Client: Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Private Bag X9011 2470

Assisted By: Urban Dynamics () Inc. PO Box 3294 Middelburg 1050

Funded by: Gert Sibande District Municipality PO Box 550 Secunda 2302

Date: 30 November 2010 i

Table of Contents

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION...... 1 1.0 THE NEED FOR A SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK...... 1 1.1 TERMS OF REFERENCE...... 3 2.0 LEGISLATIVE CONTEXT...... 4 2.1 LEGISLATIVE REQUIREMENTS...... 4 2.2 IDP & DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY LINKAGE...... 6 2.3 CURRENT PLANNING ...... 6 2.4 SDF STATUS...... 7 2.5 ALIGNMENT ...... 7 3.0 PLANNING AREA...... 8 4.0 PLANNING PROCESS AND REPORT STRUCTURE...... 9 4.1 APPROACH...... 9 4.2 THE PROCESS AND METHODOLOGY ...... 10

CHAPTER 2: ANALYSIS ...... 14 1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 14 1.1 BACKGROUND ...... 14 1.2 STUDY AREA...... 15 1.3 THE HISTORICAL BACKGROUND ...... 16 2.0 SPATIAL ANALYSIS ...... 17 2.1 INTRODUCTION...... 17 2.2 SETTLEMENT DYNAMICS...... 17 2.3 LAND USE...... 18 3.0 SOCIO-ECONOMIC ANALYSIS ...... 36 3.1 INTRODUCTION...... 36 3.2 DEMOGRAPHICS...... 36 3.3 EMPLOYMENT AND INCOME...... 42 3.4 ECONOMIC PROFILE...... 45 4.0 INFRASTRUCTURE ANALYSIS...... 51 4.1 WATER ...... 51 4.1.1 Volksrust ...... 51 4.1.2 Vukuzakhe...... 52 4.1.3 Amersfoort...... 52 4.1.4 Ezamokuhle...... 52 4.1.5 and Siyazenzela...... 53 4.1.6 and Esizameleni ...... 53 4.1.7 and Sinqobile ...... 53 4.1.8 Rural Areas...... 53 4.1.9 Summary of Water Provision in the municipal area ...... 54 4.2 SANITATION...... 55 4.2.1 Volksrust ...... 56 4.2.2 Vukuzakhe...... 56 4.2.3 Amersfoort...... 56 4.2.4 Ezamokuhle...... 56 4.2.5 Perdekop and Siyazenzela...... 56 4.2.6 Wakkerstroom and Esizameleni ...... 57 4.2.7 Daggakraal and Sinqobile ...... 57 4.2.8 Rural Areas...... 57 4.3 ROADS AND STORM WATER ...... 58 4.3.1 Volksrust ...... 59 4.3.2 Vukuzakhe...... 59 4.3.3 Amersfoort and Ezamokuhle ...... 59 4.3.4 Perdekop and Siyazenzela...... 59 4.3.5 Wakkerstroom...... 59 4.3.6 Daggakraal and Sinqobile ...... 60 4.3.7 Rural Areas...... 60 4.4 WASTE MANAGEMENT...... 61 4.4.1 Volksrust and Vukuzakhe...... 61 4.4.2 Amersfoort and Ezamokuhle ...... 61 4.4.3 Perdekop and Siyazenzela...... 61 4.4.4 Wakkerstroom and Esizameleni ...... 62 4.4.5 Daggakraal and Sinqobile ...... 62 4.4.6 Rural Areas...... 62 4.5 ELECTRICAL PROVISION ...... 62 4.5.1 Volksrust ...... 63 4.5.2 Vukuzakhe...... 63 4.5.3 Amersfoort...... 63 4.5.4 Ezamokuhle...... 64 4.5.5 Perdekop & Siyazenzela...... 64 4.5.6 Wakkerstroom & Esizameleni...... 64 4.5.7 Daggakraal and Sinqobile ...... 64 4.5.8 Rural Areas...... 65 5.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS...... 65 5.1 INTRODUCTION...... 66

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (September 2010) ii

5.2 CLIMATE ...... 66 5.3 SOILS...... 67 5.4 TOPOGRAPHY AND GEOMORPHOLOGY...... 68 5.5 GEOLOGY ...... 68 5.6 WATER RESOURCES...... 69 5.7 AQUATIC AND WETLAND ECOLOGY ...... 71 5.8 TERRESTRIAL ECOLOGY ...... 71 5.9 INFRASTRUCTURE AND SERVICES...... 73 5.10 SPATIAL PLANNING AND LAND USES...... 74 5.10.1 Agriculture...... 75 5.10.2 Mining...... 76 5.10.3 Urban Settlements ...... 77 5.10.4 Open Spaces ...... 77 5.10.5 Tourism ...... 78 5.11 RESOURCE ECONOMICS...... 79 6.0 LEGISLATIVE & POLICY ANALYSIS ...... 82 6.1 INTRODUCTION...... 82 6.2 DEVELOPMENT FACILITATION ACT (DFA) ...... 83 6.3 GERT SIBANDE DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY SDF (2009)...... 85 6.3.1 GSDM development principles ...... 85 6.3.2 Development Nodes ...... 87 6.3.3 Tourism and Recreation ...... 87 6.3.4 Transportation ...... 87 6.3.5 Natural Environment ...... 88 6.4 LAND USE MANAGEMENT POLICIES AND GUIDELINES...... 89

CHAPTER 3: VISION & PLANNING PRINCIPLES...... 93 1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 93 2.0 VISION AND MISSION...... 94 3.0 DESIRED SPATIAL FORM ...... 94 4.0 OBJECTIVES ...... 95 4.1 EFFICIENT AND INTEGRATED LAND DEVELOPMENT...... 96 4.2 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT ...... 96 4.3 PROTECTION AND ENHANCEMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT...... 98 4.4 DISCOURAGE ILLEGAL LAND USE...... 101 4.5 EFFICIENT PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AND CAPACITY BUILDING...... 101 4.6 FACILITATING DEVELOPER INTERACTION WITH THE MUNICIPALITY...... 101 4.7 CLEAR GUIDANCE, PROCEDURES AND ADMINISTRATIVE PRACTICE...... 101 4.8 SPEEDY LAND DEVELOPMENT...... 102 4.9 NO ONE LAND USE IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN ANY OTHERS...... 102 4.10 SECURITY OF TENURE...... 103 4.11 CO-ORDINATION OF LAND DEVELOPMENT...... 103 4.12 PROMOTION OF OPEN MARKETS AND COMPETITION...... 103

CHAPTER 4: LAND USE MANAGEMENT (POLICIES & GUIDELINES)...... 105 1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 105 2.0 DEVELOPMENT PATTERN LAND USE POLICY...... 106 2.1 BACKGROUND ...... 106 2.2 OBJECTIVES: DEVELOPMENT PATTERN...... 106 2.3 SETTLEMENT HIERARCHY ...... 107 2.3.1 Policy ...... 107 2.4 NODAL DEVELOPMENT AND DENSIFICATION ...... 108 2.5 URBAN EDGE ...... 111 2.5.1 Policy ...... 111 2.5.2 Guidelines...... 111 3.0 CONSERVATION LAND USE POLICY...... 112 3.1 BACKGROUND ...... 112 3.2 OBJECTIVES: CONSERVATION...... 113 3.3 GENERAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION...... 113 3.4 LANDSCAPES...... 115 4.0 TOURISM AND RECREATION LAND USE POLICY ...... 119 4.1 BACKGROUND ...... 119 4.2 OBJECTIVES: TOURISM AND RECREATION...... 119 4.3 POLICIES AND GUIDELINES...... 119 4.3.1 Policy ...... 120 4.3.2 Guidelines...... 120 5.0 SUB-DIVISION OF AGRICULTURAL LAND...... 120 5.1 OBJECTIVES: AGRICULTURAL AND RURAL...... 121 5.2 SUB-DIVISION OF AGRICULTURAL LAND...... 121 5.2.1 Policy ...... 121 5.2.1 Guidelines...... 122 5.3 PRIME AND UNIQUE AGRICULTURAL SOILS ...... 122 5.3.1 Policy ...... 123 5.3.2 Guidelines...... 123 5.4 AGRI-VILLAGES AND SMALL SCALE FARMING...... 124 5.4.1 Policy ...... 124 5.4.2 Guidelines...... 125 5.5 RURAL NON-AGRICULTURAL LAND USE...... 126 5.5.1 Policy ...... 126 5.5.2 Guidelines...... 127

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) iii

5.6 TOURISM AND RESORT DEVELOPMENT ...... 127 5.6.1 Policy ...... 128 5.6.2 Guidelines...... 129 6.0 URBAN DEVELOPMENT LAND USE POLICY ...... 131 6.1 BACKGROUND ...... 131 6.2 OBJECTIVES: URBAN DEVELOPMENT...... 132 6.3 HOUSING/RESIDENTIAL...... 132 6.3.1 Policy ...... 132 6.3.2 Guidelines...... 133 6.4 COMMUNITY FACILITIES...... 134 6.4.1 Policy ...... 134 6.4.2 Guidelines...... 134 6.5 BUSINESS ...... 135 6.5.1 Policy ...... 135 6.5.2 Guidelines...... 136 6.6 INDUSTRIAL...... 137 6.6.1 Policy ...... 137 6.6.2 Guidelines...... 137

CHAPTER 5: SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES...... 138 1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 138 2.0 IDP PROJECTS AND LINKAGE...... 138 2.1 GUIDING PRINCIPLES ...... 138 2.1.1. Towards Integration: The Semi-Lattice Urban Development Concept ...... 139 3.0 PROPOSED SPATIAL FRAMEWORK...... 141 3.1 Hierarchy of Roads ...... 142 3.2 Activity Nodes/Areas...... 147 3.3 Mixed Land Use...... 152 3.4 Open Space System...... 153 3.5 Residential Development (Long term future expansion)...... 155 3.6 Urban Residential Infill Development and densification (Short & medium term expansion) ...... 158 3.7 Social infrastructure ...... 160 3.8 Industrial Development...... 161 3.9 Extensive Land Use/Agriculture...... 161 3.10 Urban Edge...... 171 3.11 Municipal Solid Waste Site ...... 171 4.0 PRIORITY AREAS AND DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES...... 172 4.1 Sensitive Natural Area...... 172 4.2 Settlement hierarchy...... 172 4.3 Economic growth of small towns and rural areas...... 173 4.4 Agricultural / Small-Scale Farming Development...... 176 4.5 Potential High Income residential development...... 177 5.0 IMPLEMENTATION...... 178 5.1 Service upgrading priority areas...... 178 5.2 Requirements for successful implementation...... 179 5.3 Capital Investment Framework...... 180

Annexure A: List of figures

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) iv

List of Tables

Table 1: Facilities within Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Table 2: Housing or Residential needs within the municipality Table 3: Population of Pixley Ka Isaka Seme (1996-2010) Table 4: Population of Pixley Ka Isaka Seme per human settlement (2008) Table 5: Population of Pixley Ka Isaka Seme per ward Table 6: Population groups within Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Table 7: Age profile (2008) Table 8: HIV/AIDS trends in Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Table 9: Level of Education Table 10: Employment within the municipality Table 11: Monthly income of households in Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Table 12: Households receiving grants Table 13: Economic sectors & contribution to the GVA of the municipality Table 14: Pixley Ka Isaka Seme’s contribution to GSDM & Mpumalanga Table 15: Economic sectors & contribution to the GVA (2006-2008) Table 16: Employment figures for each of the economic sectors in the municipality Table 17: Forecast of contribution to the GVA of the municipality Table 18: Forecast of employment in different economic sectors of the municipality Table 19: Type of water services in Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Table 20: Type of sanitation systems in the rural areas of the municipality Table 21: Details of the 12 quaternary catchments within the municipal area Table 22: Landfill status Table 23: Land uses within the greater PKISLM Table 24: Act 70 of 70 exclusions Volksrust/Vukuzakhe Table 25: Act 70 of 70 exclusions Amersfoort/Ezamokuhle Table 26: Act 70 of 70 exclusions Perdekop/Siyazenzela Table 27: Act 70 of 70 exclusions Wakkerstroom/Esizameleni Table 28: Act 70 of 70 exclusions Daggakraal/Sinqobile

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) v

List of Figures

Figure 1: Regional Locality Figure 2: Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Ward Plan Figure 3: SDF methodology Figure 4: Land use Plan: Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Figure 5: Land Use Plan: Volksrust Figure 6: Land Use Plan: Vukuzakhe Figure 7: Land Use Plan: Amersfoort/Ezamokuhle Figure 8: Land Use Plan: Perdekop/Siyazenzela Figure 9: Land Use Plan: Wakkerstroom/Esizameleni Figure 10: Land Use Plan: Daggakraal/Sinqobile Figure 11: Gazetted Land Claims Figure 12: Settled Land Claims Figure 13: Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Land Audit Figure 14: Land Cover Figure 15: Conservation Figure 16: Hydrology Figure 17: Soil Potential Figure 18: Act 70 of 70 exclusions Figure 19: Potential for underground and open cast mining Figure 20: Geology Figure 21: Hydro-Morphic units of the wetlands Figure 22: Present Ecological State of Quinery wetlands Figure 23: Aquatic Conservation Figure 24: Terrestrial Biodiversity Figure 25: Fauna and Flora hot spot areas Figure 26: Priority area 1 Figure 27: Priority area 2 Figure 28: Priority area 3 Figure 29: Priority area 4 Figure 30: Priority area 5 Figure 31: Combined Priority areas Figure 32: Priority areas and development proposals

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) vi

Figure 33: Local SDF: Volksrust Figure 34: Local SDF: Vukuzakhe Figure 35: Local SDF: Amersfoort/Ezamokuhle Figure 36: Local SDF: Perdekop/Siyazenzela Figure 37a: Local SDF: Wakkerstroom/Esizameleni Figure 37b: Local SDF: Wakkerstroom/Esizameleni Conservation Figure 38: Local SDF: Daggakraal Figure 39: Local SDF Sinqobile

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) vii

REFERENCES

 Integrated Development Plan for Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Municipality 2009/2010 & 2010/2011  Integrated Development Plan for Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Municipality, 2004  Water Services Development Plan (WSDP) 2009/2013  Gert Sibande District Municipality Spatial Development Framework 2009  Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework 2009  Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework 2005  Phase 1: Environmental input into the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality SDF, July 2010  Population Policy for April 1998  Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Local Integrated Transport Plan, October 2009  Housing Chapter for Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality 2010/2014  Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Valuation Roll, 2008  Population Profile Pixley Ka Seme Local Municipality, Department Social Development, Mpumalanga Provincial Government, 2010  LED Maturity Assessment Pixley Ka Seme Local Municipality, October 2010  A Spatial Based Tourism Plan for Wakkerstroom and surrounding areas, 2009  Wakkerstroom, A Conservation Study, 1995  Mpumalanga Mining Indaba document April 2010  Compilation plans from the Surveyor General

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 1

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

1.0 THE NEED FOR A SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

This document represents the Spatial Development Framework for the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality, a municipality within the Gert Sibande District Municipality. The document is prepared and submitted in fulfilment of the Municipality’s legal obligation in terms of the relevant sections of the Local Government : Municipality Systems Act, 2000 (Act 32 of 2000) that forms part of the requirements of the IDP of the municipality.

The main aim of the Spatial Development Framework is to formulate spatially based policy guidelines whereby changes, needs and growth in the region can be managed to the benefit of the whole community. The Spatial Development Framework further guides and informs all decisions of the Municipality relating to land use, development and planning of land. This will have to be balanced with the need to provide adequately for the social and economic needs of the growing population. In particular, it will identify opportunities for future development and conservation and make recommendations as to where and how development or conservation should take place. In doing so, the framework will not make detailed proposals for specific land portions, but will rather provide broad spatial guidelines to assist decision making with regard to land use/spatial planning.

The Spatial Development Framework for the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality will at least indicate and inform the following:

 Objectives, strategies and policies with respect to desired spatial form  Directions of growth  Guidelines for Land Use Management  Conservation of both the built and natural environment  Areas in which particular types of land use should be encouraged and others discouraged  Delineate the urban edge areas  A strategic environmental assessment  Where strategic intervention is required

The need for the preparation of a Spatial Development Framework for the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality was identified as a result of a number of imperatives:

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 2

 The Spatial Development Framework forms a legally binding component of the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Integrated Development Plan

This Spatial Development Framework is a refinement of the broad spatial framework guidelines as contained in the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme IDP, 2009/2010. In terms of the IDP a two layered approached should be followed namely:

 Regional Spatial Development Framework dealing with the rural areas  Local detailed Spatial Development Framework for the various functional areas/service centres(towns/villages)

 The need to formulate and implement spatial planning guidelines and policies

Proper land use planning guidelines and policies in the rural areas and urban settlements are lacking and in some cases out-dated. The absence of proper planning guidelines therefore necessitates the preparation of a detailed Spatial Development Framework for the area to manage future land use.

 Legislative requirements

The Local Government: Municipal Systems Act, 2000 (Act 32 of 2000) and its Regulations require all Local Authorities to prepare Spatial Development Frameworks.

 Increasing pressure for development

The demand for development of rural settlements is pressurising existing scarce resources. Conflict between high potential agriculture land, conservation areas and mining poses a threat to the environment.

 The imperative to implement and maintain sustainability

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 3

Sustainability of the natural and man-made environment is of critical importance for long term land use management and effective development. Sustainability will be achieved by optimising and utilising the scares resources, protect the available resources (natural environment) and educate the local population to utilise the available resources in a sustainable manner.

The first SDF was formulated in 2005 and reviewed in 2009 as required by the legislation that the SDF of a local municipality needs to be reviewed at least every 5 years. The fact that the SDF needs to be reviewed again in such a short period of time is the result of the new District SDF for Gert Sibande District Municipality and the need to align all the SDF’s of the local municipalities in the area of jurisdiction with that of the district municipality SDF. The Pixley Ka Isaka Seme SDF review and alignment process is therefore one of the first local municipalities within the district that will be aligned with the GSDM SDF.

1.1 TERMS OF REFERENCE

The terms of reference as determined by the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Municipality, include the following areas for specific attention:

. The Spatial Development Plan should adhere to the relevant legal requirements for the preparation of SDF’s . Existing development and land use profile . Infrastructure and services . Socio-economic characteristics . Natural environment . Urban development . Eco-tourism development . Desired spatial form . Spatial strategies and policies . Inclusion of nodal areas such as Volksrust, Vukuzakhe, Georgia Gardens, Amersfoort, Ezamokuhle, Perdekop, Siyazenzela, Wakkerstroom, Esizameleni, Daggakraal and Sinqobile.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 4

2.0 LEGISLATIVE CONTEXT

The Spatial Development Framework is drafted within specific legislative guidelines. These legislative guidelines and context determine the status of the document as well as linkages with other strategic planning exercises. The legislative context with respect to legislative requirements, IDP linkages, current planning, SDF legal status and alignment is briefly addressed in the following paragraphs.

2.1 LEGISLATIVE REQUIREMENTS

A large number of planning guidelines, Acts, Regulations and Policies are relevant to the preparation of a Spatial Development Framework for the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Municipality area of jurisdiction. These planning guidelines will be analysed in more detail as part of the SDF analysis phase (refer to Chapter 2). The Spatial Development Framework is prepared, approved and implemented within the legislative context of the Local Government : Municipal Systems Act, 2000 (Act 32 of 2000)(MSA) and the subsequent Local Government : Municipal Planning and Performance Management Regulations, 2001 promulgated under Section 120 of the Local Government : Municipal Systems Act.

The following sections of the MSA and its regulations are applicable to the SDF and outline the legislative requirements with respect to context, approval and content.

 Context (Municipal Systems Act)

26(e) “an Integrated Development Plan must reflect a Spatial Development Framework which must include the provision of basic guidelines for a Land Use Management System for the Municipality”

 Approval (Municipal Systems Act)

28(1) “each Municipal Council, within the prescribed period after the start of each elected term must adopt the process set out in writing to guide the planning, drafting, adoption and review of its Integrated Development Plan”

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 5

 Content (Municipal Systems Act Regulations)

(4) “A spatial development framework reflected in a municipality’s integrated development plan must –

(a) give effect to the principles contained in Chapter 1 of the Development Facilitation Act ‘ 1995 (Act No. 67 of 1995);

(b) set out objectives that reflect the desired spatial form of the municipality;

(c) contain strategies and policies regarding the manner in which to achieve the objectives referred to in paragraph (b), which strategies and policies must – (i) indicated desired patterns of land use within the municipality; (ii) address the spatial reconstruction of the municipality; and (iii) provide strategic guidance in respect of the location and nature of development within the municipality;

(d) set out basic guidelines for a land use management system in the municipality; (e) set out a capital investment framework for the municipality’s development programs; (f) contain a strategic assessment of the environmental impact of the spatial development framework; (g) identify programs and projects for the development of land within the municipality; (h) be aligned with the spatial development frameworks reflected in the integrated development plans of neighbouring municipalities; and (i) provide a visual representation of the desired spatial form of the municipality, which representation:

(i) must indicate where public and private land development and infrastructure investment should take place; (ii) must indicate desired or undesired utilisation of space in a particular area; (iii) may delineate the urban edge; (iv) must identify areas where strategic intervention is required; and (v) must indicate areas where priority spending is required.”

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 6

2.2 IDP & DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY LINKAGE

The Spatial Development Framework for the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Municipality area forms part of the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Integrated Development Plan 2009/2010. The SDF as one of the operational strategies of the IDP, are closely linked and should function with the other operational strategies, i.e. Water Services Development Plan, LED Programmes, Environmental Management Framework, Disaster Management Plan, etc.

The Spatial Development Framework further gives effect to Council’s vision for development and Council’s objectives and strategies with respect to Land Development and Land Use Management to ensure a credible, affordable and well developed municipality.

Due to the location of the municipality within the Gert Sibande District Municipality it is imperative that the SDF of Pixley Ka Isaka Seme is aligned with that of the District Municipality as contained in the Final Report of the Gert Sibande District Municipality SDF, 2009.

2.3 CURRENT PLANNING

Current planning on a localised level is limited to the Spatial Development Framework strategies and proposals made in the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Integrated Development Plan, 2009/2010. The preparation and prioritisation of the review of the Spatial Development Framework have been necessitated as a result of the absence of clear land use management guidelines and forward planning for the smaller towns and villages and as a result of the new SDF for the GSDM completed in 2009.

Based on the diverse character and spatial form of the area, Council decided to focus on the area in terms of the rural area and on the localised functional areas of towns and villages. These Spatial Development Frameworks of the various planning areas will all form part of the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Spatial Development Framework. Once completed, these frameworks will then serve as guidelines towards the compilation of the detailed Land Use Management Plan which will be utilised in the day to day management of land use applications as intended by the Land Use Management Bill (draft of 2001) which is not yet enacted by Parliament.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 7

2.4 SDF STATUS

The Spatial Development Framework, being part of the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Integrated Development Plan, has the same status as the IDP and should be implemented in the same manner. It is again noted that the Spatial Development Framework is an extension of the IDP and forms part of its operational strategies.

The Municipal Systems Act makes provision for revision of the IDP, including the Spatial Development Framework, on an annual basis. The SDF should be regarded as a pro-active and dynamic tool outlining land use management and land development proposals.

Although annual revision of the SDF is not mandatory, it is recommended that the plan be monitored and reviewed on an on-going basis.

It should be noted that the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Spatial Development Framework will not infringe upon any existing Land Use Rights. Further to this, no guideline contained in this framework plan or any proposal regarding land uses which may arise from it, creates any rights or exempts it from obligation under any other law. Specific reference is made to the procedure for change in land use (rezoning), sub-division, township establishment and Council’s Special Consent. The normal procedure with respect to Land Use Management as outlined in the Town Planning and Townships Ordinance,1986 (Ordinance 15 of 1986) and other Land Use Management Legislation will still apply.

2.5 ALIGNMENT

Preparation, implementation and approval of the Spatial Development Framework do not take place in isolation. Alignment with Provincial, Local and District initiatives are of critical importance and are specifically stipulated in the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act. The alignment of the Spatial Development Framework on a Cross-Sectoral and Inter-Governmental basis should be established to ensure the alignment of the following strategic planning exercises and initiatives:

. Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Integrated Development Plan vision, priorities, objectives, strategies and projects

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 8

. Operational strategies of the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Municipality with respect to Integrated Sector Plans and Programmes, i.e. Water Services Development Plan, Local Economic Development Plan, Environmental Management Framework, etc.

. Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Municipality spatial planning initiatives with specific reference to the Spatial Development Framework and existing broad Regional Spatial Development Framework strategies (part of IDP)

. Spatial Development Framework initiatives by surrounding Local Authorities

. Provincial and National Government initiatives, policies and development strategies with specific reference to the Development Facilitation Act.

. The 10 Development Principles of the Gert Sibande District Municipality Spatial Development Framework, 2009

Alignment of the Spatial Development Framework should be a two-way process between the Municipality and other role players with specific reference to line Departments, the District Municipality and adjacent Local Authorities.

3.0 PLANNING AREA

The planning area in relation to its environments is depicted in the attached regional and local locality plans (see Figure 1 & 2). The study area is generally known as the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Municipality including Volksrust as a 2nd order service centre and Amersfoort, Perdekop, Daggakraal and Wakkerstroom as a 3rd order service centre as categorised in the SDF of the GSDM. The boundaries of the study area are based on the area of jurisdiction as depicted in terms of the Demarcation Board’s proposal for MP 304. Other smaller nodes do exist which will be dealt with in more detail as part of the analysis phase.

The Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality is situated in the southern part of the Gert Sibande District Municipality and borders Kwa Zulu Natal and the provinces. It is furthermore framed by the Mkhondo Municipality in the east, Msukaligwa Municipality to the north and Lekwa Municipality to the west.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 9

The study area comprises approximately 5227, 98 km² and include a number of residential areas as well as a vast rural area situated around the development centres. This equates to 16, 4% of the Gert Sibande District Municipality area. The population is estimated at approximately 95 910 according to the information from Global Insight version 491 (2.3d).

4.0 PLANNING PROCESS AND REPORT STRUCTURE

Preparation of the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme SDF is guided mainly by the MSA and its regulations. Further, the plan has been prepared in accordance with the Integrated Development Planning Process or IDP methodology, which identifies the relevant concerns, problems, issues and opportunities through a multi-sectoral approach during the public participation process and analysis phase. This process is aimed at identifying the opportunities inherent to the area and to make recommendations as how these can be utilised and expanded to address the weaknesses in the area. The Spatial Development Framework is a spatial component of this multi-sectoral process. Planning and the planning process should be viewed fundamentally as a cyclical process and not a single act. In order to achieve an efficient product (Spatial framework and policy), it is critical that the on-going cyclical nature of the planning process is reflected in the approach, process and methodology.

In the light of this, this planning initiative for the study area should be viewed as the commencement of an on-going planning process, which will guide the management of the spatial implications of growth and change into the future.

4.1 APPROACH

In order to achieve an effective implementation of the planning process, it is critical that the planning approach ensures that the product, policies and plans are:

. Focussed on strategic issues . Action orientated . Integrated with other aspects of administration and environment management . Capable of implementation . Reflects the need and opinions of stakeholders . Uphold the interest of the community as a whole . Sustainable

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 10

. Integrated with other operational strategies . Equitable and transparent . Reflects the needs and context of the study area

To achieve an effective planning work method, it is critical that the planning process consist of two fundamentally interlinked processes, being a technical planning process (information collection and synthesis) and participatory/consulting process.

4.2 THE PROCESS AND METHODOLOGY

The following figure provides a basic outline of the Spatial Development Framework process and methodology utilised in the preparation for the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme SDF.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 11

FIGURE 3: METHODOLOGY

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 12

The Spatial Development Framework process and methodology is based on a strategic planning exercise as established through the Integrated Development Plan mechanisms and methodology. The chapters of the document are summarised in the following paragraphs.

 Analysis (Chapter 2)

The existing level of development and understanding of the nature, dynamics and causes of the status quo will be assessed. The analysis is based on spatial, socio-economic, infrastructure, environmental, legislative and policy analysis sub-groups.

The analysis phase will pave the way for confirming a vision and establishing planning principles for the Spatial Development Framework and the study area.

 Vision and Planning Principles (Chapter 3)

The vision for the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Municipality, as per revised IDP 2009/2010 and broad planning principles and strategies are adopted. The vision and planning principle phase will establish Spatial Development Framework objectives, principles and ultimately provide guidelines with respect to the desired spatial form of the study area.

 Land Use Management (Policies & Guidelines) (Chapter 4)

The land use management guidelines includes strategies, policies and guidelines for each of the land use components, i.e. residential, rural development, business etc. These land use management guidelines are based on the vision and planning principles and will provide a policy framework for land use management decisions.

 Spatial Development Strategy (Chapter 5)

Based on the vision, planning principles and land use management guidelines, spatial development strategies or priority areas are formulated for each of the urban nodes, rural areas and possible areas for key intervention. The spatial development strategies will provide specific guidance with respect to future land uses, urban edge and possible areas for extension.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 13

 Implementation

Implementation of the Spatial Development Framework is closely linked and interacts with IDP and budget implementation processes. Implementation of the Spatial Development Framework is captured as an action plan for prioritisation.

 Public and Stakeholder Input/Technical Input

Each of the SDF phases, i.e. analysis, vision and planning principles, land use management guidelines, spatial development strategies and implementation are based on public and stakeholder input with a strong technical basis. The Spatial Development Framework forms part of the Integrated Development Plan as one of its operational strategies. The vision, priorities, objectives and strategies as identified as part of the IDP process will be incorporated into the SDF. The Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Revised IDP 2009/2010 has been based on an extensive public and stakeholder input process. The purpose of the Spatial Development Framework is not to regenerate these objectives and strategies. However, the SDF will rather enhance and expand on the spatial aspects thereof.

 Monitoring and Review

Monitoring and review of the Spatial Development Framework should be done on an on- going basis. However, the SDF review process can coincide with the IDP review process to include any objectives or development proposals coming forth form the IDP review process. It will be ideal if the SDF could be reviewed the same time as the IDP process in order to update the framework with any new spatial development that came forth from the IDP review.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 14

CHAPTER 2: ANALYSIS

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND

Analysis of the current situation or status quo within the study area forms an integral and important part of the strategic planning exercise. Analysing the study area from a spatial development perspective ensure that decisions and recommendations are based on knowledge of availability and accessibility of resources, mechanisms and trends that influence development and actions within the region as well as priorities as identified by the communities of the area.

The analysis further forms a basis for informing vision and planning principle formulation, formulating land use policies and guidelines and ultimately to make recommendations with respect to the future spatial development strategies that should be applied within the study area.

The analysis phase deals with a large spectrum of issues and development sectors. It is therefore not possible to analyse all developmental aspects within the area in detail, however, the analysis are end product driven and based on relevant information and input needed to adequately formulate the relevant development policies and strategies.

Analysis of the status quo aims to produce the following output:

. Assessment of the existing level of development. . Priority issues/problems. . Understanding of nature/dynamics/causes of these issues. . Knowledge of available resources and potentials. . Legislative framework and external guiding factors.

The status quo analysis for the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Spatial Development Framework will address the following:

 Spatial Analysis

Settlement dynamics, land uses and trends.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 15

 Socio economic Analysis

Analyse demographic, employment, income and economic profiles.

 Infrastructure Analysis

Analyse infrastructure availability and the current level of services.

 Environmental Analysis

Analyse topography, drainage, vegetation, geology and soils, recreation and tourism, as well as conservation initiatives.

 Legislative and Policy Analysis

Analyse existing legislative and policy guidelines that influence spatial development planning in the study area.

1.2 STUDY AREA

The study area is depicted by the Demarcation Board’s grouping of municipal areas to form the municipal area known as MP304. The study area consists mainly of 5 nodes of which Volksrust/Vukuzakhe is the highest order node situated on the southern border of the municipal area where the , and intersects (refer to Figure 2). This intersection of transportation routes gives rise to the hustle and bustle of this node. The most northern node is that of Amersfoort/Ezamokuhle situated approximately 42,9km form Volksrust on the N11. This can be considered as a minor node within the study area. Further east of Volksrust, approximately 28, 7 km is Wakkerstroom that can also be considered as a minor node within the municipal area. Approximately 35, 4 km north-west of Volksrust is another minor node known as Perdekop which was described in the previous SDF as a declining node. The municipal area also includes a traditional authority area situated approximately 17, 1 km north-north-east of Volksrust known as Daggakraal/Sinqobile which can also be considered as a minor node within the municipal area although it has the highest population figure of all the settlements in the municipal area.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 16

The municipal area is bordered in the south-west by the Phumelela Local Municipality FS195 (Free State), to the south by the Newcastle Local Municipality KZ252 (Kwa-Zulu Natal), to the south-east by the Emadlangeni Local Municipality KZ253 (Kwa-Zulu Natal) and the eDumbe Local Municipality KZ261, to the east by the Mkhondo Local Municipality MP303 (Mpumalanga) to the north by the Msukaligwa Local Municipality MP302 (Mpumalanga) and to the west by the MP305 (Mpumalanga).

1.3 THE HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme was a founder member and first Treasurer of the South African Native National Congress that became the African National Congress at a later stage. He was also president of the ANC from 1930 to 1937 and is commemorated in the name of the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality.

The history of Volksrust began in 1888 when the government decided to establish a town on the edge of the escarpment, on the border of Natal. A place was chosen near where the won a decisive battle in first Anglo-Boer War (December 1880 – March 1881) to regain their independence from the British. Several farms were bought for the purpose and named Volksrust (People’s Rest) presumably by Dorie de Jager (sister of Dirk Uys) because the Transvaal forces rested there after the Battle of Majuba.

Today the town is a commercial centre of which the main products are , wool, sorghum, sunflower seed, beef and dairy. The town is the junction for the main - railway line with other towns in the eastern part of Mpumalanga.

Wakkerstroom was established due to a need for a town between Potchefstroom and Utrecht with good grazing and plenty of water for the residents and travellers. Dirk Uys was instructed to find a suitable site but instead of reporting back with the suitable site he also surveyed stands and submitted plans to the Volksraad for approval. The plans were approved on 21 September 1859 but the name given by Uys (Uys and Burg) was rejected and the town was officially named Marthinus Wesselstroom in the district of Wakkerstroom. Later on the district name was adopted as the “unofficial” name for the newly proclaimed township. However, the earliest people that lived in the Wakkerstroom area were the Khoisan due to the examples of rock art that can be found in the vicinity.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 17

Amersfoort originated in 1876 as a church centre and was named after the town with the same name in the Netherlands. The settlement was proclaimed a town in 1888.

Perdekop was established due to an equine sickness epidemic during the second Anglo-Boer war. The people realised that the higher altitude protected the animals from the epidemic and a settlement was established there due to the fact that it was a safe haven from the epidemic.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme bought land on behalf of the associations of Daggakraal, KwaNgema and Driefontein and these purchases probably gave great impetus to the enactment of the Native Land Act of 1913 which forbade the purchase of land by a black person in South Africa. In spite of the large concentration of people in the area, it did not even appear on any road maps which were a result of the former apartheid era that prevailed in the country before 1994.

2.0 SPATIAL ANALYSIS

2.1 INTRODUCTION

Based on the regional and local context of the study area, the spatial analysis provides a brief overview of the settlement dynamics (urban and rural) and the overall land use patterns within the municipal area.

2.2 SETTLEMENT DYNAMICS

A description of the study area has been outlined in paragraph 1.2 of Chapter 2. The land use profile and settlement dynamics within the study area are important indicators reflecting the status quo and possible future land uses and growth patterns. The nature of the study area includes large rural areas with urban components, high potential agricultural land and natural areas (conservation/protected areas) mainly associated with eco-tourism towards the east and south east of the study area.

The local settlement pattern of the various towns in the study area differs substantially. The urban from of a number of towns are characterised by former apartheid development policies. An important spatial imperative of this urban form was the Group Area Act which required the provision of separate residential areas for the different population groups. This separate development is witnessed in many towns of the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme municipal area for example Volksrust and Vukuzakhe. This form of segregation planning created spatially separate entities

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 18

and has resulted in the lack of social integration as well as costly infrastructure, service provision and maintenance.

A land use survey was conducted between 8 and 10 March 2010 to capture the main land uses in each of the settlements within the municipal area as an indication of the status quo of land uses in the municipal area.

 Urban areas

The residential component of the study areas is mainly concentrated in the urban areas. The study area comprises the following urban nodes:

. Volksrust/Vukuzakhe . Amersfoort/Ezamokuhle . Perdekop/Siyazenzela . Wakkerstroom/Esizameleni . Daggakraal (Rural Residential)/Sinqobile (Rural Residential)

 Rural areas

The rural area surrounding the urban area is characterised by farm land and there is not an established rural node within the rural area other than Daggakraal which is considered more as an urban area with a rural component due to the size of the settlement.

2.3 LAND USE

During the land use survey broad categories of land uses were identified in order to determine the major land use sectors in each settlement. The identification of illegal uses did not form part of the process since it is more appropriate for the LUMS process. Currently there is no Town Planning Scheme in place for the total municipal area and when funding becomes available a LUMS will be implemented that will provide more specific guidelines for planning control of land uses in the municipal area. Other spatial information such as aerial photographs was also used in compiling the land use maps that are attached to this document as Figures 4-10. Please keep in mind that a land use plan is a reflection of the uses at a certain point in time and the land uses can change drastically

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 19

through the course of time. Therefore it is important to keep the land use plan updated on an annual basis in order to keep tract with changes and illegal land uses.

The following paragraphs give a short overview of the major land uses in each settlement that should be read in conjunction with the land use maps (Figures 4 - 10). Figure 4 represents the overall land uses within the municipality indicating broad categories of land uses such as residential, commercial, mining, cultivated land, subsistence farming, forestry, conservation and protected areas.

 Volksrust

Volksrust functions as the largest commercial centre in the study area. The town fulfil a central place function with the largest residential and commercial component although it is not situated in the centre of the municipal area but in the southern part of the municipal area close to the border of Kwa-Zulu Natal. The location of the town on the N11 and the intersection of the R23 and R543 and the railway line connection led to the diversified development of the area. The town has good engineering and social services and hence supports itself as well as the surrounding rural community. According to the valuation roll there are a total number of 3120 registered stands in the town.

 Residential Component

The residential component of Volksrust consists mainly of 6 residential extensions and the original proclaimed town. A small extension better known as “Georgia Gardens” is situated to the south of the existing industrial area. Volksrust Extension 6 is situated where the current airfield is and is not yet developed.

Volksrust Proper is characterised by fairly large stands of up to 2000m² which is typical of the character of the “old” towns in Mpumalanga. Volksrust Proper can roughly be observed as the area between Kroch Street in the north, Suid Street in the south, Oos Street in the east and Dan Pienaar Street in the west. This area is characterised by a mix of medium to high income residential development with a small number of vacant residential stands available.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 20

Volksrust Extension 1 and 2 is situated to the west of Volksrust Proper and the stand sizes range between 1200m² - 1 600m². Volksrust Extension 1 has a very limited amount of vacant stands but Volksrust Extension 2 seems to have at least 17 vacant residential stands. The character can be described as medium to high income.

Volksrust Extension 3 is situated between De Kock and Tontelbos Street to the north-west of Volksrust Proper. According to the Valuation Roll the stands are in the ownership of the municipality and both stands are currently vacant.

Volksrust Extension 4 is the most northern extension of the town and is mostly vacant at this stage. The sizes of the stands range between 800m² in the southern part to approximately 1400m² in the north of the extension. The character of the area can be described as medium to high income.

Volksrust extension 6 is the latest addition to the town and is situated in the south-west corner of the town where the existing airfield is. The extension has not been developed yet and is dormant at this stage.

Volksrust Extension 7 is situated to the west of the existing railway line and Industrial area. It hosts a number of residential stands associated with Transnet and is characterised as medium to lower income residential stands.

 Business

Business is mainly concentrated in the town centre between Smith Street, Schoon Street, Oos Street and Louis Street. An extension of the business activities of the town is present in Laingsnek Street and the western part of Joubert Street. All the residential areas depend on the town centre for day-to- day shopping needs, although certain areas have access to neighbourhood centres and corner or tuck shops. There was no significant secondary business node identified in the town.

 Industrial

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 21

The industrial area of the town is situated along the railway line in the eastern part of town between Spoorweg Street and Dingaan Street. A number of industrial activities also occur on the farm portions south of Suid Street further along the railway line.

 Other facilities

Apart from the residential, business and industrial land uses present in the town there is also a number of other facilities such as Primary Schools, Secondary Schools, Hospitals, Old age homes, Police Stations, Libraries, municipal offices, and cemeteries. The town does not have any major tertiary facility although minor training college facilities exist in the area. The town also hosts an integrated open space system. Some of the residential stands in the northern part of the town is within the flood line and the railway line also crosses over a number of residential stands in the area.

In general Volksrust can be described as a town with a very good representation of land uses to sustain development in the future and provide the necessary services for the immediate community and the rest of the local municipality.

 IDP Priorities applicable to Volksrust

The Pixley Ka Isaka Seme IDP 2010/2011 identified the following development priorities with respect to Volksrust:

o Upgrading of Street o Promote economic development along the N11 o Establish CSF o Construction of branch for Dept. Health and Social Services o Development of Mahatma Ghandi Museum o Rehabilitation of Mahawane Waterfall o Construction of bulk supply line: Phase 1 o Establish a Project Management Unit o Completion of South Street o Upgrading of West Street o Development of Integrated Transport and Public Transport Plan

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 22

o Upgrading of roads in Volksrust, Ward 3 and 4 o Establish a sports field o Proclamation of green fields development o Upgrading of D281 district road between Daggakraal and Volksrust o Upgrading of D2548 district road between Volksrust and Rietfontein

 Vukuzakhe

Vukuzakhe has the largest number of stands in the municipality with a total of 4174 registered stands according to the valuation roll. The town is situated east of Volksrust and the existence of a ravine between Volksrust and Vukuzakhe separates the two towns from each other. Good road connections between the two towns exist on the road to Wakkerstroom.

Vukuzakhe also hosts a number of community and business facilities and the presence of good engineering services is visible throughout the town. The density in the town is much higher than that of Volksrust which is characteristic of areas for medium to lower income groups.

 Residential

Vukuzakhe consists of 3 extensions including the proper part of the town that was established first. Vukuzakhe Proper has approximately 1778 stands and the size of the residential stands ranges between 255m² up to 1100m² in the oldest part of the town.

Vukuzakhe Extension 1 hosts a total of 411 stands and is divided into two parts. One part is north of Vukuzakhe Proper and the other is south of Vukuzakhe Proper. This extension is characterised by small stands which ranges between 280m² to 350m². There are approximately 16 vacant stands in the southern part of Vukuzakhe Extension 1, close to the cemetery.

Vukuzakhe Extension 2 is partially developed and hosts a total of 1985 stands according to the valuation roll. A very large portion of the residential stands on the north eastern side of the extension are vacant and engineering services are currently being installed in the area.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 23

 Business

Business/commercial activities are mainly concentrated in the older part of the town but other facilities are scattered across the town with various spaza shops in the residential areas as well. There is no significant primary or secondary business node in the town.

 Other facilities

Vukuzakhe also hosts a number of other facilities such as the Social Services Offices, a cemetery, a library, a clinic, Primary and secondary schools, crèches, churches and a few community halls. Very few industrial activities are present in the town.

 IDP Priorities

The Pixley Ka Isaka Seme IDP 2010/2011 identified the following developmental priorities with respect to Vukuzakhe:

o Bulk water supply of 8 mega litre reservoir o Development of Soccer Stadium o Provision and upgrade of water and sanitation to meet millennium targets o Addressing backlog of roads and storm water upgrading o Construction of new roads o Construction of streetlights o Upgrading of the water treatment plant o Providing infrastructure for new stands o Upgrading of sub-station o Making housing subsidies available o Development of Bus and taxi terminals and hawker’s stalls o Fencing of cemeteries o Development of parks o Construction of a police station o Proclamation of green fields development

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 24

o Installation of pre-paid electricity points o Provision of toilets o Rehabilitation of roads in Ward 1-3 o Establish campaigns against gender based violence

 Amersfoort

Amersfoort is situated approximately 42km north of Volksrust at the intersection of the N11 with the from /. According to the valuation roll there are 829 registered stands in Amersfoort. It is one of the smaller service centres with limited retail facilities and a few tertiary services. The town is characterised by a large number of vacant stands which indicates an underutilisation of the existing engineering services.

Nevertheless, the town has some community and educational facilities and development potential with the cross roads and railway line traversing the area.

 Residential

Amersfoort Proper hosts the original established town with stand sizes in the order of 2800 m² which is typical of the “old” towns in Mpumalanga. Amersfoort has 8 extensions but only extension 7 represents a new residential extension with remarkably smaller stands sizes which range in the order of 850 m² to 1000 m². Extension 7 is divided into 3 parts which is situated at different locations in the town but is mostly undeveloped at this stage.

The original established residential stands have the potential for densification due to the large stand sizes.

 Business

The central business district of the town is situated between Plein Street, Scheiding Street, Bree Street and Kort Street and is mostly made up of retail

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 25

businesses and some service industries. Some other business premises are visible on the mayor arterial routes through the town.

 Other facilities

A number of other facilities are present in Amersfoort which includes a Primary School, Municipal Offices, SAVF facility, Railway Station, Police station, Magistrate Court, Rugby Club, Hospital, Taxi rank, Guest houses and some industrial facilities in the town centre.

 IDP Priorities

The Pixley Ka Isaka Seme IDP 2010/2011 identified the following development priorities with respect to Amersfoort:

o Construction of sewer reticulation o Provision of water to meet millennium targets o Provision of fully water borne sanitation to meet millennium targets o Upgrading of the water supply o Development of Amersfoort Dam o Upgrading of bulk supply line to Amersfoort reservoir o Completion of golden net sewer network infrastructure o Upgrading and construction of roads o Upgrading of water reticulation o Provision of houses o Upgrading of vehicle testing facility o Construction of a new traffic light o Fencing of cemeteries o Proclamation of green field development o Anti-Stock Theft awareness campaign o Extension and renovating of library o Upgrading of D254 district road between Amersfoort and Wakkerstroom o Upgrading of P97/2 between Amersfoort and Piet Retief o Upgrading of P48/3 between Amersfoort and Wakkerstroom o Electrification of 222 households

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 26

 Ezamokuhle

Ezamokuhle is situated north-west of Amersfoort with Bree Street as the link road between the two towns. According to the valuation roll Ezamokuhle has approximately 1148 registered stands. The town is characterised by higher density development for the medium to lower income groups.

 Residential

Ezamokuhle consists of 3 large residential extensions other than the original established town. The stand sizes range between approximately 240m² to 500m² which indicates a very high density in the area.

 Business

Business activity in Ezamokuhle is limited to a neighbourhood centre, providing in day to day needs of the community as well as other smaller spaza shops scattered throughout the town.

 Other facilities

Other facilities present in the town include Primary and Secondary Schools, churches and crèches.

 IDP Priorities

The Pixley Ka Isaka Seme IDP 2010/2011 identified the following development priorities with respect to Ezamokuhle:

o Provision of water to meet millennium targets o Provision of sanitation to meet millennium targets o Phase 2 bulk outfall sewer line & water line o Upgrading of the entrance o Upgrading of water supply o Development of access roads o Upgrading and construction of internal roads

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 27

o Provision of streetlights o Upgrading of sewer and water reticulation o Construction of roads and storm water for new houses o Provision of housing o Fencing of cemeteries o Proclamation of green field development o Development of a library o Development of a soccer stadium

 Perdekop /Siyazenzela

Perdekop and Siyazenzela are situated approximately 35km north of Volksrust on the R23 between and Volksrust. According to the valuation roll there is approximately 936 stands in Perdekop and Siyazenzela combined, which makes it the smallest urban settlement in Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality.

 Residential

Siyazenzela is situated in the northern part of the settlement while Perdekop is more to the south near the R23. The residential stands in Perdekop range between approximately 900m² and 2000m² with many vacant stands and undeveloped areas throughout the town.

The residential stands in Siyazenzela are of a higher density ranging from as small as 200m² in the southern part to 1000m² in the north part of the town. Some densification has already taken place in Perdekop but the town is mostly undeveloped with a large potential for densification and optimisation of the existing infrastructure. A small area in the southern part of Perdekop needs to be formalised and hosts a number of informal structures at the moment.

 Business

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 28

Business activities in Perdekop and Siyazenzela are limited to the central business area in the south and some community facilities providing for the needs of the direct community. Most of the businesses are located between the R23 and Durban Street on the main routes through the town. No major business area is present in Siyazenzela.

 Other facilities

Other facilities include a combined school, agricultural school, Library, Police Station, churches, crèches, community health centre, cemetery, communal post boxes and undeveloped sport ground.

 IDP Priorities

The Pixley Ka Isaka Seme IDP 2010/2011 identified the following development priorities with respect to Perdekop and Siyazenzela:

o Provision of water to meet millennium targets o Provision of fully water borne sanitation to meet millennium targets o Developing of access roads o Development of roads and storm water o Upgrading of the sewer works o Upgrading of sewer reticulation o Construction of water treatment plant o Completion of Siyazenzela soccer stadium o Provision of housing o Provision of hospital and crèche at Perdekop o Proclamation of green field development o Erection or purchase of building for library in Siyazenzela o Extension and renovation of library in Perdekop o Implementing a moral regeneration campaign for Perdekop o Upgrading ofD1364 between Perdekop and Morgenzon o Electrification of 28 households in Perdekop

 Wakkerstroom

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 29

Wakkerstroom is situated approximately 28km east of the Volksrust on the R543. According to the valuation roll there are approximately 714 registered stands in the two towns. The area can be characterised as not fully developed with a large number of vacant stands that can be developed should the need arise. The existence of a major wetland area north of the town could be the key to the development of the town if the Tourist Plan is successfully implemented in the area.

 Residential

Wakkerstroom has no residential extensions due to the vast amount of available or vacant stands in the town. The residential component is divided into two groups of stands. The first group of stands is situated to the west of the central business district between Scheiding Street and Saxony Street. The size of all the stands in this area is approximately 5700m². The second group of stands is situated between Scheiding Street and Kriel Street and ranges between 3300m² and 6700m². A large number of the residential stands are vacant.

Due to the wetland area there is a number of guesthouses operating in the area.

 Business

The business activity in the area is limited but some retail functions appear in the central business district between Loop Street, Hoog Street, Hoek Street and Van der Schyff Street with limited services industries and mostly government and municipal services.

 Other facilities

Wakkerstroom also have a police station, magistrate court, library, old age home, an old cemetery, a school, guest houses, some churches and other government facilities.

 IDP Priorities

The Pixley Ka Isaka Seme IDP 2010/2011 identified the following development priorities with respect to Wakkerstroom:

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 30

o Provision of water to meet millennium targets o Provision of sanitation to meet millennium targets o Upgrading of sanitation system o Improve service delivery for Department of Health and Social Services o Provision of housing o Wakkerstroom Luneburg Agricultural project o Biodiversity land for stewardship o Implementation of National Grassland programme o Development of Martins Dam o Upgrading of water reticulation o Upgrading of sewer reticulation o Roads and storm water for new houses o Golf Estate development o Bus and taxi terminals and hawker stalls o Development of Uthaka Game farm and Nature reserve o Proclaim green field development o Implementation of tourism safety campaign o Extension and renovation of library in Wakkerstroom o Development of soccer stadium in Esizameleni o Construction of roads

 Esizameleni

Esizameleni is situated directly east of Wakkerstroom characterised by a higher density of residential stands for the middle to lower income groups.

 Residential

Esizameleni has two residential extensions apart from the original town that was established. According to the valuation roll there are a total of 316 registered stands in the whole of Esizameleni. The stand sizes range between 200m² in Extension 2 to 500m² in Esizameleni Proper.

 Business

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 31

The business activity in the area is limited but some retail function appears between Ndlovu and Masango Street.

 Other facilities

Apart from the residential and business facilities the town also has a cemetery, Secondary School, Primary School, crèche and a number of church sites. Therefore the residents have to make use of other social facilities located in Wakkerstroom.

 IDP Priorities

The Pixley Ka Isaka Seme IDP 2010/2011 identified the following development priorities with respect to Esizameleni:

o Provision of water to meet millennium targets o Provision of sanitation to meet millennium targets o Upgrading of entrance to town o Development of library o Proclamation of green field development o Development of a soccer stadium

 Daggakraal/Sinqobile

The area of Daggakraal and Sinqobile is part of the Hlanganani Trust area that is situated approximately 38km from Volksrust and approximately 15km from Amersfoort. According to the valuation roll the area consists of 3857 registered stands which make it the town with the second highest number of stands in the municipal area. Although it has a high number of stands it is not in the same category as Volksrust and Vukuzakhe due to the lack of services and business opportunities in the area. The location of the area also contributes to the lack of service delivery since it is not situated on a major road like the N11 and therefore it only provides a service to the direct community and economic diversity is limited.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 32

 Residential

Daggakraal can be characterised as a rural residential area where the plots accommodate a residential and subsistence farming activity on approximately 7ha plots. There is no proper road hierarchy system and very limited social and commercial facilities. Sinqobile is characterised by a higher density of residential stands (approximately 1800m²) and a proper road hierarchy but also does not provide a lot of other social and commercial facilities. Provision has been made for other social facilities in the township layout, but it is not yet developed. A small area of Sinqobile is not yet formalised although a formal layout exists.

 Business

The business activity is centred in the vicinity of the Library and other social facilities in the northern part of Sinqobile. Another concentration of business activity occurs on the road to Wakkerstroom.

 Other facilities

Apart from the residential and business facilities the town hosts a total of 4 Primary Schools and 2 Secondary Schools, a cemetery, some crèches and a number of church sites.

 IDP Priorities

The Pixley Ka Isaka Seme IDP 2010/2011 identified the following development priorities with respect to Daggakraal and Sinqobile:

o Provision of water to meet millennium targets o Provision of sanitation to meet millennium targets o Construction of Bulk Water Supply to Daggakraal o Maintenance of Apple Orchards o Improvement of services delivery o Development of Refuse removal service o Development of Refuse Disposal Works

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 33

o Development of Waste Disposal sites o Address backlog of water and sanitation o Surfacing of road to Nalithuba o Surfacing of road to Primary School o Construction of VIP toilets or alternative dry system o Address backlog of roads and storm water o Construction of houses o Implementation of maize milling, hydroponics and irrigation system o Development of soccer stadium o Establishment of pre-paid electricity points o Electrification of 227 households

 Rural land uses

Apart from the residential settlements in the municipal area there are a great number of farms in the rural community in the municipal area. According to the valuation roll the municipal area contains farms in the HS, HT, IS and IT Registration Division which amounts to approximately 260 parent farms and approximately 3000 individual farm portions situated around the established residential towns. The farm owners and workers also utilise the business centres of the settlements for their retail and service needs.

Apart from the farms situated in the rural area there are also other land uses outside the urban areas that needs mentioning (see Figure 4). The Amajuba Power Station is situated half way between Volksrust and Amersfoort west of the N11 and also includes an office and administration component around the power station. Close by the power station is the Underground Coal Gasification (UCG) site where underground gas is extracted from the coal seams and combusted in a the power station to generate electricity.

The municipality also hosts 15 Nature Reserves and conservancy areas situated mostly in the southern part of the municipal area around Wakkerstroom with two proposed conservation areas in the east of which KwaMandlangampisi was recently declared as the first protected environment in South Africa. A protected environment is effectively one step under a National or Provincial Nature Reserve enjoying a high level of formal protection with major conservation gains. Eskom, Telkom, Transnet, SANRAL and the

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 34

South African Government also owns a number of farms in the municipal area which hosts governmental or para-statal land uses normally associated with these institutions. Mining activities are limited within the municipal area and the Savmore coal mine in the east and an Eskom UCG site near the power station being the only mining activity in the area.

 Main infrastructure development

The main infrastructure development in Pixley Ka Isaka Seme is summarised in the following table indicating the type and quantity of facilities available in urban and rural areas of the municipal area.

Table 1: Facilities within Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality

Type of facility Type Quantity

Urban 4 Police Station Rural 1

Urban 4 Magistrate Offices Rural 0

Urban 547 Businesses Rural 50

Urban 34 Office Buildings Rural 2

Urban 6 Garages Rural 0

Urban 1 Prisons Rural 0

Urban 38 Schools Rural 6

Urban 2 Hospitals Rural 0

Urban 7 Clinics Rural 2

Urban 9 Crèches Rural 2

Urban 3 Holiday Resorts Rural 0

Urban 4 Post Offices Rural 1

Community Halls Urban 10

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 35

Rural 1 Source: WSDP 2009-2013

The above table indicates that the municipality has a good variety of facilities in the urban and rural areas. Apart from the above existing facilities the following facilities were also identified as a need in the respective settlements during the team building exercise in July 2009:

 Esizameleni: High School and clinic needed  Ezamokuhle: High School and crèche needed  Daggakraal: Additional school, hall and Crèche needed

 Land Requirements

According to the Housing Chapter the municipality has provided 4 443 housing units over a period of nearly a decade since 1994 up to 2003. Since 2004 about 859 housing units have been developed of which 320 units were CBIS projects and the balance comprised of PHP projects.

The Housing Chapter for Pixley Ka Isaka Seme local municipality (2010/2014) identified the following housing needs within the municipality:

Table 2: Housing/Residential Needs

Housing need Housing need Housing need Housing need Housing need Settlement name 2010/2011 2011/2012 2012/2013 2013/2014 2014/2015

Volksrust Farms (Ward 4) - - 100 100 180 Vukuzakhe (Ward 1) 170 130 - - - Vukuzakhe (Ward 2) 100 100 100 100 50 Vukuzakhe (Ward 3) 180 100 100 100 - Ezamokuhle (Ward 7) 350 100 100 100 100 Ezamokuhle (Ward 8) 150 100 100 100 100 Daggakraal (Ward 9) 200 200 150 150 200 Daggakraal (Ward 10) 300 50 100 50 150 Daggakraal (Ward 11) 200 200 150 150 100 Siyazenzela (Ward 6) 225 75 100 50 50 Esizameleni (Ward 5) 100 150 100 50 80

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 36

Total 1975 1205 1100 950 930 Source: Housing Chapter for Pixley Ka Isaka Seme 2010/2014

These figures provide clear guidance to the Spatial Development Framework for housing needs and existing shortages and proposed areas for infill residential development and future residential development.

3.0 SOCIO-ECONOMIC ANALYSIS

3.1 INTRODUCTION

The socio-economic analysis is specifically aimed at spatial related matters, i.e. demographics, employment, income and economic profile.

The Department of Welfare’s Population Policy for South Africa, 1998 described the current dilemma regarding the available population and socio-economic information and indicators of human development rather accurate. In the white paper it clearly states that the available information is unfortunately often deficient with respect to its quality, reliability, coverage and completeness. Therefore its usefulness is limited with regard to accurately assessing the population and human development situation in the country. This has an effect on developing, implementing, monitoring and evaluating development plans and programmes for the country. In conclusion the document mentions that there is no generally accepted set of reliable population and socio-economic data for the entire country. This situation regarding the available socio economic data sets is also echoed in the Population Profile of Pixley Ka Seme Local Municipality compiled by the Department of Social Development.

Due to the lack of credible information regarding socio-economic data it was agreed that the information from Global Insight Southern Africa version 491 (2.3d) will be used in conjunction with the Census data (2001 and 2007) as reflected in the Population Profile of the municipality. In some cases the available data sets are indicated in the same table to provide a broader perspective.

3.2 DEMOGRAPHICS

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 37

Information available from Global Insight Southern Africa provides a year by year indication of the population and household figures between 1996 and 2009 that will be used for the purpose of the SDF.

 Population

The information below indicates that although the overall population of Pixley Ka Isaka Seme is on the rise each year, the percentage of growth is slowly declining. According to the information from Global Insight the average growth over the period of 14 years is 2, 42 %. If the average percentage of growth is applied to the the last years data (2009) the expected population figure for 2010 is 98 231.

In contrast to this, the projected population growth according to the Census data (2001) and the data from the Community Survey (2007) indicated a decline in the population of - 3,4%. The following table provides a breakdown of the population figures and households for the 14 years between 1996 and 2009 in the municipal area according to the Global Insight information.

Table 3: Population of Pixley Ka Isaka Seme (1996 – 2009)

1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

Population 70 342 72 993 75 563 78 022 80 378 82 696 84 929 87 012 88913 90 654 92 229 93 593 94 849 95 910 Households 14 729 15 380 16 260 17 182 18 135 19 113 20 070 20 909 21 576 22 170 22 785 23 288 23 753 24 161 % - 3,77% 3,52% 3,25% 3,02% 2,88% 2,70% 2,45% 2,19% 1,96% 1,74% 1,48% 1,34% 1,12% population growth % - 4,42% 5,72% 5,67% 5,55% 5,39% 5,00% 4,18% 3,19% 2,75% 2,77% 2,21% 1,20% 1,72% household growth Source: Global Insight Southern Africa, Regional Explorer 491(2.3d)

This information is important for the planning of the spatial development in Pixley Ka Isaka Seme as the population growth is an indication of the need for additional housing, although any backlogs needs to be taken into account as well.

The household figures show a similar tendency with an average growth of 3, 89 % over the period between 1996 and 2009.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 38

The total population can be divided into the settlement areas to indicate where the highest concentration of the human settlement in the municipal area is.

 Population per settlement

The Global Insight information indicates the population figures arranged from the highest to the lowest, indicating that Daggakraal/Sinqobile and the rural areas have the highest population of all the settlement although it is not considered as the highest order settlement due to the lack of services and infrastructure in the settlement.

Table 4: Population of Pixley Ka Isaka Seme per human settlement (2009)

Settlement Name Population Households Household density

Daggakraal/Sinqobile 23 449 5362 4.0 Rural Areas 14 110 2 710 5.2 Vukuzakhe 12 326 2 819 4.4 Volksrust 9 655 3 709 2.6 Siyazenzela 9 510 2 175 4.4 Ezamokuhle 9 495 2 171 4.4 Esizameleni 7 183 1 642 4.4 Amersfoort 4 417 1 697 2.6 Perdekop 1 171 268 4.4 Wakkerstroom 895 344 2.6 Total 92 210 22 895 4.0 Source: Global Insight Southern Africa, Regional Explorer 403 (2.2h)

Vukuzakhe and Volksrust have the second highest population of all the settlement in the municipal area and are also considered the highest order settlement in the municipal area.

The population for each ward is indicated in the table below and gives figures from different sources although Global Insight is taken as the main source due to discrepancies from other sources.

Table 5: Population by ward in the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 39

Ward number Stats SA 1996 Stats SA DWA 2008 Global Insight 2001 2009

Ward 1 (Vukuzakhe) 1 919 2 207 2 233 2 521 Ward 2 (Vukuzakhe) 11 403 13 112 13 266 14 975 Ward 3 (Vukuzakhe) 8 906 10 240 10 361 11 695 Ward 4 (Volksrust) 5 233 6 017 6 088 6 872 Ward 5 (Wakkerstroom & 6 652 7 649 7 739 8 736 Esizameleni) Ward 6 (Perdekop & Siyazenzela) 7 776 8 941 9 047 10 212 Ward 7 (Amersfoort) 2 517 2 894 2 928 3 305 Ward 8 (Ezamokuhle) 7 565 8 699 8 801 9 935 Ward 9 (Daggakraal) 9 634 11 078 11 208 16 352 Ward 10 (Sinqobile) 8 610 9 990 10 017 11 307 Total 70 215 80 737 81 689 92 210

Source as indicated in table

 Population groups

The demographic spread of the population according to the different population groups is indicated in the table below.

Table 6: Population groups in Pixley Ka Isaka Seme & GSDM

Population Group 2008 % GSDM (2001) % Census (2001) % Black 87 887 92.6% 92.4% 92.9% White 5 990 6.3% 6.5% 4.4% Indian 566 0.6% 0.4% 0.7% Coloured 405 0.4% 0.7% 2.0%

Source: Global Insight Southern Africa, Regional Explorer 459 (2.3a)

According to the above information Blacks made up the majority of the population at 9267% and the other population groups represents only 7.3% of the total population. The population figures also correspond very well with that of the GSDM, although the baseline data for the GSDM figures is the census data of 2001.

 Age and gender Profile

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 40

The table below indicates that the economic active portion of the population (20 – 64 years of age) amounts to 42 027 which is 45,6 % of the total population.

Table 7: Age Profile 2009

Male Female Total % of population

0-4 years 6258 6 008 12 265 13,3% 5-9 years 5 570 5 484 11 054 11,9% 10-14 years 5 757 5 816 11 573 12,5% 15-19 years 5 234 5 202 10 435 11,3% 20-24 years 4 284 4 413 8 697 9,4% 25-29 years 3 547 3 037 6 584 7,1% 30-34 years 2 557 2 702 5 259 5,7% 35-39 years 2 203 2 568 4 771 5,1% 40-44 years 1 545 2 652 4 197 4,5% 45-49 years 1 730 2 141 3 871 4,1% 50-54 years 1 561 2 087 3 648 3,9% 55-59 years 1 203 1 549 2 752 2,9% 60-64 years 956 1 291 2 248 2,4% 65-69 years 879 1 074 1 953 2,1% 70-74 years 420 798 1 218 1,3% 75+ years 602 1 082 1 685 1,8% Total 44 306 47 904 92 210 100% Source: Global Insight Southern Africa, Regional Explorer 403 (2.2h)

 HIV and Aids trends

Any future development within a municipal area should take into account the latest figures regarding HIV/AIDS as this could influence future development. The following table indicates the HIV/AIDS figures and trends in the municipal area according to Global Insight Southern Africa.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 41

Table 8: HIV/AIDS trends in Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality

1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

Population 70 342 72 75 78 80 82 696 84 86 87 88 910 90 91 92 94 95 377 993 563 022 378 431 059 544 149 216 210 018 Households 14 628 15 16 17 18 19 007 19 20 21 21 728 22 22 22 23 24 255 340 201 105 037 860 610 211 113 585 895 708 HIV 3 850 4 975 6 155 7 308 8 295 9 180 9 312 9 692 9 840 9 612 9 447 9 187 8 939 9 072 8 982 prevalence AIDS 58 92 142 207 281 368 458 546 626 688 739 768 770 919 982 prevalence HIV - 29% 24% 19% 14% 11% 1% 4% 2% -2% -2% -3% -3% 1% -1% prevalence growth (%) HIV 5.5% 6.8% 8.1% 9.4% 10.3% 11.1% 11.0% 11.3% 11.2% 10.8% 10.5% 10.1% 12.3% 12.7% 13.1% prevalence (%) Source: Global Insight Southern Africa 2007, Regional Explorer 403 (2.2h)

The above information clearly indicates that there is a decline in the HIV prevalence growth rate from 1996 to 2010 with a negative growth since 2005. This can possibly be contributed to the mass awareness campaign executed under the auspices of the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme AIDS Council which intends to focus on the following areas to even further reduce the prevalence of HIV in the municipal area:

 Prevention: Reduce the number of HIV infections  Treatment care and support: Roll out of antiretroviral therapy and establishing a step down facility

 Level of Education

The level of education for the population in the study area is reflected in table format with specific reference to number of people with no education, primary, secondary and tertiary qualifications.

Table 9: Level of Education

Pixley Ka Isaka Level of education GSDM Seme None 11.97% 25.39%

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 42

Grade 0-2 10.49% 32.89% Grade 3-6 9.87% 31.07% Grade 7-9 8.70% 27.80% Grade 10-11 7.21% 26.91% Less than Grade 12 8.25% 22.78% Grade 12 only 6.53% 24.92% Certificate/Diploma 7.19% 24.54% Bachelor’s Degree 7.96% 24.02% Postgraduate Degree 8.31% 25.22% Source: Global Insight Southern Africa, Regional Explorer 403 (2.2h)

. Only 6,53% of the population has completed education up to the level of Grade 12 which is better than that of the district municipality.

. 11, 97% of the population has no qualification (it is noted that infants and children less than 5 years are excluded from this figure) which is a better situation than that of the district municipality.

. Only 7.96% of the population has a bachelor’s degree which is much lower than the percentage in the district municipality

3.3 EMPLOYMENT AND INCOME

 Employment

The analysis of employment levels in the study area are reflected as the economically active part of the population, the inactive part, the unemployed and the people living in poverty (total household monthly income < R 1 100-00).

The percentage of the economically active part of the total population for each year is also indicated in brackets and the same with the inactive part of the population. The unemployed part of the population and the people living in poverty is already included in the Inactive part of the population and therefore the percentage represents the percentage of the inactive population that is unemployed or living beneath the bread line.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 43

Table 10: Employment within Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

Economically active 19 568 20 107 20 339 19 846 21 053 21 314 21 657 22 455 (% of population) (23.7%) (23.8%) (23.6%) (22.7%) (23.7%) (23.6%) (23.7%) (24.4%) Inactive 63 128 64 324 65 720 67 698 67 857 68 835 69 560 69 755 (% of population) (76.3%) (76.2%) (76.4%) (77.3%) (76.3%) (76.4%) (76.3%) (75.6%) Unemployed 4 501 5 278 5 288 4 763 5 053 4 902 4 981 4 940 (% of Inactive pop.) (23%) (26%) (26%) (24%) (24%) (23%) (23%) (22%) People in poverty 48 881 50 203 51 000 53 193 52 314 49 805 49 209 47 811 (% of population) (59.1%) (59.5%) (59.3%) (60.8%) (58.8%) (55.3%) (53.9%) (51.9%) Total population 82 696 84 431 86 059 87 544 88 910 90 149 91 216 92 210 Source: Global Insight Southern Africa, Regional Explorer 403 (2.2h)

The information above indicates that an alarming number of the population is inactive and not contributing to the economy of the municipality. However, this figure also includes infants and scholars which cannot contribute to the economy. The percentage of people living in poverty is actually alarming and needs to be addressed in order for them to start contributing to the local economy.

 Income

The distribution of the income in the municipal area is another indication of growth for development. The levels of income under the bread line indicate the growth of poverty in the municipal area and ultimately make a difference in the provision of housing and other facilities.

A poor household can be defined as a household with no basic services or without a house (a home) and with a total household monthly income of less than R 1 100-00 as described in the WSDP of Pixley Ka Isaka Seme 2009-2013. The following table provides a breakdown of the monthly income groups in the municipal area for the year 2008 as defined by Global Insight Southern Africa.

Table 11 : Monthly Income of households in Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality

Income range Households Global %

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 44

Insight 2008

R 0-200 109 0.5% R 201- R 500 439 1.9% R 501- R 1 000 2 443 10.7% R 1001 – R 1 500 2 810 12.3% R 1 501 – R 3 500 6 571 28.7% R 3 501 – R 6 000 4 050 17.7% R 6 001 – R 11 000 2 646 11.6% R 11 001 – R 30 000 2 489 10.9% R 30 001 – R 50 000 767 3.4% R 50 001 – R 100 000 414 1.8% R 100 001 – R 200 000 127 0.6% R 200 001 and more 30 0.1% TOTAL 22 895 100% Source: Global Insight Southern Africa – Regional Explorer 403 (2.2h)

The above table indicates that 13.1% of the households in Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality fall within the income group earning less than R 1000-00 per month which can be considered as poor households that will qualify for grants and housing subsidies. A further 41% of the households earn between R 1000-00 and R 3 500-00 per month which can also be considered as a very low level of income and grants and subsidies will also apply to these households. Therefore a total of 54.1% of the households falls within the lower income group which indicates that more than half of the households in the municipal area are in need of government support in some or other way. It further indicates that more than half of the households will probably not be able to pay for basic services and needs to be subsidised by the remaining households who will be able to afford basic services the municipality provides.

The following table provides information regarding the number of households receiving Social Grants from the government.

Table 12: Households receiving Social Grants

Type of Grant Male Female Total

Old age pension 1 739 3 746 5 486 Disability grant 1 555 1 531 3 086 Child support grant 9 933 11 317 21 251 Care dependency grant 264 164 428

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 45

Not applicable 28 073 33 887 61 960 Total 41 566 50 645 92 210 Source: Global Insight Southern Africa – Regional Explorer 403 (2.2h)

From the above mentioned table it is clear that 31,5% of the households in the municipal area receives some sort of social grant from the government.

3.4 ECONOMIC PROFILE

The economic profile of the study area is indicated by certain economic factors, i.e. Gross Geographic Product (GGP) or Gross Value Added (GVA), employment per economic sector, minimum living level and dependency ratios that will be outlined in the following paragraphs.

 GVA Contribution to the Local Economy

The municipality has many different economic sectors that contribute to the economy of the area and the district and ultimately the province and the country. These sectors include agriculture, mining, manufacturing, electricity, construction, trade, transport, finance and community services. The following table provides a summary of the different economic sectors that contributes towards the local economy.

Table 13: Economic sectors and contribution to the GVA of the municipality

Economic Sector GVA added(R 1000) Contribution to total

Agriculture R 176 647 18.85% Mining R 8 656 0.92% Manufacturing R 14 176 1.51% Electricity R 100 610 10.74% Construction R 66 027 7.05% Trade R 152 990 16.33% Transport R 144 773 15.45% Finance R 106 148 11.33% Community Services R 167 009 17.82% Total R 937 036 100% Source: Global Insight Southern Africa Regional Explorer 403 & analysis by Quatern Advisory services

The results from the above table indicate that the agricultural sector contributes the most to the GVA of the municipal area with community services and trade as the second and third highest

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 46

contributors. The transport, finance and electricity sectors contributes between 10% and 15% to the GVA of the municipal area with the mining sector contributing the least to the economy of the municipal area.

When the contribution of the different economic sectors of Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality towards the GVA of the GSDM and that of Mpumalanga, it can be summarised as follows:

Table 14: Pixley Ka Isaka Seme’s contribution to GSDM & Mpumalanga Province 2008

Economic Sector GSDM (District Mpumalanga Municipality) (Province)

Agriculture 13.23% 5.53% Mining 0.27% 0.07% Manufacturing 0.18% 0.10% Electricity 10.62% 2.76% Construction 11.23% 3.10% Trade 5.92% 1.58% Transport 7.19% 1.88% Finance 4.02% 1.11% Community Services 6.27% 1.41% Total 3.90% 1.25% Source: Global Insight Southern Africa Regional Explorer 403 & analysis by Quatern Advisory services

The contribution of the agricultural sector towards the GVA of the GSDM and the Province is again the highest which clearly indicates the value of the agricultural sector in the municipality and subsequently the need to protect high value agricultural land within the municipal area.

When comparing the contribution of Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality to that of the other municipalities within the GSDM it is established that the municipality only contributes 3,9% of the district GVA and 1.25% of the GVA of the Mpumalanga Province. Therefore the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality is the 5th largest contributor of GVA in the Gert Sibande District Municipality.

It is also interesting to take note of the growth in each of the economic sectors over a period of time as indicated in the following table showing the growth in each sector between 2006 and 2008.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 47

Table 15: Economic sectors and contribution to the GVA (2006-2008)

Economic Sector 2006 2007 2008

Agriculture R 144 889 16.79% R 149 198 16.73% R 176 647 18.85% Mining R 9 063 1.05% R 9 009 1.01% R 8 656 0.92% Manufacturing R 14 695 1.70% R 14 535 1.63% R 14 176 1.51% Electricity R 101 787 11.80% R 103 480 11.60% R 100 610 10.74% Construction R 51 853 6.01% R 58 814 6.59% R 66 027 7.05% Trade R 154 685 17.93% R 157 181 17.62% R 152 990 16.33% Transport R 134 666 15.61% R 138 722 15.55% R 144 773 15.45% Finance R 96 127 11.14% R 100 036 11.22% R 106 148 11.33% Community Services R 155 140 17.98% R 160 872 18.04% R 167 009 17.82% Total R 862 904 100% R 891 847 100% R 937 036 100%

Source: Global Insight Southern Africa Regional Explorer 403 & analysis by Quatern Advisory services

The above results indicate that the agriculture sector has grown since 2006 to become the highest contributing sector to the GVA in 2008. The community sector was the highest contributor in 2006 and 2007 but declined a bit in 2008.

Although most of the economic sectors showed improvement in growth it is important to note that some sectors recorded negative growth during the period for example the agricultural sector that decreased up to 2006 but between 2007 and 2008 a significant growth was recorded again for this sector.

 Employment in the different economic sectors

The following table provides insight into the number of employees within each of the economic sectors within the municipal area.

Table 17: Employment figures for each of the economic sectors in the municipality

Economic Sector GVA added(R Contribution to Employment Contribution to 1000) total total

Agriculture R 176 647 18.85% 3 180 18.15% Mining R 8 656 0.92% 49 0.28% Manufacturing R 14 176 1.51% 329 1.88% Electricity R 100 610 10.74% 105 0.60% Construction R 66 027 7.05% 619 3.53%

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 48

Trade R 152 990 16.33% 5 857 33.42% Transport R 144 773 15.45% 1 309 7.47% Finance R 106 148 11.33% 1 433 8.18% Community Services R 167 009 17.82% 4 643 26.49% Total R 937 036 100% 17 523 100%

Source: Global Insight Southern Africa Regional Explorer 403 & analysis by Quatern Advisory services

The above results clearly indicate that the employment is the highest within the trade sector contributing 33.42 % of the employment in the economic sector. The second highest is the community service sector with the agricultural sector in third highest place. It is important to note that although the agricultural sector is the largest contributor to the GVA of the municipality it is not employing the most individuals.

 Forecast of GVA & employment in different economic sectors

The following forecast was calculated in the WSDP 2009-2013 relating to the contribution of each of the economic sectors between 2009 and 2011 which is indicated in the table below.

Table 17: Forecast of contribution to the GVA of the municipality (2009-2011)

Economic Sector GVA 2009 GVA 2010 GVA 2011

Agriculture R 174 711 R 175 302 R 177 205 Mining R 8 478 R 8 374 R 8 353 Manufacturing R 13 657 R 13 667 R 13 751 Electricity R 100 638 R 101 637 R 102 894 Construction R 67 493 R 69 144 R 70 393 Trade R 153 817 R 155 783 R 159 445 Transport R 146 180 R 147 735 R 150 877 Finance R 106 796 R 107 242 R 109 191 Community Services R 168 903 R 171 418 R 174 690 Total R 940 674 R 950 302 R 966 799

Source: Global Insight Southern Africa Regional Explorer 403 & analysis by Quatern Advisory services

The above forecast indicates that most of the sector will continue to grow in the following years with the exception of the mining sector which indicates a negative growth from 2009 to 2011. The projected growth is overall not very substantial and the only sector that has a projected growth of more than 2% is the Trade and Transport sectors.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 49

The following forecast was calculated in the WSDP 2009-2013 relating to the employment trend of each of the economic sectors between 2009 and 2011 which is indicated in the table below.

Table 18: Forecast of employment in different economic sectors of the municipality (2009-2011)

Economic Sector Employment 2009 Employment 2010 Employment 2011

Agriculture 3 238 3 320 3 423 Mining 48 48 48 Manufacturing 313 311 314 Electricity 104 104 105 Construction 642 668 695 Trade 5 798 5 807 5 831 Transport 1 325 1 373 1 415 Finance 1 518 1 619 1 727 Community Services 4 703 4 792 4 927 Total 17 688 18 042 18 486

Source: Global Insight Southern Africa Regional Explorer 403 & analysis by Quatern Advisory services

The projection of the employment sectors for the following year indicates a total growth of 2% from 2009 to 2010 and a further 2.5% growth between 2010 and 2011. The employment figures does not necessary correlate with the sector growth since more employment does not necessarily means more growth in the specific sector.

 Land Claims on Agricultural land

The agricultural sector is the largest economic sector contributing to the GVA of the local municipality and therefore it is also important to take note of the number of land claims settled and gazetted for the municipal area.

According to the land audit conducted as part of the IDP of GSDM the following land claims were settled and gazetted within the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme local municipality (see Figure 11 & 12):

 Kafferskraal 520-IT  Jantjieshoek/Johnstonhoek 88-HT  Holvlei

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 50

 Belfast 492-IT  Naauwpoort 46-HT  Uitsoek  Mooifontein 497-IS  Hofonteing Volksrust

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 51

4.0 INFRASTRUCTURE ANALYSIS

The Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality still has a huge legacy to fulfill in terms of addressing the basic needs of its community. Much has been done to accelerate the provision of free basic services and more people are enjoying the benefits of a new democracy and access to basic services. The Municipality also notes that due to its spatial nature, the main challenge is ensuring that rural communities also enjoy the same rights and benefits as urban communities in terms of basic services. Much has been done to provide water (bore holes) and sanitation (VIP toilets) for most of the rural communities despite the resistance by some farm owners. Continuous engagements will be used to resolve and address these challenges.

Analysis with respect to infrastructure services, i.e. water, sanitation, roads and storm water and electricity are briefly outlined as part of the analysis phase.

4.1 WATER

Basic water supply in any municipal area should comprise of the following:

 The provision of appropriate education in respect of effective water use; and  A minimum quantity of potable water of 25 litres per person per day –

 At a minimum flow rate of not less than 10 liters per minute;  Within 200 meters of a household; and  With an effectiveness of not more than 7 days interruption supply to any consumer per year.

The resource profile for water provision of each of the settlement areas is discussed in the following paragraphs.

4.1.1 Volksrust

The Volksrust Water Treatment Plant is situated in the south-western section of Volksrust. Raw water is abstracted directly from a raw water storage dam (Volksrust Dam) that is fed by either the

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 52

Schuilhoek or the Balfour Dam. The plant serves Volksrust and Charlestown with potable water. It is estimated that the current water demand for the areas is approximately 1 213.6Ml/pa, the estimated future requirements is an additional 60,5Ml/pa. The design capacity of the works is 4,0Ml/d, which is an indication that the plant has enough capacity to cater for future requirements at least up to 2013. Water is supplied to house hold via reservoirs and pipe networks.

4.1.2 Vukuzakhe

The Vukuzakhe Water Treatment Plant is situated on the eastern side of Vukuzakhe and supplies the area with potable water. Raw water is abstracted directly from a raw water storage dam (Vukuzakhe Dam) which is supplied with water from the Mahawane Dam. It is estimated that the current water demand for the area is approximately 395Ml/pa, the estimated future requirements is an additional 460.6Ml/pa. The design capacity of the works is 3, 6 Ml/d, which is an indication that the plant has enough capacity to cater for future requirements at least up to 2013. Water is supplied to households via reservoirs to pipe networks.

4.1.3 Amersfoort

The Amersfoort Water Treatment Plant is situated on the banks of the Daggakraal Dam approximately 10km from the town of Amersfoort. The Dam is built in the Schulpspruit which flows into the Rietspruit. The plant serves Amersfoort, Ezamokuhle, Daggakraal and Perdekop, by means of bulk pipelines and reservoirs. It is estimated that the current water demand for the areas is approximately 1 620Ml/pa, the estimated future requirements is an additional 442Ml/pa. The design capacity of the works is 3, 6 Ml/d, which is an indication that the plant does not have enough capacity to cater for the current demand and future increases in demand. The storage capacity for Daggakraal is less than 48 hours and the capacity should be increased as soon as possible. The treatment plant needs to be upgraded urgently to keep up with the demand in the area.

4.1.4 Ezamokuhle

The same Water Treatment Plant that serves Amersfoort is also serving Ezamokuhle. The plant needs to be upgraded to keep up with the demand for the area. There is an existing water network in place in Ezamokuhle that provides and “in-house” water supply for the area.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 53

4.1.5 Perdekop and Siyazenzela

The same Water Treatment Plant that serves Amersfoort is also serving Perdekop and Siyazenzela. The plant needs to be upgraded to keep up with the demand for the area. There is an existing water network in place in Perdekop and Siyazenzela that provides an “in-house” water supply, but there is also a small amount of stand pipes left that needs to be included in the water network to provide “in-house” connections to all stands.

4.1.6 Wakkerstroom and Esizameleni

The Wakkerstroom Water Treatment Plant is located on the banks of the Martins Dam, approximately 1 km east of the town of Wakkerstroom next to the road to Piet Retief. Water is pumped from the Martins Dam via a reservoir to pipe networks to “in-house” water supply. The plant serves the communities of Wakkerstroom and Esizameleni. It is estimated that the current water demand for the areas is approximately 324Ml/pa, the estimated future requirements is and additional 92Ml/pa. The design capacity of the works is 2, 0 Ml/d, which is an indication that the plant has enough capacity to cater for future requirements at least up to 2013.

4.1.7 Daggakraal and Sinqobile

The same Water Treatment Plant that serves Amersfoort is also serving Daggakraal and Sinqobile. The plant needs to be upgraded to keep up with the demand for the area. The area is services with stand pipes, but the construction of a water network for “in-house” water supply is currently underway.

4.1.8 Rural Areas

It is estimated that the Water Services Authorities has ± 300 boreholes in their area of the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Authority. The WSA indicated that the bulk of the boreholes are on privately owned farms. There is only one equipped borehole in Perdekop, which is not in use; it is only there for a backup water supply to the area.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 54

The Water Services Authorities is supplying communities with water from boreholes where the communities reside on farm lands. Some of the boreholes were installed by farmers and belong to farm owners. It was reported that the borehole in Perdekop is monitored randomly and not on a regular basis, due to the fact that the borehole is currently not in use and is only there as a backup supply source in case of an emergency. Most of the rural schools in the Municipality are supplied with water from boreholes.

4.1.9 Summary of Water Provision in the municipal area

The following table provides a summary of the type of services that is present in the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme local municipality as well as the estimated number of households that make use of each service.

Table 19: Type of water services in Pixley Ka Isaka Seme

Type of water service Estimated % Households

In house supply 6 480 28,37 %

Stand connections 9 953 43,60 %

Less than 200m from house 2 193 9,61 %

More than 200m from house 3 478 15,24 %

Bore holes 1 614 7,07 %

Springs 441 1,93 %

Dams 283 1,24 %

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 55

Total 22 828 100 %

Source: WSDP:2009-2013, Global Insight Southern Africa, Regional Explorer 403

According to the information in the above table the majority of households (71,97%) in the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality have access to water in their house or at a stand pipe close by. This figure is very reasonable in comparison with the other municipalities in the district.

A total of 3,17 % of the households only obtain water from unsecured sources such as rivers, springs and dams. These water sources are normally shared with cattle and are therefore not necessarily safe for human consumption. Furthermore in situation of a drought certain of the rivers and streams dry up totally, leaving households with no water.

The number of households making use of boreholes amounts to 7,07% of the total number of households in the municipal area. In various cases these boreholes are fitted with either hand pumps or electrical/diesel motors. Dams and tanks are normally used as storage facility.

The estimated backlog on Bulk Infrastructure for water provisions is 5 128 households which represent 8,12 % of the district backlog.

The IDP identified the following prioritised water related projects:

• Bulk water pipelines to Daggakraal • Upgrade bulk water line Amersfoort • Bulk water line Daggakraal Phase 3 • Boreholes (Wind mills and Hand pumps) • Infrastructure, water (Green fields) • Infrastructure: water at Daggakraal

4.2 SANITATION

The basic level of sanitation comprises at least the following:

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 56

 The provision of appropriate health and hygiene education and  A toilet which is safe, reliable, environmentally sound, easy to keep clean, provides privacy and protection against the weather, well ventilated, keeps smells to a minimum and prevents the entry and exit of flies and other disease- carrying pests.

The following paragraphs will give an overview of the status quo of sanitation in each of the settlements of Pixley Ka Same Local Municipality.

4.2.1 Volksrust

Full waterborne sewerage networks are available with sewer treatment works operating below capacity. Therefore the level of sanitation in Volksrust is up to standard.

4.2.2 Vukuzakhe

Full waterborne sewerage network are available in Vukuzakhe, but sewer treatment works are not capable to handle the inflow and must be upgraded in the near future as a matter of urgency.

4.2.3 Amersfoort

Full waterborne sewerage network is in place for approximately 50% of households in Amersfoort. Therefore half of the households still make use of waterborne toilets with conservancy tanks which needs to be incorporated into the sanitation system of the rest of Amersfoort.

4.2.4 Ezamokuhle

Full waterborne sewerage network with sewer treatment plant is in place in Ezamokuhle and it is operating below capacity.

4.2.5 Perdekop and Siyazenzela

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 57

Sewer treatment works are in place for Perdekop and Siyazenzela. A sewer network is currently being installed in the area and is anticipated to complete construction by the end of 2010.

4.2.6 Wakkerstroom and Esizameleni

Sewerage purification works is in place for approximately 50% of the households in this area and the rest of the households make use of waterborne toilets with conservancy tanks. This situation needs to be addressed to include all the households in the waterborne sewerage system.

4.2.7 Daggakraal and Sinqobile

No sewer purification system is in place for this area. Households make use of VIP toilets and 900 households still make use of pit latrines. This is an unacceptable situation and needs to be addressed as a matter of urgency.

4.2.8 Rural Areas

Sanitation systems throughout the rural areas of the municipality differ. Services vary between house connections (water borne system), septic tanks, pit latrines and VIP toilets (± 900 VIP toilets have been erected by Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality).

Estimated Backlog on Bulk Infrastructure for sanitation is 5 937 households which represents 12,3 % of district backlog.

The following table gives a summary of the types of sanitation in the rural area.

Table 20 Types of sanitation systems in the rural areas of Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality

Type of Services Households

Water borne toilets with conservancy tanks 2164

VIP Toilets 1250

Pit latrines 900

Source: WSDP:2009-2013, Global Insight Southern Africa, Regional Explorer 403

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 58

According to the above table ± 9,1 % of households in the rural areas have access to waterborne toilets with conservancy tanks, 5,3 % to VIP toilets and 3,8 % to pit latrines.

The IDP identified the following prioritised sanitation related projects:

 Erection of VIP toilets in rural areas  VIP sanitation in Daggakraal (alternative dry systems)  Infrastructure sanitation (green fields)  VIP toilets on farms.

4.3 ROADS AND STORM WATER

A variety of National, Provincial, District and public roads and streets traverse the area of jurisdiction of Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality.

The most prominent of these are the N11, crossing the area from north to south. The responsibility of this road falls under the jurisdiction of SANRAL. Other National routes traversing the area are the R23 from Standerton to Volksrust and the R35 from Bethal to Amersfoort. Both these roads fall under the jurisdiction of SANRAL.

Provincial roads in the study area are as follows:

 P7/2 Piet Retief to Wakkerstroom (tarred)  P7/1 Wakkerstroom to Volksrust (tarred)  P7/3 Volksrust to Vrede (tarred for 20 km)  P97/1 Amersfoort to Perdekop (tarred)  P48,3 Amersfoort to Daggakraal (tarred)  P97/2 Amersfoort to Piet Retief (Not tarred)  P96/1 R35 to Standerton (Not tarred)

These roads as well as a number of District roads fall under the jurisdiction of the Mpumalanga Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport. Roads Department, Ermelo branch is the responsible office for the maintenance of these roads. The District roads are in a bad state due to a lack of maintenance and high volumes of coal haulage trucks that transport coal to the power stations within and beyond its jurisdictional area. As indicated on the attached plan (Figure 2) Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality area of

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 59 jurisdiction is well serviced with a network of National, Provincial and District roads. Internal roads consist mainly of tar roads and graded gravel roads as discussed below for each of the settlements.

4.3.1 Volksrust

The majority (± 95 %) of the roads and streets in Volksrust are tarred and provided with storm water drainage, either with underground storm water pipes or with concrete side drains. Roads are in good condition with certain patches of road that needs upgrading and approximately 5% of the road in the town needs to be tarred.

4.3.2 Vukuzakhe

Approximately 40% of all roads in Vukuzakhe are tarred, with side drains to accommodate storm water. All main roads as well as taxi and bus routes have been tarred to a good standard and are well maintained.

4.3.3 Amersfoort and Ezamokuhle

Only the thorough ways as well as the link roads have been tarred with side drains and kerbing to accommodate storm water.

4.3.4 Perdekop and Siyazenzela

Relatively few roads, mainly thorough ways to Standerton and Amersfoort (± 13 %) are tarred. Storm water is accommodated by means of side drains. The remainder of the streets are graded gravel streets with no storm water drainage.

4.3.5 Wakkerstroom

Only the thorough way to Volksrust, Piet Retief and Newcastle as well as link roads are tarred with no storm water management system in place.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 60

4.3.6 Daggakraal and Sinqobile

There are no tarred roads, except for the road from Amersfoort, which is a district road maintained by the Department of Public Roads and Transport. Attention will have to be given to address the problem of gravel streets because of the maintenance cost implication, as well as accommodation of storm water drainage.

4.3.7 Rural Areas

Access to rural areas is by means of district roads or public roads which are gravel roads. The issue of the level of access (Roads & Transport) to key service facilities (clinics, schools, government services) need attention as most of the municipality is rural by its spatial nature.

The IDP identified the following prioritised roads and storm water related projects:

MIG Projects

 Amersfoort roads (internal)  Daggakraal roads (internal)  Roads and storm water: Ward 1  Roads and storm water: Ward 2  Roads and storm water: Ward 3  Roads and storm water: Ward 4  Roads and storm water: Ward 5  Roads and storm water: Ward 6  Roads and storm water: Ward 7  Roads and storm water: Ward 8  Roads and storm water: Ward 9  Roads and storm water: Ward 10  Roads and storm water: Ward 11  Rehabilitation of roads (Vukuzakhe) Ward 1, 2 and 3  Rehabilitation of roads (Volksrust) Ward 4

Projects by Department of Public Works (Siyazenzela projects)

 D282 Driefontein - Volksrust 68 km  D281 Volksrust - Daggakraal 12 km  D254 Amersfoort - Wakkerstroom 29 km  P97/2 Amersfoort - Piet Retief 43 km  P97/3 Amersfoort - Wakkerstroom 55 km

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 61

 D103 Wolwespruit - Langfontein 10 km  D1374 Perdekop - Morgenzon 5 km  D2548 Volksrust - Rietfontein 11 km

The Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport is also responsible for maintaining shoulders, side drains, road signs, guardrails etc. in the municipal area.

4.4 WASTE MANAGEMENT

Waste collection services exist for formal and informal households. A total of 16 638 formal and informal households receive waste collection services. This amounts to 70% of the households in the municipal area. The management and control of solid waste disposal o a registered site is key for the effective waste management in the municipal area.

The following paragraphs will explain how solid waste is treated for each of the settlements in the municipal area.

4.4.1 Volksrust and Vukuzakhe

Solid waste removal is done once a week to a registered site where all standard measures are in place.

4.4.2 Amersfoort and Ezamokuhle

Solid waste removal is done twice a week according to RDP standards and above. However the waste refuse dump is not registered and will be addressed as part of the Integrated Waste Management Plan that is in the review stage at this moment.

4.4.3 Perdekop and Siyazenzela

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 62

Solid waste removal is done twice a week according to RDP standards and above. However the waste refuse dump is not registered and will be addressed as part of the Integrated Waste Management Plan that is in the review stage at this moment.

4.4.4 Wakkerstroom and Esizameleni

Solid waste removal is done twice a week according to RDP standards and above. However the waste refuse dump is not registered and will be addressed as part of the Integrated Waste Management Plan that is in the review stage at this moment.

4.4.5 Daggakraal and Sinqobile

There is formal removal of solid waste in this area and households are responsible for their own solid waste removal. Therefore it is critical that the Integrated Waste Management Plan addresses this problem in order to introduce a system of solid waste removal to a registered site close by the settlements.

4.4.6 Rural Areas

There is no formal system of waste removal in the rural areas and households are responsible for their own solid waste removal.

The IDP identified the following prioritised solid waste removal related projects:

 Review of Waste By-Laws and Waste Management Development Plans  Monitoring and surveillance of landfill sites  Coordination and partnership with all stakeholders in waste management  Promotion and support for waste minimisation, re-cycling and re-use  Rehabilitation and pollution control programs  Enforcement of relevant legislation by all stakeholders

4.5 ELECTRICAL PROVISION

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 63

RDV Consulting Electrical Engineers conducted an analysis of the electrical engineering component of each of the urban settlements within the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality and their findings are presented in the following paragraphs. MIG funding to the value of R 2 304 000-00 has been allocated for streetlights in Ezamokuhle and Vukuzakhe and a further R 6 000 000-00 for the rest of Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality. Furthermore R 400 000-00 has been allocated for High Voltage Cabling, R 260 000-00 for pre-paid meters, R 190 000-00 for Transformers and R 2 200 000-00 for 11kV Switchgear.

4.5.1 Volksrust

The distribution of electricity in Volksrust is mostly underground and streetlight upgrades are on- going and not all roads have streetlights which is a concern. Currently there are no network upgrades in process. The connection to houses are provided by the municipality and the available capacity on the network was estimated at 8 MVA with a backlog estimate of 3,5 MVA. One of the critical general projects to be executed in the near future is the provision of street lights for all the roads in town. Volksrust can only be supplied with transformer banks that are paralleled. An application is in place with ESKOM to increase the demand of Volksrust.

4.5.2 Vukuzakhe

The distribution of electricity in Vukuzakhe is mostly underground and provided by the local municipality. No streetlights are installed in the town which is of great concern. The available capacity of electricity was estimated at 8MVA with a backlog of 3,5 MVA. One of the critical general projects identified was the installation of streetlights which will form part of the MIG funding provided. The substation in Vukuzakhe needs to be upgraded from 9 MVA to 12,5 MVA and applicable network switched need to be installed to distribute the additional power.

4.5.3 Amersfoort

The distribution of electricity in Amersfoort is mostly overhead and provided directly by ESKOM. Limited streetlights are installed in the town and no network upgrades are currently proposed. The available capacity for the town is 500 kVA and no backlog capacity was identified. One of the critical general projects to be executed is the installation of streetlights in the town. Furthermore both Amersfoort and Ezamokuhle are currently close to peak capacity and new applications are dealt with on an on-going basis.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 64

4.5.4 Ezamokuhle

The distribution of electricity in Ezamokuhle is mostly overhead and no streetlights are installed which is of great concern for public safety in the town. MIG funding has been secured for the installation of streetlights. No other network upgrades are currently proposed. Ezamokuhle shares the 500 kVA capacity with Amersfoort and therefore no capacity backlog is also recorded for the town.

4.5.5 Perdekop & Siyazenzela

The distribution of electricity in Perdekop and Siyazenzela is mostly overhead and provided by ESKOM. Siyazenzela has no streetlights installed and an amount of R 1 600 000-00 was allocated to Perdekop for the installation of streetlight. The available capacity for the two towns is approximately 1 MVA with a 100 kVA capacity backlog. Critical general projects to be executed are the installation of streetlights in both towns. ESKOM is currently underway to supply electricity to approximately 80 outstanding applicants.

4.5.6 Wakkerstroom & Esizameleni

The distribution of electricity in the two towns is mostly overhead and it is supplied by ESKOM. Limited streetlights are installed in Wakkerstroom and none in Esizameleni. The available capacity for both towns is approximately 500 kVA with an approximate 200 kVA backlog. Critical and general projects to be executed are the installation of streetlights in both towns. Currently there is an ESKOM embargo on all new connections until the completion of the Zaaihoek Dam Substation.

4.5.7 Daggakraal and Sinqobile

The distribution in Daggakraal and Sinqobile A, B and D is mostly overhead and the supply of electricity is directly from ESKOM. No streetlights are currently installed in either of the towns. The available capacity in the above mentioned area is approximately 1 MVA with an approximate 300 kVA capacity backlog. Critical and general projects to be executed are the installation

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 65

streetlights. In September 2010 360 homes will be supplied with an electrical connection and a supply line upgrade and refurbishment is planned to start in October 2010.

The distribution in Sinqobile C is mostly overhead and the supply of the electricity comes from the municipality. Some streetlights have been installed in the area but the installation of streetlights is still a critical and general project that needs to be executed in future. Critical and general projects to be executed is a supply line auto-recloser of 600A with remote switch to the value of R 300 000.

4.5.8 Rural Areas

The distribution of electricity in the rural areas is supplied by ESKOM on an ad hoc basis.

The IDP identified the following prioritised electricity related projects:

 To eradicate the electricity backlog  Develop an electrification master plan  To ensure that all residents in the licensed areas of the municipality have adequate electrical supply  Well maintained street lights  Increase access to electrical services to all residents  To ensure access to pre-paid electricity points to the public in Vukuzakhe and Daggakraal  Electrification of Perdekop – 28 households  Electrification of Daggakraal – 227 households  Electrification of Amersfoort – 222 households

5.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS

SRK Consulting (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd in association with BKS Pty (Ltd) was appointed to complete an Environmental Management Framework for the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality. They provided a summary of the report to be incorporated into the SDF that addresses the status quo of the environment and environmental issues related to the municipality.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 66

5.1 INTRODUCTION

According to the report the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality is an important biodiversity conservation area with a high potential for tourism and agriculture development and growth. The biodiversity of the municipality is under constant threat by possible changes in land use for the purpose of mining, especially open cast coal mining. Therefore it is imperative that the SDF also include guidelines to protect the biodiversity of the municipal area and inform future developers of sensitive areas which should be considered as no-go areas for certain development. The report is the first phase of two phases in developing the environmental vision, goals and objectives for the SDF of the municipality.

5.2 CLIMATE

According to the environmental input from SRK the municipality is situated in a subtropical climate zone where summer rainfall occurs from September to May with 95% of the precipitation between October and March. The maximum rainfall is normally in January or February. The eastern part of the municipal area experience a higher rainfall than the western region with mean annual precipitation ranging from 600 to 800mm per annum in the west increasing to between 800 and 1000mm per annum in the east.

Summer temperatures range up to 40ºC during the day, down to 10ºC in the evening. During a mild winter, temperatures range from 20ºC during the day down to 10ºC at night. Light frost occurs from May to August and is expected on less than 30 days per annum. Wind speeds range from 1 m/s to just less than 8 m/s.

The relationship between global temperatures and human activities is highly complex and there is little agreement as to how much climate is affected by human activities. At this stage it is not clear how the climate change related considerations need to be taken into account at a local spatial planning scale. The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) certainly see planning for biodiversity maintenance as an ever more legitimate goal given its probable additional benefits in term of climate change adaption. Some local authorities are currently busy drawing up climate change mitigation strategies with implications for spatial planning.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme local municipality falls within the Priority Area (HPA) as declared by the minister on 23 November 2007 under the Air Quality Act. This necessitated the development of an Air Quality Management Plan for the area. The following priority sources that contribute to ambient air pollutant concentrations and associated health risks have been identified within the municipal area:

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 67

 Household fuel burning  Vehicle exhaust emissions  Emissions from petrol stations  Diesel fuel combustion emissions along rail lines  Un-rehabilitated mine tailings  Mining operations  Agricultural activities  Industrial and commercial fuel burning  Large industrial activities  Landfills  Sewerage works  Biomass burning and  Trans-boundary transport of pollutants into the GSDM

The following monitoring stations have been established in the municipal area to monitor air quality as a result of the priority sources of pollutants in the municipal area:

 Amersfoort – A SASOL operated monitoring station measure weather changes (MET),

sulphur oxides (SOx), PM and ozone (O levels

 Verkykop – An ESKOM operated MET station monitoring SOx, PM, O3 and NOx  Majuba 1 and 2 – An ESKOM operated MET station, monitoring SOx and PM.

The main pollutants of concern in the municipal area are SOx exceeding the norm in the vicinity of the Majuba power station, NOx and CO from vehicle emissions and veld burning. According to the SRK report the area in general is within the South African standard noted for these pollutants.

5.3 SOILS

The soils in the municipal area are formed by the rocks weathering in situ to residual soils of various compositions and thickness. These soils are generally covered by transported soils such as scree, consisting of large rock fragments and colluvium gravels that are found on the higher slopes of the dolerite and sandstone hills. Finer colluviums and hill wash materials are found lower down the slopes.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 68

The western extremity of the municipal area is characterised by soils which are clay/very clayey. The bulk of the municipal area has loam clay/loamy soils while the western section is dominant by sandy loam/loam. The far northern portion along the has sandy alluvial soils. High potential arable soils are restricted to the north-eastern portion of the study area (see Figure 17).

5.4 TOPOGRAPHY AND GEOMORPHOLOGY

The north-western half of the municipal area is characterised by undulating landscape of the Highveld Grasslands. These areas reach heights of 1 600 to 1 700m above sea level. The south eastern half is more rugged and hilly characterised by low to high mountains in the Volksrust and Wakkerstroom areas as a result of the presence of the resistant sandstone beds. The Langkrans, Versamelberg and Langberg in the vicinity of Volksrust reach over 2 000m above sea level, while those near Wakkerstroom reach above 2 200m. Dolerite sills give rise to characteristic flat-topped hills. The topography of the municipal area is depicted in Figure 25.

5.5 GEOLOGY

According to the SRK report the municipal area occurs entirely on rocks of the Karoo Super group. Dolerite sills are intruded along the bedding planes of the sedimentary rocks or as dykes intruded at right angles to the bedding. The intrusions of the dolerite results in resistance to weathering and gives rise to hills and ridges as depicted in Figure 25. Dolerite weathers to clayey soils which are expansive and are problematic to building foundations.

Coal mining is limited within the municipal area and Savmore Coal Mine on the eastern extent of the municipal area was identified as the only operational mine. There are also small defunct coal mining operations outside the study area near its eastern border, as well as to the north in the Ermelo district according the the report from SRK. The beds of the Vryheid Formation outcrop over the eastern portion of the municipal area provide some potential for open-cast coal mining. However, the highly weathered seams are not generally amenable to good coal recovery and activities are likely to be restricted to small-scale recovery by entrepreneurs using low-cost mining methods. Their marginal nature would present a challenge to compliance with environmental management programmes and financial provision for rehabilitation. The

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 69 distribution of existing coal boreholes and the extent of potential underground and surface mining for the municipal area are depicted in Figure 19.

Since the Majuba coal mine was decommissioned the Majuba power station south of Amersfoort has been supplied by coal trucked from as far afield as Witbank (Engineering News, 2007). However, Underground Coal Gasification (UCG) technology converting local coal seams into combustible gas is being piloted by ESKOM to supply the Majuba power station.

5.6 WATER RESOURCES

The SRK report indicates that Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality is situated in the headwaters of three important major rivers and Water Management Areas (WMA’s) namely the Upper Vaal, Thukela and the Usutu to Mhlatuze WMA’s as depicted in Figure 16. The bulk of the municipal area falls within the Upper Vaal WMA while the eastern portion falls within the Usutu to Mhlatuze WMA and the south- eastern portion lies in the Thukela WMA.

The following table represents the 12 quaternary catchments which are found totally or partially within the municipal area.

Table 21: Details of the 12 quaternary catchments within the municipal area

Catchment area Forestry Alien Veg. Irrigated Combined minor dams MAE MAP Quaternary Catchment Gross Net area area area area volume

(km2) (km2) (km2) (km2) (km2) (km2) (mcm) (mm) (mm)

C11B 536 536 0.00 0.00 0.83 0.49 1.61 1400 705

C11C 450 450 0.00 0.00 0.71 0.10 0.38 1400 765

C11D 373 373 0.00 0.00 0.59 0.69 1.54 1400 702

C11E 1157 1157 0.00 0.00 1.78 0.81 1.31 1400 697

C11J 1002 1002 0.00 0.00 1.54 0.19 0.29 1450 658

C11L 948 948 0.00 0.00 1.48 0.61 1.63 1450 675

C13A 595 595 0.00 0.00 0.57 0.09 0.20 1400 779

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 70

C13B 616 616 0.00 0.00 0.71 0.00 0.00 1400 683

C13D 896 896 0.00 0.00 0.99 0.00 0.00 1400 698

V31A 622 622 0.00 1.70 4.42 0.02 0.30 1400 916

V31B 505 505 20.40 21.80 5.18 0.51 2.10 1400 856

W42C 377 377 10.40 1.10 0.00 0.00 0.00 1400 1017

Source: WRC (2008)

The accumulated stream flow varies greatly from a high 264mm in the east upstream of Heyshope Dam to a low 57mm in the west. The Upper Usutu to Mhlatuze WMA in the municipal area including the Zaaihoek Dam is already highly developed and cannot sustain additional water use. Water transfers to the Upper Vaal and Olifants WMA and afforestation accounts for the bulk of available water. The Upper Vaal WMA receives the bulk of available water by relatively high quality water transfers from the Upper Usutu to Mhlatuze WMA. There is a large projected growth in demand in the WMA as a whole, but also for additional requirements in its upper reaches for petro-chemical industries and power generation. The Thukela WMA is the source of water for the Thukela-Vaal Transfer Scheme which inter alia transfers water from the Thukela River catchment to the Sterkfontein Dam in the Vaal River system.

International obligations govern the supply of water to neighbouring countries of Namibia, Swaziland and situated downstream of the three WMA’s whose headwater fall in the study area. The Inkomati River provides 55% of the water requirements of Mozambique.

The overall quality of the rivers in the region is acceptable according to the report from SRK. The discharge from the various waste water treatment works does however pose a potential threat to the water quality in the rivers.

The regional hydrogeological zones within the municipal area are broadly defined by the underlying geology in the area comprising sedimentary rocks of the Karoo Sequence intruded by dolerite sills and dykes (see Figure 20).

The groundwater quality of the municipal area is not known but indications are that the hydrochemistry associated with the sediments is variable with groundwater salinity associated with the formations in the municipal area having an electrical conductivity of < 50 up to 1000 mS/m. Land uses likely to affect the ground water quality in the municipal area are as follows:

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 71

 Increased formal and informal human settlements place a strain on services within the municipal area which includes sanitation. This might result in bacteriological contamination of shallow groundwater. Informal waste disposal sites are also a threat to the groundwater quality;  Commercial and subsistence agriculture crucial to the local economy is dominated by unimproved grazing for stock which can often be associated with overgrazing and soil erosion. Grazing and cultivated land may impact the quality of shallow groundwater in the area through faecal contamination as well as contamination from fertilisers and pesticides;  Commercial forestry can also have major impacts on groundwater resources. Given the restricted extent of this activity limited to patched on the eastern boundary of the municipality it is not understood that this as presently a major issue for the area;  Operational mines, although currently limited in the municipal area, poses a significant threat to the underground water quality.

5.7 AQUATIC AND WETLAND ECOLOGY

The aquatic and wetland ecology specialist study in the SRK Report (Palmer, 2010) delineated the extent of wetlands within the municipal area as depicted in Figure 21. The total area occupied by wetlands, including dams is estimated at 124 734ha or 18.9% of the area. According to the SRK report Hill slope seepage wetlands (67%) are by far the most common wetland type in the municipal area followed by Valley bottom wetlands (31%) and floodplains (2%). There were 656 farm dams identified within the municipal area most of which were 0.4 to 1.2ha in extent.

The present ecological state of the aquatic ecosystems within the municipal area was rated as Largely Natural to Moderately Modified (Category B to C) which can be considered as acceptable and not critical. Systems that were in a natural or near-natural condition included the Hlelo River and its tributaries, the wetlands and streams in the Paardeplaats Nature Reserve and the Wakkerstroom area (see Figure 21-23).

5.8 TERRESTRIAL ECOLOGY

Figure 24 represent the biodiversity of the municipal area with indication of which areas are irreplaceable, highly significant, important and necessary, least concern and no natural habitat remaining. Areas within the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme municipal boundary that were rated as protected or irreplaceable for terrestrial

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 72 ecosystem were the high lying areas on the eastern side of the study area, including the Paardeplaats Nature Reserve, Wakkerstroom vlei, Kastrol Nek and surrounding areas.

According to the SRK Report the most important environmental factors influencing the distribution of plant communities (flora) are terrain morphology and soil wetness. The specialist classification includes western plains grassland, central plains grassland, Wakkerstroom plains grassland, eastern plains grassland, escarpment grassland, mountain grassland, forests and wetlands. Most of the grassland areas are endangered due to agricultural activity and poorly conserved except in the conservancy areas. The remaining grassland of the eastern plains should be regarded as endangered and therefore sensitive. The escarpment grassland is better preserved due to the mountainous terrain that restricts agriculture. The grassland is only 2% transformed and in good condition, rich in forbs species and with some scattered shrubs and bush on the rocky outcrop. The mountain grassland is quiet pristine with only 6% transformed. It is very rich in species and therefore has a high conservation status and sensitivity. Parts north of Wakkerstroom are considered as least concern due to inaccessibility though some areas are considered as important or even irreplaceable by MBCP.

The report further indicates that only a small part of the municipal area is under formal or semi-formal protection as indicated in Figure 15. The Paardeplaats Nature Reserve is the only provincial nature reserve in the area and the Wakkerstroom Wetland Reserve is under municipal protection. Other conservancies include the Bloukop and Rietvaal Conservancies and the newly proposed Mhlangampisis and Baltrasna conservancies. The south-eastern parts of the municipal area are most important and identified as a hotspot area for Red Data taxa as indicated in Figure 25. This area includes mainly Mountain grassland and Escarpment grassland as well as the Wakkerstroom wetland area.

According to the SRK Report the municipal area contain 76 species of mammals (fauna) which excludes animals found in the nature reserve or game farms. Red data listed mammals species include 12 species such as the Ourebia oribi (Oribi), and possibly Poecilogale albinucha (African Weasel), Lutra maculicollis (Spotted-necked Otter) as well as shrew species of the genera Crocidura and Myosorex. According to the MTPA database 17 Red Data listed bird species have been recorded in the municipal area of which some of these species are rare and protection of grasslands and wetlands is critical for their survival. The fish species that are expected to occur within the municipal area are mainly located in the Usutu Catchment and less so in the Thukela River Catchment. There are no highly sensitive fish species in the Upper Vaal River Catchment. Sixty species of reptiles (snakes, lizards, geckos, tortoises) have been recorded in the municipal area of which 8 of these are possibly Red Data species. There are also 22 frog species that occur within the municipal area but none is currently listed as threatened. A number of butterfly species were recorded in the municipal area

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 73 however most of them are widespread and not considered to be threatened. The only Red Data species of this group is the Lepidochrysops swanepoeli.

5.9 INFRASTRUCTURE AND SERVICES

The major challenges in the municipal area with respect to service delivery are the provision of waste removal, water and sanitation due to the largely rural nature of the municipality according to the SRK Report. The following table provides a list of the recorded landfill sites in the municipal area of which only the site in Volksrust is a registered landfill site.

Table 22: Landfill status Town Mass 2006 Mass 2026 Air Space (tons) (tons) Wakkerstroom 1 044 3 396 88 921 Amersfoort 1 536 4 992 118 503 Perdekop 744 2 412 71 111 Volksrust 10 356 33 600 474 056

Source: GSDM, 2005

According to the waste management plan the Amersfoort, Wakkerstroom and Perdekop landfill sites have no leachate control and none of the landfill sites regularly cap the waste which has a major impact on the groundwater quality and air quality in the areas.

The Waste Water Treatment Works (WWTW) and Water Treatment Plants (WTP) within the municipal area are located at Volksrust, Vukuzakhe, Wakkerstroom, Amersfoort and Perdekop. The Wakkerstroom WWTW is the only facility operating above its capacity which has a negative impact on the surface water quality in the Usuthu-Mhlatuze WMA. The treatment process at the WWTW does not address salinity and all works exhibit elevated concentrations of total dissolved solids. None of the works conform to the phosphate standard of 1 mg/l, but of even greater concern is the fact that the concentration of uniodised ammonia (NH3) in the effluent from the Volksrust WWTW. At 1 mg/l the effluent is potentially toxic to

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 74 the receiving river as a function of temperature and pH. The other works also discharge water with high concentrations of NH3 and similar the concentration of Nitrate in the effluent is also high.

Water treatment works are situated at Volksrust, Vukuzakhe, Wakkerstroom and Amersfoort (also supplying Perdekop and Daggakraal).

According to the GSDM (2009) the district municipality is having difficulties maintaining the 94 cemeteries within the district, many of which are reaching full capacity. Without adequate management measures the establishment of adequate sites for cemeteries within the municipal area could give rise to surface and groundwater quality issues.

5.10 SPATIAL PLANNING AND LAND USES

According to the SRK Report the municipal area comprises a number of land uses as indicated in the table below. The main land use within the municipal area is unimproved natural grassland and the second biggest land use is cultivated land followed by thicket bush land. The fourth largest land use type is water bodies and wetlands while urban/built up areas of commercial, industrial and residential uses make up only 0.4% while mining and quarries make up as little as 0.04% of the municipal area.

Table 23: Land uses within the greater Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Land use class % of municipal area Bare rock and soil erosion 0.04 % Cultivated 9.8 % Degraded thicket and bush land 0.2 % Degraded unimproved grassland 0.6 % Forest natural 0.2 % Improved grassland 0.01% Mines and quarries 0.04% Thicket and bush land 1.9 % Unimproved grassland 86.1 % Urban / built-up land: Commercial 0.01%

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 75

Urban / built-up land: Industrial/Transport 0.1 % Urban / built-up land: Residential 0.3 % Water bodies 0.1 % Wetlands 0.4 %

Source: SRK Report (2010)

5.10.1 Agriculture

According to the SRK Report agriculture is the second largest economic sector within the municipality and the main types of agriculture are dry land cultivation and some animal farming. The majority of the land in the municipal area is classified as unimproved grassland which is suitable for stock grazing. This sector is especially important in the rural population as a large proportion of households depend on farming. Subsistence farming is a vital source of food for these communities.

The area lends itself to commercial mixed farming with crop production occurring on higher potential soils, supplemented by beef and sheep farming. Irrigation of crops, fodder production and limited horticulture of apples, chickens and egg production contribute to the mix of farming activities. Subsistence farming is primarily dependent on beef production on unfenced communal land. Challenges faced include overgrazing, inadequate breeding practices disease management and stock theft. There is some subsistence farming of vegetables and other intensive crops on a small scale.

Infrastructure to support the agricultural sector is well-developed with an extensive network of roads linking farms to towns and major markets. Damage caused to roads by coal trucks is an on- going problem. A good rail network is in place, but due to high cost of this system of transport the use thereof is limited. Solis owned by AFGRI (Pty) Ltd, a leading supplier of agricultural services, as well as smaller silos owned by farmers provide abundant storage capacity for grains. Storage and packaging facilities for seeds, fertilizers, chemical and other products are also available. Internet is another method for ensuring business development for the farming community, but a lack of broadband connectivity is a limitation, although there is good cell phone coverage overall.

The commercial agricultural sector is well-organised in the municipality with structures and organisations in place to represent the interests of the farming community. There are also sufficient banking institutions and input suppliers in the area. However, coordination between the

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 76

commercial agricultural sector and the municipal forums and communities remains a challenge. Organisation of the emerging farmers requires improvement with inadequate representation on organisations serving their interest. Furthermore the land reform process, crime levels and global competitiveness are major challenges facing the agricultural community in the municipal area.

The major crops produced in the area are white and yellow maize, grain sorghum sunflower, dry beans and soya beans. Grain production clearly plays an important role in the local community as well as wool production which is also a relatively large contributor to the local economy in terms of production and sales.

Land capability throughout the study area is quite high due to the relatively high average rainfall (710 mm) which increases from the west to eastern parts of the municipal area. The moderate slope class for most of the region is conducive to agriculture, although in the east and southeast the steep topography results in extreme cold and frost during winter. The 3 WMA’s provide opportunity for irrigation and numerous farms in the municipal area produce crops under pivot irrigation. The wetlands contribute to agriculture through provision of drinking water and supporting sustainable livelihoods. Wetlands also perform functions such as reducing and preventing erosion through control of storm water and flooding. A vast area of the municipality has high potential soils (see Figure 17).

Land reform is still taking place at a slow rate in the GSDM and commercial farmers claim that these projects are a failure because they do not operate at the same productivity levels as before transfer of the land. The municipality has eleven land claims, five have been dismissed, three are dormant, two are still under research and one has been gazetted.

5.10.2 Mining

According to the SRK Report mines in operation are scattered around the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality and include sand, dolerite and coal mining. Small scale open cast mining is being undertaken to the east of Wakkerstroom and there is a coal mine adjoining the Majuba Power Station west of Amersfoort which is now utilised for the gasification of coal.

The spreading of coal mining activities in the Wakkerstroom area is of concern as this area is of high conservation value to the extensive wetlands found there. Mining would seriously threaten the

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 77

integrity of the wetlands and other habitats. Open cast coal mining also has an impact on surface water and groundwater resources as a result of AMD and higher turbidity levels.

Given the low quality and limited thickness of much of the resources in the municipal area, coal is likely to be mined using open cast methods which can have a significant impact on the water resources and sensitive ecology in the municipal area. Future quarries are also likely to be developed for construction materials where a market for such materials is identified close to materials sources, such materials would include builders send and road aggregates.

5.10.3 Urban Settlements

The urban settlements and their dynamics have been thoroughly discussed in Chapter 2.2.

5.10.4 Open Spaces

According to the SRK Report there is very little State Owned Land within the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality’s boundaries which suggest that the majority of the land outside the urban areas are privately owned (see Figure 13: Land Audit). This further suggests that the state is going to need to work in partnership with private land owners to ensure the protection of the important wetland and grassland biospheres in the municipal area.

The Wakkerstroom wetland is a very important ecological wetland as a vital catchment for the Vaal and Pongola River and its rich diversity of plant and animal life. The wetland systems are home to all three the crane species occurring in South Africa namely the Blue, Crowned and Wattled Cranes, as well as other protected bird, frog and plant species. There are also a number of Natural Heritage sites within the municipality which are located around Wakkerstroom (Tafelkop, Boskop, Wakkerstroom and Kombewaira) as well as a large area near Warburton called Theespruit. Large portions of grassland near the Wakkerstroom region remain in near-pristine condition because this region has not been considered well-suited for the cultivation of timber, crops or grazing. The areas important for bird conservation are located primarily in a broad north south axis from Wakkerstroom to Carolina. In addition the central portions of the municipality have also been identified as a bird conservation hotspot.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 78

The Wakkerstroom Wetlands is host to one of the largest international wetland- and water bird conservations initiatives in the African-Eurasian region (Wings over Wetland) and is listed as an important bird area. It is also home the National Grassland Programme’s agricultural demonstration project and its grasslands have been assesses as “critical important” in terms of MBCP which falls under the auspices of the SANBI.

5.10.5 Tourism

The SRK Report indicates that the municipality has great potential for tourism and Agro-Tourism but it is currently under-developed. The 2010-2011 IDP highlights the need for the promotion of local tourism resources including historical sites, museums as well as local arts and culture. Public- private partnerships are seen as the means for building skills and resources for developing tourism.

The Wakkerstroom Wetland Conservation area is a primary tourism focus and occupies approximately 650ha. It is recognised as a national asset and the town of Wakkerstroom is internationally known as a haven for birdwatchers and eco-tourists. Special species occurring in the area include Rudd’s Lark, Botha’s Lark, Yellow-breasted Pipit, Blue Korhaan and Southern Balb Ibis. There are over 800 species of wildflowers, including 54 species of orchid. An initiative is also underway to establish an internationally recognised grassland biosphere reserve. There is also a further drive to declare the area a Ramsar site. The Paardeplaas Nature Reserve is the only formal conservation area within the municipality, but further area which is receiving development support from authorities is the Uthaka Game, Bird and Nature Park.

Sites of cultural and historical importance include the San (Stone Age) paintings situated at the foot of the Amajuba Mountain and the Mahatma Ghandi Museum. The municipality also hosts some of the key battle sites of South African history including Majuba Hill near Volksrust where the Transvaal won independence from the British. Memorials in the town commemorate the Anglo- Boer wars in honour of concentration camp victims and those in active service (see Figure 32).

Besides birding, outdoor recreation is based on resources including the Mahawane Waterfall and the Amersfoort and Martins Dams and a well-known paragliding venue is situated at the Tamatiesberg to the north of Volksrust. Fly-fishing is a further popular outdoor pursuit in the municipal area. The south-eastern portion of the municipality is mountainous and probably attracts ecotourism activities such as hiking, abseiling and mountain climbing.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 79

5.11 RESOURCE ECONOMICS

Resource economics focuses on the use of environmental resources and trade-offs arising between different resource uses according to the SRK Report. It generally attempts to quantify uses and trade-offs in monetary terms as far as is possible and sensible. With regard to the existing state of the environment, resource economics commonly disaggregates the Total Economic Value (TEV) of a given environment into different types of values in order to better understand how the environment creates values and contributes to economic development.

The report identified the following key direct resource uses for the municipal area:

 Agriculture;  Tourism (Focused on eco-tourism & heritage tourism) and recreation;  Mining (primarily coal);  Forestry;  Harvesting of resources from the natural environment; and  Aesthetic and cultural values not captured in tourism and recreation values

The high value of properly functioning ecosystems particularly in terms of water services provides an economic justification for their protection and restoration. Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality boasts grasslands that are generally in significant better condition than those in the Maloti-Drakensberg and care needs to be taken to avoid degradation. Improvements can be made in pockets of land that have become degraded over the years.

One of the key regulating ecosystem services provided by grasslands area associated with the water environment given the areas importance at the headwater of three major WMA’s. Numerous wetlands are present in the area including the Wakkerstroom wetland which is of national prominence. The Wakkerstroom wetland complex is one of few peat land wetlands in South Africa. They are centres of biodiversity, act as carbon sinks and are paramount to the hydrological functioning of drainage systems. The services provide water security for the area and also play a critical role as a “water factory” area with national importance for water security.

The SRK Report further states that the waste sink function and other regulating functions of the aquatic and terrestrial environment appears thus far to be working relatively well in most parts of the municipality. Future planning and management will have to be exercised with care if ecological

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 80

infrastructure in the study area is to keep delivering. Intensively developed catchments nearby such as the provide lessons regarding the economic risks associated with the degradation of the water environment and natural capital.

Key resource uses (agriculture, tourism, recreation, mining, forestry and harvesting) have the potential to clash with each other and destroy/degrade natural capital or ecological infrastructure from terrestrial and aquatic natural areas. Mining primarily impacts on water quality and quantity, land degradation, air quality and biodiversity. It further exacerbates impacts through high volumes of truck traffic. Water pollution may impact downstream of the pollution source with potential international implications.

The available evidence and observation of the situation in other mining areas indicates a high risk of significant unmitigated cumulative impacts from intensive mining. Despite numerous EIA’s and seemingly well-funded environmental management plans, significant damage is occurring in mining areas. Potentially unacceptable residual impacts appear to be a reality of coal mining, particularly where a number of mines operate in sensitive areas. Adequate mitigation does not equate with observable reality at this point and strongly suggests that the precautionary principle needs to be applied to the approval of mining in the first instance in sensitive areas.

The often parlous state of roads in Mpumalanga can act as a significant constraint to tourism development in remote areas where access to roads is a key factor for these industries.

Forestry has a marked impact on the natural environment and affects biodiversity, water and soil resources as well as air quality. Extensive forestry also has the ability to reduce available water substantially. In the Usutu River for example, it is estimated that 70 000 ha of pine plantations reduce water yield by approximately 50%. In addition, elevated sediment loads and pollution can be detrimental to water quality and the availability of aquatic habitats.

The potential impacts associated with agriculture are similar to those associated with forestry. Impacts include disturbance caused by the clearing of land, deterioration of soil quality, water quality impacts from siltation and agricultural wastes, as well as contamination of surface and groundwater from fertiliser and pesticide run-off.

Currently environmental impacts associated with tourism in the study area are minor. Limited impacts are associated with low visitor numbers and unobtrusive developments as currently managed. As tourism expands it will need to go hand in hand with increased management effort if

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 81

impacts are to be kept at acceptable levels. Particular attention will be needed for sensitive ecological areas as well as heritage sites.

The consideration of land use changes ideally needs to take climate change implications into account given the importance of the ecosystem services that natural habitats provide in both mitigating and adapting to the impacts of climate change. In essence, natural vegetation is the optimum from a greenhouse gas emissions perspective followed by forestry (which has potentially negative biodiversity and water use implications), agriculture (which can result in relative low emissions if well managed) and mining (Which essentially extracts concentrated carbon in the form of coal from the earth for burning and release into the atmosphere while also releasing methane gas embedded in the coal seam which has a global warming potential that is roughly 20 times greater than that of carbon dioxide per volume). In addition, while management practices have a significant potential to reduce emissions for agriculture, their potential in the case of coal mining is low given current technologies.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 82

6.0 LEGISLATIVE & POLICY ANALYSIS

6.1 INTRODUCTION

A wide range of planning guidelines and policy documents guide development in the study area. It is important to illustrate the relationship between the various documents as well as the main aim of the various National and Provincial policies.

A wide range of policy documents, acts and guidelines are applicable and should be used in the alignment of the SDF of Pixley Ka Isaka Seme with the rest of the District, Province and the National Government.

The following is a list of policies that apply to the municipal area:  Gert Sibande Growth and Development Strategy  Gert Sibande Integrated Development Plan  Mpumalanga Provincial Growth and Development Strategy  Mpumalanga Provincial Integrated Spatial Framework  Mpumalanga Rural Development Programme  Mpumalanga Tourism Growth Strategy  Local Government: Municipal Structures Act  Local Government: Municipal Systems Act  Local Government: Municipal Demarcation Act  Development Facilitation Act  Urban Development Strategy for the Government of National Unity  Integrated Sustainable Rural Development Strategy  The Land Use Planning Bill  Environmental Conservation Act  National Environmental Management Bill  National Spatial Development Perspective  National Transportation Master Plan 2005 - 2050  Accelerated and Shared Growth Initiate for South Africa  Bio-Diversity Bill  Water Management Act  National Water Act

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 83

In addition to these policies, acts and guidelines, a number of local plans and ordinances are applicable. These include:

 The Town planning and Townships Ordinance 1986,( Ord. 15 of 1986)  The Volksrust Town Planning Scheme, 1974  Relevant Scheme Regulations Promulgated in terms of The Town Planning and Townships Ordinance  Black Communities Development Act and its Regulations  District and Local IDP and Spatial Development Frameworks

For the purpose of the SDF analysis and to provide policy background with respect to urban form and spatial management, the core principles of the Development Facilitation Act and the Gert Sibande District Municipality Integrated Development Plan have been taken cognisance off. These policy directives and development principles provide a clear baseline for the formulation of objectives with respect to desired urban form.

6.2 DEVELOPMENT FACILITATION ACT (DFA)

The DFA was passed to achieve three key objectives:

. To provide a coherent policy framework for land development, land registration and planning in South Africa according to the "general principles for land development" in Chapter 1 of the Act. . To speed up and facilitate the approval of land development applications. . To provide for a beginning to the overhaul of the existing planning and land development framework.

The general principles for land development are contained in Chapter 1 of the DFA. These are:

. Development in formal and informal, existing and new settlements. . Discourage the illegal occupation of land. . Efficient and Integrated Land Development by:

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 84

 promoting the integration of the social, economic, institutional and physical aspects of land development;  promoting integrated land development in rural and urban areas in support of each other;  promoting the availability of residential and employment opportunities in close proximity to or integrated with each other;  optimizing the use of existing resources including such resources relating to agriculture, land, minerals, bulk infrastructure, roads, transportation and social facilities;  promoting a diverse combination of land uses, also at the level of individual erven or sub-divisions of land;  discouraging the phenomenon of "urban sprawl" in urban areas and contribute to the development of more compact towns and cities;  contributing to the correction of the historically distorted spatial patterns of settlement in the Republic and to the optimum use of existing infrastructure in excess of current needs; and  Encourage environmentally sustainable land development practices and processes.

. Public Participation . Capacity Building . Facilitating developer interaction with government . Clear laws, procedures and administrative practice . Sustainable land development which:  promote land development that is within the fiscal, institutional and administrative means of the Republic;  promote the establishment of viable communities;  promote sustained protection of the environment;  meet the basic needs of all citizens in an affordable way; and  Ensure the safe utilization of land by taking into consideration factors such as geological formations and hazardous undermined areas.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 85

. Speedy land development . No one land use us more important than any others . Security of tenure . Co-ordination of land development . Promotion of open markets and competition.

These principles guide all subsequent planning policies including the entire planning hierarchy. All land use amendments in South Africa have to adhere to these basic principles.

6.3 GERT SIBANDE DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY SDF (2009)

In terms of the Municipal Systems Act the District Municipality should prepare Spatial Development Frameworks that would provide guidelines for the local authorities within their area of jurisdiction. The Gert Sibande SDF was approved by the District Municipality in April 2009.

The document outlines development principles, policies and a strategic approach that are applicable in the GSDM area with specific reference to the utilization of physical space. The following paragraphs provide highlights of the report that is applicable to the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme SDF.

6.3.1 GSDM development principles

The Gert Sibande District Municipality approved 10 development principles that should be reflected in the SDF’s of each of the local municipalities. The principles are briefly outlined below.

Development Principle 1 To actively protect, enhance and manage the natural environmental resources of the District in order to ensure a sustainable equilibrium between biodiversity, conservation, mining, manufacturing, industrial activities, agriculture, forestry and tourism related activities within the District.

Development Principle 2 To optimally capitalise on the strategic location of the District and its 5 key economic strips/corridors and to functionally link all towns and settlements to one another through

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 86

establishing and maintaining a strategic road and rail network comprising of internal and external linkages.

Development Principle 3 To utilize the existing natural environment, cultural-historic and man0made activity areas within the District as Tourism Anchors and Nodes; and to develop and promote the eastern parts of the District (around route ) as a Primary Tourism Corridor linking the Lowveld Tourism Precinct to the north (in Ehlanzeni), to the St. Lucia Tourism Precinct located to the south of the District.

Development Principle 4 To promote forestry within and along the identified Primary Tourism Corridor.

Development Principle 5 To promote intensive and extensive commercial farming activities throughout the District, and to facilitate and concentrate subsistence farming activities within certain rural communities.

Development Principle 6 To unlock the development potential of existing towns through developing industry specific Special Economic Zones / Economic Clusters throughout the District, in line with the MPISF and the provincial LED Strategy and in accordance with the Agricultural, Forestry and Industrial Cluster.

Development Principle 7 To facilitate and accommodate mining in the District in a sustainable manner in order to support local electricity generation and industrial development.

Development Principle 8 To establish a functional hierarchy of towns and settlements in the District, and to ensure equitable access to social infrastructure and the promotion of local economic development by way of Thusong Centres (Multi-Purpose Community Centres (MPCC’s)).

Development Principle 9 To ensure that all communities have access to at least the minimum levels of service as enshrined in the Constitution.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 87

Development Principle 10 To consolidate the urban structure of the District around the highest order centres by way of infill development and densification in Strategic Development Areas (SDA’s).

6.3.2 Development Nodes

The GSDM SDF identified a number of development nodes in the Gert Sibande District Municipal area, which represent areas of greatest potential. The hierarchy of nodes identified in the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme local municipality is as follows:

 2nd Order Node: Volksrust  3rd Order Node: Amersfoort, Perdekop/Siyazenzela, Daggakraal, Wakkerstroom

Volksrust and Amersfoort are also identified as part of the Agricultural Cluster within the district municipality and the part east of the N11 (including Daggakraal and Wakkerstroom) was identified as a service upgrading priority area.

6.3.3 Tourism and Recreation

According to the GSDM SDF the district municipality hosts three of the seven different tourism regions as identified by the Mpumalanga Tourism Authority. Pixley Ka Isaka Seme municipality falls within the Grass and Wetland category which makes up the central portion of the District. The Wakkerstroom area is considered as one of Africa’s key ornithological sites which make future development of tourism in the area an important factor for the SDF.

6.3.4 Transportation

The transportation network within the GSDM provides good inter- and intra-regional accessibility and the road network provides access to 6 of the 13 border crossings between South Africa and Swaziland. The main transport network in the district revolves around the , , N11, and the of which the N11 is the main transportation route through Pixley Ka Isaka Seme local municipality and also one of the direct links to 2 of South Africa’s harbours on the east coast. The N11 follows a north-south alignment passing through Amersfoort and Volksrust towards the .

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 88

6.3.5 Natural Environment

According to the GSDM the far north-eastern and south-eastern extents of the district in the direction of Baberton and Volksrust/Wakkerstroom are characterized by the occurrence of low to high mountains.

The south western and central extents of the district are in a stage of very high “water balance” which is positive considering the spatial location of the district’s major economic activity areas. Water balance is an indication of the water resources of a region. The “Balance” is determined by comparing precipitation and inflow, with outflow, evaporation and accumulation. Essentially, this “balance” implies a limitation on the sustainable use of water for economic development such as agriculture and industrial use. The district is also known for its numerous wetlands and pans of which Wakkerstroom is a significant area in the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality. Wetlands do not only contain high species diversity, but also play a significant ecological role which indicates the importance of theses area in a local municipality and the conservation potential. No development should be encouraged in these areas, but it should rather be encouraged to promote these areas for their high diversity and ecological potential.

The central-western extents of the district (from Secunda to Volksrust) are dominated by Turf Highveld and the central extents (from Ermelo to Wakkerstroom) are dominated by Sandy Highveld with an extensive area of Sour Veld occurring between Amersfoort and Wakkerstroom.

The geology potential of the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality consists of dolerite in the central extents and shale patches in the southern extents but the municipal area is mainly underlain by soils with a marked clay accumulation. In general the soils and geological formations are fairly stable and do not pose a significant constraint to the region in terms of infrastructure development. The agriculture potential of land in the district is in general either moderately suitable or not suitable at all for agricultural purposes. Areas of high potential agricultural land are located between Volksrust and Daggakraal.

The district wide economic concerns mentioned in the GSDM that relates to the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality is the increased pressure the Wakkerstroom wetland area receives from agricultural development. Furthermore the areas was also identified as part of the Highveld Priority area in respect of air quality control and

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 89

6.4 LAND USE MANAGEMENT POLICIES AND GUIDELINES

The Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality should be aware of the following international conventions and agreements, regional initiatives, national and provincial policies and legislation in terms of the environment (Mpumalanga State of the Environment Report, 2003):

BIODIVERSITY International conventions, treaties and . Convention on Biological Diversity agreements . Convention on International Trade in Endangered species of Wild Fauna and Flora Regional initiatives . SADC Policy and Strategy for Environment and Sustainable Development . Protocol on Wildlife Conservation and Law Enforcement National responses . National Water Act, 1998 (Act 36 of 1998) . White Paper on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of South Africa’s Biological Diversity . World Heritage Convention Act no. 10 of 1998 Provincial responses . Working for Water Programme . The River Health Programme . Mpumalanga Nature Conservation Act no. 10 of 1998

LAND International conventions, treaties and . Convention to Combat Desertification agreements Regional initiatives . SADC Regional Indicative Strategic Development Programme National responses . National Forests Act no. 84 of 1998 . Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act no. 43 of 1983 Provincial responses . Land Care Programme

WATER International conventions, treaties and . Convention on Wetlands of International Importance

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 90

agreements Especially as Waterfowl Habitat Regional initiatives . SADC Protocol on Shared Watercourse Systems National responses . National Water Act, 1998 (Act 36 of 1998) . Catchment Management Provincial responses . Catchment Management Agencies . Water User Associations . River Health Programme

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AND GOVERNANCE International conventions, treaties and . Rio Declaration on the Environment and Development agreements . Agenda 21 Regional initiatives . New Partnership for Africa Development National responses . National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act 107 of 1998) . The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa Provincial responses . Mpumalanga Environmental Implementation Plan . Environmental Education . Environmental management systems

WASTE MANAGEMENT International conventions, treaties and . Basel Convention on the Control of Trans boundary agreements Movement of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal . The Rotterdam Convention Regional initiatives . SADC Environment and Land Management Sector National responses . White Paper on Integrated Pollution and Waste Management . National Waste Management Strategy . Cleanest Town Competition Provincial responses . Community recycling projects . Eskom Waste Management Forum

AIR QUALITY International conventions, treaties and . United Nations Framework Convention on Climate agreements Change

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 91

. The Montreal Protocol on Substances that deplete the ozone layer Regional initiatives . Air Pollution Information Network for Africa National responses . National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act 107 of 1998) . Atmospheric Pollution Prevention Act, 1965 (Act 45 of 1965) Provincial responses . Air quality monitoring initiatives . National Electrification Programme

POVERTY AND VULNERABILITY International conventions, treaties and . Convention of the Rights of the Child agreements . Millennium Development Goals Regional initiatives . New Partnership for Africa’s Development . Roll-back Malaria Initiative National responses . The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa . HIV/AIDs Strategic Plan for South Africa (2000-2005) and South African National AIDS Council . National Disaster Management Act no. 57 of 2002 and Disaster Relief Fund Provincial responses . Community Water Supply and Sanitation Programme . Working for Water Programme

The following policies with respect to the environment should be adhered to:

. Implementation of the Integrated Environmental Management Procedures as well as the Regulations promulgated in terms of the Environmental Conservation Act for development projects. . Rehabilitation of areas that have been degraded through inappropriate land use practices. . The preservation of representative habitats and ecologically significant ecosystems within a network of conservation areas, especially within the coastal zone. . To make conservation accessible and meaningful to the entire population.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 92

. Adherence and enforcement of the National Heritage Resources Act (Act 25 of 1999) with regard to all provisions made in the act - i.e. archaeological sites, paleontological sites, structures over 60 years and national monuments. . Protection of natural and planted forests is crucial for the economy and should be ensured through the adherence to the National Forests Act. . The following environmentally sensitive areas should be protected from development:

 Commercial forests;  Game and nature reserves  Steep slopes greater than 1:6;  Historic heritage sites; and  Water catchment areas.

. Integrated Development plans need to clearly define and enforce areas where development will not be permitted.

The following basic agricultural policies should be adhered to:

. Ensuring the sustainable utilisation of all agricultural resources and investments. . Encouraging the eradication of alien vegetation. . Discouraging grazing and/or ploughing sensitive natural ecosystems, such as and wetlands. . Implementation and enforcement of the Integrated Environmental Management Procedures and Regulations promulgated in terms of the Environmental Conservation Act. . Implement and enforce the Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 93

CHAPTER 3: VISION & PLANNING PRINCIPLES

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Chapters 1 and 2 of the report outline the legislative content and planning process as well as the analysis, constraints and opportunity of the study area. In order to address these constraints, development objectives should be formulated based on the development vision for the study area. These development objectives give effect to the desired spatial form of the study area and provide overall guidance to the Municipality, land owners and developers.

The general policy direction for development for the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipal area has been formulated in broad terms as part of the Integrated Development Plan Process. This IDP process includes prioritisation, vision formulation and strategies and objectives to achieve the vision. The municipality is regarded as development orientated, facilitating and dynamic. Therefore, for the purpose of the Spatial Development Framework for Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Municipality, the municipal vision is used as a basis for formulating spatial development objectives. Using the existing vision, which is based on an extensive prioritisation process, will provide synergy and coherence to the planning process and its results.

Chapter 3 of the SDF outlines the municipal and SDF vision for the study area, principles for a desired spatial form on a macro level and objectives to give effect to the desired spatial form.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 94

2.0 VISION AND MISSION

The vision, mission and core values for the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Municipality adopted as part of its IDP revision process (2010-2011) are as follows:

VISION

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality is a credible, affordable and well developed municipality

MISSION

We will deliver affordable and quality services, in accordance with our Integrated Development Plan. This will be achieved through community participation, trained and motivated staff, rapid economic development and a tourism friendly environment.

CORE VALUES

Honesty, Openness, Responsiveness, Nurturing

Apart from the above the municipality also subscribe to the principles of Batho Pele which are consultation, service standards, access, courtesy, information, openness and transparency, redress and value for money.

3.0 DESIRED SPATIAL FORM

The Spatial Development Framework Process should adopt a strategic approach towards land use management and in particular the future desired spatial form. This strategic approach relates directly to the management of spatial development, which forms an integral part of the Municipality’s Integrated Development Planning process.

The spatial form, strategic approach and objectives that give effect to the desired spatial form are guided by a number of policy directions and national legislative initiatives. The most important with respect to the desired spatial form are the Gert Sibande District Municipality Spatial

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 95

Development Plan and the General principles as contained in Chapter 1 of the Development Facilitation Act.

The general policy direction for the study area should include the principles of:

. Sustainable land use . Improved environmental management . Integrated development . Efficient land development

Towards this end, the desired spatial form for the study area is based on the following principles:

. The need to conceptualise the hierarchy, importance and sustainability of settlements in the region. . The need to focus on what is achievable in development terms and how this relates to spatial development proposals. . The need to direct investment towards areas of highest impact and return and to distinguish between different levels of investment. . To accept the need for cost effective investment on all levels. . To accommodate urban development and population growth in the most cost effective and sustainable way possible. . To adequately prioritise investment of scarce resources. . Stimulate and focus on developing nodes and corridors where economic opportunities and resources exist. . Link, integrate and co-ordinate investment to maximise benefit and achieve a co-ordinate effort. . Link spatial expenditure (basic infrastructure) with spin-offs from economic development wherever possible.

4.0 OBJECTIVES

Based on the findings of the legislative and policy analysis and directives with respect to desired spatial form and realising the municipal vision, the following broad development objectives for

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 96

spatial development and land use management in the municipal area are outlined. These objectives should be read in conjunction with the land use policies and guidelines (Chapter 4) and spatial development strategies (Chapter 5).

4.1 EFFICIENT AND INTEGRATED LAND DEVELOPMENT

Policy, administrative practise and town planning regulations should promote efficient and integrated land development by:

. promoting the integration of the social, economic, institutional and physical aspects of land development; . promoting integrated land development in rural and urban areas in support of each other; . promoting the availability of residential and employment opportunities in close proximity to or integrated with each other; . optimising the use of existing resources including such resources relating to agriculture, land, minerals, bulk infrastructure, roads, transportation and social facilities; . promoting a diverse combination of land uses, also at the level of individual erven or sub- divisions of land; . discouraging the phenomenon of “urban sprawl” in urban areas and contribute to the development of more compact towns and cities; . contributing to the correction of the historically distorted spatial patterns of settlement in the Republic and to the optimum use of existing infrastructure in excess of current needs, and . Encouraging environmentally sustainable land development practices and processes.

4.2 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

The municipality should ensure that development or land use plans meet the needs of the current population. Planning should ensure that development does not cause irretrievable loss to significant natural, historical, cultural and archaeological resources or other important environmental assets.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 97

The municipality should further ensure that it’s planning does not prejudice the ability of future generations to meet their needs or enjoy a quality of life at least equivalent to that available to people today.

Where the demand for development will breach the principles of sustainable development it should not be approved. Where there is uncertainty about the impacts of a development the precautionary principle should be applied.

The precautionary principle means that if there is uncertainty about potential environmental constraints, a more cautious position is adopted.

This may result in more onerous conditions being placed on the development. Where knowledge gaps exist, these are noted and where appropriate, recommendations made for further studies. The precautionary approach means avoiding risk through a cautious approach to development and environmental management.

In implementing this guideline the municipality should ensure that policy, administrative practice and town planning regulations promote sustainable development at the required scale in that they should:

. promote land development which is within the fiscal, institutional and administrative means of the Municipality, . promote the establishment of viable communities; . promote sustained protection of the environment; . meet the basic needs of all citizens in an affordable way, and . Ensure the safe utilization of land by taking into consideration factors such as geological formations, mining land and areas susceptible to flooding.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 98

4.3 PROTECTION AND ENHANCEMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT

4.3.1 Sustainable Development Strategy

In order to ensure sustainable development within the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipal Area, an Environmental Management Framework should be developed.

The main objective of this project would be to gather sufficient site-specific data on the ecosystems associated with the said area. Aspects such as soil, vegetation, fauna (reptiles, amphibians, birds, and small mammals), water quality or invertebrates could be assessed jointly along with existing or new developments.

Information on the relevant aspects can then be presented in a suitable format that allows an overlay between aspects to facilitate integrated decision-making.

The Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality should then be able to identify the potential direct impacts of their activities on biodiversity, assess the risks, and take action to minimize negative and maximize positive effects, through the implementation of a Biodiversity Management Plan.

The project could be divided into the following deliverables:

. Deliverable 1: Determine current biodiversity/Present Ecological Status (Ecosystem approach). . Deliverable 2: Compile a biodiversity management plan. . Deliverable 3: Ecosystem/Biodiversity monitoring (feedback and compliance to management plan as developed in Deliverable 2).

DELIVERABLE 1: Current Biodiversity Status (CBS)/Present Ecological Status (PES)

The following aspects should be assessed:  Bioregions  National/International importance of area/biota (biota=total fauna and flora of region)  Presence and abundance of biota.  Conservation Status, endemism of biota.  Status of alien and invasive species.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 99

An ecosystem approach should be followed, thus assessing the organisms and their environment (interactions towards each other, their habitats and humans). This should be done for all important components of the ecosystem e.g.:

. Soil . Vegetation (grass, herbs, shrubs, trees, alien plants, wetland and riverine vegetation) . Invertebrates (terrestrial and aquatic) . Vertebrates (Ichtyofauna/fish, Amphibians, Reptiles, Birds, Mammals)

DELIVERABLE 2: Biodiversity management plan/Bioregional plan

A management plan concerning the biodiversity within the said area along with any development proposals and human impacts should be compiled.

The following aspects should be included in this plan:

. Best land practise (low erosion, limit habitat destruction). . Bio-prospecting possibilities. . Sustainable use of resources (grass-thatching, wood-fuel/building material). . Habitat requirements of biota. . Water quality requirements of biota. . Air pollution, noise pollution and other human effects on biota. . Aliens/invasive spp. eradication/prevention practices (use by local communities). . Legal aspects.

In addition, an information handling and presentation system, with which the various components of the ecosystem could be assessed along with the development plan(s), should also be developed as part of this management plan.

DELIVERABLE 3: Ecosystem/Biodiversity monitoring

Ecosystem/biodiversity monitoring is of great importance to feedback into the Biodiversity management plan/Bioregional plan:

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 100

A long-term biodiversity-monitoring programme should be developed utilising the baseline data as a reference condition to monitor future changes in biodiversity/ecological integrity.

Biotic indices (such as the Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI)) for the different biological components should be developed and used to enable quantification of changes. This would provide feedback on the compliance with management objectives as set in the management plan.

In this way, the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality could monitor sustainability (due to development and utilization) of resources, biodiversity/ecological status, species with high conservation status and areas of national/international importance.

The Biodiversity management plan/Bioregional plan would provide valuable information required by the authorities in support of water license applications, Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA’s), etc.

Development should not be permitted if it will:

. Damage or degrade valuable natural resources and / or sensitive eco-systems such as wetlands, rivers and streams, special plant communities and habitats of threatened species of fauna and flora; . Cause unacceptable visual damage; . Cause unacceptable pollution of air, water or land, or nuisance by way of smell, noise or light; . Cause or increase danger, from flooding, erosion or road traffic; . Destroy, sterilize or prejudice the use or enjoyment of an important resource, such as the best agricultural land, water, landscape, townscape, wildlife, cultural or historic sites and objects, recreational assets or potential, or tranquility-, or . Be inefficient in the use of water or other natural resources, or impose an unacceptable load on existing or potential water supplies and other natural resources.

The Municipality should carry out measures to enhance the urban and rural environment, and must encourage developers to implement policies, which enhance the local environments adjacent

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 101

to their development. Environmental Management Regulations should form part of all application for all major development as stipulated by legislation.

4.4 DISCOURAGE ILLEGAL LAND USE

The Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality should discourage the illegal use of land. Illegal land use results in a fragmented land use pattern, creates conflict and infringe on land use rights.

As people are protected from being illegally evicted, the Municipality should focus on ways to prevent illegal land use practices. Sound planning guidelines and speedy land developments are key mechanisms to prevent illegal land use practices.

4.5 EFFICIENT PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AND CAPACITY BUILDING

The objective requires that the Municipality should introduce mechanisms to ensure that the public, and in particular communities affected by land development, have opportunities to influence planning decisions.

The objective furthermore suggests that there are opportunities for the development of skills among community members of disadvantaged groups. These opportunities should be exploited.

4.6 FACILITATING DEVELOPER INTERACTION WITH THE MUNICIPALITY

This objective is to ensure that the full resources of the region are utilized in facilitating land development. The underlying idea is a public-private sector partnership because neither sector on its own has the skills or capacity to do the job on their own.

4.7 CLEAR GUIDANCE, PROCEDURES AND ADMINISTRATIVE PRACTICE

Guidelines, procedures and administrative practice relating to land development should:

. be clear and generally available to those likely to be affected thereby, . in addition to serving as regulatory measures, also provide guidance and . information to those affected thereby,

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 102

. be calculated to promote trust and acceptance on the part of those likely to be affected thereby, and . Give further content to the fundamental rights set out in the Constitution.

The purpose of this objective is to encourage a positive and constructive relationship between the public authority and those outside of government who are involved in land development. Rather than public authorities just acting as regulators, the objective requires them to prepare legislation and procedures and adopt administrative approaches in a way that helps others who are involved in land development.

This requires user-friendly information that facilitates development, not sets of rules that indicate all the things that cannot be done. Also, the reasons for decisions should be made available to the public in a way that is easy to understand.

4.8 SPEEDY LAND DEVELOPMENT

All policies, administrative practices and regulations for land development written by the Municipality should focus on ways of making planning and development processes quick. The slow processes of the past discouraged the private and non-government sectors from participating in land development. Slow processes make the costs of development projects much higher.

4.9 NO ONE LAND USE IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN ANY OTHERS

Each proposed land development area should be judged on its own merits and no particular use of land, such as residential, commercial, conservational, industrial, community facility, mining, agricultural or public use, should in advance or in general be regarded as being less important or desirable than any other use of land.

This guideline states that no one land use is more important than any other, so no land use should be favored above any others. Decisions about land uses must be based on sound planning where a number of different factors, such as population projections, economic growth strategies, the environment and other factors are taken into account. The reason for this guideline is that in the past it was assumed that mining, conservation or agricultural land uses were the most important for the country. This resulted in enormous constraints to developing land for other uses. This guideline recognizes that not all necessary activities are protected by the mechanism of the land market. It

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 103

therefore requires the Municipality to consider a full range of possible activities and the suitability of the land when they draw up plans.

4.10 SECURITY OF TENURE

This objective requires that the tenure that is provided through the land development process must meet certain criteria. Firstly, it should be secure. This means it must be possible to register the title to the land. Secondly, there should be a range of choices about the type of tenure to include options for communal or group tenure. Sometimes the upgrading of informal settlements might mean that people who have settled informally may have to move. The third criterion says that in informal settlement upgrading schemes where people are deprived of the land on which they have settled, they should be offered an alternative such as other accommodation or financial compensation.

4.11 CO-ORDINATION OF LAND DEVELOPMENT

The objective is to clarify that it is the Municipality's responsibility to co-ordinate the interests of different sectors, interest groups and stakeholders in land development. The Municipality must also ensure that the outcomes of land development processes benefit the public at large, rather than one particular sector or interest group. In doing so they must also make sure that any public resources that are committed benefit the public at large. For example, the decision to build a new road may not just benefit a few people. More than anything else, it calls for the Municipality to engage in strategic planning.

The Municipality must take a lead in resolving or conflicts that arise between the different sectors and interest groups around land development projects.

4.12 PROMOTION OF OPEN MARKETS AND COMPETITION

This objective recognizes that to encourage and facilitate the Municipality's involvement in land development, it should not interfere in the normal operations of the market. For example, it would not be appropriate to make laws about prices for developed land. So any regulations, policy positions and frameworks prepared by the Municipality should recognize market principles.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 104

However, unless there is true competition, the market will be dominated by a small number of businesses which will be able to set high prices. The policies and development frameworks which are formulated by municipal officials must try to prevent price-fixing and other forms of monopolistic control of the market and always encourage competition,

Council should also not interfere with the free market by subsidizing the development of land thereby competing unfairly with private developers. Therefore, serviced stands should e.g. be sold at market related prices so as to ensure that Council will be in a position to replace the stands sold. Furthermore, Council should rather focus on Public Private Partnerships, thereby optimizing the inputs from the private sector developing the spatial environment jointly.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 105

CHAPTER 4: LAND USE MANAGEMENT (POLICIES & GUIDELINES)

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Land Use Management policies and guidelines form an integral part of the Spatial Development Framework. These policies and guidelines outline the procedures, norms and standards as well as evaluation criteria for the Municipality on assessing land use development applications and proposals. A Land Use Management System is critical in dealing with land use changes and day- to-day land use activities. The Land Use Management policies and guidelines as outlined in the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme SDF deals with the following land use sectors:

 Development Patterns  Settlement hierarchy  Nodal development and densification  Urban edge  Conservation  General environmental conservation  Landscapes  Tourism and Recreation  Tourism, Resort development and recreation  Agriculture and Rural Land use  Sub-division of agricultural land  Prime and unique agricultural soils  Small scale farming  Rural non-agricultural land use  Urban land Use  Housing/residential  Community facilities  Business  Industrial

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 106

2.0 DEVELOPMENT PATTERN LAND USE POLICY

2.1 BACKGROUND

Development pattern refers to distribution of urban nodes and settlements throughout the study area and their local characteristics. The characteristics of the existing development pattern within the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Municipal area has been dealt with as part of Chapter 2 and Chapter 3 of this SDF report.

. Development consists of two main categories, namely urban nodes (primary and secondary nodes) and rural settlements. . Urban nodes are located throughout the area and co-insides largely with the settlement pattern as described by the German Geographer Christaller in his Central place theory. . Rural settlements are located along the major transport routes and also co-inside with the abovementioned Central place theory.

Development patterns within the study area should be guided by a number of considerations and planning policies. These include and refer to:

. The settlement hierarchy . Nodal development and densification . Establishment of an urban edge

2.2 OBJECTIVES: DEVELOPMENT PATTERN

. To establish a co-ordinated pattern of urban and rural nodes/settlements on a regional and local level to ensure the equitable and deficient distribution of resources between nodes. . To allocate functions and investment towards the urban nodes that is consistent with the identified hierarchy of a node. . To reinforce transportation linkages between existing nodes. . To plan for an efficient and integrated urban rural structure. . To identify and establish urban edges where applicable.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 107

2.3 SETTLEMENT HIERARCHY

The Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Municipal SDF is subject to and should be aligned to the principles and guidelines contained in the Gert Sibande District Municipality SDF mentioned in paragraph 6.3.1.

The concept of a settlement hierarchy, in principle, reflects levels of investment based on the hierarchy level of specific nodes and settlements. The GSDM classifies Volksrust as a 2nd order settlement and the rest of the settlements as 3rd order settlements. These settlements are defined as follows:

 2nd order settlement In terms of the Gert Sibande district, Volksrust/Vukuzakhe is rated as a second order settlement. However, in the local municipality context Volksrust/Vukuzakhe is classified as a 1st order settlement since it has the highest level of service delivery in the local municipality context (see Figure 32).

 3rd order settlements In terms of the Gert Sibande district, Amersfoort/Ezamokuhle, Wakkerstroom/Esizameleni, Perdekop/Siyazenzela, Daggakraal/Sinqobile is third order settlements providing only a localised service to the surrounding community. However in terms of the local municipality context Amersfoort/Ezamokuhle and Wakkerstroom/Esizameleni are classified as 2nd order settlements providing a supportive role to the rest of the municipality and Daggakraal/Sinqobile is classified as a 3rd order settlement (see Figure 32).

 Rural Nodes No rural nodes were identifies for Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality within the Gert Sibande District SDF. However the CRDP pilot project at Emahashini can be classified as a rural node. Furthermore a second rural node was identified in the south western corner of the municipal area (see Figure 32).

2.3.1 Policy

. To accept and acknowledge the principle of settlement hierarchy as contained in the Gert Sibande District Municipal SDF.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 108

. To integrate the settlement hierarchy model and recommendations with respect to localised nodal development, densification and urban edge strategies and policies.

2.3.2 Guidelines

. The principle to fulfil in the basic human rights and the provision of basic services should be adhered at all settlement hierarchy levels. . Market forces and general human movement and settlement patterns should provide a strong foundation and guideline for the provision of basic services and capital investment. . Given the unique nature of the study area, investment (private or public) should be based on needs and economic potential of the area. . The investment levels and hierarchy of settlements as per the Gert Sibande District Municipal Spatial Development Framework should not be seen as a strict and rigid guide with respect to investment. Human needs, economic trends and influences should be incorporated into the investment prioritisation process.

2.4 NODAL DEVELOPMENT AND DENSIFICATION

Nodal development refers to development of more compact urban areas and is an attempt to direct development pressures towards opportunities for urban intensification within existing built up areas. This intensification occurs over time through infilling, dwelling conversions, re- development of degraded areas, land use changes, density increases and development of open land. Existing built up areas should therefore be used in the most efficient way to accommodate society’s needs for further development, before consideration is given to the release of Greenfield or new urban areas to prevent urban sprawl and leap frog development which increases the stress on services provision. This emphasis is consistent with the other aspects of sustainable development, including the efficient use of resources and reducing the need to travel.

Uncoordinated development within the area may have detrimental impacts on the sensitive environment, as well as on concentration of people and land uses within nodes and settlements for their sustainable functioning. The positive effects of a well-managed development pattern are varied and include, amongst others:

. To ensure well balanced development pattern and to promote economies of scale

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 109

. To guide decision making for the equitable distribution of development to sustainability of needs and settlements . To increase employment by maximising development opportunities . To protect sensitive environmental areas, prime and unique agricultural land and thereby broadening the municipalities economic base . To reduce overlapping and co-dependency of community facilities, and services, including service duplication.

2.4.1 Policy

. The existing pattern of development should be maintained and the establishment of new nodes or settlements other than the proposed nodes in the SDF should not be permitted. . Proposed development within existing urban areas should be carefully monitored and should enhance the character and urban form of the existing nodes. . Retain the rural hinterland as homogeneous agricultural areas and untransformed natural area through the concentration of development within existing nodes and settlements. . To improve the level of sustainability of nodes and settlements, development should be guided to locate within nodes and settlements where comparative advantage for specific land use already exist and which compliments the function of the node or settlement. . Where the need has been identified for development in the rural areas for the purposes of accommodating agri-villages, small scale farming, agri-industries, resorts, tourist facilities, tourist accommodation or any other non-agricultural uses, these should be placed and established as per the relevant policies outlined in the Spatial Development Framework. . In exceptional cases when new rural development nodes are established, detailed feasibility, economic viability and impact studies should be conducted on all required levels. . The housing priorities as outlined in the Housing Chapter (2010/2014) should be implemented

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 110

2.4.2 Guidelines

. Existing built areas should be used to accommodate new developments by the:  Integration of previously segregated areas  Utilisation of currently serviced areas  Recycling of vacant, degraded and underutilised ground to accommodate new development  Re-use of land that is no longer appropriate for its existing use for alternative land uses.  Use and promotion of higher densities where compatible with the character of the surrounding area.  Implementation of the urban edge. . As a general principle, a balanced approach towards growth and development within a node should be followed, to ensure that one or more nodes are not developed at the expense of other nodes. . To implement this balanced approach, a strategic growth and local economic development plan should be compiled for these nodes, focusing on selected projects that will strengthen the comparative advantages of nodes. . Prior to establishment of new rural nodes, rural development areas should be thoroughly investigated and reported with respect to development feasibility.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 111

2.5 URBAN EDGE

The demarcation of an urban edged for the urban areas in the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Municipality is important for the achievement of the Spatial Development Framework principles regarding the containment of urban sprawl, the intensification of development and the integration of urban areas. The urban edge is a line that forms the boundary between urban development and rural/agricultural areas (see Figures 33-39). The urban edge is essential for the protection of valuable agricultural land, natural and cultural resources and will establish limits beyond which urban development will not be permitted. The urban edge has the following objectives:

. Limit the sprawl of towns and rural nodes. . Safeguard natural areas from encroachment. . Encourage densification and infill development.

2.5.1 Policy

. To contain and manage urban sprawl and to improve urban efficiency, urban development should be contained within the urban area/edge. . Densification and intensification of urban areas should be promoted.

2.5.2 Guidelines

. The following general guidelines should be used for the alignment of the urban edge

 The existing planning policy.  Existing zoning and land uses.  Natural environmental informants, i.e. natural water courses, 1:100 year flood lines, wetlands, slopes steeper than 1:4, ridge lines, unstable geology, sensitive vegetation, protected natural environments, mineral deposits/ mining land etc.  Agricultural potential of land.  Build environment, i.e. cultural heritage structures, scenic routes and vehicular accessibility.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 112

 Legal, planning and land ownership status.

. Development outside the urban edge as outlined in the agriculture and rural land use policy should be permitted within the policy guidelines. . Certain developments can take place, which are to adjoin and/or reinforce the urban edge. These development should be carefully considered based on the following:

 Development necessary to maintain essential rural economic activity  The development of outdoor recreational facilities  Passive recreation facilities, golf courses and cemeteries  Golfing estates, nature reserves and the majority of development is dedicated to open space  Nature reserve/eco-friendly resorts

. These developments adjoining or reinforcing the urban edge should maintain a general openness of the area and be of appropriate scale and design. These developments should further provide a transitional zone between high-density urban areas and agriculture land.

3.0 CONSERVATION LAND USE POLICY

3.1 BACKGROUND

Environmental conservation is prioritised on a National, Provincial and Local level. Sustainability of the natural environment can only be achieved when adequate environmental protection and conservation measures, policies and strategies are in place. The role of environmental management, linked to tourism, job creation and economic growth and development cannot be over emphasised.

Environmental conservation, for the purposes of the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Municipality Spatial Development Framework, entail issues relating to general conservation principles, management and protection of various landscapes including the river valleys, wetlands, hinterland and urban areas.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 113

3.2 OBJECTIVES: CONSERVATION

. To conserve the environment and prevent and restore degradation where possible by enforcing legislation and provision of financial and capacity support by Council within institutional limits. . To ensure that all actions and projects take cognisance of the environment and limit the impact on the environment. . To strictly enforce the National Environmental Conservation Regulations as well as the National Heritage Resource Act regulations pertaining to the built environment.

3.3 GENERAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION

General and over-arching policies and guidelines with respect to environmental conservation are essential in meeting the environmental conservation objectives as confirmed in the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Municipality Integrated Development Plan and which forms part of the Gert Sibande District Municipality SDF.

3.3.1 Policy

. Apply the “precautionary” principles in cases where uncertainty surrounds the full impact of proposed development. This implies that if the impact of a proposed development is not fully known and cannot be established, the development should be put on hold until further clarity and decisions have been obtained from the relevant Department of Environmental Affairs. . Strictly enforce the environmental conservation regulations with respect to listed activities, EIA procedures and the National Heritage Heritage Resource Act. . Habitats and/or natural features deemed to be of importance or significant should be protected from inappropriate development, conserved and enhanced. . As a general rule, development should make a positive contribution towards environmental conservation and management. Development in sensitive areas should therefore only be granted on the basis that environmental management and conservation are promoted and enhanced for the long term sustainability of the area. This applies to urban and rural developments.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 114

3.3.2 Guidelines

. All applications for development, urban and rural, should be assessed on the following principles:  Currently not vulnerable area.  Vulnerable area.  Endangered area.  Critically endangered area.  Municipal services/nature reserves/natural parks.  Impacted area.  Heritage zones or listed buildings . Development that may have an adverse effect, directly or indirectly, on a site of conservation importance should not be permitted unless the need for the development clearly out ways the local regional and national nature conservation importance of the site. Given that the importance of the development can be demonstrated that such development should be subjected to the environmental impact assessment procedures. An environmental management plan should be compiled to ensure the minimisation of adverse environmental impacts. . Developers and/or land owners should demonstrate that they have the ability and means to implement and adhere to the necessary environmental management procedures. . Habitats and natural features of local and regional value including important urban open spaces, and pockets of indigenous vegetation should be protected from significant adverse effects unless it can be demonstrated that the reason for the proposed development out ways the need to conserve the conservation value of the site. . In meeting the Municipalities obligations towards the National Environmental Management Act as well as Integrated Development Plan Guidelines, environmental conservation plans should be compiled. These plans and their recommendations should form part of this Spatial Development Framework and expand on the objectives, policies and guidelines of the environmental conservation land use policy. . The Municipality should identify and designate areas worthy of protection. These areas should be conserved and dealt with appropriately (see Figure 32 for Sensitive Natural Areas).

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 115

. Degraded land should not be considered as an obvious site for development. Many of the degraded areas in the region, e.g. rehabilitated mining land can be restored to a natural state and will enhance the overall landscape. Development should not be permitted in the sensitive landscape area unless it is compatible with the conserving and the enhancing of the areas landscape character. . Proposed developments located outside and in close proximity to conservation concerns and areas should be carefully considered not to detract from the conservation worthiness and visual impacts with respect to existing conservation areas. . Conservation also extends to the built environment and the implementation of the Heritage zones in Wakkerstroom (see Figure 37a and 37b) and the regulations of the National Heritage Resource Act should be implemented and monitored by the local municipality.

3.4 LANDSCAPES

The study area comprises of a variety of landscape types, which each have a unique character and conservation worthiness. These include:

. River valleys . Hinterland  Agricultural land  Cultivation  Grazing  Mining land  Nature reserve/ Game farms/ Eco-tourism . The urban areas and Tourism node of Wakkerstroom

Two important studies were done that focused on the town of Wakkerstroom with clear guidelines and policies that should be adopted and implemented by the municipality to preserve this historical tourism node in the local municipal area. The policies and guidelines are included in the documents “Wakkerstroom a Conservation Study, 1975” and “A Spatially Based Tourism Plan for Wakkerstroom and surrounding areas, 2009”.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 116

3.4.1 Policy

. River Valleys

 New developments, as a general rule, should not be permitted below the 1 in 100 year flood line and in wetland reserves in exceptional cases where development do take place, permanent structure should not be erected.  New developments along the river should be limited to existing development and/or recreation nodes.  All new developments along the river should be subject to a detailed environmental impact assessment with specific input from the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry.  Estimated wetland zones that have been identified should be used as a guideline for further detail investigation where necessary or where new development is planned.

. Hinterland

 General conservation principles and conservation legislation should apply to all developments.  Conservation of prime and unique agricultural soils policy should be implemented in all places.  Tourism and resort developments within the rural area and hinterland should always have a positive spin off towards environmental conservation.  Conflict between high potential cultivation and open cast coal mining should be monitored and evaluated in terms of the long term sustainability and spin off generated.

. Urban areas

 Protect existing open space and conservation worth areas within all urban settlements.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 117

 New urban development should as a minimum requirement adhere to the principles of the “Red book” (Guidelines for Human Settlement Planning and Design) with respect to the provision of open space.  Environmental and visual impact of all urban development should be carefully considered and evaluated against impact on the surrounding area and character.  Urban areas within conservation zones should be protected and the character of the heritage area should be respected and new development in the area should be sensitive to the character of the heritage conservation zones. The Tourism Node, Wakkerstroom include many listed buildings and conservation areas that should be maintained and protected by the municipality as part of the heritage of the town and the local municipality.  The establishment of an aesthetics committee by the municipality is paramount for the protection of the existing and future built environment in Wakkerstroom and other areas of historical importance.

3.4.2 Guidelines

. Development should not normally be permitted on areas at risk from flooding or within wetland reserves. . The Municipality and other agencies, i.e. Government Departments and District Municipality, which have a responsibility in the study area, should co-ordinate planning, management activities and development initiatives to ensure that the environment is managed in an integrated manner so as to enhance its natural value and to benefit environmental conservation. . High priorities should be given to maintaining and enhance landscapes including river valleys, mountains, wetland reserves and the built environment included in the heritage zones. . Development outside the urban areas and outside the urban edges should in general be restricted to degraded/transformed areas and impacted areas. . The pollution of the entire study area, with specific reference to river systems, wetland reserves and natural areas should be carefully monitored and controlled by the Municipality. This includes pollution emanating from informal settlement, industrial and mining activities.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 118

. The Municipality should ensure that effective measures are in place to retain and manage indigenous vegetation. . Consideration should be given to introduce incentives and controls regarding the planting of indigenous vegetation especially along the river valleys and the eradication of invader plants. . Wakkerstroom, Tourism Node . The enhancement and protection of heritage and listed buildings in the demarcated Heritage Zones and Historical Node of the town should be promoted to enhance certain streetscapes and to prevent further degradation of the built environment that requires protection due to the heritage of the oldest town in Mpumalanga. . The linking of Town Square, the wetland and the mountains around Wakkerstroom with appropriate landscaping methods. . The placing of buildings on stands and the architectural design should be sensitive to the existing street character to enhance the cohesive streetscape. . Single storey buildings should be promoted unless the scale of the built context suggests the massing of double storey development. . Listed building as identified in previous studies should be included in local legislation as protected buildings. . Alterations and additions to any building in the town should be in keeping with the character of the existing building’s form, scale, materials, colours and textures as approved by the aesthetics committee that needs to be established. . Any new industry should be non-polluting, labour intensive and use the existing labour force to promote job creation in the town. Typical industries that should be promoted in the area are reedcraft, wool, leather or skin industries if proven to be economically viable and sustainable. . General improvement of the maintenance of buildings, landscaping and character lighting of the townscape should be promoted to make the town more attractive to tourists.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 119

4.0 TOURISM AND RECREATION LAND USE POLICY

4.1 BACKGROUND

The Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Municipality area has tremendous tourism and recreational potential with emphasis on the largely under developed Wakkerstroom wetland area which is ideal for conservation related and eco-tourism land uses. In line with the National and International trend, tourism and recreation is becoming an increasingly important component of the regional economy, including job creation, economic sustainability and development in general. Growth and development of the tourism industry should be dealt with as a separate sectoral planning initiative. However, the Spatial Development Framework for Gert Sibande District Municipality addresses tourism and recreation with respect to its spatial implications. The influence of the rich ornithology potential in the Wakkerstroom area is mentioned, as well as the existing nature reserves in the municipality and adjacent municipalities. The recently adopted Spatially Based Tourism Plan for Wakkerstroom and surrounding areas should be implemented by the municipality. Policy with respect to tourism and recreational development are interlinked with the other land use policies outlined in this chapter and it should be read in conjunction with all development related policies and guidelines.

4.2 OBJECTIVES: TOURISM AND RECREATION

. To promote appropriate and sustainable recreation and tourism opportunities and facilities. . To support private initiatives and developments within the context of environmental conservation and the general spatial development guidelines. . To ensure public access to main recreation, historical and natural resources. . To implement the principle of sustainability on all levels of tourism and recreation development. . To implement the Spatially Based Tourism Plan for Wakkerstroom and surrounding areas.

4.3 POLICIES AND GUIDELINES

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 120

4.3.1 Policy

. Tourism and recreation facilities should be accessible to the general public. . Recreation facilities and assets should be developed and properly managed by the Municipality or in terms of as a public-private partnership initiative. . Tourism development in the rural areas should adhere to the policies outlined in this SDF. . The strategies as per the tourism development initiatives and plans for the study area should be consulted as part of the SDF policy framework.

4.3.2 Guidelines

. The development of the tourism potential in the study area should be encouraged and supported by the Municipality, within the parameters of policy and legislative guidelines. . Development of tourism and recreational facilities should be co-ordinated on a regional (Mpumalanga) and district (Gert Sibande District Municipal) level. . Access to and linkages with possible sources of funding and development initiatives should be exploited wherever possible. . Facilities with tourism potential should be identified and prioritised for development. . The guidelines for resort development, golf courses, golf estates, polo estates and guest houses or Bed and Breakfast development within the Spatially Based Tourism Plan for Wakkerstroom and surrounding areas should be adhered to. . Guidelines presented in the Wakkerstroom, A Conservation Study should be promoted and implemented to enhance the town as the tourism node in the local municipal area.

5.0 SUB-DIVISION OF AGRICULTURAL LAND

In order to protect and ensure sustained rural and agricultural use of the area, it is necessary to formulate certain land use management guidelines and policies with respect to rural agricultural land use.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 121

With respect to agricultural and rural land use, the following policies and guidelines are provided:

. Sub-division  Sub-division of agricultural land  Prime and unique agricultural soils  Agri-villages(Rural settlements) and small scale farming  Rural non-agricultural land use  Tourism and resort development

5.1 OBJECTIVES: AGRICULTURAL AND RURAL

. To protect prime and unique agricultural areas and high potential agricultural land. . To implement guidelines to protect the rural character of the area. . To provide guidelines that will assist the local authority during the assessment of land use applications outside urban areas. . To protect and ensure viability of scarce agricultural land. . To accommodate land use diversification in the rural areas to ensure economic sustainability. . The optimisation of agricultural potential, within an ecologically sustainable framework.

5.2 SUB-DIVISION OF AGRICULTURAL LAND

The sub-division of sustainable agricultural units into non-sustainable units reduces the agricultural potential of farming units. Other implications are the loss of rural character, the creation of new rural nodes and problems relating to service provision. In order to maintain agricultural sustainability and feasibility, sub-division of sustainable agricultural units should be subject to certain policy requirements.

5.2.1 Policy

. Sub-division on all agricultural land should be subject to the stipulations and requirements of the Sub-division of Agricultural Land Act, 1970, (Act 70 of 1970).

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 122

. Sub-division of agricultural land should be prohibited except where it is supported by the Department of Agriculture and Land Affairs in terms of relevant legislation. . Prime and unique agricultural land should be protected, including land identified by the Department of Agriculture as having high agricultural potential. . Agricultural land may only be considered for sub-division on the basis of proof that the sustainability of sub-divided units into economic sustainable productive units.

5.2.1 Guidelines

. Applications for sub-division of agricultural land should generally be accompanied and supported by a report addressing issues of sustainability and soil quality. . The Department of Agriculture should make available a map indicating all land of high agricultural value which would exclude sub-division (see Figure 17). . General guidelines for sub-division boundaries should include tree lines, fence lines, sensitive areas, rivers, roads, rail, service servitudes or canals. . Where sub-division is supported, cognisance should be given to land uses, conservation value, availability of bulk infrastructure and natural vegetation. . Environmentally sensitive areas which are not accommodating sustainable productive units should preferably be rezoned for conservation purposes (i.e. Open Space/ Special for conservation purposes). . Consolidation of sub-divided land units with other units should be promoted.

5.3 PRIME AND UNIQUE AGRICULTURAL SOILS

The maize producing southern and eastern part of the study area is well known for its high agricultural yield. The area is therefore unique and its potential and assets should be protected. Unfortunately, this is also the area experiencing conflict with mining activity.

Figure 17 indicates identified prime and unique agricultural areas which must be protected. The Department of Agriculture will play a major and important role with respect to classification and identification of prime and unique agricultural areas on an on-going basis. These provisions

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 123

include that land use management guidelines should be compiled to protect the top soils, undesirable sub-divisions, restrictions against non-agricultural land use development and measures to promote optimal utilisation of agricultural land and available water resources.

5.3.1 Policy

. High agricultural production areas as identified and confirmed by the Department of Agriculture and Land Affairs should be protected against non-agricultural development and degradation. . Sustainable use of agricultural land and resources should be promoted. The agricultural sector should employ the principles of “land care” as endorsed by the Department of Agriculture. . Doubt and/or uncertainty on behalf of the Municipality with respect to soil potential and production potential should be referred to the Department of Agriculture for confirmation and/or policy directives.

5.3.2 Guidelines

. The Department of Agriculture should be requested to make available data and mapping with respect to soil potential. These guidelines should include development guidelines and conditions. . High production potential areas should be retained exclusively for agriculture purposes. . In adherence to the principles of land care, natural resources for agricultural production purposes should be used in a sustainable manner with special reference to water usage, grazing and cultivation. . Sub-division and/or rezoning of land portions should be assessed once positive feedback has been obtained with respect to agricultural sustainability from the Department of Agriculture. . The eradication of alien vegetation on prime and unique agricultural land should be promoted and propagated. . Guidelines for the placement of non-agricultural land uses in higher agricultural production areas, should this be unavoidable, are:

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 124

 Next to access roads and road intersection.  Un-developable pockets of land.  At locations where the static impact is minimal.  At locations with minimum disturbance of agricultural character and agricultural land use activities.  Isolated portions of land with limited agricultural development potential.

5.4 AGRI-VILLAGES AND SMALL SCALE FARMING

The economic advantages and prospects of establishing agri-villages/rural settlements and/or small scaling farming projects should be emphasised. Development of agri-villages and small scale farming projects will make a significant contribution to local economic development for rural communities together with creating opportunities for prospective farmers. An agricultural holding policy should therefore seek to spatially guide the development of agricultural enterprises that will contribute to sustainable small-scale agricultural development like the apple orchard project near Amersfoort that also benefits the Daggakraal community.

Agri-villages or small scale farming activities can generally be defined as planned farming activities on a relatively small scale and can include traditional small holdings, a residential component that forms part of a large and communal farming operation and larger communal farming operations without the residential component. These activities would be normally associated with emerging farmers and new farmer development.

5.4.1 Policy

. Small scale farming should only be established on land which will support the sustainable utilisation of the agricultural resources. . Small scale farming should be developed to enable the previously disadvantaged or emerging farmer access to land for agricultural purposes and contribute to the strengthening of the agricultural sector, including job creation and employment. . The establishment of small scale farming or agri-villages on municipal “commonages” should be carefully weighed up against land availability for more dens and higher impact development such as residential and community facilities.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 125

. The development of agri-villages and small scale farming projects should be subject to normal planning guidelines and input from the relevant line departments. . Agri-villages with a residential component should not be established where such a settlement will only create a new residential node, but rather the extension of an existing node and thereby providing a mixed land use character. . The creation and establishment of agri-villages should adhere to the approach that optimum use must be made of existing public investments in established towns. . Agri-villages should be well planned with support from the relevant line departments and availability of adequate implementation plans and strategies. . In the exceptional case of establishing agri-villages, consideration with respect to service availability, future development, access, social services and environmental impact should be taken. . The development of housing related to agri-villages and small-scale farming should adhere to the normal building regulations and minimum infrastructure requirements. . Agri-villages and small scale farming projects should support the sustainable utilisation of agricultural resources.

5.4.2 Guidelines

. Small scale farming projects and agri-villages should be developed for agricultural purposes. These settlements can also benefit from supplying labour to the surrounding farming community, thereby enhancing the economic viability of such a settlement. . Small-scale farming projects are normally associated with private/public ownership under the management of a communal property association. . Residents in agri-villages and small scale farming projects should merely be involved with the main activity of these areas, i.e. agriculture. . Agri-villages and small scale farming projects should be economically viable units. This should be supported by the Department of Agriculture with relevant supporting documentation. . Sub-division of these areas should only be permitted with support from the Department of Agriculture within the criteria of sustainable agricultural land units. . Housing and infrastructure development should adhere to normal planning principles and housing units in these settlements should be grouped together on land with the lowest agriculture potential.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 126

5.5 RURAL NON-AGRICULTURAL LAND USE

The unique nature of farming in the study area increase pressure for higher impact rural development, necessitating land use management guidelines with respect to development of rural non-agricultural land uses. These land uses are normally associated with demands in the rural area for non-agricultural or service related industries. The high rural population and shift towards tourism and eco-related activities, further necessitates clear policy guidelines with respect to non- agricultural uses in the rural area.

Rural non-agricultural land uses specifically, but not exclusively refer to the following activities.

 Farm Schools  Agri-Industries  Engineering Services  Service Trades and Farm Shops  Warehousing and Packing sheds  Nurseries, Kennels and Riding Schools

It should be noted that the policy for rural non-agricultural land uses exclude tourism and resort related activities. These uses will be dealt with under a separate policy.

5.5.1 Policy

. Only non-agricultural land uses that compliments the rural and agricultural communities should be permitted. These uses should be restricted to existing rural settlements and development nodes and only in exceptional circumstances should non-agricultural uses be permitted outside these existing development nodes. . Non-agricultural land uses should be directly aimed at service provision of the immediate surrounding agricultural area. . Non-agricultural land uses, with specific reference to agri-industries, warehousing and business uses should be located within existing nodes, settlements and towns. However, these uses can be considered for development outside these existing nodes, settlements and towns on the

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 127

basis that adequate proof and motivation have been provided that alternative options have been investigated and this specific location will benefit the farming community in general.

5.5.2 Guidelines

. The general restrictions, policy and guidelines with respect to sub-division of agricultural land would apply. This includes involvement of the Department of Agriculture and other line departments. . Only in exceptional circumstances should the sub-division for non-agricultural purposes of land designated for agricultural purpose be permitted. Non-agricultural land uses should be restricted only to those that support the sustainable production of the surrounding farming community. . The policy and guidelines with respect to agri-villages, small scale farming, prime and unique agricultural soils and sub-division of agricultural land should apply. . Non-agricultural land uses should be sensitively sited and buildings should be clustered where ever possible. . Industrial buildings with specific reference to packing sheds and warehousing should not be placed close to scenic routes. . Building plan approval and location of non-agricultural uses should take cognisance of the visual and environmental impact. . Site development plans for all rural non-agricultural land uses should be prepared and approved by Council.

5.6 TOURISM AND RESORT DEVELOPMENT

The importance of tourism in the study area and in the district as a whole should not be underestimated. The sustainability of tourism and related resort developments are based on sound, land use management guidelines with respect to placing of these units within the urban and agricultural environment.

As a result of the location of tourism related uses, often close to natural areas, along scenic routes and intensive agricultural productive areas, their development may lead to negative impact on the

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 128

character of the rural and agricultural areas or the release of productive agricultural land. Given the economic benefits from tourism related development, their development and use should be managed to the advantage of retaining natural environments and without destroying agricultural resources.

Tourism development in the rural area should be closely linked and interact with environmental and agricultural conservation. The guidelines for resort development as explained in the Spatially Based Tourism Plan for Wakkerstroom and surrounding areas should also be taken into account for any tourism activity of resort development.

Tourism related uses/attractions in the rural areas include:  Tourism facilities: restaurants, gift shops, farm stalls, farm stores and recreation facilities.  Tourist accommodation facilities: guesthouses, guest farms and bed in breakfast enterprises.  Tourist residential facilities: resorts, camping, hotels and game or eco-tourism farms.

5.6.1 Policy

. Tourist facilities

 as a general principle, tourist facilities should be carefully placed to mitigate their potential impacts  tourists facilities should generally be of a limited scale and form that is consistent with the character of the rural environment  Tourist facilities should adhere to general aesthetic guidelines and enhance the surrounding environment and should not have a negative impact on the natural environment.

. Tourist accommodation

 Tourist accommodation, as defined, should represent smaller scale tourism accommodation facilities on farming enterprises.  Bed in breakfast, guest farms and guest houses should be of a scale and built form that is consistence with the character of the rural environment

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 129

 Sub-division of agricultural units to accommodate tourist accommodation should not be permitted.

. Tourist residential facilities

 Tourism residential facilities should only be permitted on non- economically viable agricultural land uses  Tourism residential facilities, especially resorts, should in general not be sub-divided into smaller portions.  Resort development should only be permitted based on the resource orientated approach.  Resort development supported by Council should, as a spin-off, enhance conservation with adequate environmental management strategies and plans in place.

5.6.2 Guidelines

. Tourist facilities

 Tourist facilities would normally be situated along popular tourist routes.  Tourist facilities should be generally concentrated in specific areas and minimise the creation of additional access roads along major routes.  Access, setback and building lines should be obtained from the relevant transport authority.  Visual impact should be minimised and be subject to a site development plan approval process.  For signage and road side advertising boards should be approved by the District Roads Engineer.

. Tourist accommodation

 Tourist accommodation (guest farms, guest houses and bed & breakfast enterprises) can be supported on farms and the rural area provided that sub-division will not be permitted.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 130

 The dominant use on the land unit will remain agriculture and accommodation.  The dominant use shall remain for short-term living accommodation purposes for tourists.  Building plans should be submitted for all tourist accommodation facilities.  Tourist accommodation facilities should not exceed ten rooms and facilities exceeding this requirement should be regarded as a resort, which will require rezoning or township establishment.  A site development plan should be submitted for the entire development  The location of new units should be clustered and accessible to main roads and existing access points. Architectural design, visibility and signage should be carefully monitored and should adhere to all regulations and legislative requirements.

. Resort developments (rural)

 The main objective of resort developments in the rural area should be to promote tourist and holiday facilities in areas with special environmental or created attributes and to encourage access to these facilities by the general public. At the same time care is needed to minimise potential negative impact of development on fragile environments. The guiding principles should be that the resort must not detract from the amenity that attached the holiday facility in the first place, nor should it cause public nuisance for other people living and working in the facility.  Resort developments could include auxiliary services normally associated and reasonably related to a resort, i.e. lecture rooms, restaurants, tourist facilities, conference facilities, spa/hydro/ wellness centre and other uses.  Development should be resource orientated. Resource referring to areas with unique characteristics such as rivers, springs, waterfalls etc.  Visibility and visual impact of the developments should be minimised and compliment the surrounding natural areas.  Availability of engineering infrastructure with reference to waste removal, access, electricity, water provision, sanitation etc. should be adequately managed within the environment and its surroundings. The size of the

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 131

development/number of units/density shall be determined by contextual informants such as environmental sensitivity, views, carrying capacity for the environment, service provision and shall be based on merit according to desirability criteria.  All resort developments will be subject to a detailed site development plan, including development aesthetics, service provision, vehicular movement, conservation strategies and plans as well as development management.  Council shall stipulate development parameters with regard to density, height, coverage, layout, building design, landscaping, parking, access, and land uses.  Clustering should be promoted and linier or dispersed development and placing of units should be discouraged.

6.0 URBAN DEVELOPMENT LAND USE POLICY

6.1 BACKGROUND

The demographic projections and housing need indicate that there will be sustained pressure for urban development in core urban areas. It is expected that the future population growth will increase the pressure for Greenfield development, densification of land uses, demands for services and infrastructure, etc. The management of land uses will therefore require careful consideration if sustainability is to be achieved and in retaining the character of certain urban nodes. In addition to this, urban growth and development should be subject to “good planning” which implies that proper planning principles and procedure should be followed in all urban development aspects.

This section of the Spatial Development Framework sets out policy recommendations and guidelines for the on-going management of the designated core urban areas within Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Municipality.

Urban land use policies for the purpose of this report refer to the following main categories:

 Housing/Residential  Community facilities  Business facilities

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 132

 Industrial

6.2 OBJECTIVES: URBAN DEVELOPMENT

. To proactively implement a realistic policy framework for future urban development . To promote equal access to services, facilities and opportunities. . To promote guidelines for land use management and development of urban areas. . To plan for an efficient and integrated urban structure. . To apply planning standards with respect to land use provision and management.

6.3 HOUSING/RESIDENTIAL

The housing vision and mission outlined in the Housing Chapter should be used as a guideline for all housing and residential development.

The Housing vision is described as follows:

“The development of sustainable human settlements at Pixley Ka Isaka Seme local municipality with a view to ensuring that by 2014 all residents will have access to a housing opportunity which includes secure tenure, basic services and housing support accompanied by requisite social, economic and physical infrastructure.”

The Housing Mission is described as follows:

“The housing mission for the municipality is to implement the vision within the context of a sustainable human settlement s and integrated development planning framework.”

6.3.1 Policy

. Maintain and improve residential character by building liveable and socially acceptable residential areas. . Addressing the current housing backlog mainly in the public housing category, should be prioritised.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 133

. A balanced and co-ordinated approach should be followed throughout the study area, to address the housing need and the public housing category linked to the housing subsidy programme. . Residential areas and future expansion should be proactively identified, planned and surveyed. . Involvement of public and beneficiary communities in all housing and related development should be prioritised. . Residential/housing development should take place within the urban edge. . All housing developments should be subject to town planning approval procedures and building plan approval. . Strive to minimise or eradicate informal housing and/or shacks.

6.3.2 Guidelines

. Address the current housing backlog through the Government Subsidy Scheme. . Compile a housing plan to accommodate the current backlog and implementation strategy. . Pro-actively identify land. . Continually monitoring and updating housing waiting list. . While the majority of housing backlog is in the low-income category, middle and high income housing areas should also be made available as part of an integrated strategy to attract people with high skill levels, increase the rates base, promote local economic development and to ensure a variety of housing types. This will include group housing, semi-detached, row houses, walk-up apartments, flats and mix used areas. These uses and higher density residential development should be promoted within economic constraints. . Housing development should be developed and promoted in areas with the lowest impact on Municipal service delivery costs. Public housing should not be developed on slopes steeper than 1 to 10 and environmentally sensitive areas should be avoided. . Densities higher than 40 units per hectare should be avoided with minimum erf sizes of 250m² in low-income subsidised residential areas.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 134

6.4 COMMUNITY FACILITIES

Community facilities provide an essential collective support system for the urban population. With proper planning the provision of community facilities can create liveable urban environments and contribute towards social upliftment of the relevant communities.

6.4.1 Policy

. The range and number of basic social services and community facilities that meet the needs of poorer communities should be provided. . As a general principle, communities should have equitable access to primary health care, education and social services. . The multiple uses of community facilities should be encouraged. . Ensure that there is sufficient capacity within social facilities to serve the relevant communities. . The provision of community facilities to rural communities should be carefully planned and assessed with respect to accessibility and economic viability. . The establishment of Thusong centres in each administrative unit should be implemented.

6.4.2 Guidelines

. Encourage multiple uses of community facilities, i.e. adult education, health care, indoor sports, community centre, etc. . Avoid duplication and the provision of fragmented community facilities and sites. . Location of community facilities should be done in close co-operation and consultation with the relevant communities and the (Redbook guidelines for Human Settlement Planning and Design) . The location of community facilities should be used to create liveable and structured urban environments. . Existing community facilities should be developed and strengthened to avoid duplication and should function as integrating factors for the relevant communities and urban areas.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 135

. The following standards for provision of community facilities should as a general rule be applied to low-income residential areas (Redbook guidelines for Human Settlement Planning and Design)

 Crèche nursery school, 1 per 5 000 people, minimum size 1300m².  Primary school, 1 school per 3 to 4 000 people, minimum size 2, 4 hectares.  Secondary school, 1 school per 6 to 10 000, minimum size 4, 6 hectares.  Clinic, 1 clinic per 5 000 people, minimum size 1 000m².  Community centres, 1 per 10 000 people, minimum size 5 000m².  Churches, 1 per 2 000 people, minimum size 1500m².

. Public open space should be provided at approximately 10% of the gross area as functional open space.

6.5 BUSINESS

Central business districts, secondary business nodes and informal business activity are one of the most important formative agents within the urban structure given the past segregated planning policies. A number of the urban areas and business nodes are separated and unstructured. The placing, development and expansion of future business areas can play a major role in assisting the restructuring of the urban form.

Typically, the largest portion of the population is geographically removed from the main business areas and business centres. Other smaller villages and settlements in the study area represent limited business activity.

The provision of new business sites and strategies with respect to central business area development can play an important role in strengthening the urban character and urban form of the urban nodes in the study area.

6.5.1 Policy

. Business/commercial related land use should be confined to the core urban areas (central business district) and secondary/lower order nodes.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 136

. The provision and locality of Regional centres should be done in such a fashion that the rural / regional market is captured effectively, thereby benefiting business in general and enhancing the economic viability of the town as a service centre. . The infiltration of business/commercial uses into a residential area or the periphery of the CBD should not be permitted (this excludes small house shops and regional centres) . To address the spatial imbalances and inner quality of access to opportunities for previously disadvantaged communities, neighbourhood nodes should be identified at places of collection near movement routes linked to the CBD via activity streets. . Neighbourhood nodes and the CBD should become the activity areas of business/commercial and other public infrastructure services, ultimately to become a cluster of activities and service/multi-purpose centres. . In order to attract investment, the provision of land for business purposes with the associated infrastructure should be provided on a pro-active basis. . The development of SMME should be encouraged in selected locations in or near business nodes and the CBD. . House enterprises and house shops should be permitted in residential areas, provided that the uses will not impact on the well-being of the residents in the neighbourhood and impacting on the character of the area.

6.5.2 Guidelines

. Neighbourhood nodes and the expansion thereof should be identified. . The central business district should be demarcated. . Restrictions on business development within demarcated nodes and areas should be carefully weighed up against economic viability and investment potential ensuring, that the restrictions should not act as a deterrent for possible investors and developers. . Close linkages between business development and the local economic development plan and strategies should be implemented and co-ordinated on a sub-regional and district level.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 137

6.6 INDUSTRIAL

The economy of Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Municipality is largely based on agriculture followed by community services activities and trade. In order to maximise the comparative economic advantages of the study area, industrial development in the area should focus in the existing urban nodes and centres. The aesthetic impact of industrial development, including warehousing in general, should be carefully assessed and restricted to the urban centres to maintain the existing rural character and tourism potential of the area.

6.6.1 Policy

. The establishment of industries, warehousing and manufacturing trades should be encouraged in urban nodes with good accessibility to the existing road and rail network according to the LUMS that is to be developed for the municipal area. . An industrial land release strategy should be planned before industrial land is alienated on an ad-hoc basis. . The establishment of industrial nodes in the rural area should not be permitted as a general rule. . Establishment of industries outside the urban edge should in exceptional cases be carefully considered with respect to the rural character, visual impact and traffic generation.

6.6.2 Guidelines

. Industries should be established within the urban edge. . Avoid locations in close proximity to existing ecological areas and areas with high visual impact. . Industrial development should be clustered. . Service provision, design and environmental impact (noxious uses, pollution and noise pollution) should be carefully monitored and assessed in terms of the relevant legislation.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 138

CHAPTER 5: SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES

1.0 INTRODUCTION

The formulation of a spatial development strategy for the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Spatial Development Framework forms a prominent part of the abovementioned study and the following are broad guidelines for the proposed framework:

. Identify future areas for expansion of residential, community facilities, industrial, business, resort development and other activities . Indicate the urban edge for each settlement . Provide guidance with respect to areas of highest impact and priority projects

A local spatial development framework was established for each of the settlements in the municipal area (see Figures 33-39) as well as a broader spatial development framework for the entire municipal area (see Figure 32).

2.0 IDP PROJECTS AND LINKAGE

The projects as identified in the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Municipal IDP 2010/2011 for each of the developmental sectors were included in the SDF where it was possible to demonstrate it spatially.

2.1 GUIDING PRINCIPLES

The purpose of the spatial development framework is to give direction to future planning and development in the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality. This framework thus has to integrate the spatial manifestation of the various components of the urban structure. The spatial development framework also has to conform to the general principles for spatial development outlined in the Development Facilitation Act. These principles are:

(i) Promote the integration of the social, economic, institutional and physical aspects of land development.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 139

(ii) promote integrated land development in rural and urban areas in support of each other (iii) promote the availability of residential and employment opportunities in close proximity to or integrated with each other (iv) optimise the use of existing resources including such resources relating to agriculture, and minerals, bulk infrastructure, roads, transportation and social facilities (v) promote a diverse combination of land uses, also at the level of individual erven or sub-divisions of land (vi) contribute to the correction of the historically distorted spatial patterns of settlement in the Republic and to the optimum use of existing infrastructure and (vii) Encourage environmentally sustainable land development practices and processes.

2.1.1. Towards Integration: The Semi-Lattice Urban Development Concept

A concept of urban form, which is currently regarded as most conducive to increasing urban performance in both local and international planning circles, is the semi-lattice concept. It can be regarded as a combination of the nodal and the development axis concepts, since it proposes the creation of a structuring framework (or backbone) for urban development consisting of different order nodes being interconnected by development axis. This axis or so called development spines are focus areas for dense mixed land use development.

The rationale behind implementing a semi-lattice system consisting of activity corridors (and activity spines) and interconnecting nodes of different order is as follows:

 To create a structured framework for urban development, whereby ad-hoc decision-making which distracts from logical urban form can be kerbed. Since urban sprawl is partly manifested by the disorganized location of major traffic generators such as shopping centres, office industries and housing a pro-active corridor development will promote a more concentrated and spatially ordered development philosophy with a clear indication of higher and lower intensity development areas.

 To create an urban structure conducive to the implementation of an unsubsidized effective and efficient public transportation system that serve all citizens (rich and poor)

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 140

conveniently. The location of mostly higher order land uses, as well as high density residential development alongside specific routes. These routes now serve as channels for different types of public transportation modes since a high degree of people and activities are focused on these routes.

 Urban development in this fashion also enables different public transportation modes to support each other more logically than is currently the case. Current planning practices result in environments that cannot for the most part be serviced by public transport effectively. Densities are too low, and higher order land uses are spread in an illogical fashion throughout the urban structure.

 To create opportunities for small and medium enterprise to be visible and accessible to passing traffic. Currently, most shopping facilities are concentrated in nodes, situated at the intersections of major transportation routes. These spaces are monopolized to a great extent since few small businesses can afford rent in these locations. Furthermore informal trading on these premises is usually unwanted. This situation makes it difficult for small and medium enterprises to get exposure to the market that they need for survival. By allowing direct access and a mixture of land uses on the transportation routes between nodes, smaller businesses obtain exposure to markets which they normally would not be able to penetrate.

 To effectively integrate sectors. The essence of activity corridors is their linear form, which enables integration to a greater and more practical extent than any other urban form (a single point creates an access problem to places further away from it, while a line allows more places to focus alongside it). Current planning practices such as zoning result in mono-functional urban environments. This separation between land uses makes the public reliant on vehicular transportation and furthermore accelerates the aspect of congested traffic arterials.

A semi-lattice urban development system consists of the following interrelated components:

 Parallel limited-access rights of way (mobility spine) for both fast-moving private transport (e.g. a freeway) and public transport (e.g. a railway and/or bus-way) with frequent connections to the activity spine or main road;

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 141

 An activity spine is the route within a development corridor on which all development is focused. Activity spines will be major carriers of all modes of transport and will enable direct access to a range of high intensity land-uses such as retail, cultural, residential and employment.  Activity streets are smaller versions of activity spines, although the same principles namely linearly, accessibility, land use diversity and intensity apply. In activity streets however there are much lower levels of opportunity, e.g. there may be no freeways or metropolitan scale land uses in proximity.  Nodes (e.g. shopping centres, stadiums, hospitals, and commercial /employment areas) need to be located alongside the activity spines and streets, to serve as magnets and assist in facilitating movement along these spines.

3.0 PROPOSED SPATIAL FRAMEWORK

The existing land use pattern within the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality area is reflected on the land use plans that were compiled as a result of the land use survey completed during March 2010 (see Figures 4 - 10). The proposed spatial development framework for each of the settlements and the rural area are indicated on Figures 33 - 39 and reflects the following components:

 A hierarchy of roads * Mobility spines/fast moving access ways * Activity spines * Activity streets  Activity nodes/areas  Mixed land use  Open space system  Residential Development * Infill development * Densification  Social infrastructure  Industrial Development  Future Urban Extension  Extensive agriculture land use

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 142

 Urban Edge

3.1 Hierarchy of Roads

3.1.1 Mobility Spines/Fast moving access ways

The N11 national route with its north-south alignment throughout the municipality is currently the only route that functions as a mobility spine/fast moving access way, although the R23, R543 and R35 also acts as mobility spines of lower order in the local context. The primary purpose of these fast moving mobility spines is to provide mobility for high volumes of traffic linking in with the broader region. Land uses which benefit from high levels of visibility and regional accessibility would locate along mobility spines. The N11 was also identified in the GSDM as a development corridor along which development should be encouraged due to the character of the road as a fast moving access way in the district.

Volksrust is situated on the intersection of one National Road (N11) and two Provincial Roads (R23 and R543). Amersfoort is also situated at the intersection of the N11 and the R35 from Bethal. Wakkerstroom is situated on the R543 that can also be seen as a mobility spine. These roads act as main transport corridors from east to west and north to south in the municipal area. Daggakraal is the only settlement that does not have direct access to these mobility spines.

These provincial roads are important communication routes along which the majority of activities at a local scale and movement are concentrated. The provision of social and other facilities along these routes will improve accessibility of the surrounding rural areas to these types of facilities.

The proposed northern bypass which is a proclaimed road could also function as a mobility spine for Volksrust but it seems as if the municipality does not want to encourage traffic to by-pass the town at this stage out of fear of reducing the economic activity provided by travellers on the existing mobility spine through the town.

3.1.2 Activity Spines

Local access needs to be provided to development areas along activity spines. Activity spines are closely connected to the fast moving access ways (mobility spines) and provide access to areas in which densification and development should be focused.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 143

These activity spines are characterised by conflicting traffic movements, on street parking and signalised intersections. The activity spines contain various modes of transportation and will give direct access to a range of high intensity land uses, including retail, cultural, residential, employment and recreational facilities. The proposed activity spines within the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality area are described below:

Volksrust

The N11 through Volksrust act as a mobility spine and carries high volume fast moving traffic on a regional basis between major towns. From this mobility spine there are a number of Activity Spines giving more localised access to residential areas, business activities and other facilities. The following streets can be identified as Activity Spines within Volksrust (see Figure 33):

 R543 to Wakkerstroom (De Kock Street from the N11)  R543 to Vrede (Joubert Street)  R23 from Standerton (Dan Pienaar Street)  Proposed North Bypass connection to R23 to Standerton  Pendoring/Smit Street  Volk Street  Sekelbos Avenue

A new activity spine is proposed between the R23 from Standerton and the N11 to Amersfoort that formed part of the proposed north by-pass that was proclaimed. This will provide a shorter route for traffic from Standerton to Wakkerstroom and Amersfoort.

Vukuzakhe

The R543 from Volksrust to Wakkerstroom acts as the mobility spine for Vukuzakhe from where all other access is gained to the town. The activity spines in Vukuzakhe can be identified as the following streets (see Figure 34):

 Mavuso Street  Phuthaditihaba Street  And other streets as indicated on the plan which does not have street names yet.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 144

In order to develop the northern part of Vukuzakhe an extension of the Mavuso Activity Spine is proposed with activity streets connecting to it.

Amersfoort/Ezamokuhle

The activity spines within Amersfoort are as follows (see Figure 35):

 Plein Street (N11 to Volksrust)  Scheiding Street (part of N11 to Volksrust)  Sybrandt Van Niekerk (R35 to Morgenzon)  Bree Street (connecting Amersfoort to Ezamokuhle)  Vlok Street connecting to Sybrand van Niekerk Street  Other streets in Ezamokuhle as indicated on the local SDF.  Proposed connection with the N11 from Ezamokuhle

Perdekop/Siyazenzela

The activity spines identified in Perdekop and Siyazenzela are as follows (see Figure 36):

 Durban Street (R23 to Standerton)  Paarl Street (R23 to Standerton)  Main Street & De Lange Street  Hildebrand Street

Wakkerstroom/Esizameleni

The following streets can be identified as Activity Spines in Wakkerstroom and Esizameleni (see Figure 37a):

 Van Riebeeck Street (P7/2 to Piet Retief)  Slabbert Street (from Amersfoort to Utrecht)  Joubert Street (P143/1 to Newcastle)  Mndebele Street (towards eSizameleni)

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 145

Daggakraal/Sinqobile

The activity spine identified in Daggakraal and Sinqobile is indicated on the SDF and a new proposed activity spine is indicated that will replace the existing activity spine. The following activity spines were identified (see Figure 38):

 Existing activity spine: The road from Amersfoort to Wakkerstroom  Existing activity spine: Road to Wakkerstroom that crosses the road from Amersfoort  Proposed activity spine: New road planned through Sinqobile

3.1.3 Activity Street

The primary functions of activity streets are to provide access and connections between the different activity spines. Activity streets are thus regarded as streets of more local nature and importance, providing access to activity spines and nodes as well as to inter-modal transfer facilities.

The areas along these streets are characterised by lower levels of current development including most of the smaller development nodes (neighbourhood nodes) within the study area. Streets that have been identified to fulfil an activity street function include the following:

 Volksrust

 Kroch Street  Monument Street  Louis Trichardt Street  Sarel Cilliers Street  Vrede Street (up to Monument Street)  Kruger Street  Hardekool Street  Besembos Street  Proposed activity street Extension 2: Extension of Third Avenue  Proposed activity street Extension 4: Extension of Hardekool & Birch Street

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 146

 Vukuzakhe

Due to a lack of street names please refer to the SDF for Vukuzakhe where the activity streets are indicated on Figure 34.

 Amersfoort/Ezamokuhle

The following streets were identified as activity streets in Amersfoort and Ezamokuhle:

 Buitekant Street  Bree Street (east of Plein Street)  Kort Street  Zuid Street  Helden Street  Landsberg Street  Simon Street  Streets as indicated in the SDF for Ezamokuhle (no names)  2 Proposed Activity Streets in Ezamokuhle

 Perdekop/Siyazenzela

The following streets were identified as activity streets in Perdekop and Siyazenzela:

 Park Street  Church Street  Market Street  Street  Streets in Siyazenzela as indicated on Figure 36.

 Wakkerstroom/Esizameleni

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 147

The following streets were identified as Activity Streets in Wakkerstroom and Esizameleni

 Kerk Street (between Hoek & Van der Schyff)  Hoog Street (between Badenhort & Van der Schyff)  Laag Street (between Engelbrecht & Slabbert)  Hoek Street (between Kerk & Van Riebeeck)  Badenhorst Street (between Kerk & Hoog)  Englebrecht Street (between Kerk & Laag)  Van der Schyff Street (between Kerk & Laag)  Nkonyane Street  Masango Street  Street Z in Esizameleni  Street H,N,L and E in Esizameleni

 Daggakraal/Sinqobile

The streets identified as activity streets are indicated on the SDF for Daggakraal/Sinqobile due to the fact that the absence of street names makes it difficult to describe (see Figure 38 and 39).

3.2 Activity Nodes/Areas

Activity nodes are areas where the main business activity of a settlement is concentrated. Three categories of activity nodes exist namely, Primary Node, Secondary Node and Neighbourhood Nodes. The Primary node is the main business activity area of a settlement and also commonly referred to as the Central Business District (CBD) of the town, normally situated in the centre of town where it is accessible to most of the public. The secondary Node is remarkable smaller and does not offer the same variety of services as the Primary Node. Some settlements might even be too small to have a secondary node due to the low level of services provided in the town and the spatial distribution of the economy. Neighbourhood Nodes are the smallest category and is normally one or two business surrounding a filling station or corner shop providing a very small service for the direct neighbourhood. The hierarchy of Activity Nodes/Areas within the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality area can be described as follows:

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 148

 Volksrust

 Primary Node

The Volksrust Central Business District is the primary activity node of Volksrust. Retail development, offices, service industry, government buildings and municipal offices are located here. This should still be promoted as the major business node in the municipality and services in the area should be optimised for this purpose.

 Secondary Nodes

There is no defined secondary node in Volksrust but the intersection of Joubert and Dan Pienaar Street could be developed as a secondary node since it is not part of the CBD and situated at the intersection of two major Activity Spines. Normally the secondary node manifests at the locality of a new mall in a town, but that is not the case in Volksrust and therefore this location is proposed for a secondary node.

 Neighbourhood nodes

Local neighbourhood nodes compliment the primary and secondary nodes and should be located in such a way as to serve all suburbs for the convenience of the local inhabitants and short trip retail services. There are currently no established neighbourhood nodes in Volksrust and therefore the following neighbourhood nodes were identified for future development where small business activity can be promoted in order to realise the nodes full potential:

* Proposed neighbourhood nodes:

A neighbourhood node is proposed in Volksrust Extension 4 at the corner of Pendoring and Smit Street to serve the area north of Tontelbos Street. A second neighbourhood node is proposed in Volksrust Extension 2 at the corner of Springbok Road and Second Avenue (currently Park) which will also serve the population of Volksrust Extension 6 when it is developed. A third neighbourhood node is proposed in Volksrust Extension 3 on the corner of Anker and Vlei Street which will serve the community between Kroch and Monument Street.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 149

 Vukuzakhe

Activity nodes should not be duplicated but it is necessary to provide a certain amount of services locally in order to prevent long travelling distances for retail and other services. Therefore the primary node of Volksrust and Vukuzakhe will remain the CBD of Volksrust, but certain other retail and specialist services need to be present in Vukuzakhe.

 Primary Node

The primary node of Vukuzakhe is proposed north of the education node in the centre of the town. This are should be promoted as the primary node of the town in conjunction with the other nodes proposed. The locality of the node in the centre of the settlement makes it more efficient as a Primary node.

 Secondary node

The secondary node is proposed south of the education node in the centre of the town where existing businesses are operating.

 Neighbourhood nodes

Neighbourhood nodes are proposed in at least each extension of Vukuzakhe in order to provide a localised retail and service industry for the community.

 Amersfoort

 Primary Node

The Primary Node for Amersfoort is situated at the existing CBD of the town between Plein and Scheiding Street and the proposed area should be promoted for future retail and services industries.

 Secondary Node

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 150

No secondary node is proposed for Amersfoort due to the small size of the town and limited retail demands.

 Neighbourhood Node

One neighbourhood node is proposed at the intersection of Bree and Lyle Street which is on the activity spine to Ezamokuhle.

 Ezamokuhle

 Primary Node

The primary node for Ezamokuhle is proposed at the existing business hub of the town as indicated in Figure 35 of the local SDF for the area.

 Secondary Node

No Secondary node is proposed for the town due to the small size of the area and limited retail demand.

 Neighbourhood Node

Four Neighbourhood nodes are proposed to serve the local community with retail and service industry facilities.

 Perdekop/Siyazenzela

 Primary Node

The primary node for this area is proposed at the intersection with Durban and Main Street where some existing business activity is present on the main activity spine through the town.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 151

 Secondary Node

Due to the integrated nature of the two towns the secondary node is proposed at the entrance of Siyazenzela.

 Neighbourhood Node

No neighbourhood nodes are proposed for this area since the primary and secondary node should be sufficient for the size of the town.

 Wakkerstroom/Esizameleni

 Primary Node

The primary node of this area is situated Van Riebeeck Street with some business activity in the cross streets intersecting with Van Riebeeck Street. The primary node is proposed to be at the intersection of Van Riebeeck Street and Slabbert Street closer to eSizameleni. Three different mixed use zones are also proposed in order to cater for other businesses currently not situated within the primary node area of the town. The primary node of Esizameleni is situated at the corner of Mndebele Street and Ndlovu Street where some business activity already exists.

 Secondary Node

No secondary node is proposed for this area due to the small size of the town and limited retail demand in the area.

 Neighbourhood Node

A very small secondary node is proposed for the Wakkerstroom area situated at the intersection of Joubert and Luttig Street which forms the activity street to Newcastle. No other business property is identified in this area of the town which is quiet a distance away from the primary node of the town. One neighbourhood node is proposed for Esizameleni in Mndebele Street which will serve the western part of the town.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 152

 Daggakraal/Sinqobile

 Primary Node

The primary node for this area is proposed at the intersection with the Amersfoort and Volksrust road on the new proposed Activity Spine. This area already has some business activity and after the construction of the road the area needs to be promoted as the primary node.

 Secondary Node

The secondary node is proposed at the existing Library complex west of the proposed primary node.

 Neighbourhood Node

Various neighbourhood nodes are proposed due to expansive nature of the town. These nodes are proposed at strategic positions on activity streets that will serve the local community in their immediate area.

3.3 Mixed Land Use

A mixed land use zone is proposed along those sections of the identified activity spines where a tendency towards mixed land uses, i.e. parks, schools, residential, retail etc., already occur. These mixed land use zones should be limited to various densities residential, retail, entertainment, offices and other uses deemed compatible with the adjacent areas, i.e. residential, open space or industrial.

The location of mixed land uses and higher residential development adjacent to activity spines would promote a clear logic in terms of urban structure and a lessened separation between the place of work and place of residence.

In the case of Wakkerstroom three different mixed land use zones were identified due to the identification of the town as a Tourism Node. The Mixed Land Use (Commercial) zone is proposed for general mixed land use that will allow the development of a range of complementary land uses for commercial, business, services, industrial, administrative and residential opportunities

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 153

which can include informal trading. The Mixed Land Use (Low Impact) is proposed for a range of retail, offices, residential and community facilities alongside the activity street but excludes all forms of industry and trade. The Mixed Land Use (Tourism) zone will focus on the full range of retail business, offices, service and light industrial (excluding noxious industrial), residential and community facilities associated with the tourism industry in order to develop the area around the Historical Node into a vibrant tourism centre of the town in order to expand the existing examples of mixed use in the area.

3.4 Open Space System

The IDP of Pixley Ka Isaka Seme mentioned that a soccer stadium needs to be provided in each of the municipal administrative units to encourage soccer development in the run up to the 2010 soccer world cup. Although the soccer world cup was finalised in July 2010 we nevertheless proposed soccer stadiums in each municipal administrative unit as part of the open space system for the purpose of recreation for the local residents.

 Volksrust

Volksrust has a well-established open space system throughout the town especially in Extension 4 which is one of the new extensions. One notable problem is the open space system that runs through the old town. This system should be defined and demarcated in order to be upgraded so that it can act as a functional open space. The residential stands in the area should be consolidated to form part of the open space system since no development can take place within the 1:100 year flood line.

The open space system consists of the following elements:

 Rivers, streams ad flood plains  Ridges around the town  Mahawane Country Resort to the east of the town  Active and passive recreation facilities

The open space system is an important structuring element of both the existing and future urban structure and should form an integrated part of the overall spatial framework. Volksrust open

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 154

space system is of importance in terms of its tourism and recreational potential and its overall visual aesthetically impact. The conservation of the open space system should therefore be regarded as a priority.

 Vukuzakhe

Vukuzakhe open space system consists of the refine separating Volksrust and Vukuzakhe and encroaching into the western part of extension 2. There is also some other open spaces throughout the rest of the town that needs to be upgraded and made more functional in order to reach their full potential.

The open space system is an important structuring element of both the existing and future urban structure and should form an integrated part of the overall spatial framework.

 Amersfoort/Ezamokuhle

Amersfoort has limited open spaces and only the rugby club can be considered as a functional open space. Care should be taken in future to develop functional open spaces in the town that can contribute to the overall visual aesthetically impact of the town. An open space system exists in Ezamokuhle with various sizes open spaces and servitudes for power lines that also act as open spaces. The tributary through the town created the open space system and it should be developed to act as a functional open space for the recreation of the community.

 Perdekop/Siyazenzela

Perdekop and Siyazenzela have very limited open spaces and only the run-down sport stadium in Siyazenzela can be considered as a functional open space. Only one other open space exists within Perdekop. Care should be taken in future to develop functional open spaces in the town that can contribute to the overall visual aesthetically impact of the town. Although there are not many open spaces within the town, the tributary to the east of the town creates the opportunity for functional open spaces and should be developed as such in the future.

 Wakkerstroom/Esizameleni

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 155

The area is one of the settlements within the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme local municipality with the richest open space system which forms part of the wetland around the town. The existence of the wetland creates ample opportunities for functional open space systems and need to be developed as such in combination with the tourism strategy for the area. Areas for wetland investigation were identified on the local SDF for the town and proper wetland delineation should be conducted to prevent the urbanisation of wetlands around the town, the same for any proposed development such as the extension of eSizameleni. Other than the wetland there are various open spaces within Wakkerstroom and a good open space system within Esizameleni which is a result of the flood lines traversing the town.

The old Market Square next to the church square in Van Riebeeck Street should be properly landscaped in order to enhance the image of the town in line with proposals in documents such as Wakkerstroom: A Conservation Study, 1995 and the Spatially Based Tourism Plan for Wakkerstroom and Surrounding Areas, 2009. It is important to conserve the public nature of the market square and that only development of a recreational nature is permitted on the square due to the history of the square and the architectural symbioses of the square with the church square adjacent to it. The development of a sport facility on the square could prove to be more functional in restoring the historical significance of the space if done with a sensitive approach towards the streetscape in that specific area and the location of the listed buildings on the square.

 Daggakraal/Sinqobile

This area has a very good open space system throughout the area due to the tributaries flowing through the town. Care should be taken that the 1 and 100 year flood lines is updated to prevent any flooding of residential areas or risk of flooding for residential development. Upgrading of the open space system is necessary to make it more functional.

3.5 Residential Development (Long term future expansion)

The spatial structure of most of the towns in Pixley Ka Isaka Seme local municipality still portrays some elements of development policies of a previous dispensation that created areas of high density residential development far away from employment opportunities. There is still a need to move towards the integration of the higher density area with the lower density areas and bringing people closer to their place of work.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 156

 Volksrust

The natural direction for future growth of the town is towards the west and south west due to constraints in the east with the ravine between Volksrust and Vukuzakhe that makes expansion in an easterly direction almost impossible. Furthermore the waste dump site to the east of the town restricts development in that area. To the north of the town there are rocky ridges and steep areas that restrict the further expansion of Extension 4 to the north. Furthermore the Kwa-Zulu Natal border in the south restricts any further development in that direction. Therefore the only direction for growth is to the west and south west of the town.

The approved Volksrust Extension 6 is not yet developed and has the potential for a large number of stands for residential purposes in the south western part of the town. Further expansion of Volksrust Extension 4 to the west is also possible as well as residential extension north of the R543 to Vrede.

 Vukuzakhe

Vukuzakhe has very limited opportunities for expansion in any direction except to the north of the Wakkerstroom road. The Kwa-Zulu Natal border restricts development to the east and south and the ravine between Volksrust and Vukuzakhe restricts development to the west. Furthermore the sewerage treatment plant south of the town also restricts development in that direction.

Therefore the only direction for future growth and integration with Volksrust is to the north of the town between the railway line and the Wakkerstroom road. This should be seen as long term development and residential infill and densification as proposed in the SDF should be seen as short to medium term development for the town.

 Amersfoort/Ezamokuhle

Amersfoort and Ezamokuhle probably has the best opportunity to be fully integrated with each other but unfortunately the flood line between the two towns greatly restricts full integration. The future expansion of Ezamokuhle is proposed in an eastern direction in line with the proposed activity spine with connection to the N11. No development is proposed to the west of the town

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 157

across the railway line. To the north of the town development is restricted due to the landscape that is too steep for development.

There is a small opportunity for further development of Amersfoort to the north of Buitekant Street up to the flood line which can be seen as infill development for the short term. Other possibilities for future expansion of Amersfoort are in a western direction adjacent to Amersfoort Extension 7 on the western outskirts of the town, but this can only be proposed once the existing vacant stands and densification opportunities in the existing town were exhausted.

 Perdekop/Siyazenzela

Perdekop and Siyazenzela have very few opportunities for expansion since the flood line and sewer works to the east of the towns restrict any development in that direction. However, there is a small opportunity for expansion to the east of the towns which should be explored if future expansion becomes critical. Another long term future expansion possibility exists to the west of the Amersfoort road next to the school which will rectify the unusual spatial form of the town.

Currently there are ample of stands available for densification over the short and medium term if the demand for residential stands increases in the near future.

 Wakkerstroom/Esizameleni

The major restriction on the direction of growth of Wakkerstroom is the wetland area towards the north-west of the town. No development can be proposed in that direction due to the preservation of the precious wetland area. Therefore the only direction for growth is towards the south-east and the south west of the town. Again this option should be for the long term since there are ample vacant stands available and bigger stands that can be subdivided if the demand for residential properties increases. The municipality should not encourage the subdivision of stands in the Inner and Outer Heritage Zone (see Figure 37b) since the size of the stands and the placement of the buildings on the stands has historical significance. The stands in the Heritage Zone are the original surveyed stands that formed part of the oldest town in Mpumalanga which is now the Tourism Node of the municipality.

The expansion opportunities for Esizameleni are also limited due to the tributaries present in the town. The only option for expansion is towards the road to Utrecht in a south eastern direction.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 158

Further densification is not possible in Esizameleni due to the high density of stands in the area; therefore expansion towards the south-east is the only option for future residential development.

 Daggakraal/Sinqobile

Daggakraal and Sinqobile have a unique rural character which is not found in any of the other settlements within the municipal area. The existing rural residential areas around Sinqobile seem to be adequate for future subsistence farming and no further expansion is proposed. There are a number of higher density residential developments between the two areas that is known for subsistence farming which can be seen as an extension of Sinqobile and integration between the two residential areas that should be promoted.

Future expansion of Sinqobile is not possible to the east due to the landscape surrounding the area and the only other option for expansion is towards the south of the railway line and road to Volksrust. Some residential development occurs to the western part of Sinqobile which should be promoted as further integration between the subsistence farming area and the more structured urban area. Care should be taken that proposed development do not infringe on the multiple wetland area to the south of the settlements and detail studies should be undertaken as part of the town planning process.

3.6 Urban Residential Infill Development and densification (Short & medium term expansion)

In the urban areas it is of utmost importance to fill in the residential gaps in order to optimise on the usage of the existing urban infrastructure. It is more cost effective to promote the infill of existing residential areas than to promote green field development outside the existing areas, unless no other space is available for infill development or densification. Residential infill should be introduced over the short and medium term while green field development should be considered as long term extensions.

 Volksrust

The following areas for infill development have been identified:

 Volksrust Extension 6 that has not yet been developed

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 159

 A small area north west of Volksrust Extension 2 to create an integrated infill development with that of Volksrust Extension 6  Area east of Volksrust Extension 6 towards the golf course.  The open space area between Volksrust Extension 1 and 2 where the proclaimed road was proposed, if the road is not to be implemented.

Areas for densification is mainly within the “old town” between Monument and Suid Street where stands are in extent of 2000 m², if it is allowed to be subdivided to at least 1000m² per stand it can create a large number of residential stands and optimise the usage of the existing engineering services.

 Vukuzakhe

The following areas for infill development have been identified:

 The area on the eastern side of the town between the proposed new extension and the Kwa-Zulu Natal border.

Areas for densification were identified west of the school sites in the centre of Vukuzakhe. These stands are in excess of 1100m² which can be subdivided to at least 500m² per stand creating a large number of residential opportunities in the area.

 Amersfoort

No specific areas for infill residential development is proposed for this area but densification is proposed around the CBD area in order to bring people closer to their place of work. This does not mean that applications for densification in other areas should not be permitted.

 Ezamokuhle

Residential infill development is proposed between Ezamokuhle and Amersfoort north of Amersfoort in order to integrate the two towns with each other. Specific densification is not proposed in this town due to the high density that is already established in the town.

 Perdekop/Siyazenzela

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 160

Residential infill development is proposed in Siyazenzela where open areas exist adjacent to existing residential areas in order to optimise on the usage of the engineering services. Residential densification is proposed between the two activity spines where subdivisions have already taken place. Further densification should be encouraged in this area.

 Wakkerstroom/Esizameleni

No residential infill development is proposed for Wakkerstroom due to the large number of existing vacant and underdeveloped stands in the town. Some densification has already occurred outside the Heritage Zone in the south-western part of Wakkerstroom but further investigation will have to be done during LUMS to identify a density strategy for the area. The future residential area proposed to the south of Esizameleni is an attempt to integrate the two towns and provide more stands for higher density development which is not readily available at the moment.

 Daggakraal/Sinqobile

No infill development or densification is proposed in this area, only the proposed residential extensions to the north-east and south-west of the existing town.

3.7 Social infrastructure

It is envisaged that future social facilities will be accommodated in Thusong Centres which is multi- purpose service delivery centres (One stop shops). It is an initiative introduced by the government in 1999 as one of the primary vehicles for the implementation of communication, development and information especially to integrate government services in the primarily rural communities. The government’s vision for the Thusong centres is to provide each South African citizen access to information and services within their neighbourhood by 2014 in order to improve their quality of live through integrated service delivery. Typical services to be rendered at these centres include the services of the following departments and other services:

 Department of Home Affairs  Department of Labour  South African Social Security Agency

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 161

 Department of Social Development  Department of Health  Community development workers  The South African Police Service  NGO’s  Community Based organisations  Tele-centres  The Post Office  Libraries  Agricultural extension offices  Municipal services

Other social infrastructure development is the proposed extension of the cemetery in Vukuzakhe towards the border of Kwa-Zulu Natal. A small extension of the cemetery in Amersfoort to the west of the existing cemetery is also proposed. A regional cemetery is also proposed for the Daggakraal/Sinqobile area north of Daggakraal.

3.8 Industrial Development

The major industrial development within the municipal boundary is located in the eastern part of Volksrust around the railway station. The other industrial node is situated within Amersfoort around the railway station but it has not yet been developed as such, but ample stands are available for this purpose. The Majuba Power Station is the other existing industrial node as well as the Savmore Coal mine in the eastern part of the municipal area.

Some other industrial development nodes were identified for the purpose of the SDF at strategic positions in the urban nodes.

3.9 Extensive Land Use/Agriculture

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 162

Most of the areas outside the urban settlements or rural settlements are suitable for extensive land uses/agricultural purposes and areas where the agricultural potential is high should be preserved only for agricultural purposes.

The following farm portions were identified within the urban edge of the following towns that need to be excluded from the Act 70 of 70 regulations in order to be included for application under the Ordinance 20 of 1986 regulations for future development of the portions due to their locality within the urban edge of the towns:

 Volksrust/Vukuzakhe

Table 24: Act 70 of 70 exclusions Volksrust/Vukuzakhe Farm Name Portion Owner Land Use number Town and Townlands 143/R/2 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal of Volksrust 143-HS 143/R/2(1) Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal 143/R/2(2) Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Government 143/R/2(2) Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Government 143/R/2(3) Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal 143/R/2(99) Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal 143R/5 Volksrust Melkvervoer CC Agriculture 143/R/6 Transnet LTD Railway 143/R/7 Transnet LTD Railway 143/R/8 Jiyane Jacob & Jiyane Siwoko Galina Residential 143/R/9 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal 143/R/11 Transnet LTD Railway 143/R/12 Transnet LTD Railway 143/R/13 Muller Stephanus Sebastiaan Agriculture 143/R/14 Transnet LTD Railway 143/R/15 Transnet LTD Railway 143/R/16 Transnet LTD Railway 143/R/17 Transnet LTD Railway 143/R/18 Transnet LTD Railway 143/R/19 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 163

143/R/20 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal 143/22 Transnet LTD Agriculture 143/R/23 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal 143/28 Werner Stucky Family Trust Vacant 143/30 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal 143/R/32 Transnet LTD Railway 143/34 Transnet LTD Railway 143/R/35 Republic of South Africa Government 143/39 Schutte Frederik Pieter Jacobus Vacant 143/R/44 Republic of South Africa Government 143/46 Transnet LTD Railway 143/47 Transnet LTD Railway 143/50 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal 143/51 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal 143/52 Volksrust High School Education 143/53 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal 143/R/67 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal 143/68 Ingwe Surface Holdings LTD Business 143/73 Werner Stucky Family Trust Vacant 143/75 Eskom Holdings LTD Business 143/76 Transnet LTD Railway 143/78 Republic of South Africa Government 143/81 Transnet LTD Railway 143/82 Transnet LTD Railway 143/83 Transnet LTD Railway 143/84 Transnet LTD Railway 143/86 Transnet LTD Railway 143/87 Transnet LTD Railway 143/88 Transnet LTD Railway 143/89 Transnet LTD Railway 143/96 South African Roads Agency Roads 143/R Republic of South Africa Municipal Smalkloof 122-HS 122/R/1 Hodson Charles Williams Agriculture 122/22 Muller Stephanus Stebastiaan Agriculture

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 164

122/23 Muller Stephanus Stebastiaan Municipal 122/23(1) Muller Stephanus Stebastiaan Business 122/23(99) Muller Stephanus Stebastiaan Agriculture 122/37 Transnet LTD Railway 122/49 Muller Stephanus Stebastiaan Agriculture Droefheid op Noten 140/4 Koekemoer Glaudina Maria Gezina Agriculture 140-HS 140/39 Uys Petrus Johannes Agriculture 140/41 Uys Petrus Johannes Agriculture 140/42 Uys Petrus Johannes Agriculture 140/46 Strydom Deon Agriculture 140/48 Uys Petrus Johannes Agriculture 140/56 Thompson John Agriculture 140/63 RC&L Uys Trust Municipal 140/63(1) RC&L Uys Trust Worship 140/63(99) RC&L Uys Trust Agriculture 140/65 Uys Petrus Johannes Agriculture 140/75 Brandis Willem Petrus Brender Agriculture 140/96 Lello Susanna Hermina Agriculture 140/102 Transnet LTD Railway 140/103 Transnet LTD Railway Source: Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Municipal Valuation Roll - 2008

 Amersfoort/Ezamokuhle

Table 25: Act 70 of 70 exclusions Amersfoort/Ezamokuhle Farm Name Portion Owner Land Use number Amersfoort Town and 57/R/1 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal Townlands 57-HS 57/4 Maree Cornelius Johannes & Maree Agriculture Susanna Josina 57/5 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal 57/6 Transnet LTD Municipal 57/6/(1) Transnet LTD Residential

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 165

57/6/(2) Transnet LTD Industrial 57/6/(99) Transnet LTD Vacant 57/8 Republic of South Africa Government 57/R/11 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal 57/12 Republic of South Africa Government 57/14 Eskom Industrial 57/17 Afgri Operations LTD Business 57/18 Afgri Operations LTD Business 57/R/19 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal 57/30 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal 57/32 Transnet LTD Agriculture 57/33 Transnet LTD Vacant 57/34 Transnet LTD Agriculture 57/36 Amersfoort Skietklub Government 57/38 Amersfoort Rugbyklub/Tennisklub Government 57/43 Wilgeboom Trust Agriculture 57/48 Eskom Agriculture 57/49 Joubert Ethel Margaretha Agriculture 57/50 Republic of South Africa Government 57/51 Republic of South Africa Government 57/52 Republic of South Africa Government 57/53 Van Der Merwe Hendrik Christoffel Agriculture 57/54 Van Rooyen Jan Frederik Rykers Agriculture 57/55 Kruger Daniel Franciskus Agriculture 57/56 Kruger Daniel Franciskus Agriculture 57/58 Wilgeboom Trust Municipal 57/58(1) Wilgeboom Trust Government 57/58(99) Wilgeboom Trust Agriculture 57/60 South African Roads Agency LTD Municipal Vlakplaats 58-HS 58/10 Swart Nicolaas Christoffel Agriculture Source: Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Municipal Valuation Roll - 2008

 Perdekop/Siyazenzela

Table 26: Act 70 of 70 exclusions Perdekop/Siyazenzela

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 166

Farm Name Portion Owner Land Use number Paardekop 76-HS 76/R/3 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal 76/R/5 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Agriculture 76/R/6 Transnet LTD Residential 76/7 Beukes Johannes Christiaan Fredreick Residential 76/8 Beukes Johannes Christiaan Fredreick Residential 76/R/9 Schoonraad Christiaan Johannes Agriculture 76/11 Theron Francois Paulus Agriculture 76/12 Transnet LTD Railway 76/13 Van Dyk Aletta Catharina Agriculture 76/R/14 MC Disai & Sons LTD Agriculture 76/17 Republic of South Africa Government 76/R/19 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Agriculture 76/22 Siyasisana Boerdery CC Agriculture 76/R/23 CTR Farms CC Agriculture 76/R24 MMC Rautenbach Trust Agriculture 76/25 Honingvlei Trust Agriculture 76/26 Bozyl Beleggings CC Agriculture 73/R/27 Bozyl Beleggings CC Agriculture 76/28 Nhlapho Vusumuzi Mika Agriculture 76/29 Bajali Farming Projects CC Agriculture 76/R/30 JV Van Der Merwe Boerdery CC Agriculture 76/31 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Agriculture 76/32 Paardekop Gesondheidskommitee Agriculture 76/34 Mthembu Sikhonde CPA Agriculture 76/35 Transnet LTD Agriculture 76/36 Transnet LTD Agriculture 76/37 Transnet LTD Agriculture 76/38 Transnet LTD Agriculture 76/39 Telkom SA LTD Business 76/40 Republic of South Africa Government 76/41 Transnet LTD Business 76/43 Shabalala Willie Jonas & Shabalala Agriculture

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 167

Phashane Linah 76/44 Eskom Holdings LTD Agriculture 76/46 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal 76/46(1) Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Government 76/46(99) Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Residential 76/49 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Residential 76/50 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal 76/50(1) Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal 76/50(99) Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal 76/52 Mthembu Sikonde CPA Residential 76/R De Wet Familie Trust Agriculture Kopje Alleen 75-HS 75/41 Republic of South Africa Government Source: Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Municipal Valuation Roll - 2008

 Wakkerstroom/Esizameleni

Table 27: Act 70 of 70 exclusions Wakkerstroom/Esizameleni Farm Name Portion Owner Land Use number Townlands of Marthinus 121/R/1 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Agriculture Wesselstroom 121-HT 121/2 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Agriculture 121/3 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal 121/4 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal 121/5 Dana Tehuis vir Senior Burgers Residential 121/10 Republic of South Africa Residential 121/11 Dana Tehuis vir Senior Burgers Residential 121/12 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal 121/13 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal 121/14 Transnet LTD Agriculture

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 168

121/15 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal 121/19 Reynecke Frederik Theodorus Residential 121/20 Van Der Walt Johannes Lodewicus Agriculture 121/24 Tarrant Deborah Jane & Tarrant David Agriculture Campell Haden 121/25 Nkosi Zinhle Zandile Agriculture 121/27 Wheeler Judy-Lynn Agriculture 121/29 Bettiol Leone Grant & Bettiol Gaylen Agriculture Lucille 121/31 Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Municipal 121/33 Makhubu Sipho Jerome Agriculture 121/34 Nkosi Buthibhoyi Samson Agriculture 121/35 Smit Christiaan Andries Agriculture 121/37 Mbatha Mbekeni Zacharia & Mbatha Agriculture Nesta Deliwe 121/38 Berkley Trust Agriculture 121/39 Taynor Tessa Margot Agriculture 121/40 Walster Helena Ann Agriculture 121/41 Smith Alan Joseph Agriculture 121/42 Van Eyk Paula Georgina Agriculture 121/46 Howie Alan Harvey & Howie Julia Agriculture Josina 121/48 Ngwenya Nomini Reginah Agriculture 121/50 Khoza Nomgoibelo Marthinah & Khoza Agriculture Simon Samson 121/52 Sutherland Graham Geofrey Agriculture 121/54 Wilkie Rory Agriculture 121/56 Dana Tehuis vir Senior Burgers Residential 121/57 Grobbelaar Marthinus Agriculture 121/58 Mclelian Bruce Charles & Oosthuizen Agriculture Birgit 121/59 Makhubu Nyanga Solomon Agriculture 121/63 Encor Developers CC Residential 121/69 Michelmore Linda Tracy Agriculture

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 169

121/73 Adventure Unit CC Agriculture 121/77 Madonna Trust Agriculture 121/79 Van Der Watl Johannes Hendrik Agriculture Snyman 121/81 Van Der Walt Susanne Lucille Agriculture 121/83 Wetlands Country House PTY LTD Business 121/85 Dunromin Family Trust Agriculture 121/87 WWF Suid Afrika Government 121/89 Barnard Salomon Johannes & Barnard Agriculture Kathleen Adrian 121/90 Transnet LTD Agriculture 121/91 Transnet LTD Agriculture 121/95 Mare Theofilus Agriculture 121/97 Van der Sandt Paul Agriculture 121/101 Mbatha Mbongeni Amblose & Mbatha Agriculture Nomkhosi Beauty 121/103 Vymar CC Business 121/105 Roos Gysbert Johannes & Roos Maria Agriculture Elizabeth 121/109 Taylor John Leslie Agriculture 121/110 Kohrs Conrad Egmont Agriculture 121/113 Van Eyk Leonard Gordon Agriculture 121/115 Roos Gysbert Johannes & Roos Ronell Agriculture 121/129 Van Zyl Dawid Fourie Agriculture 121/131 Atone Roland Aubrey Agriculture 121/132 Mdaki Stephan Piet Agriculture 121/133 Encor Developers CC Agriculture 121/R Republic of South Africa Municipal 121/R(1) Republic of South Africa Municipal 121/R(2) Republic of South Africa Municipal 121/R(3) Republic of South Africa Municipal 121/R(4) Republic of South Africa Municipal 121/R(5) Republic of South Africa Municipal 121/R6) Republic of South Africa Municipal

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 170

121/R(7) Republic of South Africa Municipal 121/R(8) Republic of South Africa Municipal 121/R(9) Republic of South Africa Municipal 121/R(10) Republic of South Africa Municipal 121/R(99) Republic of South Africa Municipal Source: Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Municipal Valuation Roll - 2008

 Daggakraal/Sinqobile

Daggakraal and Sinqobile are situated on the farms:

 Vlakplaas 87-HS  Vlakpoort 89-HS  Daggakraal 90-HS

The area is known for subsistence farming and therefore no areas are excluded for the purpose Act 70 of 70 except for the areas already transformed into other uses such as government facilities, businesses and institutional facilities. These facilities are listed in the table below.

Table 28: Act 70 of 70 exclusions Daggakraal/Sinqobile Farm Name Portion Owner Land Use number Vlakplaas 87-HS 87/1 Republic of South Africa Government 87/4(1) Dludlu Samuel Mandenkosi & 4 Others Business 87/18(1) Nkosi Teboho Angelina & 1 Other Business 87/19 Christian Apostolic Church-Zion Church 87/54(1) Mwelase Moses Patrick Tansanqa & 5 Church Others 87/64(1) Sithole Gwali Edward Business 87/74(1) Masando Daniel Rooi Business 87/86 Republic of South Africa Government 87/116 Holy Catholic Apostolic Impumalanga Church Church in Zion Vlakplaas 89-HS 89/8 Transnet LTD Business

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 171

89/26 Casbuz INV CC Municipal 89/28 Landless People of Daggakraal Hlanganani Residential Trust 89/36 Vlakpoort Inv Pty Ltd Business 89/38 Transnet LTD Agriculture Daggakraal 90-HS 90/R(5) Native Farmers Association of Africa Government LTD 90/49 Republic of South Africa Government 90/50 Republic of South Africa Government 90/67 Republic of South Africa Government 90/125 Republic of South Africa Government 90/127 Republic of South Africa Government 90/129 Republic of South Africa Government 90/141 Republic of South Africa Government 90/208(1) Twala Nomasonto Elsi Business 90/226)1) Mothopeng George Richard Business 90/249 Daggakraal INV CC Business Source: Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Municipal Valuation Roll - 2008

3.10 Urban Edge

In the formulation of the proposed spatial development framework an urban edge has been identified. This urban edge should be implemented as a planning tool in order to promote the principles and guidelines underpinning this spatial development framework within the urban edge.

3.11 Municipal Solid Waste Site

The only town within the municipality that makes use of a registered solid waste site is Volksrust. The site is situated to the east of the town of the N11 to Amersfoort.

Solid waste site do exists for Amersfoort/Ezamokuhle, Wakkerstroom/Esizameleni, Perdekop/Siyazenzela but no solid waste site exists for Daggakraal/Sinqobile. The registration of these sites should be a major priority for the municipality.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 172

4.0 PRIORITY AREAS AND DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Figures 26 – 32 is a series of figures indicating priority areas relating to sensitive environmental aspects as well as development opportunities within the municipal area. The following paragraphs will further explain the development opportunities and priority areas within the boundary of the municipality.

4.1 Sensitive Natural Area

Development Principle 1 of the GSDM SDF promotes the protection, enhancement and the management of the natural resources within the district. All the sensitive environmental areas and aspects within the municipal area were combined in Figure 31 to present a zone of sensitive natural area within the municipality. This area should be considered as protected and any development proposed in the area should be directed by the different environmental sensitive aspects as described in the environmental section of the SDF.

Furthermore the abundance of conservation and protected areas should also be utilised as part of the natural environment to promote the economy and tourism in the municipal area by developing the areas to attract tourist and promote the attractiveness of the municipality.

4.2 Settlement hierarchy

Development principle 8 of the GSDM SDF mentions that a hierarchy of towns and settlements should be established to ensure equitable access to social infrastructure and the promotion of local economic development by way of Thusong Centres. Pixley Ka Isaka Seme local municipality has two categories of urban settlements, namely urban towns such as Volksrust/Vukuzakhe, Amersfoort/Ezamokuhle, Wakkerstroom/Esizameleni and Perdekop/Siyazenzela and rural towns. Daggakraal and Sinqobile can be described as rural towns in the rural area. The proposed CRDP pilot project close to Heyshope Dam was identified as a rural node as well as another rural node that was identified in the western part of the municipal area. Figure 32 indicates the settlement hierarchy between the urban settlements and the identified rural nodes. Within the municipal context Volksrust/Vukuzakhe is seen as the 1st order urban node with Amersfoort/Ezamokuhle and Wakkerstroom/Esizameleni as the 2nd order urban nodes. Perdekop and Daggakraal/Sinqobile is seen as 3rd order nodes within the hierarchy of settlements. Wakkerstroom was also further identified as a tourism node. This hierarchy of settlements should be utilised to

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 173

contain all development and economic growth relating to the urban ans rural settlements within the municipality.

The two types of settlements mentioned above should serve as focus for development, providing input and output markets, mechanical and other workshops, financial services, and social services such as schools and clinics which will be of benefit to people in the surrounding area. For historical reasons, these functions and links to the rural hinterland often do not exist or are poorly developed. Inter-district transport routes serve migrant labour routes, not the needs of intra- regional trade. Output from the large farms passes through co-operatives to distant markets without serving the needs of small towns. Stores and supermarkets bring in food products over distances rather than attempting to establish local suppliers. There is a need to integrate economic activity in order to generate income from added value at a local level.

4.3 Economic growth of small towns and rural areas

The initiatives necessary for stimulating the economy of small towns and their hinterlands like Perdekop/Siyazenzela and Wakkerstroom/Esizameleni include the following:

 Promote diversification for the local market and training in skills that will add value to agricultural products and tourism outputs.  Ensure that existing social services facilities are widely and efficiently used.  House people closer to their employment, rather than sustaining them in distant settlements which necessitate costly daily transport and subsidies.  Link small towns into regional economies by periodic markets, thus building total production and cash circulation and a more competitive position in the wider economy.

The above is on line with Principle 6 of the GSDM SDF. One development opportunity near Perdekop is the potential for coal mining just south west of the town as indicated by the information from the Council of Geoscience in Figure 19. This development might be the economic injection the small node needs to uplift the community and economic situation of the town. The Wakkerstroom tourism strategy can be implemented to promote the identified tourism node to boost the local economy and make full use of the rich environmental resources available in the area.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 174

Tourism can play an important role in the economic development of the Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality. This is also emphasised in the Mpumalanga Tourism Growth Strategy and vision for 2016 as included in the GSDM SDF. The area around Wakkerstroom was identified as a product development and tourism node with strong linkage opportunities and a place of interest which is the Wetland around the town. Appropriate environmental impact of development in this area should be investigated. Land uses that have a potential negative environmental impact should not be allowed, but the following land uses can be considered according to the Mpumalanga Tourism Growth Strategy:

 Sports Stadium  Cricket Academy  Biopark  Golf Estate  Arts & Design Centre  Interpretative centre  Hunting/fishing resort  Ornithology centre  Museum

The above mentioned guidelines can be utilised to uplift the area and introduce eco-tourism and bioparks with a strong focus on the wetland biodiversity and ornithology that exist in the area. The close proximity of the Kombewaria, Langefontein and Oudehoutdraai nature reserves and Ossewakop protected area can be utilised to create a strong eco-tourism or biopark in the area.

In many cases, the most suitable from of tourism in rural areas is eco-tourism which aims to balance the needs of people with the need to protect the environment. It is low-impact tourism, which means that it aims to disturb the environment as little as possible.

Eco-tourism has the following advantages:

 Eco-tourism projects are more likely to be sustainable because the natural environment is protected  Eco-tourism projects are on a smaller scale than other forms of tourism, which makes it easier for rural communities to participate.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 175

Volksrust also hosts of a rich history connected to the Anglo-Boer War 1899-1902 and other historical events that took place in close proximity of the town and towards Newcastle. Historical sites like the market square, convention bridge, British memorial, Allemansnek, Rustfontein, Roodededraai Museum, Amajuba and O’Neill’s Cottage exist that should be incorporated into a structured programme to attract visitors to the area. Bushman paintings were also found near the foothills of Amajuba. This can be combined with outdoor activities such as horse riding trails, hiking and 4x4 routes to encourage people to visit the town.

This rural development framework of the Department of Land Affairs describes how government, working with rural people, aims to achieve a rapid and sustained reduction in absolute rural poverty.

Specific development aspects to be addressed include the following:

 Institutional development: assisting rural people to set the priorities in their own communities, through effective and democratic bodies, by providing the local capacity and access to funds for them to plan and implement local economic development;  Investment in basic infrastructure and social services: the provision of physical infrastructure (e.g. housing, water and power supply, transport) and social services (e.g. basic health care and schools);  Improvising income and employment opportunities and by broadening access to natural resources (e.g. arable and grazing land, irrigation water, woodland and forests);  Restoration of basic economic rights to marginalised rural areas by establishing periodic markets as the organizing spatial and temporal framework for development;

To meet the backlog in infrastructure in rural areas, government is committed to subsidize the capital for a basic level of service with the following programmes:

 School and clinic building programme, through the national and provincial departments, fully funded by government, with telephones and electricity;  The DWAF Community Water and Sanitation Programme: provide the platform for the implementation of internal bulk and connector water and sanitation projects.  The Department of Constitutional Development’s Consolidated Municipal Infrastructure Programme (MIP): up to R3 000-00 per household for the installation and rehabilitation of internal bulk and connector services, i.e. water and roads.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 176

 The Department of Housing’s National Housing Subsidy up to R 23 100-00 per qualifying person for the land, on-site infrastructure, as well as top structure.  The Department of Land Affairs Settlement/Land Acquisition Grant: up to R 23 100-00 per qualifying person to acquire land and effect homestead and land improvements, through the provision of basic infrastructure as part of the Land Reform Programme.

The potential for local economic development initiatives and job creation in sectors such as commerce: small, medium and micro enterprises: agriculture, forestry, tourism, and labour-intensive public works should be promoted. The prime importance of broadening access to land resources, the establishment of partnerships between local government and the private sector and NGO’s for the promotions of a wide range of enterprises is recognized. These should be built upon to utilized the local natural resource base and of the potential for trading links within an area. These should be strengthened through the establishment of rings of markets for locally and regionally produced goods and services, linking small towns into regional economies, building total production and cash circulation and more competitive position in the wider economy.

Target service levels for different types of rural areas cannot be laid down and factors influencing the level of service provision are: speed of economic growth in the locality; how widely the benefits of that growth are distributed; the capacity of institutions responsible for delivering municipals services and the individual and collective choices of consumers.

The contrast in expected levels of service provision between urban and rural areas reflects the relatively high cost of installation in the latter and the fact that rural people can afford only the lowest level for recurrent costs.

4.4 Agricultural / Small-Scale Farming Development

Labour intensive agricultural enterprises (small-scale farming) should be promoted and supported in order to increase rural employment, production and income in the rural areas. Small-scale farming could provide productions for the immediate local market and for the local industry.

Typical obstacles to the growth and development of the small-scale farming sector include the following:

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 177

 There is inadequate access to land for farming  There is an unwillingness of financial institutions to lend for purchase of basic requirements such as implements and seed  Due to decades of discrimination and repression, there is a lack of skills and knowledge  In many areas, there is a lack of basic infrastructure such as access to water, electricity, and roads, for transporting goods to market  There is a lack of markets at which small farm produce can be exchanged locally, be processed and be bought at low cost for export to regional and national markets  There is a lack of information, which would enable small-scale producers to operate profitably

Three areas of government land were identified through the SDF process that could be utilised for intensive or small scale farming activities through a public private partnership initiative. The areas are indicated with the letter “A” on Figure 32. The 3 areas are also in close proximity to Amersfoort/Ezamokuhle and Daggakraal/Sinqobile which can provide a labour force for the proposed projects. The existing Apple Orchards project in the area of Amersfoort is the type of projects that should be launched and promoted in the rural areas to ensure sustainability and job creation.

4.5 Potential High Income residential development

There is an existing lodge in the south western part of the municipality that has been approved though a DFA application process (indicated by the letter “C”). The rich environmental resources in the municipal area provide the perfect opportunity for more similar development around the tourism node in Wakkerstroom. Two other areas have been identified for proposed high income residential development close to natural resources. The IDP also indicated that the Mahawane waterfall should be rehabilitated and that Martins and Amersfoort Dam should be developed which can also form part of a high income residential development. This is line with development principle 3 of the GSDM SDF to utilise the existing natural resources as tourism anchors and development opportunities.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 178

5.0 IMPLEMENTATION

5.1 Service upgrading priority areas

The local and municipal SDF that forms the basis of this document identified specific projects or areas that need specific inputs in order to bring the proposed SDF to fruition. These projects must also be incorporated into the IDP budget. The following are the most important projects or areas identified during the SDF process:

 1:100 year flood line determination is all settlements to ensure that no further development is situated within the flood line area.  Thusong centres for each administrative unit  Urban Design Framework for Volksrust CBD in order to revive the CBD and prevent degradation of the most important basis of economic development in the municipality.  Sport stadium development in each settlement in order to promote sports and provide decent open spaces for recreation purposes.  Township establishment on all the proposed areas that was earmarked for future development and infill development where necessary  Identification of a new site for the municipal airport should Volksrust Extension 4 be developed  Extension of other social facilities such as cemeteries and libraries  Establishment of communal grazing land for residents of Vukuzakhe  Registration of all municipal waste dump sites within the municipal area  Establishment of new access roads where necessary and upgrading of existing roads and service sin all the settlements  Upgrading of informal settlements identified in Perdekop and the formalisation of the residential area in Sinqobile.  Investigating the possibilities of Public Private Partnerships for future projects close to the workforce  Investigating potential high income residential development and promoting the municipal area for such development.  Investigation of potential mining activity near Perdekop  Potential Dam developments at Amersfoort and Martins dam.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 179

5.2 Requirements for successful implementation

The existence of an SDF for a municipality does not ensure that it will be implemented successfully. The implementation of the SDF should be implemented through the municipality’s IDP, sector plans, strategies and projects, municipal budget and land use management scheme. If the SDF is not implemented through these mechanisms it will never serve the purpose it was intended for.

The capital investment framework proposed in the following section is one of the most important mechanisms for the implementation of the SDF because if there is no money for the projects and plans it will never be implemented. The projects listed are all new projects that resulted from the SDF and should be included in the next IDP review as projects for implementation.

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 180

5.3 Capital Investment Framework

The following tables represent the estimated capital expenditure that is a direct result of the proposed SDF which should inform the IDP and update the budget in the IDP.

2011/12 2012/13 2013 onwards f

e Project/Activity Responsible Department Estimated Project Cost R Allocation Allocation Allocation

VOLKSRUST Planning & Economic 1. Urban Design Framework for CBD R 1 500 000-00 R 750 000-00 R 750 000-00 - Development Technical & Engineering 2. 1:100 year Flood line determination (old town) R 150 000-00 R 150 000-00 - - Services Planning & Economic 3. New municipal airport R 2 500 000-00 R 750 000-00 R 1 750 000-00 Development 4. Sport stadium development Community Services R 2 000 000-00 R 1 000 000-00 R 1 000 000-00 5. Thusong Centre Community Services R 1 000 000-00 R 500 000-00 R 500 000-00 Planning & Economic 6. Densification Strategy R 300 000-00 R 300 000-00 - - Development Planning & Economic 7. Township Establishment: Ext 4 R 1 200 000-00 - - R 1 200 000-00 Development Planning & Economic 8. Township Establishment: North of R543 R 1 500 000-00 - - -R 1 500 000-00 Development Planning & Economic 9. Township Establishment: North of Ext.6 R 800 000-00 - - R 800 000-00 Development Planning & Economic 10. Land Use Management Scheme R 1 821 600-00 R 910 800-00 R 910 800-00 - Development Technical & Engineering 11. Wetland Delineation (old town) R 100 000-00 R 100 000-00 Services VUKUZAKHE Technical & Engineering 1. 1:100 year flood line determination R 200 000-00 R 200 000-00 - - Services

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 181 2. Extension of cemetery Community Services R 500 000-00 R 500 000-00 - - 3. Communal Grazing fields Community Services R 350 000-00 R 350 000-00 - - Planning & Economic 4. Township Establishment: North of R543 R 2 200 000-00 - - R 2 200 000-00 Development 5. Thusong Centre Community Services R 1 500 000-00 R 1 500 000-00 - - Technical & Engineering 6. Register Waste dump site R 350 000-00 R 350 000-00 - - Services AMERSFOORT Technical & Engineering 1. 1:100 year flood line determination R 150 000-00 R 150 000-00 - - Services 2. Extension of cemetery Community Services R 120 000-00 R 120 000-00 - - Planning & Economic 3. Town Planning Residential infill R 150 000-00 R 50 000-00 R 50 000-00 R 50 000-00 Development 4. Thusong Centre Community Services R 1 500 000-00 R 500 000-00 R 500 000-00 R 500 000-00 Technical & Engineering 5. Registered Waste dump site R 350 000-00 R 350 000-00 - - Services EZAMOKUHLE Technical & Engineering 1. 1:100 year flood line determination R 150 000-00 R 150 000-00 - - Services 2. Thusong Centre Community Services R 1 500 000-00 R 500 000-00 R 500 000-00 R 500 000-00 Planning & Economic 3. Township Establishment: North East R 1 200 000-00 R 500 000-00 R 700 000-00 - Development 4. Sport stadium development Community Services R 4 000 000-00 R 1 000 000-00 R 1 000 000-00 R 2 000 000-00 Technical & Engineering 5. Proposed new access road R 3 000 000-00 R1 000 000- R 1 000 000-00 R 1 000 000-00 Services Technical & Engineering 6. Registered Waste dump site R 350 000-00 R 350 000-00 - - Services PERDEKOP/SIYAZENZELA Technical & Engineering 1. 1:100 year flood line determination R 150 000-00 R 150 000-00 - - Services 2. Upgrading of sport stadium Community Services R 2 000 000-00 R 1 000 000-00 R 1 000 000-00 - Planning & Economic 3. Upgrading of informal settlements (R23) R 550 000-00 R 250 000-00 R 300 000-00 - Development Technical & Engineering 4. Registered Waste dump site R 350 000-00 R 350 000-00 - - Services 5. Thusong Centre Community Services R 1 500 000-00 R 500 0000-00 R 500 000-00 R 500 000-00

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010) 182 WAKKERSTROOM/ESIZAMELENI Technical & Engineering 1. 1:100 year flood line determination R 150 000-00 R 150 000-00 Services Technical & Engineering 2. Wetland Delineation R 100 000-00 R 100 000-00 Services 3. Sport stadium development Community Services R 4 000 000-00 R 1 000 000-00 R 1 000 000-00 R 2 000 000-00 Planning & Economic 4. Township Establishment: Esizameleni R 1 191 681-00 R 736 450-00 R 455 231-00 - Development 5. Thusong Centre Community Services R 1 500 000-00 R 500 000-00 R 500 000-00 R 500 000-00 Technical & Engineering 6. Registered Waste dump site R 350 000-00 R 350 000-00 - - Services DAGGAKRAAL/SINQOBILE 1. Thusong Centre Community Services R 1 500 000-00 R 500 000-00 R 500 000-00 R 500 000-00 Planning & Economic 2. Upgrading of non -formal residential area R 850 000-00 R 425 000-00 R 425 000-00 - Development 3. Regional Cemetery Community Services R 850 000-00 R 500 000-00 R 350 000-00 - Technical & Engineering 4. Registered Waste dump site R 350 000-00 R 350 000-00 - - Services NON URBAN AREAS Planning & Economic 1. PPP projects Negotiate with PPP Development Potential High Income Residential Planning & Economic 2. Private Investor Development Development Planning & Economic Negotiate with Dept. Mineral 3. Potential Mining development Development Resources Planning & Economic 4. Potential Dam developments Private Investor Development Planning & Economic 5. Updated Aerial Photography R 1 200 000-00 R 1 200 000-00 - - Development

Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (November 2010)