboschfontein 15/2, ID 6829/1979001 • Right of Way Servitude on Farm Mordant Klaassenskraal Re/11/14

AGRI- and ECO-TOURISM FEATURES (Source: Cape Farm Mapper) National Game Parks/Reserves None Accommodation/camping/eco-tourism • Elandsrus Country Lodge [ Farm Waayfontein Re 3/65] sites (rental) • The Gamamadi Guest Farm [Farm Taayboschfontein Re-15] • Skietkuil Holiday Farm [Farm Schiekuil Re-3] • Karoo Guest House [Farm Wolve Kraal 176-Re] • Joalani Guest Farm [Farm Mordant Klaassenskraal RE/11/14]

SUMMARY OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS IDENTIFIED Policy Impact

• Spatial Planning Categories (Refer to Policy Framework section 3 of this report for an illustration and explanation of the information below): The Central Karoo DM SDF earmarks the affected area as Buffer 1 and 2. The Beaufort West SDF – Core 1b, Core2 and Buffer. Biophysical Impact • Farms Corridor 1: Approximately 5 farms are subject to a potential coverage of 50% by the proposed powerline corridor. Corridor 2: about 4 farms are subject to a potential coverage of 50%+ by the proposed powerline corridor. • Infrastructure See above. • Agri-tourism

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Corridors 1 and 2 affect the establishments Elandsrus, Gamamadi mentioned above. Corridor 1 affects the remaining 3 establishments because corridors 1 and 2 merge and continues as a single pathway, further north-east.

4.10 VIEWPOINT 8

Please refer to the map for Viewpoint 2. Refer to the end of the report for a better quality of this map.

Figure 12: Viewpoint 8

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VIEWPOINT MAP 8 CORRIDOR 1 CORRIDOR 2 Length of Corridor (as per map) 0km 0km Number of Farms affected 5 -

GEOGRAPHICAL CONTEXT Provinces Western Cape Province District Municipalities affected Pixley Ka Seme DM Central Karoo DM Local Municipalities affected Beaufort West LM Ubuntu LM Closest major Town(s) Richmond Closest major Route N1

BIOPHYSICAL CONTEXT Presence of Other Bulk Annexure 2 Infrastructure • The existing ESKOM transmission Powerline (green) • Rural Servitude: SG ID 3477/1979001 found on farm Farm Schiekuil Re/3

AGRI-TOURISM FEATURES (Source: Cape Farm Mapper) National Game Parks/Reserves None Accommodation/camping/eco- Skietkuil Holiday Farm [Farm Schiekuil Re-3] tourism sites (rental)

SUMMARY OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS IDENTIFIED POLICY STATEMENTS

Biophysical Impact • Farms Approximately 2 farms are subject to a potential coverage of 50%+ by the proposed powerline corridors.

• Infrastructure See above.

• Agri-tourism Corridor 1 affects the Skietkuil Holiday farm located on Farm Schiekuil Re-3.

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5.0 RECOMMENDATION

5.1. SUMMARY OF CORRIDORS and their POTENTIAL IMPACT 5.1.1. CORRIDOR 1

1 Length 378,37km 2 Total number of farms affected 272 farms [Western Cape– 251] [Northern Cape - 21] 3 Protected areas affected (proclaimed None nature reserves) 4 Private nature reserves 1 – Steenbokkie Private Nature Reserve 5 Agri-tourism enterprises affected 10 6 Historical Settlements affected Merweville 5.1.2. CORRIDOR 1a

1 Length 96,42km 2 Total number of farms affected 52 farms [Western Cape – 41] [Northern Cape – 11] 3 Protected areas affected (proclaimed None nature reserves) 4 Private nature reserves none 5 Agri-tourism enterprises affected 1 6 Historical Settlements 0

5.1.3. CORRIDOR 1b

1 Length 382,62km 2 Total number of farms affected 281 farms [Western Cape – 279] [Northern Cape – 2] 3 Protected areas affected (proclaimed None nature reserves) 4 Private nature reserves 1 – Steenbokkie Private Nature Reserve 5 Agri-tourism enterprises affected 10 6 Historical Settlements Merweville 5.1.3. CORRIDOR 2

1 Length 378,37km 2 Total number of farms affected 232 [Western Cape – 198] [Northern Cape – 34] 3 Protected areas affected (proclaimed nature 1 -Karoo Nature Park reserves) 4 Private nature reserves None

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5 Agri-tourism enterprises affected 16 6 Historical Settlements affected none

It is evident from the above information that the alignment of all four (4) powerline corridors affect land that is of extreme biodiversity value and sensitivity, such as the areas designated as Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBAs)/ Core 1/ Protected Areas.

These sensitive areas are generally recommended to remain “No-Go development” areas. The less-environmentally sensitive area for this region is located closest to the N1 national route.

Corridor 2 also impacts more agri-tourism industries than corridor 1 (16).

Corridor 2 impacts more Nature Parks (proclaimed nature reserves) than Corridor 1.

Corridor 2 impacts more servitudes than corridor 1.

Corridors 1 and 2 impact mineral deposits (Pceudocoal) found in the Laingsburg municipal area.

5.3. WAY FORWARD

With due cognisance of the environmental sensitivity and biodiversity value of the affected properties the following principles are suggested as a guide to finalising the exact position of the proposed powerline:

1. Confirm the location of the proposed telecom masts in the Cape Winelands Area so as to avoid conflict with the cellmast infrastructure; 2. Avoid agri-tourism enterprises at all costs as it not only brings value to the farm/landowner but also to the entire region (recreational, economic, etc). 3. Avoid the mountainous areas as this key landmark provides not only recreational and environmental value but also contributes to the entire region’s unique identity. Historical scenic paths and routes are to be found here too, which if developed for a powerline, could be detrimental to the entire karoo region. 4. Careful consideration for the exact alignment of the powerline corridor should be taken especially in terms of the Renewable Energy opportunities (wind and solar). Added to this is the high mineral deposits to be found in the Laingsburg region, the Renewable Energy Development Zone (REDZs) and the Shale Gas Exploration zone which could attract investment opportunities to this sub-region. 5. Avoid the historical settlements/hamlets such as Merweville, especially since the relevant SDFs proposed the revitalisation of it. 6. Avoid the nature parks such as the Karoo Nature Park which inherently plays a pivotal role in the sustainability of animal-, plant- and human life.

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7. Align the powerline corridor closer (than proposed) to the N1 national route since the Spatial Planning Categories (SPCs) indicate that these farmlands are, to a lesser extent, environmentally sensitive.

5.4. RECOMMENDATIONS The powerline corridor which imposes the least impact from a town planning perspective is Corridor 1 (and 1b) and for this reason is considered the best option in comparison to corridors 1a and 2.

However, it should be noted that the proposed pathway, Corridor 1 (and 1b), could be amended to provide for a more ideal route, since important places of interest/points along this route are of importance and should preferrably be retained.

It is strongly recommended that, with due consideration of the above-mentioned findings and suggested guidelines, that the alignment be slightly adjusted to avoid key points of interest/features of this region in particular the Critical Biodiversity Areas and Protected Areas (which is generally considered to be No-Go Areas), Mining opportunities, renewable energy opportunities, historical routes and towns, and agri- tourism enterprises which collectively adds to this region’s environmental richness, identity and investment appeal.

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6.0 REFERENCES

1. Beaufort West Municipality, 2020. Beaufort West Spatial Development Framework: Conceptual Development Framework (May 2013), Beaufort West: Beaufort West Municipality.

2. Cape Farmmapper https://gis.elsenburg.com/apps/cfm

3. Cape Winelands District Muncipality, 2019. Cape Winelands District Spatial Development Framework (2019 – 2024), Stellenbosch: Cape Winelands Municipality.

4. Central Karoo District Municipality, 2019. Central Karoo District Municipality Spatial Development Framework (2019), Beaufort West: Central Karoo District Municipality.

5. Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality, 2018. Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (2018 – 2023): Sutherland: Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality.

6. Laingsburg Municipality, 2012. Laingsburg Municipality Spatial Development Framework (2012): Laingsburg: Laingsburg Municpality.

7. Namakwa District Municipality, 2017. Namakwa District Municipality Integrated Development Plan (2017 – 2022): Springbok: Namakwa District Municipality.

8. Northern Cape, 2018. Northern Cape Provincial Spatial Development Framework (2018): Northern Cape: Provibcial Gazette.

9. Pixley Ka Seme District Municipality, 2013. Pixley Ka Seme District Spatial Development Framework (2013 – 2018): De Aar: Pixley Ka Seme District Municipality.

10. Ubuntu Municipality. Ubuntu Spatial Development Framework: Ubuntu Local Municipality.

11. Republic of South Africa, 2019. National Spatial Development Framework (2019 - 24): South Africa: Government Gazette

12. Western Cape Government, 2014. Western Cape Provincial Spatial Development Framework, Cape Town: Western Cape Government.

13. Witzenberg Municipality, 2020. Witzenberg Municipality Spatial Development Framework (2020), Ceres: Witzenberg Municipality.

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