Draft EIA Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT REPORT
MODDERFONTEIN RESIDENTIAL TOWNSHIP TO BE KNOWN AS FOUNDERS HIIL EXT. 19 - 21 TOWNSHIPS
REMAINDER OF PORTION 36 OF THE FARM MODDERFONTEIN NO.35 IR: CITY OF JOHANNESBURG METROPOLITAN MUNICIPALITY
REFERENCE: GAUT 002/20-21/E2614
Central Property Development Johannesburg (Pty) Ltd
OCTOBER 2020
Nali Sustainability Solutions October 2020 Page 1
Draft EIA Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 11
2.0 LEGAL AND POLICY CONTEXT ...... 19
3.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT...... 24
4.0 INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES ...... 41
Nali Sustainability Solutions October 2020 Page 2
Draft EIA Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
5.0 MOTIVATION FOR THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT ...... 50
6.0 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS ...... 54
7.0 KEY FINDING FROM SPECIALIST STUDIES ...... 57
Nali Sustainability Solutions October 2020 Page 3
Draft EIA Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
8.0 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT ...... 61
9.0 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT ...... 84
10.0 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 89
11.0 APPENDICES ...... 92
LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1: Context of the project site ...... 12 Figure 2: Surrounding Land Uses ...... 13 Figure 3: Process Mapping ...... 14 Figure 4: Proposed layout for Founders Hill Ext 19 - 21 ...... 17 Figure 5: Average Temperature and Precipitation ...... 24 Figure 6: Minimum, Maximum and Average Temperature ...... 25 Figure 7: Soil Map ...... 27 Figure 8: Wetland and proposed buffer zone ...... 30 Figure 9: Habitat Units ...... 33 Figure 10: Faunal sensitivity of the site ...... 37 Figure 11: Demographic information ...... 39 Figure 12: Cultural and Heritage Resources in the Modderfontein Area...... 40 Figure 13: Proposed Access Points ...... 45 Figure 14: Proposed Site Access Intersections ...... 46 Figure 15: Proposed Roads Upgrades ...... 47 Figure 16: Electrical Feeder Route ...... 49 Figure 17: Alternative Layout ...... 52
LIST OF TABLES Table 1: Property information ...... 11 Table 2: Details of the applicant ...... 13 Table 3: Details of the EAP ...... 14
Nali Sustainability Solutions October 2020 Page 4
Draft EIA Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Table 4: Propose Land Uses ...... 16 Table 5: Listed activities triggered ...... 18 Table 6: Geotechnical Sub-Areas ...... 26 Table 7: Geotechnical Categories and Site Classification ...... 26 Table 8:Summary of the findings ...... 29 Table 9: Phasing of Roads Upgrades...... 48 Table 10: Nature, extent, duration, probability and significance of impact ...... 61 Table 11: Criteria for rating of impacts ...... 62 Table 12: Assessment of Impacts during the Construction Phase ...... 63 Table 13: Assessment of Impacts during the operation phase ...... 77 Table 14: Assessment of the No-Go option ...... 82 Table 14: Comparison of the different alternatives ...... 83 Table 15: Summary of key findings in specialists’ reports ...... 84 Table 16: Key positive and negative impacts ...... 88
Nali Sustainability Solutions October 2020 Page 5
Draft EIA Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
GLOSSARY Activity An action either planned or existing that may result in environmental impacts through pollution or resource use. For the purpose of this report, the terms ‘activity’ and ‘development’ are freely interchanged.
Alternatives Different means of meeting the general purpose and requirements of the activity, which may include site or location alternatives; alternatives to the type of activity being undertaken; the design or layout of the activity; the technology to be used in the activity and the operational aspects of the activity.
Applicant The project proponent or developer responsible for submitting an environmental application to the relevant environmental authority for environmental authorisation.
Biodiversity The diversity of animals, plants and other organisms found within and between ecosystems, habitats, and the ecological complexes.
Construction The building, erection or establishment of a facility, structure or infrastructure that is necessary for the undertaking of a listed or specified activity but excludes any modification, alteration or expansion of such a facility, structure or infrastructure and excluding the reconstruction of the same facility in the same location, with the same capacity and footprint.
Cumulative impact- The impact of an activity that in itself may not be significant but may become significant when added to the existing and potential impacts eventuating from similar or diverse activities or undertakings in the area.
Decommissioning The demolition of a building, facility, structure or infrastructure.
Direct Impact Impacts that are caused directly by the activity and generally occur at the same time and at the same place of the activity. These impacts are usually associated with the construction, operation or maintenance of an activity and are generally quantifiable.
Ecosystem A dynamic system of plant, animal (including humans) and micro-organism communities and their non-living physical environment interacting as a functional unit. The basic structural unit of the biosphere, ecosystems are characterised by interdependent interaction between the component species and their physical surroundings. Each ecosystem occupies a space in which macro-scale conditions and interactions are relatively homogenous.
Environment In terms of the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) (No 107 of 1998) (as amended), “Environment” means the surroundings within which humans exist and that are made up of: a) the land, water and atmosphere of the earth. b) micro-organisms, plants and animal life.
Nali Sustainability Solutions October 2020 Page 6
Draft EIA Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614 c) any part or combination of (i) of (ii) and the interrelationships among and between them. d) the physical, chemical, aesthetic and cultural properties and conditions of the foregoing that influence human health and wellbeing.
Environmental Assessment The generic term for all forms of environmental assessment for projects, plans, programmes or policies and includes methodologies or tools such as environmental impact assessments, strategic environmental assessments and risk assessments.
Environmental Authorisation An authorisation issued by the competent authority in respect of a listed activity, or an activity which takes place within a sensitive environment.
Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP) The individual responsible for planning, management and coordination of environmental impact assessments, strategic environmental assessments, environmental management programmes or any other appropriate environmental instrument introduced through the EIA Regulations.
Environmental Impact Change to the environment (biophysical, social and/ or economic), whether adverse or beneficial, wholly or partially, resulting from an organisation’s activities, products or services.
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) In relation to an application to which scoping must be applied, means the process of collecting, organising, analysing, interpreting and communicating information that is relevant to the consideration of that application as defined in NEMA.
Environmental Management Programme (EMPr) A detailed plan of action prepared to ensure that recommendations for enhancing or ensuring positive impacts and limiting or preventing negative environmental impacts are implemented during the life cycle of a project. This EMPr focuses on the construction phase, operation (maintenance) phase and decommissioning phase of the proposed project.
Fatal Flaw Issue or conflict (real or perceived) that could result in developments being rejected or stopped. In the context of an environmental impact assessment a fatal flaw can be termed as an environmental issue that cannot be mitigated by any means
General Waste Household water, construction rubble, garden waste and certain dry industrial and commercial waste which does not pose an immediate threat to man or the environment.
Groundwater Water in the ground that is in the zone of saturation from which wells, springs, and groundwater run-off are supplied.
Hazardous Waste Waste that may cause ill health or increase mortality in humans, flora and fauna.
Nali Sustainability Solutions October 2020 Page 7
Draft EIA Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Hydrology The science encompassing the behaviour of water as it occurs in the atmosphere, on the surface of the ground, and underground.
Indirect Impacts Indirect or induced changes that may occur as a result of the activity. These types if impacts include all of the potential impacts that do not manifest immediately when the activity is undertaken, or which occur at a different place as a result of the activity.
Interested and Affected Party (I&AP) Any person, group of persons or organisation interested in or affected by an activity; and any organ of state that may have jurisdiction over any aspect of the activity.
Mitigate The implementation of practical measures designed to avoid, reduce or remedy adverse impacts or enhance beneficial impacts of an action.
No-Go Option In this instance the proposed activity would not take place, and the resulting environmental effects from taking no action are compared with the effects of permitting the proposed activity to go forward.
Overburden Layers of soil and rock covering a coal seam. In surface mining operations, overburden is removed prior to mining using large equipment. When mining has been completed, it is either used to backfill the mined areas or is hauled to an external dumping and/or storage site.
Public Participation Process A process in which potential interested and affected parties are given an opportunity to comment on, or raise issues relevant to, specific matters.
Rehabilitation A measure aimed at reinstating an ecosystem to its original function and state (or as close as possible to its original function and state) following activities that have disrupted those functions.
Scoping The process of determining the spatial and temporal boundaries (i.e. extent) and key issues to be addresses in an environmental assessment. The main purpose of scoping is to focus the environmental assessment on a manageable number of important questions. Scoping should also ensure that only significant issues and reasonable alternatives are examined.
Sensitive Environments Any environment identified as being sensitive to the impacts of the development.
Significance Significance can be differentiated into impact magnitude and impact significance. Impact magnitude is the measurable change (i.e. magnitude, intensity, duration and likelihood). Impact significance is the value placed on the change by different affected parties (i.e. level of significance and acceptability). It is an anthropocentric concept, which
Nali Sustainability Solutions October 2020 Page 8
Draft EIA Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614 makes use of value judgements and science-based criteria (i.e. biophysical, social and economic).
Stakeholder Engagement The process of engagement between stakeholders (the proponent, authorities and I&APs) during the planning, assessment, implementation and/or management of proposals or activities.
Sustainable Development Development which meets the needs of current generations without hindering future generations from meeting their own needs.
Watercourse In terms of the National Water Act (Act 36 of 1998) a watercourse is: a) a river or spring. b) a natural channel or depression in which water flows regularly or intermittently. c) a wetland, lake or dam into which, or from which, water flows; and d) any collection of water which the Minister may, by notice in the Gazette, declare to be a watercourse as defined in the National Water Act, 1998 (Act No. 36 of 1998) and a reference to a watercourse includes, where relevant, its bed and banks.
Wetland In terms of the National Water Act (Act 36 of 1998) a wetland is defined as land which is transitional between terrestrial and aquatic systems where the water table is usually at or near the surface, or the land is periodically covered with shallow water, and which land in normal circumstances supports or would support vegetation typically adapted to life in saturated soil.
Nali Sustainability Solutions October 2020 Page 9
Draft EIA Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
ACRONYMS DEF&F Department of Environment Forestry and Fisheries DW&S Department of Water and Sanitation EAP Environmental Assessment Practitioner EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EIR Environmental Impact Assessment Report EMPr Environmental Management Programme ESS Environmental Scoping Study ESR Environmental Scoping Report GDARD Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development I&AP Interested and Affected Party NEMA National Environmental Management Act NGL Natural Ground Level
Nali Sustainability Solutions October 2020 Page 10
Draft EIA Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
1.0 INTRODUCTION The function of an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) is to identify impacts of the activity which the proponent is to manage. As part of the process, the public is made aware of and have better understanding of the likely impacts of the proposal are is enabled partake in the process. The end result is that authorities are able to make informed decisions pertaining to the proposed activity. Briefly, the EIR therefore: 1. Documents and communicates, clearly and impartially: the context of the proposed activity. the probable impacts and risks associated with the proposed activity and its alternatives. measures to mitigate and manage negative impacts - and enhance benefits - associated with the proposed activity and its alternatives, and the residual significance of impacts if mitigation measures were to be implemented effectively. the concerns of the interested public, authorities, and the communities affected by the proposal, and the level of confidence in predicting and evaluating impacts, any gaps in knowledge and areas of uncertainty which could substantially influence the findings. 2. Forms the basis for stakeholder review. For this reason, the EIR must use simple language and be easily understood. 3. Forms a sound basis for informed decision-making. In this respect, the EIR should give explicit, reliable, and easily understood information to guide the decision-maker. The EIR should enable the decision-maker to decide on an action in the best interests of society and the environment and where appropriate, set relevant conditions of authorisation.
This section describes the project and provides background information on the applicant, the proposed activity, details of the Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP) and maps out the application process as provided for in the EIA Regulations, 2014.
CONTEXT AND BACKGROUND
The applicant, Central Property Development (Cosmopolitan Projects), proposes to establish a residential township comprising “Residential 1” and “Residential 3” units, the latter including conventional and inclusionary housing units of 3- 4 storeys, open spaces as well as associated infrastructure. To manage the EIA application, the applicant appointed Nali Sustainability Solutions (NSS) an independent Environmental Assessment Practitioner as required in by the EIA Regulations, 2014.
It has emerged that the proposed site was previously authorised (Ref Gaut002/05-06/1281) for the development an industrial and commercial township. The said authorisation has since lapsed and the current land owner would like to develop a residential township instead of the previously approved land uses.
THE APPLICATION SITE Property description The development is proposed to take place on the Remainder of Portion 36 of the farm Modderfontein 35 IR, City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality. Table 1: Property information Ownership SG Digit Title Deed Size Homegold Development 1998 (Pty) Ltd T01R00000000035000036 T82408/2019 50.336ha
Site location The property is located to the east of the N3 and south of the R25 (Modderfontein Road) within the Modderfontein area of the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality. The City of Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality borders the property on both the eastern and western boundary.
Nali Sustainability Solutions October 2020 Page 11
Draft EIA Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Modderfontein is located halfway and immediately to the north of the Sandton – OR Tambo International Airport connecting axis some 16 km north east of the Johannesburg CBD. The greater Modderfontein area falls within the Administrative Region E, Sub-area 19 as delineated in the Johannesburg RSDF 2008/9.
At a local level, the site is located to the east of the residential suburb of Illiondale, to the north of the industrial township of Sebenza Ext 6 and to the south of the industrial township of Founders Hill. The road reserve for the proposed PWV-3 road forms the northern boundary of the site.
Figure 1: Context of the project site Surrounding Land Uses The surrounding area is dominated by residential and industrial uses, although there are nodes of commercial activities, in the vicinity. The site constitutes the remaining open space within an urbanised landscape. The broader landscape primarily comprises urban built-up areas in all directions.
The R25 is located just to the north of the site while the M78 is to the west through Illiondale. Industries that include Dosco Precision Hydraulics, Robmeg Steel, Freightpark, Group Five – Plant and Equipment, Wabtech South Africa (Pty) Ltd, Petromark Johannesburg, MBS Group, Marble Classic, Barnes Fencing Industries (Pry) and Tosas Spartan form part of the Sebenza Industrial Park to the east of the site. Franklin electric SA (Pty), Trouw Butrition South Africa, and Aluminium Trading (Pty) within the Sebenza Industrial Park south of the site.
The northern region of the Modderfontein Development Area incorporates the Modderfontein Reserve. While the greater Modderfontein Area remains largely undeveloped, the site and immediate surrounds have been incrementally developed, achieving varying degrees of density, accommodating a variety of land uses.
Nali Sustainability Solutions October 2020 Page 12
Draft EIA Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Figure 2: Surrounding Land Uses
DETAILS OF THE APPLICANT
The Central Developments Property Group was established 2002 and has become Gauteng’s largest residential developer in the market segments. These include rental complexes, retirement villages, secure developments, industrial and storage facilities. The company has developed more than 28 000 units successfully including rental units, lifestyle estates and retirement estates. The company’s new developments are in niche areas aimed at excellent return on investment.
Table 2: Details of the applicant Aspect Details Applicant Central Property Development Johannesburg (Pty) Ltd Representative Ian van Rensburg Designation Head: Land Development Postal address PO Box 754, Auckland Park, 2006 Telephone 011 541 3800 Email address [email protected]
Details of the EAP
To ensure full compliance with the EIA Regulations (2014) promulgated under section 24 (5) of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 NEMA (Act No. 107 of 1998) (NEMA), Nali Sustainability Solutions (Pty) Ltd, independent Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP) were appointed to manage the application process to obtain the Environmental Authorisation for the proposed project.
Nali Sustainability Solutions October 2020 Page 13
Draft EIA Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Table 3: Details of the EAP Aspect Details Name Nali Sustainability Solutions (Pty) Ltd Lead EAP Mr Pirate Ncube Physical Address 65 Country Club Drive, Irene Farm Villages, Centurion Postal Address P Bag X1, Stand 1829, Irene Farm Villages, Centurion, 0045 Contact details Tel: 0824517120; Fax: 086 694 1178, Email: [email protected] Expertise/experience More than 27 years’ experience in spatial planning, environmental planning & management, including Strategic Environmental Assessments, Environmental Impact Assessments and reviews, Environmental Management Plans, as well as conducting Environmental Compliance Monitoring and Reporting. Served/s in various decision- making bodies including the DFA Tribunal, Environmental Advisory Committee, MEC Appeals Advisory Panel. Qualified Town Planner with master’s in Real Estate and MBA. Assistant EAP Mr Comfort Mthombothi Contact details Tel: 0711661173; Fax: 086 694 1178 Email: [email protected] Expertise/experience More than 14 years in the environmental management field specialising in the assessment of environmental authorisation applications. Experienced and skilled in environmental planning, Environmental Management Programmes, EIAs and project management. Holds a BA (Geography and Environmental Studies) from the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg (2006).
SPECIALISTS AND OTHER INPUTS To ensure a comprehensive environmental assessment process and availability of information for decision making, a team of experts that are well known in their respective specialist fields were appointed for the assessment and design of aspects of the project. These include the following, among others: Biodiversity Impact Assessment Wetland Delineation and Assessment Traffic Impact Assessment Geotechnical Assessment Outline Scheme Report Town Planning Memorandum
The findings of specialists relative to the abovementioned issues have informed the proposed development and have been incorporated into the body of the report. The specialists’ reports are appended to this report.
THE EIR PHASE
The EIR phase follows the acceptance and approval of the Final Scoping Report and Plan of Study for EIA (refer to Appendix 7). The scoping report was accepted in October 2020 subject to conditions.
Figure 3: Process Mapping Current Position in the Process
Royal HaskoningDHV, 2014
Nali Sustainability Solutions October 2020 Page 14
Draft EIA Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Objectives of the EIA phase
As per the EIR Regulations, 2014, the objective of the environmental impact assessment process is to, through a consultative process- determine the policy and legislative context within which the activity is located and document how the proposed activity complies with and responds to the policy and legislative context. describe the need and desirability of the proposed activity, including the need and desirability of the activity in the context of the preferred location. identify the location of the development footprint within the preferred site based on an impact and risk assessment process inclusive of cumulative impacts and a ranking process of all the identified development footprint alternatives focusing on the geographical, physical, biological, social, economic, heritage and cultural aspects of the environment. determine the-- o nature, significance, consequence, extent, duration and probability of the impacts occurring to inform identified preferred alternatives; and o degree to which these impacts- -can be reversed. -may cause irreplaceable loss of resources, and -can be avoided, managed or mitigated. identify the most ideal location for the activity within the preferred site based on the lowest level of environmental sensitivity identified during the assessment. identify, assess, and rank the impacts the activity will impose on the preferred location through the life of the activity. identify suitable measures to avoid, manage or mitigate identified impacts, and identify residual risks that need to be managed and monitored.
Contents on the EIR
As per the requirements of Appendix 3 of GN R.982 National Environmental Management Act (107/1988: Environmental Impact Regulations, 2014, the EIR contains the following: a) Details of the EAP and the expertise of the EAP, including curriculum vitae. b) Location of the activity. c) A plan which locates the proposed activities applied for as well as the associated structures and infrastructure at an appropriate scale. d) A description of the scope of the proposed activity. e) A description of the policy and legislative context within which the development is located and an explanation of how the proposed development complies with and responds to the legislation and policy context. f) A motivation for the need and desirability for the proposed development, including the need and de3sirability of the activity in the context of the preferred location. g) A motivation for the preferred development footprint within the approved site. h) A full description of the process followed to reach the proposed development footprint within the approved site, including: i. Details of the development footprint considered. ii. Details of the public participation process undertaken in terms of regulation 41 of the Regulations. iii. A summary of the issues raised by interested and affected parties, and an indication of the manner in which the issues were addressed. iv. The environmental attributes associated with the development footprint alternatives focusing on the geographical, physical and biological, social, economic, heritage and cultural aspects. v. The impacts and risks identified including the nature, significance, consequence, extent, duration and probability of the impacts, including the degree to which these impacts can be
Nali Sustainability Solutions October 2020 Page 15
Draft EIA Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
reversed, may cause irreplaceable loss of resources and can be avoided, managed or mitigated. vi. The methodology used in determining and ranking the nature, significance, consequence, extent, duration and probability of potential environmental impacts and risks. vii. Positive and negative impacts that the proposed activity and alternatives will have on the environment and on the community that may be affected. viii. The possible mitigation measures that could be applied and level of residual risk. ix. A concluding statement indicating the preferred alternative development location within the approved site. i) A full description of the process undertaken to identify, assess and rank the impacts of the activity and associated structures and infrastructure will impose on the preferred location through the life of the activity. j) An assessment of each identified and potentially significant impact and risk k) A summary of the findings and recommendations of specialist report complying with appendix 6 of these Regulations and an indication as to how these findings and recommendations have been included in the final assessment report. l) An environmental impact statement. m) All information required by the competent authority.
PROJECT DETAILS
This section details the proposed development including the specific listed activities and the associated infrastructure services.
Proposed land uses
The proposed development entails the establishment of a residential township to be known as Founders Hill Extensions 19-21, on a 50.336ha site consisting of the uses listed in the below.
Table 4: Propose Land Uses
Proposed Layout Plan
The proposed layout has been guided by the development constraints and opportunities presented by the site. Included among these is the shape of the land, nature of adjacent land uses, the need for efficiency in land use allocation in relation to infrastructure services, specialist and engineering recommendations, the wetland areas, and geological constraints, as well as the future roads. However, the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and associated specialists’ studies will inform the final layout of the township. .
Nali Sustainability Solutions October 2020 Page 16
Draft EIA Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Figure 4: Proposed layout for Founders Hill Ext 19 - 21
Nali Sustainability Solutions October 2020 Page 17
Draft EIA Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Listed Activities Triggered
In terms of the NEMA EIA Regulations of 2014, the table below presents the list of activities triggered by the proposed development. Table 5: Listed activities triggered Government Activity Description of listed activities as per the wording in the listing notices: Notice: No (s) GN. R 983, 8 Listing The infilling or depositing of any material of more than 10 cubic metres into, or December Notice (LN) the dredging, excavation, removal or moving soil, sand, shells, shell grit, 2014 1, Activity pebbles or rocks of more than 10 cubic metres from a watercourse. 19 But excluding where such infilling, depositing, dredging, excavation, removal or moving-- (a) will occur behind a development setback. (b) is for maintenance purposes undertaken in accordance with a maintenance management plan. (c) falls within the ambit of activity 21 in this Notice, in which case that activity applies. (d) … (e) … GN. R 983, 8 LN 1, The clearance of an area of 1 hectare or more, but less than 20 hectares of December Activity indigenous vegetation, except where such clearance of indigenous vegetation 2014 27 is required for— i. the undertaking of a linear activity; or ii. maintenance purposes undertaken in accordance with a maintenance management plan. GN. R 984, 8 LN 2, The clearance of an area of 20 hectares or more of indigenous vegetation December Activity except where such clearance is required for-- 2014 15 (i). The undertaking of a linear activity; or (ii). maintenance purposes undertaken in accordance with a maintenance plan. GN. R 985, 8 LN 3, The clearance of an area of 300 square metres or more of indigenous December Activity12 vegetation except where such clearance of indigenous vegetation is required 2014 for maintenance purposes undertaken in accordance with a maintenance management plan. c. Gauteng i. Within any critically endangered or endangered ecosystem listed in terms of section 52 of the NEMBA or prior to the publication of such a list, within an area that has been identified as critically endangered in the National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment 2004; ii. Within Critical Biodiversity Areas or Ecological Support Areas identified in the Gauteng Conservation Plan or bioregional plans; or iii. … GN. R 985, 8 LN 3, The development of— December Activity 14 (i)…; or 2014 (ii) infrastructure or structures with a physical footprint of 10 square metres or more. where such development occurs— (a) within a watercourse. (b) in front of a development setback; or Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
(c) if no development setback has been adopted, within 32 metres of a watercourse, measured from the edge of a watercourse.
excluding the development of infrastructure or structures within existing ports or harbours that will not increase the development footprint of the port or harbour. c. Gauteng i. … ii. … iii. … iv. Sites identified as Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBAs) or Ecological Support Areas (ESAs) in the Gauteng Conservation Plan or in bioregional plans v. Sites identified within threatened ecosystems listed in terms of the National Environmental Management Act: Biodiversity Act (Act No. 10 of 2004). vi. Sensitive areas identified in an environmental management framework adopted by the relevant environmental authority. vii. … viii…. ix…., or x…
2.0 LEGAL AND POLICY CONTEXT
This section highlights key legislation and policy frameworks that have implications on the proposed activity. It must be noted that this list is not exhaustive but notes, at high level, the critical laws and policies that have been considered.
The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 (Act No. 108 of 1996)
All environmental aspects should be interpreted within the context of the Constitution. The Constitution has enhanced the status of the environment by environmental rights have been established (Section 24) and because other rights created in the Bill of Rights may impact on environmental management. An objective of local government is to provide a safe and healthy environment (Section 152) and public administration must be accountable, transparent and encourage participation (Section 195(1)(e) to (g)).
Implications for the proposed development include: Obligation to ensure that proposed activity will not result in pollution and/or ecological degradation. Obligation to ensure that where possible conservation is promoted, and Obligation to ensure that the proposed activity is ecologically sustainable, while demonstrating economic and social benefits.
The National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No.107 of 1998)
The National Environmental Management Act (Act No. 107 of 1998) (NEMA) is South Africa’s overarching legislative framework for environmental management. Act establishes the principles for decision-making on matters affecting the environment, institutions that will promote co-operative governance, and procedures for co-ordinating environmental functions exercised by organs of state.
It sets out several principles that aim to give effect to the environmental policy of South Africa. These principles are designed to, amongst others, serve as a general framework for environmental planning, as guidelines by reference to which organs of state must exercise their functions and guide other laws concerned with the protection or management of the environment.
19 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Chapter 5 of NEMA serves to promote integrated environmental management which must place people and their needs at the forefront of its concerns, and serve their physical, psychological, developmental, cultural, and social interests equitably. Development must be socially, environmentally, and economically sustainable. Sustainable development therefore requires the consideration of all relevant factors.
In terms of the NEMA and the EIA Regulations, 2014, an application for environmental authorisation for certain listed activities must be submitted to either the provincial environmental authority, or the national authority, depending on the types of activities being applied for. The current EIA regulations, GN R.982, GN R.983, GN R.984 and GN R.985, promulgated in terms of Sections 24(5), 24M and 44 of the NEMA commenced on 08 December 2014. GN R.983 lists those activities for which a Basic Assessment is required, GN R.984 lists the activities requiring a full EIA (Scoping and Impact Assessment phases) and GN R.985 lists certain activities and competent authorities in specific identified geographical areas. GN R.982 defines the EIA processes that must be undertaken to apply for Environmental Authorisation. The listed activities that are applicable to this project are identified in Section 2 above.
Implications for the proposed development include: That the principles in NEMA should serve as guidelines for decision makers in ensuring the protection of the environment. Therefore, the proposed development must be consistent with these principles. that deviation from these principles would have to be very strongly motivated. That the activity may not take place without the required authorisation; and That the Scoping and EIAR processes have to be informed by these principles and include public participation process. The outcomes of these are to be incorporated into the final reports submitted for decision making.
National Environmental Management: Waste Act, 2008 (Act No 59 of 2008) One of the main objectives of the NEMWA is to provide for the regulation of waste management in order to protect health and the environment by providing reasonable measures for the prevention of pollution and ecological degradation and for securing ecologically sustainable development. The Act provides: National norms and standards for regulating the management of waste by all spheres of government. Specific waste management measures including: o The licensing and control of waste management activities. o The remediation of contaminated land. o To provide for the national waste information system; and o Compliance and enforcement mechanisms. In terms of the NEMWA, certain waste management activities must be licensed and in terms of Section 44 of the Act, the licensing procedure must be integrated with an environmental impact assessment process in accordance with the EIA Regulations promulgated in terms of the NEMA. Government Notice 921, which was published in Government Gazette No.37083, on 29 November 2013 and implemented with immediate effect, lists the waste management activities that require licensing. A distinction is made between Category A waste management activities, which require a Basic Assessment, and Category B activities, which require a full EIA (Scoping followed by Impact Assessment)
Implications for the development: Any activities listed in GN 718 of the Waste Act must form part of the EIA process. Waste generated by the activity must be managed in accordance with the provisions of the Act.
The National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (Act 10 of 2004)
The Act provides for the management and conservation of South Africa’s biodiversity within the framework of the NEMA. This Act allows for the protection of species and ecosystems that warrant national protection, the
20 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614 sustainable use of indigenous biological resources, the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from bioprospecting involving indigenous biological resources and the establishment and functions of the South African National Biodiversity Institute. Key elements of the Act are: The identification, protection, and management of species of high conservation value. The identification, protection and management of ecosystems and areas of high biodiversity value. Biodiversity Initiatives such as the STEP (Subtropical Thicket Ecosystem Plan) and CAPE (Cape Action Plan for People and Environment) may become accepted as bioregional plans and are thus implemented as legislation. Alien invasive species control of which the management responsibility is directed to the landowner. Section 53 of the Act identifies that any process or activity that is regarded as a threatening process in terms of a threatened ecosystem, requires environmental authorization via a full Environmental Impact Assessment (Government Notice No. 387).
Implications for the current development: There were no ecologically endangered species encountered on the site; most of the site was identified as having compromised grasslands and degraded river systems.
Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act (SPLUMA)
The Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act “SPLUMA”, 2013 (Act 16 of 2013) intends to provide a uniform framework for spatial planning and land use management in the republic. It seeks to promote consistency and uniformity in procedures and decision-making in spatial planning. The objective of the Act are as follows: Provide for a uniform, effective and comprehensive system of spatial planning and land use management for the Republic. Ensure that the system of spatial planning and land use management promotes social and economic inclusion. Provide for development principles and norms and standards. Provide for sustainable and efficient use of land. Provide for cooperative government and intergovernmental relations amongst the national, provincial, and local spheres of government; and Redress the imbalances of the past and to ensure that there is equity in the application of spatial development planning and land use management systems. Implications for the proposed development: The principles espoused in SPLUMA apply to all organs of state and other authorities responsible for the implementation of legislation regulating the use and development of land. Therefore, decisions on the proposed development must be consistent with these principles. Where this is not possible, deviation from these principles would have to be very strongly motivated.
The National Water Act, 1998 (Act No.36 of 1998)
The National Water Act (The Act) provides for the management of South Africa’s water resources. The purpose of the Act is to ensure that the Republic’s water resources are protected, used, developed, conserved, and controlled. It is concerned with the allocation of equitable access and the conservation of water resources within South Africa. The National Water Act of 1998 repealed many of the powers and functions of the Water Act of 1956. Key provisions include the following: Catchment Areas - Any disturbance to a watercourse such as the construction of a dam or weir type facility requires authorization from the Department of Water and Sanitation. Water Supply - Under the Act, a developer is required to obtain the necessary permits for water usage and the disposal of wastewater from the authority responsible for the administration of the Act.
21 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Any private well or borehole sunk for the abstraction of groundwater must be reported and registered with the regulatory authority. Wastewater – The Act is the principal legislation governing wastewater management.
Implications for the proposed development: Any proposed water uses must be specified and registered and/or licenced. Any modifications to drainage lines on site must be investigated in terms of water use requirements. The developers are responsible for taking reasonable measures to prevent pollution of water resources that it owns, controls, occupy or uses on the land in question. Developers are required to remedy pollution of a water resources following an emergency incident and where it is responsible for the incident or owns or is in control of the substance involved. The applicant must take all reasonable measures to minimise the impacts of the incident, undertake clean-up procedures, remedy the effects of the incident, and implement measures as directed, and Waste created during construction needs to be controlled adequately to negate the impacts on ground and surface water.
The National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act 25 of 1999) The Act aims to promote good management of the national estate. The national estate can include: Places, buildings, structures, and equipment of cultural significance. Places to which oral traditions are attached or that are associated with living heritage. Historical settlements and townscapes. Geological sites of scientific or cultural importance. Archaeological and paleontological sites. Graves and burial grounds, including: o Ancestral graves o Royal graves and graves of traditional leaders o Graves of victims of conflict o Graves of individuals designated by the Minister by notice in the Gazette o Historical graves and cemeteries Other human remains covered by the Human Tissue Act, 1983 (Act No 65 of 1983). Sites of significance relating to the history of slavery in South Africa.
Section 38 requires the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) to be notified during the early planning phases of a project for any development that includes the following activities: the construction of a road, wall, powerline, pipeline, canal or other similar form of linear development or barrier exceeding 300m in length any development or activity which will change the character of a site exceeding 5 000 m² in extent o involving three or more existing erven or subdivisions thereof o involving three or more erven or divisions thereof which have been consolidated within the past five years o the costs of which will exceed a sum set in terms of regulations by SAHRA or a provincial heritage resources authority the re-zoning of a site exceeding 10 000 m² in extent, or any other category of development provided for by SAHRA or a provincial heritage resources authority. Implications for the proposed development: Any artefacts uncovered during the construction phase must be reported to SAHRA. No person may alter or demolish any structure or part of a structure, which is older than 60 years or disturb any archaeological or paleontological site or grave older than 60 years without a permit issued by the relevant provincial heritage resources authority. The age of the stable building on site needs to
22 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
be determined, and SAHRA must be informed of the proposed development and provided an opportunity to comment. This may result in the need for a basic heritage assessment.
The Gauteng Provincial Environmental Management Framework, 2015
The objective of the GPEMF is to guide sustainable land use management within the Gauteng Province. The GPEMF, inter alia, serve the following purposes: To provide a strategic and overall framework for environmental management in Gauteng. Align sustainable development initiatives with the environmental resources, developmental pressures, as well as the growth imperatives of Gauteng. Determine geographical areas where certain activities can be excluded from an EIA process; and Identify appropriate, inappropriate, and conditionally compatible activities in various Environmental Management Zones in a manner that promotes proactive decision-making. Implications for the proposed development: According to the EMF, the site is located within the Urban Development Zone (Zone 1) except for the wetland traversing the middle of the site. The intention Zone 1, the Urban Development Zone is to streamline urban development activities and promote development infill, densification, and concentration of urban development to establish a more effective and efficient city region that will minimise urban sprawl. The proposed mixed-use development providing commercial/industrial uses in proximity of residential uses is aligned with government policy in general and the provisions of the spatial tools including the EMF.
City of Johannesburg Spatial Development Framework 2016
The Regional Spatial Development Framework serves to address transformation in terms of spatial logic, economic development and environmental sustainability as envisioned in the Roadmap towards Joburg 2040.
Besides earmarking the Modderfontein as a future Principal Metropolitan Sub-Centre as part of the proposed Randburg– OR Tambo Corridor, the SDF indicates that the site falls with the Consolidation Zone. These are areas for urban consolidation, infrastructure maintenance, controlled growth, urban management, addressing backlogs and structural positioning for medium to longer term growth. The plan induicates that the intent in these areas would be to ensure existing and future development proposals are aligned as far as possible with the broader intent of the SDF, specifically in terms of consolidating and diversifying development around existing activity nodes and public transport infrastructure. In this broad area, new development that does not require bulk infrastructure upgrades should be supported.
Implications for the proposed development: The site is located close to the Modderfontein precinct which is earmarked for intense urban development within the Randburg - OR Tambo corridor. Therefore, establishment residential uses on this site supports the transformative agenda as pronounced in the 2040 Roadmap.
23 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
3.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT This section describes the biophysical and socio-economic environment that may be affected and the baseline conditions which are likely to be affected by the proposed activity. This description is informed by various specialist studies undertaken for this assessment and also includes information obtained from various literature sources and is described at a level deemed appropriate for the EIA phase. A summary of the affected environment is provided, and more detailed studies focused on significant environmental aspects of the development have also been provided. The three components to the environment are recognised as: Physical Environment Biological Environment Socio-Economic Environment.
Only those elements of the environment that have a direct bearing on the impact assessment process of the project are discussed. The severity of the potential impacts is largely determined by the state of the receiving environment.
PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT Climate In Modderfontein, the summers are long, warm, and partly cloudy and the winters are short, cold, dry, and clear. The warm season lasts for 5.9 months, from September 23 to March 18, with hottest day of the year is January 1. A wet day is one with at least 0.04 inches of liquid or liquid-equivalent precipitation. The chance of wet days in Modderfontein varies very significantly throughout the year. The wetter season lasts 5.5 months, from October 14 to March 30, with a greater than 28% chance of a given day being a wet day. The chance of a wet day peaks at 55% on December 16. The drier season lasts more than six months, from March to October.
Figure 5: Average Temperature and Precipitation
24 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Figure 6: Minimum, Maximum and Average Temperature
Air quality
The area surrounding the proposed development site is primarily residential and industrial/commercial uses, except for the Modderfontein Golf Course. According to the Ekurhuleni Draft Air Quality Management Plan, the site is located close to industrial areas where SO2 emissions are at the borderline limits as per the NEMA: Air Quality Act.
In terms of the GDARD Pollution buffer zones, the site is located close to Category 3 Industries and a small southern and eastern portion of the site is affected by a 50m buffer zone. However, a major road servitude separates the eastern portion from industrial areas. Geology and Soils Intraconsult engineers were appointed to undertake Phase 1 Geotechnical investigations on the site. The objectives of the investigation were: To determine the geology and the relevant mechanical properties of the soil and rock horizons on site. To give general foundation recommendations. To comment on the excavation characteristics and possible uses of the materials underlying the site for installation of services as well as for use in layer works in paving and roads. To comment on water management aspects particularly pertaining to shallow groundwater or seepage.
According to the assessment, the site is underlain by ancient metamorphosed mafic volcanic rocks and their weathered derivatives. The soil profile is of variable thicknesses, but generalIy thin, of transported soils blanket comprising of hill wash of medium dense clayey sands. These transported soils directly overlie greenish grey highly weathered incredibly soft rock.
3.1.3.1 Geotechnical Sub-Areas The procedures utilized for the broad geotechnical zonation of the site derived from the modification and integration of various classification systems and followed the SAIEG’s “Guidelines for Urban Geological
25 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Investigations" with appropriate adaptations. Based on the geological, geohydrological, hydrological, geomorphological and soils information gathered during geotechnical investigations, the site can be divided into three primary Geotechnical Sub-Areas. These Sub-Areas broadly reflect the development potential of different areas and delineate Sub-Areas of similar characteristics such as wet areas and terrain.
Table 6: Geotechnical Sub-Areas Geotechnical Sub-Area Definition 1 "Most favourable" The geotechnical conditions are such that urban development can take place without any special precautionary/remedial measures for geotechnical conditions. 2 "intermediate" (prefix "2" on Geotechnical conditions are such that the area may be developed for the NHBRC Soil Map) urban use but appropriate remedial and/or precautionary measures are required in the context of the Geotechnical constraints. 3 "Lease favourable" (prefix Geotechnical conditions are such that urban development is not "3" on the NHBRC Soil Map recommended.
For the purposes of the study, the broad geotechnical characteristics of the primary geotechnical Sub-Areas were further described in terms of several geotechnical category designations’ in terms of the NHBRC Guidelines as defined below:
Table 7: Geotechnical Categories and Site Classification Geotechnical Category and Site Geotechnical Characteristics Class Designation Inundated areas w Wet area, drainage line, seepage zone Active soils (heave/shrink) Expected range of total movement at surface: H <7.5 mm HI 7.5-15 mm H2 15—30 mm H3 ˃30mm Collapsible soils Expected range of total movement at surface: C <10 mm C1 10 - 20 mm C2 ˃ 20 mm Compressible soils Expected range of total movement at surface: S <5 mm S1 5— 10 mm S2 ˃ 10mm Excavation E Abandoned borrow areas, dump rock, waste sites, exploration pits or adits and uncontrolled fill erosion gully P Dolomite area R Rock R1 Outcrop R2 Scattered outcrop R3 Sub-outcrop (i.e. 0.1 — 1.5m profile)
The above designations were added to the selected Primary Geotechnical Sub-Areas in order to describe the generalized geotechnical conditions that Ied to that particular characterisation.
26 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Figure 7: Soil Map
3.1.3.2 Foundation Recommendations Investigation found out that potentially problematic materials blanket the bedrocks over large sections of the site. The occurrence of these soils and their anticipated in-service behaviour has been analysed resulting in the broad zonation shown on the Soil Map.
Given the behaviour of the different soils, the recommendation is for (light) single-storey structures to be placed on rationally designed foundations. Site specific {footprint) investigations will be required and recommended for other types of structures; for example, any multi-storey units, if proposed for development on this site.
3.1.3.3 Drainage Careful stormwater controls are mandatory to the safe and secure development of the site, stormwater management plans should be intricately linked to the planning of the township. It is generally accepted good practice to avoid any accumulation of surface waters near to buildings by appropriate surface drainage design. 3.1.3.4 Ground water Groundwater seepage was encountered in a few of the opened trial holes. Test Pits (T.P) Al to A4 intercept seepage of groundwater. The presence of ferruginous hill wash/colluvium confirms the presence of perched seasonal groundwater conditions. Test Pit A5 was dry, confirming the previous observations regarding test pits excavated to the north of the delineated sub-area during the principal geotechnical investigations. Also,
27 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
TP 10, TP 12, T P 13, TP14 and TP15 were dry in February 2020 and refusal occurred at 1.1m to 0.8m. In addition, T P 15, located to the east of the wet area recorded refusal at 0.8m. From the investigations it was noted that seepage was associated with the moderately jointed/sheared mafic rocks. Perched groundwater conditions typically develop on mafic rocks. The water seeps and flows down slope on the soil/rock contact and preferential seepage can occur along shear zones and fractures. Seepage may daylight where the soil thins, and the rock/residual soil contact nears ground surface. Seepage water may infiltrate the ground over a vast area in topographically higher lying areas on the mafic rock and eventually emerge on site on a shallow rock shelf in lower lying areas. 3.1.3.5 Recommendations Based on the previous and the supplementary investigations the site is regarded as suitable for development, provided the measures outlined below and in the geotechnical report reference IRI 578 are applied. The Soil Site Class is designated as 2(R3) (w) [H/C/Sl and is in effect a sub-area of Zone All conclusions and recommendations that pertain to Zone 2(R3) [H/C/S] shall apply to this sub-area (Drawing IR1578Add). For the area around Test Pits Al to A4, a sub-surface drainage system should be installed in the delineated area and a cut off drain established on the upslope side of the area. The cut off trench should be located south of the sub-area. The trench should be taken to refusal below a depth of 1.5m and the sub-soil drain installed to gather the seepage and discharge it down slope into the stormwater system. Adequate depth (sump) below the seepage horizon of 1.5m to "capture" maximum seepage during a significantly wet season must be allowed for. If the subsurface drainage can be installed simultaneously with the servicing of Founders Hill Extensions 19 and 20 it will allow for drying out of the sub-area in advance of development. Houses in this sub-area should be appropriately placed on platforms raised adequately to meet the criteria set out in the NHBRC Manual. Accepted good practice must be applied to avoid any accumulation of surface or seepage waters near to buildings by appropriate surface and subsurface drainage design. This should also include the (minimum) 150 mm freeboard, i.e. top of floor slab to top of natural ground level, as required in the NHBRC Guidelines. The upper transported silty clay horizon should be removed and replaced with appropriate backfill material within the footprint area + 1m of the structures. Materials from the box cuts for the roads may be considered for this purpose. On the regional google image it is noted that stormwater may gather north of the site on the waste storage facilities of the Kelvin Power Station. The water is gathered in a settlement/attenuation pond and discharged into the drainage line that flows south, down along the eastern boundary of the site. This water may also gain access to the subsurface profile and supplement the perched subsurface flow. It should be noted TPI0, TP12, TP13, TP14 and TP15 are dry in February 2020 and refusal occurs at 1.1m to 0.8m. Careful storm water control will obviously be necessary along the eastern boundary of the site as stands are located against this drainage line. This water could, if unmanaged, exacerbate subterranean flow.
Wetland Assessment
TerraSoil Science conducted a wetland assessment for the proposed development. The focus of the investigation was to identify hydrological drivers of the wetlands/watercourses on the site and to specifically address the functioning of the wetland / watercourses within the context of historical and current site impacts. Methodology used in the investigation Wetland context determination- For the purposes of the site assessment the context of the specific
28 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
site was determined. This was done through the thorough consideration of the geological, topographical, climatic, hydro pedological and catchment context of the site. Aerial photography interpretation- An aerial photograph interpretation exercise of the site was conducted through the use of historical aerial photographs as well as more recent Google Earth images. This data was used to obtain an indication of the extent of the wetlands on the site as well as to provide an indication of the artificial modifiers evident on the site and in the catchment. Historical topographic maps- In order to identify potential wetland areas, the historical 1:50 000 topographic map data was obtained. Terrain unit indicator- Detailed contours of the site (1 m intervals) were used to provide an indication of drainage depressions and drainage lines in the form of concave landscape areas. From this data the terrain unit indicator was deduced. Soil form and soil wetness indicators- The soil form and wetness indicators were assessed on the site through the interpretation of the site characteristics, site geological context as well as a dedicated site investigation on the 31st of August 2018. Historical impacts were identified as the impacts on the soils are very distinct. Soil characteristics could therefore be used to provide a good indication of the historical impacts on the grounds of a forensic approach. In areas where soil impacts are limited the standard approach in terms of identification of soil form and soil wetness indicators was used. Vegetation indicator- Due to the extent of the historical impacts a dedicated vegetation survey for the purpose of wetland delineation was not conducted. Relevant vegetation parameters were noted however, and these are addressed in the report where applicable. Artificial modifiers- Artificial modifiers of the landscape and wetland area were identified during the different components of the investigation and are addressed in the context of the wetland management plan.
3.1.4.1 Emerging issues from the wetland assessment Table 8:Summary of the findings Factor analysis Findings Aerial photos from 1938 to 2004 indicate a steady progression from cultivated land to very Aerial photography significant increase in urban development within the catchment and around the site. By interpretation- 2004 images show that there has been an expansion of the wetland signature in the central watercourse due to stormwater runoff and other possible sources of water. Google images from 2001 to 2019 indicate the central wetland area with very clear signatures of stormwater flows from urban infrastructure. The historical 1:50 000 topographic maps (1939, 1954, 1975, 1983 and 2002 indicate a Historical progression in development activities within the immediate area and catchment of the topographic maps watercourses. The 1939 map confirms the presence of agricultural activities on the edges of the central watercourse. The Topographic wetness index (TWI) provides a very accurate indication of water flow Terrain unit indicator paths and areas of water accumulation that are often correlated with wetlands. This is a function of the topography of the site and ties in with the dominant water flow regime in the soils and the landscape. Areas in blue indicate concentration of water in flow paths with lighter shades of blue indicating areas of regular water flows in the soils and on the surface of the wetland / terrestrial zone interface. The contour data for the site confirms the presence of the watercourses. However, the development on the south-eastern boundary of the site is indicated on the TWI as a distinct source of surface flow of water through the development. This surface water flow was not indicated in any other image or map for the area historically. The anthropogenic nature of this water flow is therefore confirmed, and it is quite possible that these flows will lead to more intensive expression of wetland signatures in the future that are not natural.
29 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Soil form and soil The entire site is characterised by shallow and well-drained structured soils derived from wetness indicators the serpentine (greenstone / mafic and ultramafic) geology. It does not exhibit shallow lateral seepage zones (interflow zones) associated with seepage wetlands. Rather, the site is dominated by recharge soils (well-drained) that feed deeper fractured zones where water will accumulate and flow. The presence of structured and swelling soils in depressions leads to the perching of water on the surface in those areas during rainfall and surface runoff events but without significant subsurface lateral additions. It therefore follows that any further addition of surface water through stormwater runoff from urban infrastructure will lead to larger expression of surface wetland conditions. The artificial modifiers on the site relate mainly to the following: Artificial modifiers Stormwater runoff from surrounding urban developments in the form of urban dwellings. Industrial developments. Sewage pollution and ingress on sections of the site; and Establishment of roads. All of the above developments are characterised by alteration of surface water flow and infiltration dynamics and lead to an amplified expression of wetland conditions in areas characterised by high clay content structure and swelling soils.
According to the specialist a 32 m buffer is not advisable for a feature that is largely of man-made origin (altered position and wetness through additional stormwater ingress) and which will change significantly as a result of development and alteration of stormwater dynamics in the area. Rather, it is strongly advised that the stormwater measures for the site be planned around the depression that exists in the landscape.
Figure 8: Wetland and proposed buffer zone
30 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT This section describes the natural biological factors as they pertain to or are likely to influence the development of the site. To assess and provide relevant information, Scientific Terrestrial Services, ecological specialists, were appointed to conduct faunal and floral studies on site. The sections below provide the preliminary findings of the said studies. Floral Assessment Scientific Terrestrial Services (STS) was appointed to conduct a biodiversity assessment as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment and Authorisation process for proposed Modderfontein Township Development, within the Gauteng Province (hereafter referred to as the “study area”) (Figure 1). At the time of the assessment, no final development plant layouts were available. Specific outcomes in terms of the report are as follows: To determine and describe habitat types, communities and the ecological state of the study area and to rank each habitat type based on conservation importance and ecological sensitivity. To provide inventories of floral species as encountered within the study area. To identify and consider all sensitive landscapes including rocky ridges, wetlands and/ or any other special features. To conduct a Red Data Listed (RDL) floral species assessment as well as an assessment of other Species of Conservation Concern (SCC), including the potential for such species to occur within the study area. To provide detailed information to guide the activities associated with the proposed development within the study area; and To ensure the ongoing functioning of the ecosystem in such a way as to support local and regional conservation requirements and the provision of ecological services in the local area.
The field assessment was undertaken on the 20th and 21st of February 2020 (summer season), to determine the floral ecological status of the study area. The below sections provide the approach followed during the field assessment and reporting of results.
The purpose of the study was to define the floral ecology of the study area, to identify areas of increased Ecological Importance and Sensitivity (EIS), as well as the mapping of such areas, and to describe the Present Ecological State (PES) of the study area. To accurately determine the ecological state of the study area and to capture comprehensive data with respect to floral ecology, the following methodology was followed: Maps and digital satellite imagery were consulted prior to the field assessment in order to determine broad habitats, vegetation types and potentially sensitive sites. The results of these analyses were then used to guide the fieldwork component. All relevant information as presented by SANBI’s Biodiversity Geographic Information Systems (BGIS) website (http://bgis.sanbi.org), including the Gauteng Conservation Plan (2011), was consulted to gain background information on the physical habitat and potential floral diversity associated with the study area; and For the field assessments, a reconnaissance ‘walkabout’ was undertaken to determine the general habitat types found throughout the study area - with special emphasis being placed on areas that may potentially support floral SCC. The field assessments took place on foot in order to identify the occurrence of the dominant plant species and habitat diversities.
3.2.1.1 Habit Units The study area is situated in the Dry Highveld Grassland Bioregion. In this semi-arid ecosystem, water and not the duration and temperature of the growing season is the limiting factor to growth. The patch of approximately 10 000 hectares (ha) of Dry Highveld Grassland in which the study area is situated is almost
31 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614 entirely surrounded by Mesic Highveld Grassland. As such, the grasslands associated with the study area present with some influences from the Mesic Highveld Grassland Bioregion, including slightly higher annual rainfall (593 mm) than what is typical for the Dry Highveld Grasslands (400 – 550 mm).
Three broad habitat units could be distinguished within the study area, namely Degraded Habitat, Grassland Habitat and Wetland Habitat. The habitat ranged from areas heavily influenced by the surrounding anthropogenic activities (degraded habitat with alien vegetation dominant) to areas largely isolated from anthropogenic-related pressures (intact grasslands).
Grassland Habitat The Grassland Habitat within the study area is an isolated ecosystem of approximately 22 ha that is surrounded by housing and industrial developments with a wetland running through its northern section. Within the study area, the Grassland Habitat is characterised by a shallow rock layer, resulting in outcrops scattered throughout this habitat unit; an anticipated feature of the Carletonville Dolomite Grassland vegetation type (i.e. the reference state).
Due to exclusion from significant historic and current modifications to the habitat, such as significant topsoil disturbance, dumping and minimal human movement, the Grassland Habitat retained most of its full complement of naturally occurring species. Habitat integrity is decreased in some sections due to Hyparrhenia hirta and Hyparrhenia tamba dominance, with alien vegetation encroachment, which has reduced this habitat unit’s sensitivity from a moderately high score to an intermediate score. The Grassland Habitat unit remains of increased ecological importance as it conforms to the below: Representative of the reference state (vulnerable Carletonville Dolomite Grassland). Conforms to the definition of indigenous vegetation, and Considered primary grassland as it has not undergone significant or irreversible modification.
Wetland Habitat The Wetland Habitat comprises a specialist group of vegetation that is adapted to saturated soils. Within the study area, the Wetland Habitat is associated with a natural system that runs through the northern section and also borders the eastern section of the study area. Within the southern section of the study area, an artificial feature is present.
The Wetland Habitat within the northern section of the study area was generally in a better condition than the Wetland Habitat within the eastern and southern sections, where the Wetland Habitat borders the Degraded Habitat. Habitat integrity has largely been degraded, especially within the eastern sections of the study area. This is not just a result of impacts on site, e.g. historic dumping and the current proliferation of AIPs, but likely also result from anthropogenic impacts in the immediate surroundings (increases in stormwater to wetlands) and upstream of the systems.
Degraded Habitat The western and southern sections of the study area are associated with Degraded Habitat. Historical disturbance within these areas, such as dumping of rubble and adjacent urban expansions, have resulted in poor habitat conditions. With ongoing anthropogenic activities occurring immediately adjacent to the Degraded Habitat, alien vegetation has encroached into these areas. Since there is no current control of alien vegetation, these species have spread and displaced indigenous1 grassland vegetation.
The floral community structure has been modified to the extent where the vegetation is no longer representative of the reference state, i.e. the Carletonville Dolomite Grassland vegetation type. The southern section of the habitat has prominent rock outcrops, which is characteristic of the reference state; however, these are now overgrown by alien and invasive plant (AIP) trees and thus heavily degraded.
32 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Figure 9: Habitat Units
Faunal Assessment
The purpose of the study was to define the faunal ecology of the study area as well as mapping and defining areas of increased Ecological Importance and Sensitivity (EIS) and to define the Present Ecological State (PES) of the study area. The objectives of this study were: To provide inventories of faunal species as encountered within the study area. To determine and describe habitat types, communities and the ecological state of the study area and to rank each habitat type based on conservation importance and ecological sensitivity. To identify and consider all sensitive landscapes including rocky ridges, wetlands and/ or any other special features. To conduct a Red Data Listed (RDL) and Species of Conservation Concern (SCC) assessment, including species as listed in the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No.10 of 2004) (NEMBA) Threatened or Protected Species (TOPS) list (Government, Notice 389 of 2013), and the overall potential for such species to occur within the study area. To provide detailed information as well as relevant mitigation measures that must be implemented to guide the proposed development activities associated with the study area, and To ensure the ongoing functioning of the ecosystem in such a way as to support local and regional conservation requirements and the provision of ecological services in the local area. 3.2.2.1 Faunal Habitat As mentioned previously, the study area comprises three broad habitat units which are described in section 4.2 and depicted in Figure 9 above. Below the characteristics of these habitats are only described briefly in terms of their relevance to faunal species.
33 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Grassland Habitat - comprises stands of dense tall to medium height grassland covering much of the western extent of the study area. The unit has a relatively diverse floral assemblage however, the habitat integrity has decreased in some areas due to Hyparrhania tamba dominance and alien vegetation encroachment. The mammal assemblage, especially grazers, are largely absent as a result of likely historic human persecution and the location within a transformed and urbanized landscape. As important drivers of grassland maintenance and development, the absence of large mammalian grazers will likely lead to a continued decrease in habitat sensitivity.
Wetland Habitat- The Wetland Habitat comprises of two wetlands, one along the north-eastern and northern boundary and a smaller wetland in the southern portion of the study area. These wetlands have been degraded through dumping of rubble/waste, AIP (Alien Invasive Plant) proliferation and altered hydrological regimes as a result of increase in stormwater runoff. This land habitat supports the highest diversity and abundance of avifauna and many water dependant invertebrates. Due to the saturated soils, fossorial faunal species are limited within this habitat unit, yet specialised habitat for fauna is available here. Mammal spoor and diggings observed were mostly noted within the fringes of this unit.
Degraded Habitat - This habitat dominates the western and southern portions of the study area where historic disturbances from dumping of rubble and edge effects have occurred, resulting in poor habitat conditions. The homogenous nature of these locations and their reduced diversity of indigenous flora and AIP proliferation has resulted in a marked reduction in faunal species due to limited food resources and the absence of niche habitat for specialist species. However, it is deemed likely that many commonly occurring species and generalist species will use these areas for shelter and foraging. The southern and central portions of this unit offered more densely wooded areas which would be utilised by arboreal species and birds. The unit offered more heterogenous forage and habitat for smaller fauna. This habitat provided both good grazing, browsing and shelter for fauna. Small rocky outcrops within the unit would have been favoured by reptiles.
3.2.2.2 Mammals Mammal diversity within the study area was considered moderately low. Only common species capable of enduring in peri-urban or urban locations were noted. This low diversity is attributed to the high levels of transformation of natural landscapes surrounding the site and the absence of suitable corridors for movement from source populations. No signs of mammals persecution were noted in the study area. This is likely to be due to the very low abundance of mammals within the area. Large mammal signs, in the form of scat, spoor and visual observations, were completely absent as was the case with medium sized mammal sign, with only small mammal species residing in the study area, although signs thereof were rare throughout the study area. This may be due to the very dense grass layer which reduced the likelihood of making observations, however, even Sherman traps proved unsuccessful in capturing small mammals.
The low diversity recorded within the study area is likely as a result of the transformation of natural habitats coupled with possible historic persecution of the local mammal assemblages. Lastly, the absence of sufficient natural migratory corridors into and out of the study area further limits the conservation potential for mammal species. The current low diversity may also be as a result of constant human movement in the general locations of the study area, which has disturbed native fauna leading them to relocate to more isolated areas. Mammal species observed either directly or via spoor/scat/dung include, Lepus saxatilis (Scrub Hare) and Hystrix africaeaustralis (Porcupine) – both species are known to occur commonly, even in disturbed locations.
3.2.2.3 Avifauna Avifaunal diversity is considered intermediate within the study area as it was largely restricted to common species. The Grassland, Wetland and Degraded Habitat units did not allow for a heterogeneous floral structure, which is often considered the primary determinant of bird assemblages, and thus an intermediate avifaunal diversity is expected. Moreover, the small extent of the study area and the large degree of isolation from other more pristine areas has limited the suitability of the study area for a large, diverse bird assemblage. For breeding purposes, the avian assemblage appeared to favour the Degraded Habitat where trees have
34 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
established, offering structures suitable for nesting as well as the wetland habitat for reed dependent species such as Euplectes orix (Southern Red Bishop), known to build nests over water bodies. No diurnal raptors where observed, yet signs of owls (although species unknown) where noted within the Grassland Habitat.
3.2.2.4 Amphibians A small non-perennial river runs through the study area and is associated with an unchanneled valley bottom wetland. This Wetland Habitat unit provides suitable habitat for many amphibian species, most of whom require a temporary or permanent water source for breeding. The Wetland habitat, where amphibians are expected to occur was actively searched, however no species were observed during the site visit. The cryptic nature of many amphibian species and the areas they inhabit make them challenging to observe in the field even when abundances are high. The diversity of amphibians noted during the limited site assessment was certainly lower than the actual diversity anticipated within the study area and therefore literature reviews were undertaken to determine which species may utilise the study area, based on the habitat suitability. The Grassland, Degraded and Wetland habitat offer varied habitat for terrestrial amphibian species which is suitable for foraging, however, the site is small and the Wetland Habitat is fragmented within an urban landscape, as such the study area is considered to have a moderately low diversity of amphibian species.
3.2.2.5 Reptiles Two reptile species were observed during the site visit namely, Hemachatus haemachatus (Rinkhals) and Afrotyphlops bibronii (Bibron’s Blind Snake). Reptile species that are likely to occur on site, other than the species listed above include Lygodactylus capensis (Cape Dwarf Gecko), Lygodactylus ocellatus (Spotted Dwarf Gecko), Pachydactylus affinis (Transvaal Gecko), Pachydactylus capensis (Cape Gecko), Nucras lalandii (Delalande’s Sandveld Lizard), Cordylus vittifer (Common Girdled Lizard), Gerrhosaurus flavigularis (Yellow- throated Plated Lizard), Trachylepis punctatissima (Speckled Rock Skink), Varanus niloticus (Nile Monitor), Agama aculeata distincti (Eastern Ground Agama), Leptotyphlops distanti (Distant’s Thread Snake), Causus rhombeatus (Rhombic Night Adder), Aparallactus capensis (Black-headed Centipede-Eater), Lycodonomorphus inornatus (Olive ground snake), Lycophidion capense (Cape wolf snake), Psammophis brevirostris (Short-snouted Grass Snake) and Crotaphopeltis hotamboeia (Red-lipped Snake) amongst others. It is likely that the study area will present a higher reptile diversity than that which was noted above as reptiles are inherently secretive and shy, making their detection and identification in the field challenging (specifically during site visits of a short duration). As such, based on the available food resources and habitat, it is deemed likely that the study area will be able to support several common reptile species.
3.2.2.6 Insects The study area has an intermediate insect diversity. The Grassland habitat has portions that remain intact, however, much of the area around the study area have been transformed through urban development or degraded by peri-urban development, which has impacted on the vegetation composition of the study area. Natural portions of Grassland habitat and Wetland showed an intermediate diversity of insects while the Degraded Habitat which was invaded by several AIP showed a moderately low diversity of insects. Insects are generally the most abundant macro-organisms within landscapes and often perform services vitally important for ecosystem functioning. Therefore, high insect abundance and diversity can indicate a healthy landscape. Insects serve as pollinators, remove detritus material, bury dung and associated parasites below the surface helping to cycle nutrients back into the soil while decreasing the parasitic load within an environment, reducing the risk of disease. Additionally, insects serve as a food resource for various fauna within the study area, and as such a low insect diversity and abundance within the study area may reduce forage sustainability for other faunal species from various classes.
3.2.2.7 Arachnids Arachnid species are notoriously hard to detect over a relatively short period of time, which can often lead to the under estimation of diversity and abundance. Taking this into consideration, habitat conditions for
35 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
arachnids and the available resources were analysed, as well as information on arachnid occurrences and species diversity for the QDS was collected from databases such as iNaturalist and Animal Demography Unit. Several webs and grass funnel-webs were observed within the grass layer during the site assessment. No baboon spider or scorpion burrows were observed throughout the study area. The ADU Online databases indicated several arachnids within the QDS’s 2628AA including Latrodectus geometricus and the baboon spider Harpactira hamiltoni. The general habitat supplemented with the observations recorded on the site suggest that the diversity within the study area is intermediate. Scorpion habitat within the study area was low, yet habitat for species such as Hadogenes gunningi, Opistophthalmus pugnax, Uroplectes triangulifer and Pseudolychas ochraceus was available within the study area, as observed during the site assessment.
3.2.2.8 Faunal Species of Conservational Concern Assessment During field assessments, it is not always feasible to identify or observe all species within an area, largely due to the secretive nature of many faunal species, possible low population numbers or varying habits of species. As such, and to specifically assess an area for faunal SCC, a Probability of Occurrence (POC) matrix is used, utilising a number of factors to determine the probability of faunal SCC occurrence within the study area. Species whose known distribution ranges and habitat preferences include the study area were taken into consideration. Three SCC have an increased probability of occurrence (60% or higher) to utilise the study area, namely Birds:- Tyto capensis (African Grass Owl, VU), and Reptiles:- Chamaesaura aenea (Coppery Grass Lizard, NT) and Homoroselaps dorsalis (Striped Harlequin Snake, NT). Below follows a short description of the expected faunal SCC relative to habitat units.
Grassland Habitat- Coppery Grass Lizard (Chamaesaura aenea, NT) are restricted to the Grassland Biome of South Africa and occur between 1 400 – 2 228m above sea level. They are found on the grassy slopes and plateau of the eastern escarpment, usually sheltering at the base of grass tussocks. Homoroselaps dorsalis (Striped Harlequin Snake, NT) occur within a range of habitats within the Grassland, Bushveld, Lowveld and Indian Ocean Coastal Belt bioregions between 100 – 1 800m above sea level. They are partially fossorial and are known to inhabit old termitaria within grassland habitat. The species is known to have a very patchy distribution.
Grassland and Wetland Habitat - Tyto capensis (African Grass Owl, VU) are largely confined to high rainfall areas in the eastern half of South Africa. The species is often associated with tall rank grass or sedges where the substrate is damp, such as wetlands and non-perennial streams, however, it is not exclusively associated with wetlands.
Due to the habitat units associated with the study area, the likelihood for faunal SCCs occurring is deemed to be high. Should any faunal SCC as listed above be encountered during the course of the proposed development activities, all operations must be stopped immediately, and a biodiversity specialist consulted, in order to advise on the best way forward.
36 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Figure 10: Faunal sensitivity of the site
HUMAN ENVIRONMENT
Socio-economic issues
The City of Johannesburg Spatial Development Framework 2040, 2016, defines the Spatial Structure of the metropolitan in relation to Modderfontein as having “pockets of under-utilised, well located pieces of land within the urban structure such as those in the Modderfontein and Frankenwald areas”. In interpreting the current city structure morphologically, Johannesburg displays a unique structure of inverted polycentricity, inherited largely from its complex history. This structure is characterised, inter-alia, by peripheral or satellite nodes that are disproportionately large compared to and disconnected connected from the main urban centre (Inner City). It is also characterised by an illogical density gradient, where core economic areas are surrounded by large low to medium density residential areas. Many high-density residential areas are located on the outskirts of the city, and far from job and economic opportunities. This spatial contradiction translates into a job housing mismatch and has a significant impact in terms of social exclusion, energy and carbon intensity (by increasing travel time and travel distances from jobs to housing) and economic productivity (by jeopardising agglomeration economies) with most commuter flows being directed to the city centre.
Demographics
The site lies within an area that contains residential and industrial developments. The residential area of Illiondale is of a middle to upper income level, which is reflected in the attractive range of homes and properties in this township. The site, therefore, lies in an interface area between residential and non- residential uses, i.e. an area in which there is existing integration of land uses, and where places of residency are near places of employment.
37 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
At a metropolitan level, the site is within Region C Ward 32 of the municipality. Below is summarised information obtained from Wazimap.
38 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Figure 11: Demographic information
Noise
The area surrounding the proposed development site is primarily industrial/ commercial uses. As such, the ambient noise is a product of these activities. Although no specific study is proposed, it is not anticipated that noise levels exceed the ambient levels provided for in the Regulations and by-laws.
Archaeological and Heritage Assessment
Several cultural and heritage studies have been undertaken in the past for the Modderfontein area, including the application site. According to previous studies, the site has the disinterred grave of Sophie Geel, a young girl who drowned in Dam 1 at Modderfontein on 20 October 1919. According to the records, Sophie worked for the Michell family, resident at Italy Village, and died in a failed attempt to rescue her charge, young Ada Mitchell, from the dam backwash. Sophie’s remains were reburied in the Modderfontein cemetery in 1996. Except for this, no other resources have been found on site.
Visual aspects
The development of the site will result in the transformation of its open, natural character to that of an urban nature. One of the major components of environmental quality is visual appearance, which means that the visual and aesthetic character of the site and its relation to the surrounding environment must be carefully considered in developing an attractive lifestyle concept.
When developing new land, alteration of the natural character of the landscape is inevitable and unavoidable. However, it is important that these alterations are understood in the context of existing regional planning objectives for the area and that the alterations recognise the importance of the inherent aesthetics of the site’s landscape and the public value of viewing the natural landscape.
Therefore, development should be managed to fit the natural character and quality of the landscape based on the site’s context, its topography and cultural history. It is not practical to provide maximum protection for visual quality of the site in all instances, especially with a development of the scale envisaged at Modderfontein. It is, therefore, necessary to apply a system that allows for a level of visual resonance, desirability and practical enhancement of the site and compatibility of the proposed land uses with the obtaining character of the area.
39 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Source: Bosman 2010
Figure 12: Cultural and Heritage Resources in the Modderfontein Area
40 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
4.0 INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES
INTERNAL WATER RETICULATION The proposed internal reticulation will be located and planned in road reserves at 1.5m from stand boundaries, with house connections to the individual stands. The development will be serviced to provide the required minimum flow and head requirements as determined by Johannesburg Water. A water network analysis will be done with TechnoCad Watermate Ver 2020 to optimize the pipe sizes for the development. A minimum pipe size of 110mm diameter is envisaged.
The reticulation will consist of PVC-O class 16 pipes and fittings with each erf being provided with an HDPE class 16, PE 100 SDR 11 pipe house connections with Plasson compression fittings.
The designed services will be in accordance with the requirements of the Johannesburg Water (Pty) Ltd specifications and designs and constructed in accordance with the relevant SABS 1200 specifications. Valves and hydrants will be installed as required in terms of specifications and “Red Book” standards and the system will provide for fire flow as determined for low and moderate risk 2. JW standard drawings 1-7 will be the standard for construction. Construction drawings for the planned development will be submitted for approval by Johannesburg Water (Pty) Ltd.
INTERNAL SEWER RETICULATION The proposed internal reticulation will be located and planned in road reserves at 1.5m from stand boundaries, with house connections to the individual stands. The sewers will be designed to drain 85% of the depth of the stands and manhole spacing will not exceed 80m.
The reticulation will be in accordance with the Johannesburg Water (Pty) Ltd drawings and specifications and installation will be in accordance with the relevant SABS 1200 specifications. A preliminary assessment of the sewer design has been completed and no sewers exceed a depth of 3.0m. The Johannesburg Water standard sewer drawings will be applicable to the construction.
The proposed development will be gravity reticulated to the lowest two points of the development situated on the western boundary where it will connect to the existing main outfall sewer. The sewer pipes will range in size from 160mm to 250mm diameter.
The planned infrastructure will be submitted for approval by Johannesburg Water and stands will be serviced to provide the required minimum flow and pipe sizes as required by Johannesburg Water. A sewer flow network analysis will be done with TechnoCad Pipemate Ver 2020 to determine the pipe sizes for the development. A minimum pipe size of 160mm diameter was specified.
The Johannesburg Water standard sewer drawings (No 1 to 7) will be applicable for the construction phase as well as the relevant SABS 1200 specifications. Stormwater Management A detailed stormwater analysis will be undertaken for all sub-catchment areas affecting the site. A HydroCube computer model will be used as basis for the stormwater design. In the planning phase of the project a few places were identified where stormwater is being discharged onto the site. This stormwater discharge emanating from the adjacent developments will be taken into consideration when designing the stormwater reticulation for this township. The design sizes and position of the underground conduits will be sourced from the above HydroCube design and depicted on the stormwater and street key plan. The detailed design will be in line with the latest standards of JRA and will be submitted to JRA for their approval.
41 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Internal Roads
The street geometric and vertical design will be done with TechnoCad Roadmate Ver 2020. The proposed internal roads will consist of prepared earthworks layers with a 150mm crusher run base course; 150mm sub- base; 150mm selected gravel layer and 150mm roadbed and a 25mm asphalt surface all to the requirements of JRA. The kerbs will match the existing kerbing in the area and will be pre-cast semi-mountable fig 8c kerbs.
The vertical and horizontal alignment will be determined based on a design speed of 60 kph and providing comfortable vehicular access to the individual properties. The road widths for various reserve widths will be as specified by the Johannesburg Roads Authority with a minimum width of 5,5m.
Construction will be in accordance with Johannesburg Roads Agency’s standards and specifications and relevant SABS 1200 specifications.
EXTERNAL INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES Stormwater System The stormwater management system considers the runoff in the various township extensions. This is the minor storm which occurs frequently and is of low severity. Designed as a 1 in 5-year storm, the water is channelled mainly along roads and piped under road intersections.
The runoff of the whole sub-catchment is termed the major storm. This water has to be led outside the township and is designed for the 1 in 25-year return period storm. This system considers the downstream impacts of unusually high runoff caused by all the minor storm systems up-stream. Major loss of life and property can occur if the major system is not channelled correctly in large open channels or appropriately sized pipe systems. A full comprehensive stormwater management report will be submitted at a later stage to the Johannesburg Roads Agency for their approval.
Bulk water services
The adjacent Founders Hill to the north is fully reticulated and supplied from the existing Zandfontein South Network. An existing 250mm diameter uPVC pipe runs underneath the R25 and connects to the Founders Hill Industrial Area south of the R25 to the supply system. This existing 250mm diameter connection pipe has sufficient available spare capacity to supply the development with bulk water. Two supply options are proposed to this existing 250mm diameter pipe. The water supply of the greater area is simulated on a Wadiso computer program. Johannesburg Water Strategic Planning is operating the computer model and keeps it up to date. The peak flow for the proposed 927 “Residential 1” stands and 1182 “Residential 3” units are calculated as 58,58L/s using a peak factor of 4. The total calculated water consumption per day is 1 265,4kL.
Bulk sewer services
The proposed development does not fall within any existing City of Johannesburg or City of Ekurhuleni sewer drainage areas. However, according to a study done by GLS Consulting, it can be incorporated into the Bruma drainage area draining via the recently constructed Illiondale outfall sewer to the Northern WWTP located in the City of Johannesburg. Sufficient spare capacity is available and confirmed by GLS Consulting. The calculated flow during peak hours is 32,2L/sec. The calculated total effluent is 1 054,5kL/day. The exact connect points to the main outfall sewer are indicated on the attached sewer reticulation plan.
Existing road network
Existing Modderfontein Rd (K155 / R25 / P91-1: - This is a northeast-southwest Class 2 metropolitan distributor road, located approximately 200m to the north of the subject site. Modderfontein Road is mainly a dual carriageway road along its length (two lanes per direction, separated by a median island), with
42 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614 additional turning lanes at its signalised intersections. This includes its signalised T-intersection with Laurie Road, about 250m to the north-west of the site. The majority of this road has therefore been upgraded to full K-route standards, except for the north-western portion from its intersection with Kwartel Road (M86). The current traffic volumes on Modderfontein Road in the vicinity of its intersection with Laurie Road are very high, at approximately 4780vph and 3880vph (total both directions) during the weekday AM and PM peak hours, respectively.
Laurie Road (M78): - is a north-south Class 3 minor arterial road that is situated about 250m to the west of the subject site. It is a single carriageway road along its length (two undivided lanes), travelling from its signalised T-intersection with Modderfontein Road further south up to its traffic circle-controlled intersection with Aitken Road, from it then becomes Betschana Road further to the south. This road mainly serves as a major north-south collector road in the subject area, but also provides direct access to some complexes and access to single residential erven via service roads. To note is that the southern portion of this road functions more as a Class 4b road since it has a 20m road reserve and provides direct access to individual erven. The existing traffic volumes on Laurie Road in the vicinity of the subject site are in the order of 1550vph and 1180vph (total both directions) during the weekday AM and PM peak hours, respectively. On-site observations have indicated that excessive queues and delays are experienced on this road during the AM peak hour, from its intersection with Modderfontein continuing further to the south. Based on these traffic counts as well as our site observations during the peaks, it is evident that an exceptionally large component of the traffic is through traffic from well outside the area. It is likely that the motorist avoids main routes such as the N3 during the peaks and then use routes such as Laurie Road instead.
Margaret Road: - is a noticeably short east-west Class 5 road, located just to the west of the northern corner of the subject site. It is a single carriageway road (two undivided lanes) of approximately 140m in length and mainly serves as a connector road between Laurie Road and Cecil Auret Road. This road also provides direct access to one single residential erf. The traffic volumes on this road are exceptionally low during the peaks, at about 70vph and 50vph (total both directions) during the AM and PM peak hours, respectively.
Cecil Auret Road: - is a north-south Class 5 access road immediately to the west of the site. It is a single carriageway road along its length (two undivided lanes) and primarily provides direct access to single residential erven in the subject area. To the north, this road terminates via a panhandle/ turning facility just south of Modderfontein Road, while to the south this road eventually transitions into Aitken Road at its priority stop-controlled T-intersection with Norman Road. The existing traffic volumes on Cecil Auret Road past the subject site are exceptionally low, being in the order of 70vph and 50vph (total both directions) during the AM and PM peak hours, respectively.
Crawford Road: - Similar to Margaret Road, this road is a noticeably short east-west Class 5 road, located just to the west of the subject site, which forms an all-way stop controlled intersection with Cecil Auret Road. It is a single carriageway road (two undivided lanes) of approximately 200m in length and directly links Cecil Auret Road with Saner Road. This road terminates via a panhandle/ turning facility to the west, while to the east this road terminates at the site boundary. This road also provides direct access to some single residential erven. The traffic volumes on this road are minimal during the peaks, at about 5vph and 15vph (total both directions) during the AM and PM peak hours, respectively.
Dunbar Road: - is a small Class 5 access road, located in close proximity to the south-western corner of the subject site. It is a single carriageway road (two undivided lanes) of about 115m in length, which provides direct access to a few individual erven. This road forms a priority stop-controlled T-intersection with Cecil Auret Road, approximately 120m to the west of the subject site. From on-site observations it was noted that the surfacing of this road is currently in a poor condition and which desperately needs rehabilitation. The current traffic volumes on Dunbar Road are about 10vph (total both directions) during both the AM and PM peak hours.
43 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Aitken Road is an east-west Class 4 residential collector street that is situated about 220m south-west of the subject site. This road is the continuation of Cecil Auret Road, from its priority stop-controlled T-intersection with Norman Road and travels further west, where it terminates at its all-way stop controlled T-intersection with 1st Avenue. It is a single carriageway (two lanes undivided) along its length and forms a 4-way traffic circle-controlled intersection with Laurie Road and Betschana Road, approximately 450m south-west of the site. In the vicinity of this intersection, the existing traffic volumes on Aitken Road are in the order of 910vph and 990vph (total both directions) during the AM and PM peak hours, respectively.
Norman Road / Alpine Road is another Class 5 road that links Aitken / Cecil Auret Road with Laurie Road. It is also a single carriageway (two lanes undivided) along its length and serves as a residential collector road for a number of single erven in the area. The traffic volumes on this road are currently in the order of 25-30vph (total both directions) during the AM and PM peak hours.
Hubert Mathew Road is a Class 5 road and forms a 4-legged, priority stop-controlled intersection with Laurie Road and Alpine Road, approximately 460m to the west of the subject site. It is another single carriageway (two lanes undivided) along its length, which mainly serves as a residential collector street, but also provides access to small businesses in the area. The existing traffic volumes on Hubert Mathew Road in the vicinity of the above-mentioned intersection are currently in the order of 180vph and 140vph (total both directions) during the AM and PM peak hours, respectively.
Planned Future Road Network
Future PWV3: is a planned future east-west Class 1 freeway that will border the subject site to the north. To the west of the site, this road will be planned to form an access interchange with the N3 freeway, where it will also terminate, while to the east of the site, this road is planned to travel all the way up to the Mpumalanga border. This future planned road will eventually serve as an alternative east-west freeway to the existing N12 freeway. Future K115: is a proposed future north-south Class 2 metropolitan distributor road that will border the subject site to the east. From past the site, this future provincial road will travel further north where it will eventually merge with Allandale Road (M39), also known as the existing K58 route. Further to the south of the site, this road will follow the existing alignment of Driefontein Road and Barbara Road and will terminate where it eventually merges with the K117. No direct access from this future road will be possible for the proposed development. Note that the future K115 is planned to form an access interchange with the future PWV3 road on the north-eastern corner of the subject site.
At this stage it is not known when this future planned PWV-route and K-route will be implemented. It is, however, important to note that the township boundaries take full cognisance of the road reserves of these planned future roads (see the town planner’s proposed Township Layout Plan in Annexure A). These road reserves have been excluded from the proposed township layout and will therefore not affect the future planning of this route, or vice versa.
With reference to CoE’s Road Network Master Plan, there are no new local roads planned in the vicinity of the subject site; generally speaking, the surrounding road network is well-established. In light of this, it is confirmed that the CoE road master planning and network is not affected by this proposed development, or vice versa.
Proposed access to the township
The proposed Township will have direct access only to the existing City of Ekurhuleni roads network at points 1, 2 and 3. The different access points are discussed below.
44 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Site Access 1 will be provided via the extension of the eastern leg of the existing 4-legged intersection between Cecil Auret Road and Crawford Road. This access will only serve the ‘Residential 1’ component of the proposed development.
Site Access 2 will be provided off Cecil Auret Road via existing Erf 460, which is located about 110m to the south of the T-intersection between Cecil Auret Road and Margaret Road. This property will be expropriated by the developer in order to enable the proposed access road implementation. This access will only serve the conventional housing (‘Residential 3’) portion of the proposed development. This access makes it possible to access that northern part of the development without crossing the wetland area.
Site Access 3 will be provided via the extension of existing Dunbar Road, which is located on the southern corner of the subject site. This existing road will be extended via a new horizontal curve and will provide access to both the single residential erven (‘Residential 1’), as well as the inclusionary housing portion (‘Residential 3’) of the proposed development. Site Access 3 and Site Access 1 will be linked via the new internal/ local township road network.
Figure 13: Proposed Access Points
45 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Figure 14: Proposed Site Access Intersections
Proposed Roads upgrades
Based on the estimated additional traffic generations of the proposed development and the projected trip distribution onto the surrounding road network during the weekday AM and PM peak hours, the capacity analyses as well as on-site observations during the peaks, the following road/intersection upgrades below are proposed for the developer. i. Modderfontein Road (R25) / Laurie Road (M78) Intersection Additional short right turning lane on the western approach of Modderfontein Road. Additional short receiving lane on Laurie Road. Additional short through lane on the eastern approach of Modderfontein Road. Additional short receiving lane on the western leg of Modderfontein Road. Additional short right turning lane on Laurie Road. Separate, short left turning slip lane on Laurie Road, and Optimize traffic signal timing plans. ii. Laurie Road (M78) / Margaret Road Intersection Upgrade to a traffic circle (approximately 28m inscribed diameter), with a single circulating lane and kerbed splitter islands, and Partial realignment of the existing service road in order to form a feasible T-intersection with Margaret Road. iii. Laurie Road (M78) / Aitken Road / Betschana Road: Upgrade to a traffic circle with double circulating lanes. Additional short left turning lane on the Betschana Road approach – existing approach to be a shared through and right turning lane. Additional short receiving lane on the western leg of Aitken Road. Additional short receiving lane on Laurie Road.
46 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Additional short, shared through and left turning lane on the Laurie Road approach – existing approach to be a shared through and right turning lane. Additional short receiving lane on Betschana Road; and Additional short, shared through and left turning lane on the western approach of Aitken Road – existing approach to be a dedicated right turning lane.
iv. Cecil Auret Road / Site Access 2 Intersection Proposed new priority stop-controlled T-intersection with free-flow conditions maintained along Cecil Auret Road; and All legs to be single lane approaches.
v. Crawford Road Proposed extension of the eastern leg of the Cecil Auret Road and Crawford Road intersection, as part of the access provision to the proposed development.
vi. Dunbar Road Proposed extension of Dunbar Road as part of the access provision to the proposed development.
Figure 15: Proposed Roads Upgrades
47 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
4.3.7.1 Phasing of Roads Upgrades The upgrading of the relevant roads and intersections are applicable to the proposed townships as a whole. However, due to the high costs of implementing the engineering services for the townships, it is more feasible for a developer to implement the development in phases, which is made possible with smaller townships. In considering the kick-off needed for certain road infrastructure and considering the anticipated traffic generation contribution of each township (or phase) the table below shows the proposed partial implementation of the upgrades, linked to the various townships/ phases.
Table 9: Phasing of Roads Upgrades Township Extent of Proposed Upgrades Extension Development Founders Hill 314 ‘Res 1’ Erven Laurie Road (M78) / Margaret Road intersection: Proposed Ext. 19 677 ‘Res 3’ Units new traffic circle (approximately 28m inscribed diameter), with a single circulating lane and kerbed splitter islands, as well as partial realignment of the existing service road in order to form a feasible T-intersection with Margaret Road. Cecil Auret Road / Site Access 2 intersection: Proposed new priority stop-controlled T-intersection with free-flow conditions maintained along Cecil Auret Road. Crawford Road: Proposed extension as part of access provision to the proposed development, and Internal township streets and access intersections. Founders Hill 299 ‘Res 1’ Erven Laurie Road (M78) / Aitken Road / Betschana Road Ext. 20 234 ‘Res 3’ Units intersection: Upgrade to a traffic circle with double circulating lanes, as well as additional approach lanes and receiving lanes on northern, southern and western approaches. Dunbar Road: Proposed extension as part of access provision to the proposed development, and Internal township streets and access intersections. Founders Hill 314 ‘Res 1’ Erven Modderfontein Road (R25) / Laurie Road (M78) intersection: Ext. 20 271 ‘Res 3’ Units Upgrade geometry to include additional approach lanes and receiving lanes on all three legs, and Internal township streets and access intersections.
Electricity supply
The estimated electricity capacity required for the township amounts to 8181 kVA. According to the engineers, capacity is currently available at the Westfield 132/11kV substation. Sebenza Ext 6, south of the proposed development, is presently being supplied by means of underground cables from Westfield 132/11kV substation. These cables do have limited spare capacity however City Power will investigate the matter upon receipt of a formal application. In the event that capacity is not available, new cable feeders (300mm² x 3 core AL 11kV XLPE) will have to be installed, supplied from Westfield 132/11kV substation, which was recently upgraded to ensure the area is served with electricity and this will be able to be expanded to accommodate the new development. As the proposed development is located within the Westfield 132/11kV substation supply zone and can be supplied from the existing substation. In case that there is no spare capacity available from the exiting supply cable for Sebenza Ext 6, the supply cable for the proposed development will be installed parallel to the existing supply cable route for Sebenza Ext 6, as shown below.
48 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Figure 16: Electrical Feeder Route
49 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
5.0 MOTIVATION FOR THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT
According to the Guidelines on Need and Desirability, when "need and desirability" must be considered as part of an EIA process, the content of the SDFs, EMFs and other relevant plans, frameworks and strategies must be considered when considering the merits of each application. Whether a proposed activity will be in line with or deviation from the plan, framework, or strategy per se is not the issue, but rather the ecological, social and economic impacts that will result because of the alignment or deviation. As such, the EIA must specifically provide information on these impacts in order to be able to consider the merits of the specific application. Below is a discussion on the need and desirability of the proposed development.
CONSIDERATION OF NEED AND DESIRABILITY
The need for development is fundamentally supported by the existence of a single, strategically located and largely undeveloped land, which has the key potential to support the realisation of integrated urban development consistent with the provisions of the Spatial Development Framework. The site is located adjacent to the Randburg-OR Tambo Development Corridor which is aimed at establishing a strategic connection between the northern parts of the city (Randburg, Sandton and Alexandra) and Ekurhuleni, to the OR Tambo Airport and its surrounding Aerotropolis; incorporating the Modderfontein, Frankenwald and surrounding areas; develop Alexandra into an intensive, liveable mixed-use area well-connected into the surrounding urban opportunities; creating a regional logic for the development of strategic land parcels using current development dynamics to drive growth and reduce expansion pressure on the periphery (COJ 2040).
The City of Joburg’s Spatial Development Framework (2016) identifies the Modderfontein area as a future Principal Metropolitan Sub-Centre forming part of the Randburg– OR Tambo Corridor. According to the COJ, the areas’ strategic location within the broader city-region makes it well suited for such a centre. The intention is to create space and opportunity for major economic growth and expansion that is integrated with the rest of the city-region, taking advantage of existing and planned infrastructure in the area.
The City of Johannesburg Spatial Development Framework 2040 defines the Spatial Structure of the metropolitan in relation to Modderfontein as having “pockets of under-utilised, well located pieces of land within the urban structure such as those in the Modderfontein and Frankenwald areas”. In interpreting the current city structure morphologically, Johannesburg displays a unique structure of inverted polycentricity, inherited largely from its complex history. This structure is characterised, inter-alia, by peripheral or satellite nodes that are disproportionately large compared to and disconnected from the main urban centre (Inner City). It is also characterised by an illogical density gradient, where core economic areas are surrounded by large low to medium density residential areas. Many high-density residential areas are located on the outskirts of the city, and far from job and economic opportunities. This spatial contradiction translates into a job-housing mismatch and has a significant impact in terms of social exclusion, energy and carbon intensity (by increasing travel time and travel distances from jobs to housing) and economic productivity (by jeopardising agglomeration economies) with most commuter flows being directed to the city centre (COJ 2040).
If the surrounding uses are considered, the need for this projected is clearly demonstrated especially if juxtaposed against the “spatial contradiction which translates into a job housing mismatch. According to the IDP, below are the shortcomings of the current City Structure which this development proposal will contribute towards alleviating: Urban sprawl and limiting densities. High levels of spatial inequality and a mismatch between jobs and housing. Fragmentation and spatial disconnection. Limited diversity and inefficient land use patterns. Increasing pressure on the natural environment.
50 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
The residential sector in Gauteng, South Africa, has performed very well over the last few years. This increased performance results from the abnormally long and severe slump in “construction fixed investments” during the 1980’s and 1990’s. A typical “construction fixed investment” cycle should be in the region of 15-20 years. In the 80’s/90’s period of stagnation in South Africa, this cycle was almost two decades. Subsequently, the country’s economic growth has been on a broad, accelerating path, since the early 1990’s. Hence, the demand for economic and residential infrastructure has been established.
The site, being one of the last available pieces of land around the area; the careful planning of this development proposal as informed by the biophysical constraints on site and the fact that it is not only aligned with the city’s spatial development framework but addresses an ever growing need for housing in the province, the need and desirability is self-evident.
DESCRIPTION OF ALTERNATIVES
The Integrated Environmental Management (IEM) procedure stipulates that the environmental investigation needs to consider feasible alternatives for any proposed development. Therefore, several possible proposals or alternatives for accomplishing the same objectives should be identified and investigated. The various alternatives are assessed in terms of both environmental acceptability as well as socio-economic feasibility. The preferred option is to be highlighted and presented to the authorities.
Input alternatives
Various types of material can be used for the construction of Modderfontein Residential Township and its associated structures. These include different brick types (face brick, cement brick, etc.), roof types (pitched or flat), finishes (paint colour, external lighting, landscape features, etc.) and road surfacing (asphalt, brick paving). The proposed development should enhance the status of the area, be aesthetically pleasing and present a high order node in the area.
Energy effective construction and orientation methods need to be considered. The following recommendations regarding building structures and designs are recommended: Use of building material that requires excessive energy to manufacture should be minimised. Use of building material originating from sensitive or scarce environmental resources should be minimised, e.g. no tropical hardwood may be used. Building material should be legally obtained by the supplier, e.g. wood must have been legally harvested, and sand should be obtained only from legal borrow pits and from commercial sources. Building material that can be recycled / reused should be used rather than building material that cannot. Use highly durable building material for parts of the building that is unlikely to be changed during the life of the building is highly recommended. Make use of recycled concrete (green concrete), and Make use of clay blocks for construction of buildings.
Activity alternatives
These are sometimes referred to as project alternatives, although the term activity can be used in a broad sense to embrace policies, plans and programmes as well as projects. Consideration of such alternatives requires a change in the nature of the proposed activity.
A consideration was given to developing the site as a mixed use encompassing residential and industrial uses. However, due to economic consideration, compatibility of uses and the need for different housing typologies on site, this option was discarded. The option of mixed housing typologies aligned with the policy of inclusionary housing policy was considered ideal.
51 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Site layout alternatives Site layout alternatives permit consideration of different spatial configurations of an activity on a site. This may include components of a proposed development or the entire activity. For example, siting of a structure either prominently to attract attention or screened from view to minimize aesthetic impacts.
The application site is surrounded urban development and is traversed by a wetland. As a result, the design of the layout had to incorporate environmentally sensitive portions of the site into an open space system while ensuring that efficiency in circulation and linkages within the township are not adversely compromised.
Considering the elements mentioned above, infrastructure provisions and the need to ensure alignment and to reduce possible negative impacts of the development on the environment, alternative versions of the layout were developed.
Figure 17: Alternative Layout
52 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
The first layout considered inclusion of industrial uses at the edge of the township adjacent to existing industrial uses to serve as a buffer. The option also included a road linking the northern and southern sections of the township through a road across the wetland. This alternative was discarded on the basis that existing industrial areas have non-polluting industries and that industrial uses within a residential precinct would have brought about the compatibility question as well as compromise the amount of land available to make the residential development viable.
This alternative was modified by removing industrial uses in preference for residential uses. A link road between the northern and southern portions across the non-perennial stream was also retained for ease of traffic circulation within the township. Further, and as per the recommendations of the wetland specialist, a 15m wetland buffer zone was observed in certain areas.
The other option, the preferred alternative, considered location of high-density residential development adjacent to warehouses albeit with a buffer of about 15metres, dividing the development into three different extensions and removing a link road between the northern and southern portions of the development. This option was preferred on account of meeting the objectives of the application.
Location alternatives
No alternative site alternatives were considered by the proponent, as this site is owned by the proponent and is close to similar land uses and was purchased for the purpose. Further, preliminary investigations concluded that the proposed development is suited to the site due to the site’s location in terms of the requirements for residential development.
Demand alternatives
According to the Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries, demand alternatives arise when a demand for a certain product or service can be met by some alternative means. Thus, for example, the demand for electricity could be met by supplying more energy or through using energy more efficiently by managing demand. The housing shortage continues to dodge municipalities, despite different accommodation measures provided. Therefore, provision of mixed housing typology within an urban fabric (close to job opportunities) is considered desirable.
Status quo / No-go alternatives
The no-go option was also considered. This entails leaving the site in its present state. The site is currently vacant. Leaving it in its present state would mostly likely result in the site being unattended to, uncontrolled and unmanaged which could subject the site to abuse and degradation (which is already taking place), as no control mechanisms are likely to be implemented.
Vacant land within the Gauteng urban core in general is a valuable commodity and resource and even more so when such land falls within or is adjacent to a development corridor. It is imperative that such a resource is not left vulnerable to the effects of urban decay and its negative economic and social implications.
If development of the site is not approved the site will remain as is. Given that preliminary assessment does not point to any environmental fatal flaws but that the site is strategically located, and its development is likely to contribute substantially to economic development, employment creation and that the wetland areas will not be adversely affected it is therefore considered proper that development of the site might be a better option from economic, social and environmental perspectives.
53 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
6.0 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS
Following the finalisation of the draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report, the requisite public participation process is being undertaken. This section provides an overview of this processes undertaken in compliance with the requirements of the Regulations.
OBJECTIVES OF PUBLIC PARTICIPATION Public participation is an essential and regulatory requirement for an environmental authorisation process and must be undertaken in terms of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations GNR. 982 (December 2014). Public participation is a process that is intended to lead to a joint effort by stakeholders, technical specialists, the authorities and the proponent/developer who work together to produce better decisions than if they had acted independently.
Further, the approach to public participation is in accordance with the principles of the NEMA as elaborated upon in General Notice 657, titled “Guideline 4: Public Participation” (Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, 19 May, 2006), which states that: “Public participation process means a process in which potential interested and affected parties (I&APs) are given an opportunity to comment on, or raise issues relevant to specific matters.”
The process is designed to provide information to and receive feedback from interested and affected parties (I&AP). This provides organisations and individuals with an opportunity to raise concerns and make comments and suggestions to influence the Project layout, design and the final impact assessment report.
During the Scoping Phase the public participation process enabled Interested and Affected Parties to: Understand the context of the EIA. Become informed and educated about the proposed project and its potential impacts. Raise issues of concern and suggestions for enhanced benefits. Verify that their comments, issues of concern and suggestions have been recorded. Assist in identifying reasonable alternatives, and Contribute relevant local information and traditional knowledge to the environmental impact assessment process.
During the EIR phase, the process aims to: Ensure that relevant information including local and traditional knowledge contributes to the environmental impact assessment process. Ensure that issues and suggestions from registered I&AP are considered in the environmental investigations and feedback has been provided. Afford opportunities to I&AP to comment on the findings of the EIA; and Identify further issues of concern from the findings of the EIA.
During the decision-making phase, the process entitles I&AP to be informed of the outcome (authorisation) and how the decision can be appealed.
54 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION UNDERTAKEN DURING THE SCOPING PHASE As per the provisions of the Regulations, an extensive public participation was undertaken during the scoping phase. Below are some of the key activities undertaken.
Site and Related Notification As per the Regulations site notices were fixed at places that are conspicuous to the public at the boundary of the site where the activity is to be undertaken. The position and sizes of these notices complied with the provisions in the Regulations. Also, the adjacent land owners/occupiers, the ward councillor and government departments and state organs were given the requisite notices.
Advertising In accordance with the requirements of the Regulations, the project was advertised in the Star Newspaper. I&AP were invited to register their interest in the project, to review the Draft Scoping Report and to provide comments as appropriate. Briefing Document
A Background Information Document (BID) for the project was compiled. The BID provided an outline of the project, details of the EIA process and how I&AP could participate in the process. The BID was distributed to all potential I&APs including adjacent land owners/occupiers. Issues and Response Report
An issues and response report was compiled as required. The relevant report was incorporated into the final scoping Report submitted to GDARD.
Public Review of the Draft Scoping Report
All the notices and adverts informed the I&AP of the availability of the Draft Scoping Report and the Plan of Study for EIA at www.nalisustainabilitysolutions.co.za and invited them to access and review it. Authority Consultation
In addition to notifying and requesting comments from organs of state which have jurisdiction in respect of aspects of the proposed activity, specific consultation with GDARD in the manner described below was undertaken. Submission of an application for authorisation. Acceptance of the application and allocation of activity specific reference number. Submission of Draft Scoping Report, and Acceptance of Scoping Report and PoS for EIA, followed by comments from GDARD. Final Environmental Scoping Report Comments received were addressed and/or incorporated into the Final Scoping Report. The final report was made available on EAP’s website to all Registered I&AP. The report was also submitted to GDARD for consideration.
55 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION DURING THE EIR PHASE
Notices and Advertising
The availability of the Draft EIA Report will be advertised in the Star Newspaper. In addition, notices will be placed on site to notify and invite I&AP to register and review the Draft EIA Report and to provide comments as appropriate. Public Review of the Draft EIR
The Draft EIR will be published on the EAP’s website. All notices will indicate that the report is available on the website and invite I&AP to submit comments within 30-days of publication of notices. Organs of state and authority consultation
Copies of the report will be provided to the municipality and DWS. Other relevant organs of state were notified of the availability of the report and directed to access the electronic versions on our website. At the same time copies of the report were submitted to the GDARD for review. Issues and Response Report
All comments and issues raised during the public review period will be captured the Issues and Response Report and included in the final EIR. Environmental Authorisation and Notifications
On receipt of the environmental authorisation, an e-mail will be sent out to inform stakeholders and Registered I&APs of the authorisation, its associated conditions and the provisions for the appeal process.
56 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
7.0 KEY FINDING FROM SPECIALIST STUDIES
This section presents the key findings from specialists’ assessments conducted. These were essential in informing the proposed development as well as the impacts likely from or on the proposed activity.
ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT Assessments that fulfil the requirements in NEMA (1998) and the associated regulations as well as the GDARD Requirements for Biodiversity Assessments, 2014 were undertaken. All relevant databases such as the NFEPA, SANBI and GDARD C-Plan V3 have been analysed.
Floral assessment
Three habitat units were identified within the study area, namely the Grassland Habitat, Wetland Habitat and Degraded Habitat. The main findings include that: The Grassland Habitat was least affected by the disturbances present within the surrounding habitat units and the habitat was largely intact. The floral species are representative of the reference vegetation type, i.e. the Carletonville Dolomite Grassland, and contributes most to the floral diversity within the study area. The Wetland Habitat was considered to be of intermediate ecological sensitivity and importance as several sections had been degraded by the presence of AIP species. This habitat unit remains important for supporting species associated with wetland or soil saturated conditions. This Degraded Habitat unit shows evidence of historic disturbance which has resulted in the floral communities comprising an abundance of AIPs as well as homogenous stretches of grass species such as Cymbopogon pospischilii, Hyparrhenia hirta and Hyparrhenia tamba and is of moderately low ecological sensitivity and importance The impacts associated with the proposed development activities on the floral habitat, diversity and SCC range from low (Degraded Habitat) to medium-high (Grassland Habitat) significance impacts prior to the implementation of mitigation measures. With mitigation fully implemented most impacts can be reduced to very low (Degraded Habitat) and low to medium-low (Wetland Habitat) significance impacts. The impacts on the Grassland Habitat will remain medium-high despite fully implementing mitigation measures. No floral SCC were recorded during the field assessment, but the Grassland Habitat provides suitable conditions to support two Red Listed plant species, namely Habenaria bicolor (NT) and Habenaria mossii (EN). Several Orange List plants were also determined to have suitable habitat within the Grassland Habitat and Wetland Habitat, including Callilepis leptophylla (Declining), Eucomis autumnalis (Declining), Gunnera perpensa (Declining) and Hypoxis hemerocallidea (Declining) – All listed as declining within the Gauteng Province according to the GDARD red an orange plant list (Compaan, 2011), although they are considered to be of least concern on a National level. Impacts on floral SCC ranged from medium-low (Grassland Habitat) to very low (Degraded Habitat) significance impacts prior to the implementation of mitigation measures. With mitigation measures fully implemented, these impacts can be reduced to low and very low levels.
Faunal assessments
Faunal assemblage was determined using the following methods:
Avifauna: - Overall, the avifaunal sensitivity associated with the study area is considered moderately low with an intermediate diversity of avifaunal species observed. Species abundance levels will vary within the study area in accordance with available food resources, rainfall and seasonal changes, with some avifaunal species migrating north during the winter months. The Wetland habitat offers valuable but limited habitat for waterfowl and, in conjunction with the adjacent Grassland habitat,
57 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
provides suitable breeding and foraging habitat for SCC Tyto capensis (African Grass Owl). Clearing of vegetation for the proposed township development and facilities for on-site personnel as well as the linear developments associated with the access roads will have a direct impact on habitat availability in these areas, leading to localised migration of many avifaunal species to adjacent habitats and result in a reduction of abundance and diversity within the study area. Species that relocate into the surrounding areas will be subject to higher levels of competition for food resources and space.
Mammals: -The observed mammal assemblage and activity in the study area was considered to be moderately low. The transformation of much of the surrounding habitat has severely reduced the habitat availability for mammals and cut off any suitable corridors for movement of mammals into and from the study area. Moreover, the reduced landscape heterogeneity (general grassland habit of the area) offers very little alternative habitats for specialist species or species with specific niche requirement (e.g. rocky areas or ridges). The reduced abundance and activity of mammals is likely a direct result of the study areas location within an urbanized area and historic persecution by humans which has severely impacted the mammal component. With limited corridors for movement from large contagious portions of grassland, mammal diversity and abundance will likely continue to diminish. Higher human competition for space and resources coupled with constant disturbance, and direct persecution has resulted in a less sensitive mammal assemblage. Mammal diversity is largely restricted to a few common species (Genets, porcupines and Scrub Hares). The study area is of a moderately low ecological sensitivity in terms of mammal conservation. Impacts to mammal species will be moderately low in terms of the loss of habitat and abundance. Mammal diversity is unlikely to be affected within the study area.
Amphibians: Overall, the amphibian sensitivity associated with the study area is considered moderately low, mostly restricted to the Wetland Habitat. Amphibian activity is highest in the summer months following good rainfall, with the winter months likely having almost no detectable amphibian activity (vocalising and observations). During winter many amphibian species burrow and enter a state of aestivation, which is characterised by a reduced metabolic rate and concurrently activity. The impacts on amphibian species will not be so severe if the Wetland Habitat will be excluded from any development plans and the wetland habitats be rehabilitated, through AIP control and reinstatement of indigenous vegetation, although the loss of adjacent habitat will increase the pressure for dwindling resources within the study area. Historic dumping and edge effects from adjacent development have impacted on the available habitat for amphibians which may historically have offered more suitable habitat for amphibians.
Reptiles: - The sensitivity of the site for reptiles is considered intermediate. Two SCCs, (although not observed during the site visit), have a distribution which overlaps the locality (Bates et al. 2014) of the study area. The Grassland, Wetland and Degraded habitat units will all provide suitable habitat for reptiles. The Degraded Unit where old rubble has been dumped and historic disturbances have occurred, has some larger trees and a denser canopy which may be favoured by arboreal species. Due to the large modifications surrounding the site it is considered unlikely that a diverse assemblage of species occurs within the study area.
The proposed township development will lead to the loss of habitat and food resources, leading to a possible reduction in the abundance of reptiles within the study area. Clearing of vegetation for the proposed development as well as the linear development of access roads will have a direct impact on habitat availability in these areas, leading to localised migration of reptile species into the surrounding areas. The movement of reptile species out of the disturbance footprint areas will result in higher levels of competition for food resources and habitat, which can potentially lead to a decrease in abundance levels as resource competition increases.
58 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Insects: - Overall, the insect sensitivity associated with the study area is considered intermediate. Species abundance appeared highest in the Grassland and Wetland Habitat. Species diversity of insects mirrored the abundance trend, with insects appearing to favour the Grassland and Wetland Habitats, although, insects were also observed within the Degraded habitat unit, albeit at a lower diversity and abundance.
Arachnids: - Overall, the arachnid sensitivity associated with the study area is considered intermediate. During the site assessment an intermediate abundance and diversity of spiders was observed. Although actively searched for, no scorpions where seen during the field investigation. A moderately low abundance and diversity is expected considering the landscape within the study area. The proposed development will lead to the loss of habitat and food resources, leading to a decreased abundance and depending on the location may reduce arachnid species diversity. As arachnids escape from the development, higher resource competition will also result in neighbouring areas of the study area leading to a loss of diversity. No SCC are likely to occur on the study area
Wetland delineation and assessment
A site assessment has been undertaken; Specific outcomes of the study included: A background study of relevant national, provincial and municipal datasets (such as the National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas [NFEPA] 2011 database; the Department of Water and Sanitation Research Quality Information Services [DWS RQIS PES/EIS], 2014 database and the Gauteng Conservation Plan V3.3 (2011) was undertaken to aid in defining the PES and EIS of the watercourse; The watercourse within the study area was delineated according to “DWAF1, 2008: A practical Guideline Procedure for the Identification and Delineation of Wetlands and Riparian Zones”. Aspects such as soil morphological characteristics, vegetation types and wetness were used to delineate the watercourse. The watercourse classification assessment was undertaken according to the Classification System for Wetlands and other Aquatic Ecosystems in South Africa. User Manual: Inland systems (Ollis et al., 2013); The PES of the watercourse was assessed according to the resource directed measures guideline as advocated by Macfarlane et al., (2008). The watercourse was mapped according to the ecological sensitivity of the hydrogeomorphic unit in relation to the study area. In addition to the watercourse boundary, the appropriate provincial recommended buffers and legislated zones of regulation were depicted where applicable. To present management and mitigation measures which should be implemented during the various development phases to assist in minimising the impact on the receiving freshwater environment.
Noise impact assessment
Given the nature of the proposed development, no noise impact assessment will be undertaken. Although the potential noise-sensitive receptor as well as noise generators will be identified as part of the general impact assessment, no specific study or noise propagation modelling will be undertaken for the activity.
Cultural and Heritage Resources
Reliance was made on studies that have been conducted on site in the past. The outcomes of the said studies have been discussed in this report. The recommendations contained therein will be used to inform the final designs/layout of the development.
59 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Visual Impact Assessment
No Visual Impact assessment is planned to be conducted. This is mainly because of the nature of the receiving environment as well as the compatibility of the proposal with the existing urban uses.
Other specialists’ inputs
Other specialist assessments or inputs to be undertaken and findings incorporated into the EIR include the following: Geotechnical assessment Engineering services report Town planning motivation Traffic impact assessment including roads infrastructure
60 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
8.0 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT This section provides the methodology for assessing the significance of impacts associated with the activity. The criterion for determining impact significance has been defined in accordance with the criteria drawn from Appendix 3 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2014. The levels of detail described in the EIA regulations were fine-tuned by assigning specific values to each impact identified.
In order to establish a coherent framework within which all impacts could be objectively assessed, it is necessary to establish a rating system, to be applied consistently to all the criteria. For such purposes, each aspect is assigned a value ranging from one (1) to four (4) depending on its definition. The tables below provide a summary of the criteria and the rating scales, used in the assessment the impacts.
Description of nature and scale of impacts
The table below provides a brief description of the terms used to assess the impact of the activity.
Table 10: Nature, extent, duration, probability and significance of impact Nature: classification of whether the impact is positive or negative, direct or indirect. Extent: spatial scale of impact and classified as: Site: the impacted area is the whole or significant portion of the site. Local: Within a radius of 2 km of the construction site. Regional: the impacted area extends to the immediate, surrounding and neighbouring properties. National: the impact can be considered to be of national significance. Duration: Indicates what the lifetime of the impact will be and is classified as: Short term: The impact will either disappear with mitigation or will be mitigated through natural process in a span shorter than the construction phase. Medium term: The impact will last for the period of the construction phase, where after it will be entirely negated. Long term: The impact will continue or last for the entire operational life of the development but will be mitigated by direct human action or by natural processes thereafter. The only class of impact which will be non-transitory. Permanent: Mitigation either by man or natural process will not occur in such a way or in such a time span that the impact can be considered transient. Intensity: Describes whether an impact is destructive or benign. Low: Impact affects the environment in such a way that natural, cultural and social functions and processes are not affected. Moderate: Affected environment is altered, but natural, cultural and social functions and processes continue albeit in a modified way. High: Natural, cultural and social functions and processes are altered to extent that they temporarily cease. Very High: Natural, cultural and social functions and processes are altered to extent that they permanently cease. Probability: Describes the likelihood of an impact actually occurring: Improbable: Likelihood of the impact materialising is very low Possible: The impact may occur Highly Probable: Most likely that the impact will occur Definite: Impact will certainly occur. Significance: Based on the above criteria the significance of issues was determined. The total number of points scored for each impact indicates the level of significance of the impact, and is rated as: Low: the impacts are less important. Medium: the impacts are important and require attention; mitigation is required to reduce the negative impacts. High: the impacts are of great importance. Mitigation is therefore crucial. Cumulative: In relation to an activity, means the impact of an activity that in itself may not be significant but may become significant when added to the existing and potential impacts eventuating from similar or diverse activities or undertakings in the area. Mitigation: Where negative impacts are identified, mitigation measures (ways of reducing impacts) are required. An indication of the degree of success of the potential mitigation measures is given per impact.
61 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Criteria for rating of impacts
This describes the criteria to be used and the significance rating of the impacts.
Table 11: Criteria for rating of impacts Criteria for the rating of impacts Criteria Description Extent National Regional Local Site Duration Permanent Long-term Medium-term Short-term Intensity Very high High Moderate Low Probability Definite Highly probable Possible Improbable Points allocation 4 3 2 1 Significance Rating of identified impacts (Extent + Duration + Intensity) x (Probability) Impact Points Description Low 3 -24 A low impact has no permanent impact of significance. Mitigation measures are feasible and are readily instituted as part of a standing design, construction or operating procedure. Medium 25-39 Mitigation is possible with additional design and construction inputs. High 40-43 The design of the site may be affected. Mitigation and possible remediation are needed during the construction and/or operational phases. The effects of the impact may affect the broader environment. Very high 44-48 The design of the site may be affected. Mitigation and possible remediation are needed during the construction and/or operational phases. The effects of the impact may affect the broader environment. Status Perceived effect of the impact Positive (+) Beneficial impact Negative (-) Adverse impact Negative impacts are shown with a (-) while positive ones are indicated as (+)
62 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
ASSESSMENT OF ANTICIPATED IMPACTS
The impacts/aspects (beneficial and adverse) of the proposed activity are identified in the body of the report. The specific impacts associated with the development on the study area (are identified under each environment of this report), and general construction and operational phase related impacts associated with development are listed in the Table below.
Impact during construction phase
Table 12: Assessment of Impacts during the Construction Phase Source and nature of Potential impact Impact Mitigation measures Impact impact Significance Significance after before mitigation mitigation Layout 1 Layout. 2 Layout 1 Layout 2 Preferred Preferred Impacts on Flora Loss of floral habitat, - - - Site clearing and During the surveying and site-pegging phase, a
the removal of diversity and potentially walkdown of the area must be done to ensure that any habitat within the occurring floral SCC. floral SCC, if encountered, be rescued and relocation watercourse outside of the development footprint habitat and Loss or alteration of floral associated buffer habitat and species diversity. The construction footprint must be kept as small as zones, possible in order to minimise impact on the surrounding Construction Declines in plant functioning environment (edge effect management). activities resulting leading to loss of floral Removal of vegetation must be restricted to what is in the removal and species and habitat for absolutely necessary and should remain within the destruction of the approved development footprint. Where possible / potential floral SCC optimal growth. occurring within feasible, any remaining natural areas should be utilised the study area. Loss or alteration of Wetland as part of the landscaping of the proposed development. Habitat and associated Increased human Vehicles should be restricted to travelling only on movement and species diversity. designated roadways to limit the ecological footprint of hardened the construction activities. Additional road construction infrastructure should be limited to what is absolutely necessary, and the footprint thereof kept to a minimal.
63 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
surfaces within the The anticipated loss of some study area. No collection of indigenous floral species must be of the natural habitats that allowed by construction personnel, especially with Loss of the support endemic species will regards to floral SCC (if encountered). Secondary result in the local Care should be taken during the construction and Grassland and displacement of endemic Transformed operation of the proposed development to limit edge listed flora. habitat unit from effects to surrounding natural habitat. This can be the landscape. achieved by: No construction rubble or cleared alien invasive species are to be disposed of outside of demarcated areas and should be taken to a registered waste disposal facility. All soils compacted as a result of construction activities should be ripped and profiled and reseeded. Manage the spread of AIP species, which may affect remaining natural habitat within surrounding areas. No dumping of litter, rubble or cleared vegetation on site should be allowed. Infrastructure and rubble removed as a result of the construction activities should be disposed of at an appropriate registered dump site away from the development footprint. No temporary dump sites should be allowed in areas with natural vegetation. Waste disposal containers and bins should be provided during the construction phase for all construction rubble and general waste. Vegetation cuttings must be carefully collected and disposed of at a separate waste facility. • If any spills occur, they should be immediately cleaned up to avoid soil contamination that can hinder floral rehabilitation later down the line. Spill kits should be kept on-site within workshops. In the event of a breakdown, maintenance of vehicles must take place with care, and the recollection of spillage should be
64 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
practised, preventing the ingress of hydrocarbons into the topsoil; and • Upon completion of construction activities, it must be ensured that no bare areas remain, and that indigenous species be used to revegetate the disturbed area. Edge effects arising from the proposed development, such as erosion and alien plant species proliferation, which may affect adjacent natural areas, need to be strictly managed. Specific mention in this regard is made of Category 1b and 2 AIP species (as listed in the NEMBA Alien species lists, 2016), in line with the NEMBA Alien and Invasive Species Regulations (2014). Ongoing alien and invasive plant monitoring and clearing/control should take place throughout the construction and operational phase of the development, No collection of indigenous or medicinal floral species must be allowed by construction personnel. Appropriate sanitary facilities must be provided during the construction phase and all waste must be removed to an appropriate waste facility; - No dumping of waste on site should take place. As such it is advised that waste disposal containers and bins be provided during the construction phase for all construction rubble and general waste. Impacts on Fauna - - - - Inadequate planning The footprint of the proposed development must be
and development fenced/ demarcated off to prevent vegetation clearing Loss of important faunal layout optimisation, habitat (Grassland and and footprint creep into the sensitive freshwater resulting in extensive Wetland Habitats directly habitat. site clearing and the impacted) and the potential removal of Appropriate fencing/demarcation of the sensitive areas loss of faunal SCC. indigenous must be undertaken prior to the construction activities vegetation.
65 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Excavation of soils Loss of sensitive faunal Vegetation clearance and commencement of leading to increased habitat and faunal species construction activities should either be scheduled to runoff and reliant on this specific coincide with low rainfall conditions when erosive sedimentation habitat for survival. stormwater is anticipated to be limited or alternatively freshwater habitat Loss of ecologically stormwater controls must be established at the start of Site clearing and the important faunal habitat construction and dust suppression implemented. removal of habitat and consequently a further within the freshwater loss of diversity and species When rehabilitating disturbed areas, it is habitat and reliant on the Wetland recommended that natural indigenous vegetation be associated buffer Habitats. Potential loss of used so that faunal species that were displaced by zones the habitat for faunal SCC vegetation clearing activities are able to utilise and such as Tyto capensis Collision of faunal (African Grass Owl). inhabit these areas. species with Desiccation and/or pollution Removal/ cutting down of large indigenous trees construction vehicles of the Wetland habitat will (>2.5m) within the riparian areas should be avoided as Risk of have a detrimental impact these are considered important for avifauna and contamination from to the faunal assemblages urban spills which utilising this habitat. cannot be readily replaced through rehabilitation. may pollute receiving Degradation of favourable Spills and /or leaks from construction equipment must environment. faunal habitat outside of the be immediately remedied and cleaned up so as to Potential that the direct construction and ensure that these chemicals do not enter into the soil edge effects of the operational footprint, later or freshwater habitat. proposed leading to a decrease in development are faunal diversity at a local Each construction team/site should have an individual poorly managed. scale and loss of land to that has undergone a snake handling course so as to meet biodiversity targets. safely catch and release any snakes within the site. Dumping of material Long-term loss of favourable outside designated habitat for historically Construction personnel are to be informed and areas. recorded faunal species. educated with about general faunal species that may Loss of faunal diversity and be encountered on site, notably of snakes. Personnel potential SCC which will are to be instructed that if encountered they are not to disperse into the surrounding area in search kill the faunal species but let them either move off on of favourable habitat. their own or call the nominated construction personnel The ecological functioning who is to safely catch and release the snake. will be restored that has
66 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
been lost due to AIP No hunting/trapping or collecting of faunal species is proliferation and habitat allowed. transformation. Should any faunal SCC be encountered/observed during construction activities in that area are to be halted and a biodiversity specialist consulted to determine the best way forward. Construction edge effects, are to be actively managed so as to ensure that the downslope freshwater habitat is not impacted upon. SuDs should be utilized as part of the development to recreate additional freshwater habitat that could be colonized by aquatic faunal species. No informal fires by construction personnel are allowed, and Initiate an alien and invasive plant control. Soil erosion and sedimentation - - - - Exposure of soils • Destabilisation of surface Site disturbances must be limited to areas where structures
through clearance geology and soil as a result will be constructed. Cleared areas to be effectively stabilised of vegetation. of excavations and heavy to prevent and control erosion. Excess rocks and boulders loads. can be used for erosion protection work on site. Rainfall/ stormwater and Erosion, degradation and Stormwater management plan to be implemented. inadequate loss of topsoil due to Areas susceptible to erosion must be protected by installing drainage. construction activities as the necessary protective materials. well as storm water runoff. Leakages and Any tunnels or erosion channels developing during the spillages of Soil compaction and erosion construction period shall be backfilled and compacted. chemicals/pollutin leading to sedimentation of g material the wetland. Suitable excavated material is to be stockpiled next to excavations for use as backfill. Excess material from excavations and construction rubble must be appropriately disposed of. Soil stockpiles must be situated away from drainage areas.
67 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Soil from the excavation for bio-retention ponds to be stockpiled upward slope of the excavations. Areas exposed to erosion due to construction activities must be vegetated with species naturally occurring in the area. Dry chemicals to be stored on an impervious surface protected from rainfall and storm water run-off. Spill kits should be on-hand to deal with spills immediately. Spillages or leakages must be treated according to an applicable procedure as determined by a plan of action for the specific type of disturbance. Increase in invasive plants Construction related Further spread of Alien - - - + Design and implementation, together with ongoing activities such as Invasive Plant (AIP) from the monitoring and control of an Alien Invasive Plant Control Plan. clearing of vegetation study area to surrounding and disturbance of soils natural habitat, and A plan should be developed for control of noxious weeds and subsequently edge effect invasive plants that could occur as a result of new surface disturbance activities at the site. The plan should address impact of natural habitat monitoring, weed identification, the manner in which weeds outside of the development spread, and methods for treating infestations. Require the use footprint. of certified weed-free mulching. Prohibit the use of fill materials from areas with known invasive vegetation problems. The spread of invasive non-native plants should be avoided by keeping vehicles and equipment clean and reseeding disturbed areas with native plants.
Eradication of the plants present, killing the seedlings which emerge, and establishing and managing an alternative plant cover to limit re-growth and reinvasion. Weeds and invader plants will be controlled in the manner prescribed for that category by the CARA or in terms of Working for Water guidelines. The control of these species should even begin prior to the construction phase considering that small populations of these species was observed during the field surveys.
68 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Institute strict control over materials brought onto site, which should be inspected for seeds of noxious plants and steps taken to eradicate these before transport to the site. Routinely fumigate or spray all materials with appropriate low-residual herbicides prior to transport to or in a quarantine area on site. The contractor is responsible for the control of weeds and invader plants within the construction site for the duration of the construction phase. Alien invasive tree species listed by the CARA regulations should be eradicated. Rehabilitate disturbed areas as quickly as possible to reduce the area where invasive species would be at a strong advantage and most easily able to establish. Institute a monitoring programme to detect alien invasive species early, before they become established and, in the case of weeds, before the release of seeds. Once detected, an eradication/control programme should be implemented to ensure that the species’ do not spread to surrounding natural ecosystems. Contamination of the environment Spillages of Contamination and pollution of - - - - Construction vehicles are to be maintained in good working hydrocarbons and soils, surface and groundwater order, to reduce the probability of leakage of fuels and other chemicals as well resources lubricants as construction related waste and ineffective A walled concrete platform, dedicated store with adequate waste and pollution flooring or bermed area should be used to accommodate management chemicals such as fuel, oil, paint, herbicide and insecticides, as appropriate, in well-ventilated areas. Sufficient care must be taken when handling these materials to prevent spillages. Surface water draining off contaminated areas containing oil and petrol would need to be channelled towards a sump which will separate these chemicals and oils. Oil residue shall be treated with oil absorbent such as Drizit or similar and this material removed to an approved waste site.
69 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Storm water shall not be allowed to flow through the batching area. Cement sediment shall be removed from time to time and disposed of in a manner as instructed by the Site Engineer. All construction materials liable to spillage are to be stored in appropriate structures with impermeable flooring. Implement and adhere to the conditions of the Environmental Management Programme (EMPr). All construction vehicles should be inspected for oil and fuel leaks regularly and frequently. Vehicle maintenance will should only be undertaken in designated areas and mobile drip trays, where required, will be used to capture any spills. Impacts on wetland - - - - Site clearance and Loss of wetland habitat and Limit clearing of vegetation and associated soil disturbances construction works. ecological structure. to essential areas only. Protect exposed soils by means of geotextile such as hessian sheeting. Ensure contractor Spillages of Changes to wetland laydown areas are placed outside of the wetland areas and hydrocarbons and ecological and sociocultural buffer zones. other chemicals as service provision. well as All wetland areas and associated buffer zones to be clearly Wetland hydrological construction demarcated on site, and, except for infrastructure services, to function and sediment related waste and remain off-limits to all non-essential personnel. No vehicles to balance affected. ineffective waste be permitted within the wetland habitat. and pollution Contamination of surface Protect exposed soils and stockpiles by covering with a management. and groundwater due to suitable geotextile such as hessian sheeting. Limit the time in spillage, leakage, incorrect Construction of which soils are exposed. No stockpiles to be permitted within storage and handling of infrastructure wetland areas or buffer zones. chemicals, oils, lubricants, services. cement, fuels and other A 30m GDARD setback area around the seep and CVB wetland hazardous materials must be implemented for the duration of the service infrastructure construction works in order to mitigate edge Erosion of the banks and effects. wetland pollution The 30m setback must be implemented as a minimum and Impeded flow of surface must remain off-limits to all non-essential personnel. The water system must be cordoned off using a suitable barrier or material to control sedimentation.
70 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Suitable waste disposal facilities should be provided. These facilities should be located outside of the delineated wetlands or associated GDARD setback, should be safety cordoned off and be out of sight (where possible) in order to limit the visual impact.
Stockpiles during the construction of the retention ponds to be upslope of the excavated areas. All wastes are to be removed from the site and disposed of at a registered facility. Storm water management measures to be installed to prevent erosion and minimise sedimentation of the stream. All hazardous substances must be stored on an impervious surface in a designated bunded area able to contain 110% of the total volume of materials stored at any given time. Vehicles to be regularly inspected for leaks and to be refuelled on sealed surface to prevent ingress into soils. All spills are to be immediately cleaned up and treated accordingly. Contractor’s camp, storage areas and sanitary areas must be kept outside of the buffer zone. These sites must be kept tidy, in good condition and sanitary throughout the whole project. Refuse bins must be cleaned/ emptied and the waste must be removed at regular intervals in order to ensure capacity is always available. A minimum of 1 chemical toilet per 10 individuals must be provided. All portable toilets must be secured to the ground to prevent them from toppling and should be located at least 50m away from the water course to prevent inadvertent sewage contamination of the freshwater resources. Noise Increase in noise generated - - - - Ground Adjacent residents must be notified in advance of construction by construction activities works/clearance schedules. Noise from vehicular traffic.
71 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Noise from machinery on site Excavation/Founda Impose construction down time from 17h00 to 07h00 daily, Noise from blasting activities. tions public holidays and over weekends. Work hours must be strictly enforced unless permission is given by the relevant Building activities authority. Permission must not be granted without Transportation of consultation with the local residents and businesses by the building material to Environmental Officer (EO). and from the The EO must inform the residents of houses and businesses construction site adjacent to the development in writing 24 hours prior to any Assembling of planned activities that will be unusually noisy or any other equipment/machin activities that could reasonably have an impact on the ery and buildings. adjacent sites. These activities could include, but are not limited to, blasting, piling, use of pneumatic jackhammers and compressors, bulk demolitions. All construction vehicles must be in a good working order to reduce possible noise pollution. Noise reduction by limiting unnecessary noise, especially loud talking, shouting or whistling, radios, sirens or hooters, motor revving, etc. The use of silent compressors is a specific requirement. The conditions as set out in the Occupational Health and Safety Act of 1993 must be adhered to especially where noise levels will exceed 85 Db. Measures to reduce noise from blasting to be implemented Traffic congestion and safety Construction vehicles Increase in vehicular traffic - - - - Vehicular movement beyond the site boundaries must be moving to and from the leading to impeded traffic avoided during peak hour traffic, i.e. between 07:00-09:00am, site using the local road flow and 16:00-18:00pm. network Parking of vehicles impeding As per the Traffic Impact Study, the development will be flow within the access road subject to the completion of road upgrades and access routes. The contractor must ensure all construction vehicles accessing the site only utilise the designated route and access to the site.
72 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Enforce speed limits at all times on all external access roads. Unless otherwise specified, the speed limit on construction roads is 50km/h. Allow for safe pedestrian and cycling access and crossing where necessary. Ensure adequate and appropriate warning signage for construction vehicles turning at the main entrance/exit. Traffic controllers must be positioned at strategic points along the access road to ensure minimum disruption of traffic by construction vehicles No vehicles may part to impede traffic flow on the access road. Dust nuisance Construction activities Dust generation and pollution - - - - Dust emissions must be kept low at all times and suppression including vegetation which would affect adjacent measures such as water spraying should be implemented clearance and ground developments as a result of regularly on areas associated with high dust emissions. levelling construction activities and vehicles on site. The dust fall rates from blasting operations should be kept Vehicular movement within acceptable dust fall rates limit (<600 mg/m2/day, on construction roads 30days average) published in the National Dust Control Regulations, 2013. Dispersive material in trucks should be dampened or covered. Visual impacts - - - - Site clearing, Change of landscape Site offices and temporary structures should be limited to
including the character and sense of place single storey and situated at such a location so as to reduce removal of topsoil visual intrusion. Visual intrusion and VAC and vegetation The construction site should be demarcated and screened leading to higher Visual exposure and with a solid material in order to limit visual impact on passing visual contrast with visibility. motorists and residential in a direct line of site of the the surrounding Impacts due to night time development. Construction of lighting Where infrastructure is sited within view of visually sensitive general surface areas, it must be placed as far away as possible or within infrastructure lower-lying areas where it may be screened by topography.
73 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
including access It must be ensured that where possible existing vegetation be roads retained during the construction phase to act as visual screens,
with particular reference to existing tall trees and larger shrubs, with care also taken to retain existing vegetation along the site boundaries. Where possible, existing natural vegetation is to be retained during the construction and operational phases of the project and incorporated into the concurrent site rehabilitation especially in line of sight from sensitive receptors. Erosion, which may lead to increased levels of visual contrast and further detract from the visual environment, must be prevented throughout the lifetime of the project by means of putting soil stabilisation measures in place where required and through concurrent rehabilitation. Dust suppression must take place during the construction phase of the development. Outdoor lighting must be strictly controlled. Low-level lighting or limiting mounting heights of lighting fixtures or utilising foot-light or bollard level lights is recommended. Waste management Increase in - - - - Contamination of the site No construction waste must be dumped in surrounding areas, construction waste with general and hazardous and all waste illegally dumped on site must be removed and from construction waste disposed at a registered landfill site. activities General waste produced on All building waste generated during construction must be Poor management of site includes: Office waste; managed in terms of the Gauteng Building and Demolition litter, storage of waste Operational waste (clean Waste Guidelines, 2009 which prescribe a waste hierarchy and construction steel, wood, glass); and approach to waste management. material on site General domestic waste A suitable flat area must be designated for the temporary (food, cardboards, paper, storage of all waste material from the construction site. bottles, tins). Appropriate measures should be taken to divert stormwater Contamination or pollution away from the waste storage area. of or effluent release into
74 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
surface water, groundwater, None re-usable/recyclable building rubble and solid material rivers and other nearby must be disposed at a registered waste facility. hydrological or ecological systems with general and The contractor must ensure all waste disposal certificates are hazardous waste. kept on file for record purposes and as proof should these be required. Littering is strictly prohibited, and appropriate receptacles should be made available within the construction site. Domestic waste generated on site during construction to be collected in waste skips. Waste skips containing food waste must be covered. Adequate on-site chemical sanitation systems (one toilet for every 10 workers) must be provided within walking distance to all construction workers. Solid construction waste not posing a pollution hazard should be used on site as backfill or aggregate material as much as possible. Should no backfilling material be required, this waste should either be taken to a recycling facility or disposed at a registered landfill facility. The burning of litter or waste on site is highly prohibited. Litter patrols must take place once a week to ensure the site as well as the property is kept free of litter. Waste shall be separated into recyclable and non-recyclable waste. Bins shall be clearly marked for ease of separation. The contractor must adhere to all the relevant laws and regulations applicable to the disposal of construction waste and rubble. The contractor shall provide sufficient closed containers on site, as well as waste skips, which must be placed in the crew camp, to handle the amount of litter, wastes, and builder’s wastes generated on site. Containers shall be emptied once weekly by a licensed waste contractor and disposed of at a registered landfill site. No solid waste or any materials used may be disposed of on site.
75 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
No rubble or discarded building material should remain within the construction site for more than one week. An area must be designated for mixing of concrete and must take place on an impervious surface such as concrete slab, metal, or plastic sheeting which is provided with cut-off drains or berms to contain any contaminated run-off. Contain water and slurry from cement and concrete mixing operations as well as from batching area wash bays. Direct such waste water into a settlement pond or sludge dam for later disposal. Liquid waste consists mainly of used oil, contaminated fuel, and lubricants, as well as waste paint etc. Liquid wastes must be collected in original containers and stored inside a surfaced or bunded storage area. The bunded surface area volume should be equal to 110% of the total volume of liquid stored. All hazardous solid and liquid waste to be disposed of at a class H:H registered landfill site only. All concrete that is spilled outside these areas must be promptly removed by the Contractor and taken to an approved dumpsite. After all the concrete mixing is complete all waste concrete must be removed from the batching area and disposed of at an approved dumpsite. No concrete residue is to be washed off into rivers, streams, or wetlands. Health, safety and security - - - - Increase of people Increase in crime in the area Access to the site must be limited to the workforce only.
and vehicular Migration of job seekers Accommodation for members of the workforce is not movement in the into the area in search of permitted on site unless authorisation has been given in terms area. employment. of the Environmental Authorisation issued for the site. Dangers posed by Accidents and threat to life No crewmember will be allowed to move onto private construction site. in construction environment property under any circumstances. Workforce exposed The contractors must provide and maintain a method to dangerous works statement for “Crew camps and construction lay down areas”. and equipment
76 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
The development will have 24-hour access control and security. Safety equipment and emergency measures to be available on site. Community Liaison Officer can be appointed. The CLO to be consulted regarding employment of members of the surrounding communities. Employment opportunities and accruing economic activities + + Not mitigation measures but benefits accruing as a result of the + + Labour demands Additional employment project. from construction opportunities resulting from activities construction works Direct and indirect jobs and business opportunities will be created during the construction phase. Businesses in the Increase in number Increase in business/trade material supply chain will also benefit. of people buying by local suppliers from local traders As far as reasonably possible people from nearby communities especially with disadvantaged backgrounds must be employed by the principal construction contractor and sub-contractors. Skills transfer should be promoted where possible. Assessment of Impacts during the Operation Phase Table 13: Assessment of Impacts during the operation phase Impact Impact Nature and source of impact Potential impact Mitigation measures Significance Significance after before mitigation mitigation Alt 1 Alt 2 Alt 1 Alt 2 Impacts on Flora Loss of floral habitat, - - + + Increased introduction All sensitive habitat excluded from the development, should species and SCC and proliferation of alien remain demarcated for the life of the operation, and no entry
plant species leading to of unauthorised personnel should be allowed. further transformation Ongoing alien and invasive plant monitoring and of remaining natural eradication/control should take place throughout the vegetation operational phase of the development, and the project Increased littering as a perimeters should be regularly checked during the operational result of more human phase for alien and invasive plant proliferation as well as bush
77 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Impact Impact Nature and source of impact Potential impact Mitigation measures Significance Significance after before mitigation mitigation Alt 1 Alt 2 Alt 1 Alt 2 activity, further altering encroachment to prevent spread into surrounding natural floral habitat and areas diversity Indigenous vegetation should be used during the landscaping Inadequate of the project, maintenance and monitoring of garden rehabilitation of ornamentals used in the landscaping should be included in the compacted soil areas monitoring and maintenance plan to prevent the spread of leading to limited such species to the sensitive habitat units excluded from the vegetation regrowth development. Inadequate No indiscriminate disposal of waste must be permitted. Bins implementation of a should be provided along the open space areas, to allow for rehabilitation, disposal of waste. Bins should be emptied twice weekly and management and disposed of registered waste facilities. maintenance plan The rehabilitation of natural vegetation should proceed in leading to increased accordance with a landscape plan compiled by a suitable alien invasive plant specialist - Monitor the success of rehabilitation efforts proliferation and further seasonally; and loss of natural vegetation. Continue with, and update, the alien and invasive plant control plan accordingly. Impacts on Fauna - - - + Ineffective rehabilitation Loss of faunal habitat, All sensitive habitat excluded from the development, should
leading to proliferation species and faunal SCC be protected and managed as part of the open space system. of alien plant species in Open space areas are to be suitably planned and maintained the disturbed areas with faunal species in mind. As such habitat for faunal species Erosion stemming from should be recreated using fallen tree stumps and rocks bare soil areas leading to combined with indigenous vegetation. All plants used should sedimentation of be carefully selected so as to provide a suitable food resource wetland thereby to faunal species. affecting the habitat. No hunting/trapping or collecting of faunal species is allowed. Monitor the success of rehabilitation efforts seasonally.
78 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Impact Impact Nature and source of impact Potential impact Mitigation measures Significance Significance after before mitigation mitigation Alt 1 Alt 2 Alt 1 Alt 2 Footprint creep resulting Continue with and update the alien and invasive plant control in additional faunal plan accordingly. habitat loss. Impacts on wetlands - - + + Potential Altered water quality No waste disposal is to be permitted within wetland
indiscriminate waste due to waste disposal. areas or the associated NEMA zone of regulation & disposal. GDARD setback area. All waste is to be removed from the Pollution of riparian site and disposed of at a registered facility. Increased soils, groundwater impermeable surfaces and surface water Adequate stormwater management plan to be in the vicinity of the incorporated into the design of the development. Altered runoff wetland and the Release of stormwater into the wetland must not result patterns and catchment. in further bank incision or erosion. Highly recommended increased water that Sustainable Drainage Systems (SUDs) be Operations and inputs to the wetland, implemented. maintenance of Altered flow regime stormwater and All wetland areas and associated buffer zones to be may lead to changed sewage clearly demarcated on site, and, except for infrastructure wetland zonation, infrastructure services, to remain off limits to all non-essential Contamination of personnel. No vehicles to be permitted within the Potential for wetland soils, wetland habitat. increased groundwater and proliferation of alien Any spills to be immediately cleaned up and treated surface water floral species, accordingly. Ensuring that suitable wetland vegetation leading to reduced remains postconstruction to assist in filtering toxicants ability to support from stormwater runoff. biodiversity, and Alien vegetation management plan to be developed and provide ecological implemented. Incorporate indigenous terrestrial and services such as wetland vegetation into landscape plan (if applicable). flood attenuation.
79 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Impact Impact Nature and source of impact Potential impact Mitigation measures Significance Significance after before mitigation mitigation Alt 1 Alt 2 Alt 1 Alt 2 Stormwater discharge to flow slowly into the buffer zone without any erosion. Noise Increase in traffic noise - - The indoor noise levels to comply with the recommended - - Increase in the traffic on the proposed noise levels in Table 1 of SANS 10103 of 2008. noise along the access residential roads All point sources such as HVAC systems, mechanical development. ventilation systems, extract systems and any other sources of Noise from occupiers Disturbing noise levels noise to be acoustically screened off. The emergency from social activities and generator to be encapsulated and installed in such a manner operations within the that the noise from the generator and/or exhaust will not developments. exceed the prevailing ambient noise levels as measured at any of the boundaries of the development. Traffic congestion and safety Increase in vehicular traffic Increased number of - - As per the Traffic Impact Study, the development will be + + vehicles on the local road accompanied by road upgrades and access routes. network Access points to the site must be kept clear to allow for efficient flow in and out of the development. Planned road Enforce speed limits at all times on all external access roads. improvements and upgrades will affect Road upgrades should be phased to limit disruption and traffic flow in the area. prevent blockages in the flow of traffic. Allow for safe pedestrian and cycling access and crossing where necessary. Visual Impact Incompatible - - + + Development character Where possible, existing natural vegetation is to be retained development and/or and sense of place during the construction and operational phases of the project finishes and incorporated into the concurrent site landscaping Night time lighting Visual intrusion affecting adjacent To limit the potential of sunlight reflecting off the windows Visual exposure and properties. from taller buildings. visibility Outdoor lighting must be strictly controlled.
80 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Impact Impact Nature and source of impact Potential impact Mitigation measures Significance Significance after before mitigation mitigation Alt 1 Alt 2 Alt 1 Alt 2 Care should be taken when selecting luminaries to ensure that Impacts due to night appropriate units are chosen and that their location will time lighting reduce spill light and glare to a minimum. Only “full cut-off” light fixtures that direct light only below the horizontal must be used on buildings Employment opportunities and accruing economic activities Additional + + Not mitigation measures but benefits accruing as a result of the + + maintenance related employment project. labour demand. opportunities Improved land attracting Increase in property more taxes rates and taxes to the municipality. Increased market for Domestic labour goods and services demands from running of households Provision of housing units leading to the reduction in the housing backlog Provision of additional Residential estate Establishment of the proposed residential township housing units Access to and improved infrastructure and socio-economic services in the area Residential estate Improved roads and + + Not mitigation measures but benefits accruing as a result of the + + services. project. Access to residential Infrastructure provisions to be in accordance with municipal units. requirements. This will lead to improved infrastructure Access to social services due to upgrades as part of the development infrastructure. Compatibility with spatial plans Developed township Housing development + + Not mitigation measures but benefits accruing as a result of the + + close to industrial project. areas. Residential area within reach of a future municipal node.
81 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
No-go Option
Table 14: Assessment of the No-Go option Nature of impact NO-Go Significance
Biophysical Impacts on Flora No construction and operations impact. However, degradation and spread of alien vegetation + may continue given the extent of disturbance observed on site leading to loss of floral species Impacts on Fauna Although there will be no impacts as a result of the development, degradation of the habitat + may continue given the extent of disturbance observed on site Soil erosion and sedimentation No soil erosion due disturbance resulting from construction activities + Increase in invasive plants With no development, the rate of increase of invasive plants is expected to be slow. It will be - required that the land owner manages the spread of these plants on a continuous basis. Contamination of the environment Except through uncontrolled illegal activities, this impact will be avoided + Impacts on wetland No installation and operation of infrastructure close to the wetlands, therefore the wetland and - associated habitat will not be disturbed through construction. Socio-economic Noise No noise generated or addition to existing levels + Traffic congestion and safety No additional traffic into the road system. The proposed roads upgrade will however not be - realised. Dust nuisance Without clearance of vegetation and excavations, dust nuisance will not be experienced + Visual impact The current status, open space will continue. Therefore, there will be no change in sense of + place or introduction of buildings changing the visual character of the site Waste management No waste generated on site. However, site has to be secured so that no dumping of waste takes + place. Health, safety and security No concerns, however, site should not be used as refuge for nefarious activities + Employment opportunities and No opportunities created - accruing economic activities Access to and improved infrastructure No infrastructure provided. Access to such services to be found in alternative areas/sites - Provisioning of housing No housing development. - Failure to contribute approximately 1481 housing units that represent 7.8% of the set ten- year delivery target aimed at addressing historic housing backlog. Spatial planning and development Failure to fulfilling the objectives set out in the spatial planning and development policies of the - policies objectives region that promoted infill and mixed-use development.
82 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Comparative summary- impact significance of different alternatives Table 15: Comparison of the different alternatives Source and nature of impact Impact Significance after mitigation Construction Phase No-Go Option Layout 1 Preferred Layout 2 Impacts on Flora + - - Impacts on Fauna + - - Soil erosion and sedimentation + - - Increase in invasive plants - + + Contamination of the environment + - - Impacts on wetland - - - Noise + - - Traffic congestion and safety + - - Dust nuisance + - - Visual impacts + - - Waste management + - - Health, safety and security + - - Employment opportunities and accruing economic activities - + + Operation Phase Impacts on Flora + - - Impacts on Fauna + + - Impacts on wetlands - + + Noise + - - Traffic congestion and safety - - - Visual Impact + + + Employment opportunities and accruing economic activities - + + Provision of housing units leading to the reduction in the housing backlog - + + Access to and improved infrastructure and socio-economic services in the area - + + Compatibility with spatial plans - + +
From the above assessment, the preferred alternative is more beneficial than the others.
83 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
9.0 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT
SUMMARY OF KEY FINDINGS
During the EIA process, the impact of the proposed development on the biophysical and socio-economic environments was assessed. Specialists were appointed to conduct relevant aspects of the project. Below is a summary of the key findings (details can be obtained from the relevant specialist reports).
Table 16: Summary of key findings in specialists’ reports Nature of Aspects Assessed Findings and recommendations assessment Ecological Faunal During the field assessment three habitat units were identified i.e. Grassland, Degraded Grassland and Wetland habitat. assessment assessment The most sensitive habitats noted within the site were the Wetland and Grassland habitat units which were considered to be of intermediate sensitivity while the Degraded habitat was considered to be of moderately low sensitivity. The Wetland habitat unit provides important services and functions and provides valuable niche habitats for water reliant faunal species. Degradation in terms of floral and faunal species richness has occurred within the study area due to anthropogenic activities and the isolated and fragmented nature of the study area within the larger landscape, where landscape processes have been abated and urban development is rapidly expanding, further reduces the study area’s sensitivity. Several AIP’s where also noted in low to high densities within the Degraded, Grassland and Wetland habitats which are indicative of the historic disturbance through edge effects that have previously occurred within the study area.
The site assessment indicated that the study area has the potential to host three SCC. Breeding and foraging habitat for Tyto capensis (African Grass Owl, VU), Chamaesaura aenea (Coppery Grass Lizard, NT) and Homoroselaps dorsalis (Striped Harlequin Snake, NT) was noted. Tyto capensis will inhabit both the Grassland and Wetland habitat units while the remaining SCC, Chamaesaura aenea and Homoroselaps dorsalis, prefer the Grassland habitat within the study area. Should the proposed development of the township occupy the entire study area it will exacerbate the potential local extinctions of these SCC through habitat destruction.
The perceived impact significance of the proposed township development was undertaken assuming the entire site would be developed. Prior to mitigation of impacts affecting faunal habitat, diversity and SCC it is considered that the proposed township development will result in medium high to very low significance impacts. With mitigation as stipulated in this report, and with development utilising best environmental practices, many of the impacts may be reduced to low and very significance rating. Thus, the proposed development will not have a significant impact on the faunal assemblages provided the proponent avoids impacts to the Wetland Habitat, prioritises development within the Degraded habitat and manages development within in the Grassland habitat unit, through the utilisation of open space areas and bioswales. Floral assessment Three habitat units were identified within the study area, namely the Grassland Habitat, Wetland Habitat and Degraded Habitat. The study area is situated in a predominantly urban landscape where the broader landscape
84 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
primarily comprises urban built-up areas in all directions; natural veld is however present to the northeast of the study area. Within the study area, no areas are built-up, however, several sections within the Degraded Habitat shows evidence of historic disturbance which has resulted in the floral communities comprising an abundance of AIPs as well as homogenous stretches of grass species such as Cymbopogon pospischilii, Hyparrhenia hirta and Hyparrhenia tamba. This habitat unit is therefore of moderately low ecological sensitivity and importance.
The Grassland Habitat was least affected by the disturbances present within the surrounding habitat units and the habitat was largely intact. The floral species are representative of the reference vegetation type, i.e. the Carletonville Dolomite Grassland, and contributes most to the floral diversity within the study area. Development activities within this habitat unit will negatively impact on floral communities within the study area and will result in the loss of primary grassland and indigenous vegetation within the broader region.
The Wetland Habitat is considered to be of intermediate ecological sensitivity and importance as several sections have been degraded by the presence of AIP species. This habitat unit remains important for supporting species associated with wetland or soil saturated conditions. Development activities within this habitat unit will impact unfavourably on floral diversity and habitat within the study area but is unlikely to have a significant impact8 on the floral communities on a local to regional scale.
From a conservation perspective, the study area is located in a CBA (Gauteng C-Plan v3.3, 2011) and the critically endangered Rietvleiriver Highveld Grassland ecosystem (National Threatened Ecosystems, 2011). Due to the extent of habitat degradation within the section of the study area that falls within the critically endangered Rietvleiriver Highveld Grassland ecosystem, it is no longer considered representative. The Grassland Habitat and adjoining Wetland Habitat remains important for reaching biodiversity targets associated the CBA.
The impacts on the floral habitat, diversity and SCC are considered to range from low (Degraded Habitat) to medium-high (Grassland Habitat) significance impacts prior to the implementation of mitigation measures. With mitigation fully implemented most impacts can be reduced to very low (Degraded Habitat) and low to medium-low (Wetland Habitat) significance impacts. The impacts on the Grassland Habitat will remain medium-high to low despite fully implementing mitigation measures.
No floral SCC were recorded during the field assessment, but the Grassland Habitat provides suitable conditions to support two Red Listed plant species, namely Habenaria bicolor (NT) and Habenaria mossii (EN). Several Orange List plants were also determined to have suitable habitat within the Grassland Habitat and Wetland Habitat, including Callilepis leptophylla (Declining), Eucomis autumnalis (Declining), Gunnera perpensa (Declining) and Hypoxis hemerocallidea (Declining) – All listed as declining within the Gauteng Province according to the GDARD red an orange plant list (Compaan, 2011), although
85 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
they are considered to be of least concern on a National level. Impacts on floral SCC ranged from medium-low (Grassland Habitat) to very low (Degraded Habitat) significance impacts prior to the implementation of mitigation measures. With mitigation measures fully implemented, these impacts can be reduced to low and very low levels. Despite these species not found on site during the field investigation, it by no means suggests that they do not occur there and a thorough walk- down of any area to be impacted by future development will be necessary within the correct flowering season. Wetland Wetland An ephemeral watercourse used to be present in the central section of the site before the onset of assessment delineation and anthropogenic developments such as agricultural activities during the 1930’s, increased urban Mitigation development from the 1970’s and surface sealing activities of the catchment in the 2000’s. Measures The sealing and paving in surrounding areas has led to increased wetness signature within the upper reaches of the watercourse due to larger and more regular inflows of water on the surface through stormwater runoff. These signatures are exacerbated by the leaking and outflow of sewage effluent from the urban/industrial developments. The drivers of the wetland area are determined largely by urban infrastructure and its associated seasonal spikes in runoff. In this regard it is imperative that any open soil areas be protected against increased erosion pressures through the implementation of the following: i. Adequate stormwater mitigation to prevent large pulses in storm water. ii. Sediment containment structures to prevent sediment runoff and accumulation in the wetland area. iii. It is therefore proposed that the current wetland feature be incorporated as a storm water management structure through landscaping and soft engineering approaches. In this regard the soils that are present are ideal for the establishment of various wetland plant species and as such an improvement can be obtained through dedicated management of the wetland feature. iv. A 32 m buffer is not advised for a feature that is largely of man-made origin (altered position and wetness through additional stormwater ingress) and that will alter significantly due to development and alteration of stormwater dynamics in the area. Rather, a 15 m buffer is proposed with stormwater measures for the site to be planned around the depression that exists in the landscape. The stormwater plan will have to include inflow and outflow parameters as the structure will have a positive water balance once additional stormwater is release into it. The size of the structure will depend on: - The storm water volume to be handled; and - The landscaping parameters planned for the site. In this regard it is proposed that the structure be designed in such a way as to have soft engineering interventions in order to yield an ecological response that is beneficial to the development, the general area and that ties in with ecological conservation parameters (flow regime and water quality) of the general area. Heritage Availability of Several cultural and heritage studies have been undertaken in the past for the Modderfontein area, including the Impact Cultural Heritage application site. According to previous studies, the site has the disinterred grave of Sophie Geel, a young girl who drowned
86 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
Resources or in Dam 1 at Modderfontein on 20 October 1919. Sophie’s remains were reburied in the Modderfontein cemetery in 1996. graves on site Except for this, no other resources have been found on site. There is no recorded evidence of paleontological material within the confines of the Development Site. Geotechnical Site geology/site Based on site investigations the site is regarded as suitable for development, provided the measures outlined investigations profile in the reports are applied. The Soil Site Class is designated as 2(R3)(w)[H/C/Sl. All conclusions and recommendations that pertain to Zone 2(R3)[H/C/S] shall apply to this sub-area For the area around Test Pits Al to A4, a sub-surface drainage system should be installed in the delineated area and a cut off drain established on the upslope side of the area. The cut off trench should be located south of the sub-area. The trench should be taken to refusal below a depth of 1.5m and the sub-soil drain installed to gather the seepage and discharge it down slope into the stormwater system. Adequate depth (sump) below the seepage horizon of 1.5m to "capture" maximum seepage during a significantly wet season must be allowed for. If the subsurface drainage can be installed simultaneously with the servicing of Founders Hill Extensions 19 and 20 it will allow for drying out of the sub-area in advance of development. Houses in this sub-area should be appropriately placed on platforms raised adequately to meet the criteria set out in the NHBRC Manual. This should also include the (minimum) 150 mm freeboard, i.e. top of floor slab to top of natural ground level, as required in the NHBRC Guidelines. The upper transported silty clay horizon should be removed and replaced with appropriate backfill material within the footprint area + 1m of the structures. Stormwater may gather north of the site on the waste storage facilities of the Kelvin Power Station. Careful storm water control will obviously be necessary along the eastern boundary of the site as stands are located against this drainage line. This water could, if unmanaged, exacerbate subterranean flow. Excavations and Potentially problematic materials blanket the bedrocks over large sections of the site. Founding Given the behaviour of the different soils, site specific {footprint) investigations will be required and Conditions recommended for other types of structures; for example, any multi storey units, if proposed for development on this site.
87 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
KEY POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE IMPACTS
Based on the impact assessment, a number of potentially negative and positive impacts have been identified, assessed and summarised in the table below.
Table 17: Key positive and negative impacts Positive Negative Biophysical Environment The layout for the proposed activity has There will be permanent alteration of the biophysical considered and integrated the ecological, environment as a result of the development. topographical and hydrological constraints that Mitigation measures proposed to be implemented have been identified Except for the grassland area and the wetland, no Activity will lead to the loss of sensitive grassland and other biodiversity sensitive features will be is likely to affect the wetland system affected by the development. Rehabilitation of the drainage system and The development will lead to an increase in implementation of proper storm water hardened surfaces thereby increasing stormwater management system. The potential for run-off. improvement is significant if SUDs are used for The activity will lead to reduced connectivity stormwater management. between the watercourse elements to the south of the site. Socio-economic Environment Creation of substantial employment Activity could lead to influx of people into the area opportunities during the construction phase which could lead to strain on infrastructure and followed by substantial housing opportunities social problems. during the operational phase Potential traffic congestion if the road infrastructure is not improved. Improvement in infrastructure services in the area Possible disruption to daily lives of residents during construction and infrastructure improvements Improvement to the tax base for municipality Realisation of such improvements might take a long time given the nature of development Activity is aligned with municipal and provincial Infrastructure, including road network might be spatial plans will lead to infill and densification strained if no commensurate upgrades are within the urban fabric implemented Alignment with government policy on integrated Infrastructure, including road network might be settlements and employment opportunities close strained if no commensurate upgrades are to residential areas. implemented Visual impact- the design of the scheme will result Development could result in a significant degree of in a visually pleasing architectural style and should visual intrusion if the height and treatment of designs enhance the environment do not consider the predominant theme and municipal restrictions.
88 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
10.0 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
PROCESS FOLLOWED
The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process has been undertaken in accordance with the EIA Regulations published in Government Notice No. R. 982 of 2014. Relevant studies were conducted, and recommendations used to inform the assessment process. To ensure that the activity is implemented in an environmentally responsible and sustainable manner, all applicable legislation was considered during the assessment. The provisions of such legislation informed the identification and development of appropriate management and mitigation measures that should be implemented to minimise potentially significant impacts associated with the project.
ASSUMPTIONS, UNCERTAINTIES OR GAPS IN KNOWLEDGE
All information provided by the applicant and the appointed specialist was correct and valid at the time it was provided. The EAP does not accept any responsibility in the event that additional information not available at the time comes to light at a later stage of the process. All data from an unpublished research is valid and accurate, and The scope of the investigation is considered sufficient to provide appropriate information for assessing the potential environmental impacts associated with the Founders Hill Extension 19-21 Township.
In addition to the above, certain assumptions and limitations were noted by some of the specialist appointed for the project. These assumptions are highlighted below.
Terrestrial ecological assessment
The following assumptions and limitations are applicable to this report: The biodiversity desktop assessment is confined to the study area and does not include detailed results of the adjacent properties, although the sensitivity of surrounding areas has been included on the relevant maps. It is important to note that although all data sources used provide useful and often verifiable, high-quality data, the various databases used do not always provide an entirely accurate indication of the actual site characteristics within the study area at the scale required to inform an environmental process. However, this information is useful as background information to the study and, based on the desktop results, sufficient decision making can take place with regards to the proposed development, and A field assessment was undertaken from the 20th to the 21st of February 2020 (summer season). The field assessment aimed to determine the ecological status of the study area, and to “ground- truth” the results of the desktop assessment.
Disclaimer- Wetland assessment
This report was generated under the regulations of NEMA (National Environmental Management Act) that guides the appointment of specialists. The essence of the regulations is 1) independence, 2) specialisation and 3) duty to the regulator. The independent specialist has, in accordance with the regulations, a duty to the competent authority to disclose all matters related to the specific investigation should he be requested to do such (refer to declaration above).
89 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
It is accepted that this report can be submitted for peer review (as the regulations also allow for such). However, the intention of this report is not to function as one of several attempts by applicants or competent authorities to obtain favourable delineation outcomes. Rather, the report is aimed at addressing specific site conditions in the context of current legislation, guidelines and best practice with the ultimate aim of ensuring the conservation and adequate management of the water resource on the specific site.
Due to the specific legal liabilities wetland specialists face when conducting wetland delineations and assessments this author reserves the right to, in the event that this report becomes part of a delineation comparison exercise between specialists, submit the report to the competent authorities, without entering into protracted correspondence with the client, as an independent report.
CONCLUDING REMARKS
The EIAR has provided details of the activity, a description of the affected environment and alternatives proposed for the development and the assessment of both the beneficial and negative impacts anticipated as a result of the project.
From an environmental perspective the following observations should be noted: based on the findings of the ecological assessment, the proposed project can be considered favourably. However, all essential mitigation measures and recommendations presented in the assessment report should be adhered to. according to the wetland specialist, although a wetland traverses the site, this is largely of man- made origin (altered position and wetness through additional stormwater ingress) and that will alter significantly due to development and alteration of stormwater dynamics due to the development. Therefore, the feature must be managed as part of the stormwater management system.
From socio-economic perspective the development will have notable positive impacts including creation of employment opportunities, increased economic activities and tax base for the municipality and alignment with municipal and provincial spatial plans as well as d support for integrated development were identified.
From the assessments conducted, this project will have a positive socio-economic impact. Although It has been acknowledged that there will be both positive and negative impacts on the biophysical environment, the implementation of the mitigation measures outlined in this report and the EMPr as well as through adequate environmental monitoring and enforcement the negative impacts can be successfully mitigated.
Thus, from all the findings of this report, it is recommended that the development be authorised. It is further recommended that the preferred layout be authorised.
CONDITIONS AND FINAL RECOMMENDATIONS
In order to achieve appropriate environmental management standards and ensure that the findings of the environmental studies are implemented through practical measures, the recommendations from this EIA study are included within an EMPr. The EMPr must be used to ensure compliance with environmental specifications and management measures.
90 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
The implementation of this EMPr is considered to be vital in achieving the appropriate environmental management standards as detailed for this project.
In addition, the following key conditions could be included as part of the authorisation: The proponent is not absolved from complying with any other statutory requirements applicable to the undertaking of the activity The proponent must appoint a suitably experienced (independent) Environmental Control Officer (ECO) for the construction phase of the development that will have the responsibility to ensure that the mitigation / rehabilitation measures and recommendations are implemented and to ensure compliance with the provisions of the EMPr. The Wetland must be protected at all times, during both construction and operation. The wetland rehabilitation plan must be implemented to arrest the degradation of the system. The 1 in 100-year flood line or wetland buffer zone, whichever is greater, must be pegged and demarcated by a wetland specialist prior to the commencement of any construction activities. All construction related impacts (including service roads, site camp, temporary ablution, disturbance of natural habitat, storing of equipment/building materials/vehicles or any other activity), save for the authorised installation of services and related infrastructure, must be excluded from the wetland area. All foundations for buildings and structures or infrastructure services must be designed according to site specific Geotechnical findings and recommendations. The final Stormwater Management Plan that includes bio-retention ponds and SuDs principles must be submitted to the City of Johannesburg for approval. A Water Use License must be obtained from the Department of Water and Sanitation as per the requirements of the National Water Act, 1998 and related Regulations. The design of buildings and structures should also incorporate the green building standards that promote optimal resource efficiency. Should any subsurface archaeological deposits, artefacts or skeletal material be uncovered during construction activities, all activities should be suspended, and the archaeological specialist should be notified immediately. Storm water during construction should be channelled down gradient towards the wetland buffer and dissipaters and siltation traps installed where necessary to prevent erosion and sedimentation. An integrated waste management approach must be implemented that is based on waste minimisation and must incorporate avoidance, reduction, recycling, re-use and disposal where appropriate. Uncontaminated boulders rubble generated during the construction can be re-used as backfilling material on site. The ELO must ensure that no refuse or builders rubble generated on the construction site is placed, dumped, or deposited on adjacent properties or public open space during or after construction.
91 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
11.0 APPENDICES
APPENDIX 1: LOCALITY MAP APPENDIX 2: SITE LAYOUT APPENDIX 3: PUBLIC PARTICIPATION INFORMATION APPENDIX 4: SPECIALIST STUDIES AND REPORTS 4.1: Biodiversity Impact Assessment 4.2: Wetland Delineation and Assessment 4.3: Traffic Impact Assessment
4.4: Engineering Services Report
4.5 : Geotechnical Assessment 4.6: Town Planning Memorandum
APPENDIX 5: STORMWATER INFRASTRUCTURE APPENDIX 6: CORRESPONDENCE WITH AUTHORITIES 7.1 Approval of the Scoping Report 7.2 Comments from the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality 7.3 Comments from SAHRA APPENDIX 7: ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME
92 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
APPENDIX 1: LOCALITY MAP
93 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
APPENDIX 2: SITE LAYOUT PLAN
94 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
APPENDIX 3: PUBLIC PARTICPATION INFORMATION
95 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
APPENDIX 4: SPECIALIST STUDIES AND REPORTS
96 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
4.1 BIODIVERITY ASSESSMENT REPORT
97 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
4.2: WETLAND ASSESSMENT AND DELINEATION REPORT
98 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
4.3 TRAFIC IMPACT ASSESSMENT REPORT
99 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
4.4 ENGINEERING SERVICES REPORT
100 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
4.5 GEOTECHNICAL ASSESSMENT
101 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
4.8 TOWN PLANNING MEMO
102 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
APPENDIX 5: STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PLAN AND INFRASTRUCTURE
103 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
APPENDIX 6: CORRESPONDENCE WITH AUTHORITIES
104 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
6.1 COMMENTS/APPROVAL OF THE SCOPING REPORT
105 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
6.2 COMMENTS FORM THE CITY OF JOHANNESBURG
106 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
6.3 COMMENTS/APPROVAL FROM SAHRA
107 Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report: Founders Hill Extensions 19 - 21: Gaut 002/20-21/E2614
APPENDIX 7: EMPR
108