Draft Basic Assessment Report

PROPOSED UPGRADE OF 30KM ACCESS ROADS AT MBHASHE AND KSD LM, EASTERN CAPE PROVINCE

DEA Reference: 14/12/16/3/3/1/1372

Prepared for:

Element Consulting Engineers 52 Stewart Drive Baysville East London 5241 South Africa

Prepared by:

EAST LONDON 16 Tyrell Road, Berea East London, 5241 043 726 7809 Also in Grahamstown, Port Elizabeth, Cape Town, JHB & Maputo www.cesnet.co.za

May 2015

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

REVISIONS TRACKING TABLE

EOH Coastal and Environmental Services Report Title: Upgrade of Access Roads at Mbhashe and KSD LM Report Version: Draft Project Number: 274

Name Responsibility Signature Date

Nande Suka Report Writer

Nande Suka Project Manager

Alan Carter Reviewer

Copyright This document contains intellectual property and propriety information that are protected by copyright in favour of EOH Coastal & Environmental Services (CES) and the specialist consultants. The document may therefore not be reproduced, used or distributed to any third party without prior written consent of CES. The document is prepared exclusively for submission to Element Consulting Engineers, and is subject to all confidentiality, copyright and trade secrets, rules intellectual property law and practices of South Africa.

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(For official use only) File Reference Number: Application Number: Date Received:

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

Kindly note that:

1. This basic assessment report is a standard report that may be required by a competent authority in terms of the EIA Regulations, 2010 and is meant to streamline applications. Please make sure that it is the report used by the particular competent authority for the activity that is being applied for. 2. This report format is current as of 1 August 2014. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ascertain whether subsequent versions of the form have been published or produced by the competent authority 3. The report must be typed within the spaces provided in the form. The size of the spaces provided is not necessarily indicative of the amount of information to be provided. The report is in the form of a table that can extend itself as each space is filled with typing. 4. Where applicable tick the boxes that are applicable in the report. 5. An incomplete report may be returned to the applicant for revision. 6. The use of “not applicable” in the report must be done with circumspection because if it is used in respect of material information that is required by the competent authority for assessing the application, it may result in the rejection of the application as provided for in the regulations. 7. This report must be handed in at offices of the relevant competent authority as determined by each authority. 8. No faxed or e-mailed reports will be accepted. 9. The signature of the EAP on the report must be an original signature. 10. The report must be compiled by an independent environmental assessment practitioner. 11. Unless protected by law, all information in the report will become public information on receipt by the competent authority. Any interested and affected party should be provided with the information contained in this report on request, during any stage of the application process. 12. A competent authority may require that for specified types of activities in defined situations only parts of this report need to be completed. 13. Should a specialist report or report on a specialised process be submitted at any stage for any part of this application, the terms of reference for such report must also be submitted.

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14. Two (2) colour hard copies and one (1) electronic copy of the report must be submitted to the competent authority. 15. Shape files (.shp) for maps must be included in the electronic copy of the report submitted to the competent authority.

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SECTION A: ACTIVITY INFORMATION

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

1. PROJECT DESCRIPTION a) Describe the project associated with the listed activities applied for

1. Introduction

The department of Rural Development and Land Reform (DRDLR) proposes to pave approximately 30 km of existing access roads at King Sabatha Dalindyebo (KSD) Local Municipality within OR Tambo District Municipality, and at Mbhashe Local Municipality within Amathole District Municipality (as shown in Figure 1.1 below), both in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The proposed access road is not continuous, rather divided into three parts. Access road 1 and 2 are within KSD LM and access road 3 is within Mbhashe LM.

Figure 1.1: Locality map of the proposed access roads (red outlines) within ward 7 & 8 of Mbhashe LM and ward 19 & 20 of KSD LM.

Element Consulting Engineers, as the project engineers, has appointed EOH Coastal & Environmental Services to conduct the Environmental Impact Assessment.

1.1. Project Location and Description

The proposed access roads are within ward 19 & 20 of KSD Local Municipality, within OR Tambo District Municipality, and ward 7 & 8 of Mbhashe Local Municipality within the Amathole District Municipality. The two

5 BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT local municipalities are adjacent to each other, and are separated by the Mbhashe River.

Figure 1.2: Access road 1 proposed for upgrade at KSD LM. This section requires the construction and/or upgrade of four major culverts.

Figure 1.3: Access road 2 proposed for upgrade at KSD LM. This section will require the construction and/or upgrade of four major culverts.

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Figure 1.4: Access road 3 proposed for upgrade at Mbhashe LM. This section will require the construction and/or upgrade of three major culverts.

1.2. Project components

The proposed development entails the paving of a total of 30km access roads. In addition, water use license applications (WULAs) will be submitted in accordance with the National Water Act (Act No. 36 of 1998), regulated by the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) for associated drainage structures.

The following sections along the access roads require the construction of drainage structures as part of the road upgrade:

Access Road 1 (KSD LM) GPS Co-ordinates: 31o 52.459’S 28o 31.774’E GPS Co-ordinates: 31o 52.285’S 28o 32.036’E

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GPS Co-ordinates: 31o 51.395’S 28o 31.848’E GPS Co-ordinates: 31o 50.861’S 28o 31.694’E

Access Road 2 (KSD LM) GPS Co-ordinates: 31o 57.256’S 28o 30.964’E GPS Co-ordinates: 31o 56.332’S 28o 31.973’E

GPS Co-ordinates: 31o 56.299’S 28o 32.069’E GPS Co-ordinates: 31o 56.403’S 28o 32.442’E

Access Road 3 (Mbhashe LM) GPS Co-ordinates: 31o 57.077’S 28o 26.282’E GPS Co-ordinates: 31o 56.778’S 28o 27.170’E

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GPS Co-ordinates: 31o 56.525’S 28o 27.467’E

b) Provide a detailed description of the listed activities associated with the project as applied for

Listed activity as described in GN R.544, 545 Description of project activity and 546 GN. 544:11(vi): The construction of bulk storm Construction of storm water pipes (culverts) in water outlet structures within a watercourse or and within 32m of a watercourse. within 32m of a watercourse. GN. 544:18(i): the infilling or depositing of any The infilling or depositing of materials to and from material of more than 5 cubic meters into, or the a watercourse. dredging, excavation, removal or moving of soil, sand, shells, shell grit, pebbles or rock from a watercourse. GN. 544:39(v): The expansion of bulk storm The expansion of some culverts in and within 32m water outlet structures within a watercourse or of a watercourse. within 32 metres of a watercourse.

2. FEASIBLE AND REASONABLE ALTERNATIVES

“alternatives”, in relation to a proposed activity, means different means of meeting the general purpose and requirements of the activity, which may include alternatives to—

(a) the property on which or location where it is proposed to undertake the activity; (b) the type of activity to be undertaken; (c) the design or layout of the activity; (d) the technology to be used in the activity; (e) the operational aspects of the activity; and (f) the option of not implementing the activity.

Describe alternatives that are considered in this application as required by Regulation 22(2)(h) of GN R.543. Alternatives should include a consideration of all possible means by which the purpose and need of the proposed activity (NOT PROJECT) could be accomplished in the specific instance taking account of the interest of the applicant in the activity. The no-go alternative must in all cases be

9 BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT included in the assessment phase as the baseline against which the impacts of the other alternatives are assessed.

The determination of whether site or activity (including different processes, etc.) or both is appropriate needs to be informed by the specific circumstances of the activity and its environment. After receipt of this report the, competent authority may also request the applicant to assess additional alternatives that could possibly accomplish the purpose and need of the proposed activity if it is clear that realistic alternatives have not been considered to a reasonable extent.

The identification of alternatives should be in line with the Integrated Environmental Assessment Guideline Series 11, published by the DEA in 2004. Should the alternatives include different locations and lay-outs, the co-ordinates of the different alternatives must be provided. The co-ordinates should be in degrees, minutes and seconds. The projection that must be used in all cases is the WGS84 spheroid in a national or local projection. a) Site alternatives

Alternative 1 (preferred alternative) Description Lat (DDMMSS) Long (DDMMSS)

Alternative 2 Description Lat (DDMMSS) Long (DDMMSS)

Alternative 3 Description Lat (DDMMSS) Long (DDMMSS)

In the case of linear activities:

Alternative: Latitude (S): Longitude (E): Alternative S1 (preferred) Access Road 1  Starting point of the activity 31o 56.979’S 28o 25.183’E  Middle/Additional point of the activity 31o 56.607’S 28o 27.407’E  End point of the activity 31o 56.657’S 28o 29.545’E Access Road 2  Starting point of the activity 31o 57.746’S 28o 29.252’E  Middle/Additional point of the activity 31o 57.550’S 28o 30.438’E  End point of the activity 31o 56.343’S 28o 33.209’E Access Road 3  Starting point of the activity 31o 52.220’S 28o 30.651’E  Middle/Additional point of the activity 31o 51.708’S 28o 31.996’E  End point of the activity 31o 50.810’S 28o 31.325’E Alternative S2 (if any)  Starting point of the activity  Middle/Additional point of the activity  End point of the activity

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Alternative S3 (if any)  Starting point of the activity  Middle/Additional point of the activity  End point of the activity No other route alternatives were assessed, as the current development is the upgrade of existing routes.

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

Please refer to Appendix J for the co-ordinates of the routes.

In the case of an area being under application, please provide the co-ordinates of the corners of the site as indicated on the lay-out map provided in Appendix A. b) Lay-out alternatives

No layout alternatives have been assessed as the proposed development entails the upgrade of existing access routes. No roads will be widened or re-routed.

Alternative 1 (preferred alternative) Description Lat (DDMMSS) Long (DDMMSS)

Alternative 2 Description Lat (DDMMSS) Long (DDMMSS)

Alternative 3 Description Lat (DDMMSS) Long (DDMMSS)

c) Technology alternatives

Alternative 1 (preferred alternative) The access road surfaces will be paved with paving blocks instead of tar. Alternative 2

Alternative 3

d) Other alternatives (e.g. scheduling, demand, input, scale and design alternatives)

Alternative 1 (preferred alternative)

Alternative 2

Alternative 3

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e) No-go alternative

The No-Go alternative means leaving the access roads in their current condition. This option will also be assessed.

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

3. PHYSICAL SIZE OF THE ACTIVITY

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

Alternative: Size of the activity: Alternative A11 (preferred activity alternative) m2 Alternative A2 (if any) m2 Alternative A3 (if any) m2

or, for linear activities:

Alternative: Length of the activity: Alternative A1 (preferred activity alternative) 30 000 m Alternative A2 (if any) m Alternative A3 (if any) m

b) Indicate the size of the alternative sites or servitudes (within which the above footprints will occur):

Alternative: Size of the site/servitude: Alternative A1 (preferred activity alternative) m2 Alternative A2 (if any) m2 Alternative A3 (if any) m2

4. SITE ACCESS

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

Describe the type of access road planned:

N/A – Existing access roads will be used.

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

1 “Alternative A..” refer to activity, process, technology or other alternatives.

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5. LOCALITY MAP

An A3 locality map must be attached to the back of this document, as Appendix A. The scale of the locality map must be relevant to the size of the development (at least 1:50 000. For linear activities of more than 25 kilometres, a smaller scale e.g. 1:250 000 can be used. The scale must be indicated on the map.). The map must indicate the following:

 an accurate indication of the project site position as well as the positions of the alternative sites, if any;  indication of all the alternatives identified;  closest town(s;)  road access from all major roads in the area;  road names or numbers of all major roads as well as the roads that provide access to the site(s);  all roads within a 1km radius of the site or alternative sites; and  a north arrow;  a legend; and  locality GPS co-ordinates (Indicate the position of the activity using the latitude and longitude of the centre point of the site for each alternative site. The co-ordinates should be in degrees and decimal minutes. The minutes should have at least three decimals to ensure adequate accuracy. The projection that must be used in all cases is the WGS84 spheroid in a national or local projection).

6. LAYOUT/ROUTE PLAN

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

The site or route plans must indicate the following:

 the property boundaries and numbers of all the properties within 50 metres of the site;  the current land use as well as the land use zoning of the site;  the current land use as well as the land use zoning each of the properties adjoining the site or sites;  the exact position of each listed activity applied for (including alternatives);  servitude(s) indicating the purpose of the servitude;  a legend; and  a north arrow.

7. SENSITIVITY MAP

The layout/route plan as indicated above must be overlain with a sensitivity map that indicates all the sensitive areas associated with the site, including, but not limited to:

 watercourses;  the 1:100 year flood line (where available or where it is required by DWA);  ridges;  cultural and historical features;  areas with indigenous vegetation (even if it is degraded or infested with alien species); and  critical biodiversity areas.

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The sensitivity map must also cover areas within 100m of the site and must be attached in Appendix A.

8. SITE PHOTOGRAPHS

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

9. FACILITY ILLUSTRATION

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

10. ACTIVITY MOTIVATION

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

1. Is the activity permitted in terms of the property’s existing YES NO Please explain land use rights? The proposed activity is permitted as it will not change the current land use option. 2. Will the activity be in line with the following? (a) Provincial Spatial Development Framework (PSDF) YES NO Please explain Road improvements are stipulated in the Eastern Cape PSDF to improve quality of service on existing roads such as relieving traffic congestion, improve road safety. (b) Urban edge / Edge of Built environment for the area YES NO Please explain The proposed activity is within rural areas outside the urban edge, but within an existing road reserve. (c) Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and Spatial Development Framework (SDF) of the Local Municipality (e.g. would the approval of this application compromise YES NO Please explain the integrity of the existing approved and credible municipal IDP and SDF?). The upgrade of internal/access roads in rural areas will not compromise the integrity of existing or approved IDPs or SDFs. The upgrade of access roads is discussed in these documents aimed at meeting infrastructure requirements of the rural population and promoting local economic development and social infrastructure. (d) Approved Structure Plan of the Municipality YES NO Please explain The proposed activity would have no impact on the approved structure plan of the Mbhashe and KSD Local Municipalities as it is line with the plans of the municipalities.

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(e) An Environmental Management Framework (EMF) adopted by the Department (e.g. Would the approval of this application compromise the integrity of the existing YES NO Please explain environmental management priorities for the area and if so, can it be justified in terms of sustainability considerations?) The proposed development would not compromise the integrity of the existing environmental management priorities of the affected areas. (f) Any other Plans (e.g. Guide Plan) YES NO Please explain The proposed development is not inconsistent with other plans such as:  Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan 3. Is the land use (associated with the activity being applied for) considered within the timeframe intended by the existing approved SDF agreed to by the relevant environmental YES NO Please explain authority (i.e. is the proposed development in line with the projects and programmes identified as priorities within the credible IDP)? The proposed activity is in line and one of the key priority programmes of the local municipalities as per the IDP. 4. Does the community/area need the activity and the associated land use concerned (is it a societal priority)? (This refers to the strategic as well as local level (e.g. development is a YES NO Please explain national priority, but within a specific local context it could be inappropriate.) Road improvements may result in easy access to schools and clinics, which is a social benefit for the affected communities. With improved roads, there is also an increase in the delivery of other services, such as water, electricity etc., which will also benefit the community. 5. Are the necessary services with adequate capacity currently available (at the time of application), or must additional capacity be created to cater for the development? YES NO Please explain (Confirmation by the relevant Municipality in this regard must be attached to the final Basic Assessment Report as Appendix I.) The proposed activity does not require water/sewerage infrastructure.

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6. Is this development provided for in the infrastructure planning of the municipality, and if not what will the implication be on the infrastructure planning of the municipality (priority and placement of services and YES NO Please explain opportunity costs)? (Comment by the relevant Municipality in this regard must be attached to the final Basic Assessment Report as Appendix I.) Yes, the proposed development is provided for in the municipal development plans, please see context below from the municipal IDPs of the affected municipalities.

Mbhashe LM 2012/2017

KSD LM IDP Review 2014/15

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7. Is this project part of a national programme to address an YES NO Please explain issue of national concern or importance? The upgrade of access roads is part of internal improvements which are of national importance, and implemented through the municipalities. 8. Do location factors favour this land use (associated with the activity applied for) at this place? (This relates to the YES NO Please explain contextualisation of the proposed land use on this site within its broader context.) The proposed development entails the upgrade of existing access roads. Therefore, the land use will not change.

9. Is the development the best practicable environmental option YES NO Please explain for this land/site? The development constitutes the upgrade of an existing activity, and therefore is the best option as it will not change the character of the current land use.

10. Will the benefits of the proposed land use/development YES NO Please explain outweigh the negative impacts of it? The proposed activity will have low negative impact, as the proposed sites are already transformed. Positively, the proposed activity will improve road safety, with better access to other community facilities, such as schools and clinics.

11. Will the proposed land use/development set a precedent for YES NO Please explain similar activities in the area (local municipality)? No, this activity will not necessarily be a precedent for other road upgrades.

12. Will any person’s rights be negatively affected by the YES NO Please explain proposed activity/ies? No person will be negatively affected by the proposed activity, but rather will benefit those that will be affected.

13. Will the proposed activity/ies compromise the “urban edge” YES NO Please explain as defined by the local municipality? The proposed activity is on existing access roads within rural areas and therefore will not affect the urban edge.

14. Will the proposed activity/ies contribute to any of the 17 YES NO Please explain Strategic Integrated Projects (SIPS)? This is not a SIPS project.

15. What will the benefits be to society in general and to the local Please explain communities? There will be job creation during construction phase, for skilled and semi-skilled labourers as well as skills development. The upgrade will result in safer and better quality roads for its users.

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16. Any other need and desirability considerations related to the proposed Please explain activity? The main aim of upgrading these access roads is to ensure formalised access to the schools in the rural areas, and to the surrounding clinics. 17. How does the project fit into the National Development Plan for 2030? Please explain Through easier access to facilities and economic upliftment of rural communities. 18. Please describe how the general objectives of Integrated Environmental Management as set out in section 23 of NEMA have been taken into account. The following provides an analysis of how the objectives of IEM have been considered in the current Mbhashe and KSD Access Roads Upgrade: The general objective of integrated environmental management is to: (a) promote the integration of the principles of Alignment with NEMA principles described environmental management set out in section 2 into the below (see Section 19 assessment below). making of all decisions which may have a significant effect on the environment: (b) identify, predict and evaluate the actual and potential Implicit in the current EIA process. impact on the environment, socio-economic conditions and cultural heritage, the risks and consequences and alternatives and options for mitigation of activities, with a view to minimizing negative impacts, maximizing benefits. and promoting compliance with the principles of environmental management set out in section 2; (c) ensure that the effects of activities on the environment Implicit in the current EIA process. receive adequate consideration before actions are taken in connection with them; (d) ensure adequate and appropriate opportunity for public The current EIA process has included a participation in decisions that may affect the environment comprehensive PP process, including:  Publicised the project through visible signage, local and regional press adverts, identification of local stakeholders through engagement with King Sabatha Dalindyebo LM, Mbashe LM and other government officials and parastatals.  Engagement with public at various public meetings (e) ensure the consideration of environmental attributes in A comprehensive assessment of the management and decision-making which may have a significance of impacts has been conducted as significant effect on the environment; and part of the BAR. (f) identify and employ the modes of environmental A comprehensive feasibility study, including management best suited to ensuring that a particular activity consideration of environmental issues, was is pursued in accordance with the principles of conducted prior to selecting alternatives routes environmental management set out in section 23. and technologies for inclusion in this EIA assessment.

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19. Please describe how the principles of environmental management as set out in section 2 of NEMA have been taken into account. 2. (1) The principles set out in this Not Applicable Not Applicable section apply throughout the Republic to the actions of all organs of state that may significantly affect the environment and: (a) shall apply alongside all other The onus is on the proponent to Complies appropriate and relevant demonstrate to the authorizing considerations, including the State’s agency (DEA) that the State will The EIA process has been responsibility to respect, protect, not be abrogating its undertaken in order to provide the promote and fulfil the social and responsibility by authorizing the relevant decision-makers with the economic rights in Chapter 2 of the proposed development. required information. Constitution and in particular the basic needs of categories of persons The required EIA should provide disadvantaged by unfair sufficient information for the discrimination; relevant authority to make a defendable and informed decision. (b) serve as the general framework The onus is on the proponent to Complies within which environmental demonstrate to DEA that the management and implementation NEMA principles will not It is the opinion of this review that plans must be formulated; compromised. the proposed project does not conflict with NEMA principles in such a manner that it places undue risks on the natural or socio-economic environment.

Mitigation measures must be effectively implemented (c) serve as guidelines by reference to The onus is on the proponent to Complies which any organ of state must demonstrate to the authorizing exercise any function when taking any agency (DEA) that in providing The EIA process has been decision in terms of this Act or any environmental authorisation the undertaken in order to provide the statutory provision concerning the principles of NEMA are duly relevant decision-makers with the protection of the environment; addressed. required information.

The required EIA should provide sufficient information for the relevant authority to make a defendable and informed decision. (d) serve as principles by reference to Not Applicable Not Applicable which a conciliator appointed under this Act must make recommendations; and (e) guide the interpretation, Not Applicable Not Applicable administration and implementation of this Act, and any other law concerned with the protection or management of the environment.

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(2) Environmental management must The EIA process must Complies place people and their needs at the demonstrate that the needs of forefront of its concern, and serve their local people will be adequately The proposed project will not physical, psychological, addressed and that the result in any undue or developmental, cultural and social development will serve the unacceptable impacts on the local interests equitably. interests of the public equitably. socio-economic environment. Nor will any impacts be unfairly distributed.

Recommendations made in the BAR must be adopted (3) Development must be socially, The EIA process must Complies environmentally and economically demonstrate that the sustainable. development is socially, There is no indication that the environmentally and proposed project would result in economically sustainable. undue or environmental, social and economic impacts that would place at the risk the sustainability of local natural systems or the project.

Recommendations made in the BAR must be adopted (4) (a) Sustainable development requires the consideration of all relevant factors including the following:

(i) that the disturbance of ecosystems The development should not Complies and loss of biological diversity are result in a significant loss of avoided, or, where they cannot be biodiversity. Should any loss Disturbance of local ecosystems altogether avoided, are minimised and occur then the project should must be avoided or impacts must remedied; seek to minimise or remedy the be mitigated. impact or provide suitable off- sets. A rehabilitation plan will assist in reducing the impact and providing benefits in terms of the re- establishment of natural vegetation.

The recommendations made in the Ecological Assessment must be adopted.

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(ii) that pollution and degradation of Certain activities associated Complies the environment are avoided, or, with the project carry risks in where they cannot be altogether terms of pollution and The BAR notes that impacts with avoided, are minimised and remedied; environmental degradation. regard to pollution and This includes: degradation of the environment  Storm water run-off from the can be managed and will not new road surfaces result in an unacceptable impact on the local environment.

The recommendations made in the BAR must be adopted.

Particular focus must be given to the Environmental Management Programme with regard to:  Monitoring of stormwater

(iii) that the disturbance of landscapes The proponent would need to Complies and sites that constitute the nation’s demonstrate that it would not cultural heritage is avoided, or where it impact on sites of valuable Heritage Impact Assessment cannot be altogether avoided, is cultural and historical heritage. conducted minimised and remedied; Recommendations made in the Heritage Impact Assessment must be adopted.

(iv) that waste is avoided, or where it Certain activities associated Complies cannot be altogether avoided, with the project carry risks in minimised and re-used or recycled terms of pollution and The BAR notes that impacts with where possible and otherwise environmental degradation. regard to pollution and disposed of in a responsible manner; degradation of the environment can be managed and will not result in unacceptable impact on the local environment.

The recommendations made in the BAR must be adopted.

Particular focus must be given to the Environmental Management Programme.

(v) that the use and exploitation of NA - the project does not Not Applicable non-renewable natural resources is involve the exploitation of non- responsible and equitable, and takes renewable resources. into account the consequences of the depletion of the resource

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(vi) that the development, use and The project should not involve Complies exploitation of renewable resources the unsustainable use or and the ecosystems of which they are renewable resources and The proponent does not intend part do not exceed the level beyond ecosystems, nor should any nor will support the over-use of which their integrity is jeopardised; related secondary impacts groundwater as a renewable result in increased resource resource. use. Mitigation measures must be effectively implemented, especially on-going monitoring of groundwater levels.

11. APPLICABLE LEGISLATION, POLICIES AND/OR GUIDELINES

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

Title of legislation, policy or Applicability to the project Administering Date guideline authority Constitution Act (No. 108 of The proposed activity has an Constitution Assembly 1996 1996) obligation to ensure that it will not result in pollution and ecological degradation; and that the proposed development is ecologically sustainable, while demonstrating economic and social development. National Environmental An activity listed under NEMA Department of 1998 Management Act (No 107 of listing notices, requires an EIA. Environmental Affairs 1998) (DEA) National Water Act (No. 36 of The proposed activity entails the Department of Water and 1998 1998) construction and upgrading of Sanitation (DWS) stormwater infrastructure, which require an application for water use authorisation. National Environmental The proposed activity is Department of 2004 Management: Biodiversity Act surrounded by a high biodiversity Environmental Affairs (Act No 10 of 2004) area. (DEA)

12. WASTE, EFFLUENT, EMISSION AND NOISE MANAGEMENT a) Solid waste management

Will the activity produce solid construction waste during the construction/initiation YES NO phase? If YES, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? ±40 m3

How will the construction solid waste be disposed of (describe)?

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Solid waste will be collected and transported for disposal at the Mbhashe Local Municipality Landfill site in Dutywa.

Where will the construction solid waste be disposed of (describe)?

Mbhashe Local Municipality Landfill site, in Idutywa

Will the activity produce solid waste during its operational phase? YES NO If YES, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? m3 How will the solid waste be disposed of (describe)? N/A If the solid waste will be disposed of into a municipal waste stream, indicate which registered landfill site will be used. N/A Where will the solid waste be disposed of if it does not feed into a municipal waste stream (describe)?

If the solid waste (construction or operational phases) will not be disposed of in a registered landfill site or be taken up in a municipal waste stream, then the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA.

Can any part of the solid waste be classified as hazardous in terms of the NEM:WA? YES NO If YES, inform the competent authority and request a change to an application for scoping and EIA. An application for a waste permit in terms of the NEM:WA must also be submitted with this application.

Is the activity that is being applied for a solid waste handling or treatment facility? YES NO If YES, then the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA. An application for a waste permit in terms of the NEM:WA must also be submitted with this application. b) Liquid effluent

Will the activity produce effluent, other than normal sewage, that will be disposed of YES NO in a municipal sewage system? If YES, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? m3 Will the activity produce any effluent that will be treated and/or disposed of on site? YES NO If YES, the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA.

Will the activity produce effluent that will be treated and/or disposed of at another YES NO facility? If YES, provide the particulars of the facility: Facility name: N/A Contact N/A person: Postal N/A address: Postal code: N/A Telephone: N/A Cell: N/A E-mail: N/A Fax: N/A

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Describe the measures that will be taken to ensure the optimal reuse or recycling of waste water, if any:

N/A c) Emissions into the atmosphere

Will the activity release emissions into the atmosphere other that exhaust emissions YES NO and dust associated with construction phase activities? If YES, is it controlled by any legislation of any sphere of government? YES NO If YES, the applicant must consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA. If NO, describe the emissions in terms of type and concentration: Some dust will be generated during the construction phase. This however, is expected to be of low severity over a shorty time period and will be mitigated. d) Waste permit

Will any aspect of the activity produce waste that will require a waste permit in terms YES NO of the NEM:WA?

If YES, please submit evidence that an application for a waste permit has been submitted to the competent authority e) Generation of noise

Will the activity generate noise? YES NO If YES, is it controlled by any legislation of any sphere of government? YES NO

Describe the noise in terms of type and level: Noise will occur during the construction period when heavy equipment will be used. Noise issues will be mitigated.

13. WATER USE

Please indicate the source(s) of water that will be used for the activity by ticking the appropriate box(es):

River, stream, The activity will Municipal Water board Groundwater Other dam or lake not use water

If water is to be extracted from groundwater, river, stream, dam, lake or any other N/A litres natural feature, please indicate the volume that will be extracted per month: Does the activity require a water use authorisation (general authorisation or water YES NO use license) from the Department of Water Affairs? If YES, please provide proof that the application has been submitted to the Department of Water Affairs.

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14. ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Describe the design measures, if any, which have been taken to ensure that the activity is energy efficient:

N/A

Describe how alternative energy sources have been taken into account or been built into the design of the activity, if any:

N/A

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SECTION B: SITE/AREA/PROPERTY DESCRIPTION

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

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

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

3. Has a specialist been consulted to assist with the completion of this section? YES NO If YES, please complete the form entitled “Details of specialist and declaration of interest” for each specialist thus appointed and attach it in Appendix I. All specialist reports must be contained in Appendix D.

Property Province Eastern Cape description/physi District  Amathole District Municipality cal address: Municipality  OR Tambo District Municipality Local Municipality  Mbhashe Local Municipality  King Sabatha Dalindyebo Local Municipality Ward Number(s)  Mbhashe LM – Ward 7 & 8  KSD LM – Ward 19 & 20 Farm name and N/A number Portion number N/A SG Code N/A

Where a large number of properties are involved (e.g. linear activities), please attach a full list to this application including the same information as indicated above.

Current land-use Affected land: road reserve zoning as per Surrounding land: communal (agriculture and residential) local municipality IDP/records: In instances where there is more than one current land-use zoning, please attach a list of current land use zonings that also indicate which portions each use pertains to, to this application.

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

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1. GRADIENT OF THE SITE

Indicate the general gradient of the site.

Alternative S1: Flat 1:50 – 1:20 1:20 – 1:15 1:15 – 1:10 1:10 – 1:7,5 1:7,5 – 1:5 Steeper than 1:5 Alternative S2 (if any): Flat 1:50 – 1:20 1:20 – 1:15 1:15 – 1:10 1:10 – 1:7,5 1:7,5 – 1:5 Steeper than 1:5 Alternative S3 (if any): Flat 1:50 – 1:20 1:20 – 1:15 1:15 – 1:10 1:10 – 1:7,5 1:7,5 – 1:5 Steeper than 1:5

2. LOCATION IN LANDSCAPE

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

2.1 Ridgeline 2.4 Closed valley 2.7 Undulating plain / low hills X 2.2 Plateau 2.5 Open valley 2.8 Dune 2.3 Side slope of hill/mountain 2.6 Plain 2.9 Seafront 2.10 At sea

3. GROUNDWATER, SOIL AND GEOLOGICAL STABILITY OF THE SITE

Is the site(s) located on any of the following?

Alternative S1: Alternative S2 Alternative S3 (if any): (if any): Shallow water table (less than 1.5m deep) YES NO YES NO YES NO Dolomite, sinkhole or doline areas YES NO YES NO YES NO Seasonally wet soils (often close to water YES NO YES NO YES NO bodies) Unstable rocky slopes or steep slopes with YES NO YES NO YES NO loose soil Dispersive soils (soils that dissolve in water) YES NO YES NO YES NO Soils with high clay content (clay fraction more YES NO YES NO YES NO than 40%) Any other unstable soil or geological feature YES NO YES NO YES NO An area sensitive to erosion YES NO YES NO YES NO

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

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4. GROUNDCOVER

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

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

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

5. SURFACE WATER

Indicate the surface water present on and or adjacent to the site and alternative sites?

Perennial River YES NO UNSURE Non-Perennial River YES NO UNSURE Permanent Wetland YES NO UNSURE Seasonal Wetland YES NO UNSURE Artificial Wetland YES NO UNSURE Estuarine / Lagoonal wetland YES NO UNSURE

If any of the boxes marked YES or UNSURE is ticked, please provide a description of the relevant watercourse.

The proposed access roads are associated with the Mbhashe River and many of its tributaries and drainage lines.

6. LAND USE CHARACTER OF SURROUNDING AREA

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

Natural area Dam or reservoir Polo fields Low density residential Hospital/medical centre Filling station H Medium density residential School Landfill or waste treatment site High density residential Tertiary education facility Plantation Informal residentialA Church Agriculture Retail commercial & warehousing Old age home River, stream or wetland Light industrial Sewage treatment plantA Nature conservation area Medium industrial AN Train station or shunting yard N Mountain, koppie or ridge Heavy industrial AN Railway line N Museum

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Power station Major road (4 lanes or more) N Historical building Office/consulting room Airport N Protected Area Military or police Harbour Graveyard base/station/compound Spoil heap or slimes damA Sport facilities Archaeological site Quarry, sand or borrow pit Golf course Other land uses (describe)

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

N/A

If any of the boxes marked with an "An" are ticked, how will this impact / be impacted upon by the proposed activity? Specify and explain:

N/A

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

N/A

Does the proposed site (including any alternative sites) fall within any of the following:

Critical Biodiversity Area (as per provincial conservation plan) YES NO Core area of a protected area? YES NO Buffer area of a protected area? YES NO Planned expansion area of an existing protected area? YES NO Existing offset area associated with a previous Environmental Authorisation? YES NO Buffer area of the SKA? YES NO

If the answer to any of these questions was YES, a map indicating the affected area must be included in Appendix A.

7. CULTURAL/HISTORICAL FEATURES

Are there any signs of culturally or historically significant elements, as defined in YES NO section 2 of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999, (Act No. 25 of 1999), including Archaeological or paleontological sites, on or close (within 20m) to the Uncertain site? If YES, explain: The proposed development comprises the upgrade of existing roads, and therefore it is not anticipated that it will affect any culturally or historically significant elements such as graves. There will be no road widening or re-routing, therefore no new alignments will be established.

If uncertain, conduct a specialist investigation by a recognised specialist in the field (archaeology or palaeontology) to establish whether there is such a feature(s) present on or close to the site. Briefly explain the findings of the specialist: N/A

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Will any building or structure older than 60 years be affected in any way? YES NO Is it necessary to apply for a permit in terms of the National Heritage Resources YES NO Act, 1999 (Act 25 of 1999)? If YES, please provide proof that this permit application has been submitted to SAHRA or the relevant provincial authority.

8. SOCIO-ECONOMIC CHARACTER a) Local Municipality

Please provide details on the socio-economic character of the local municipality in which the proposed site(s) are situated.

Level of unemployment:

The proposed activity is located within the boundaries of two local and district municipalities in the Eastern Cape, namely Mbhashe LM (Amathole DM) and KSD LM (OR Tambo DM).

1. Mbhashe Local Municipality

Of the 30 840 economically active people, 42.3% is unemployed, and of the 16 348 economically active youth, 50.7% is unemployed (Stats SA 2011).

2. King Sabatha Dalindyebo Local Municipality

Of the 95 577 economically active people, 38.3% is unemployed, and of the 51 496 economically active youth, 48.3% is unemployed (Stats SA 2011).

Economic profile of local municipality:

1. Mbhashe Local Municipality

MLM economy is dominated by the general government sector, followed by wholesale and retail trade and community, social and personal services. There has been a slight improvement in all indicated sectors except mining and quarrying, and wholesale and retail trade where there has been a decline. Community, social and personal services, and general government has remained unchanged. This is of concern as these are the largest contributors to the economy (Stats SA 2011).

2. King Sabatha Dalindyebo Local Municipality

A disaggregation of employment by the economic sector further helps to unmask the challenge of employment within the municipality. Government and the community services sectors accounted for the largest share (54%) of employment in 2008, followed by the Finance and the Wholesale and Trade sectors which respectively accounted for 9 and 8%. Agriculture, which has been defined as one of the leading economic sectors of the municipality accounted for less than 1% of the total employment (Stats SA 2011).

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Level of education:

1. Mbhashe Local Municipality (MLM)

The most recent population data for MLM is provided by Statistics SA Census 2011. MLM has a total population of 254 909 with nearly all the people (99.4%) residing in the municipality being black African. Of those which are economically active (20 years and older) the highest proportion of the population (31.8%) have only reached secondary education, with a small proportion (5.1%) having had some form of higher education (Stats SA 2011).

2. King Sabatha Dalindyebo Local Municipality

The most recent population data for KSDLM is provided by Statistics SA 2011 Census. The population of the municipality (of 451 710 people) comprises mainly black African people with more than half of the population being female (53.9%). A large proportion of the population have only reached some primary education level (48%), with less only completing some secondary education (31.9%) (Stats SA 2011). b) Socio-economic value of the activity

What is the expected capital value of the activity on completion? Undetermined What is the expected yearly income that will be generated by or as a result of the Undetermined activity? Will the activity contribute to service infrastructure? YES NO Is the activity a public amenity? YES NO How many new employment opportunities will be created in the development and Undetermined construction phase of the activity/ies? What is the expected value of the employment opportunities during the Undetermined development and construction phase? What percentage of this will accrue to previously disadvantaged individuals? Undetermined How many permanent new employment opportunities will be created during the Undetermined operational phase of the activity? What is the expected current value of the employment opportunities during the Undetermined first 10 years? What percentage of this will accrue to previously disadvantaged individuals? Undetermined

9. BIODIVERSITY

Please note: The Department may request specialist input/studies depending on the nature of the biodiversity occurring on the site and potential impact(s) of the proposed activity/ies. To assist with the identification of the biodiversity occurring on site and the ecosystem status consult http://bgis.sanbi.org or [email protected]. Information is also available on compact disc (cd) from the Biodiversity-GIS Unit, Ph (021) 799 8698. This information may be updated from time to time and it is the applicant/ EAP’s responsibility to ensure that the latest version is used. A map of the relevant biodiversity information (including an indication of the habitat conditions as per (b) below) and must be provided as an overlay map to the property/site plan as Appendix D to this report.

31 BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT a) Indicate the applicable biodiversity planning categories of all areas on site and indicate the reason(s) provided in the biodiversity plan for the selection of the specific area as part of the specific category)

If CBA or ESA, indicate the reason(s) for its Systematic Biodiversity Planning Category selection in biodiversity plan Surrounding area of access road 2 falls under CBA2 due to the vegetation type. This is classified as an area of high conservation value. However, as there will not be any road widening Ecological Other No Natural Critical Support Natural Area (construction will be limited to the already Biodiversity Area Area Remaining transformed access road section); the Area (CBA) (ESA) (ONA) (NNR) surrounding CBA2 portions will not be impacted. Most of the area proposed for the road upgrade has no natural area remaining, as it is either degraded or transformed. b) Indicate and describe the habitat condition on site

Percentage of Description and additional Comments and habitat Observations Habitat Condition condition (Including additional insight into condition, e.g. poor class (adding land management practises, presence of quarries, up to 100%) grazing, harvesting regimes etc). The dominant vegetation type present on site (Eastern Natural 0 % Valley Bushveld) is classified as “Least Threatened” by Near Natural SANBI, most of the affected vegetation is already highly (includes areas with impacted by human activities such as transport routes and low to moderate level 10 % grazing. Therefore the vegetation is not considered as of alien invasive “pristine”. plants) Degraded (includes areas 20 % heavily invaded by alien plants) Transformed (includes cultivation, 70 % dams, urban, plantation, roads, etc) c) Complete the table to indicate: (i) the type of vegetation, including its ecosystem status, present on the site; and (ii) whether an aquatic ecosystem is present on site.

Terrestrial Ecosystems Aquatic Ecosystems Ecosystem threat Critical Wetland (including rivers, Estuary Coastline

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Terrestrial Ecosystems Aquatic Ecosystems status as per the Endangered depressions, channelled and National Vulnerable unchanneled wetlands, flats, Environmental seeps pans, and artificial Management: Least wetlands) Biodiversity Act (Act Threatened YES NO UNSURE YES NO YES NO No. 10 of 2004) d) Please provide a description of the vegetation type and/or aquatic ecosystem present on site, including any important biodiversity features/information identified on site (e.g. threatened species and special habitats)

Biophysical Environment

Climate The study area is close to Idutywa in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The climatic conditions of the study area are therefore drawn from the area of Idutywa.

The study area receives approximately 534mm of rain per year, with most rainfall occurring during summer. It receives the lowest rainfall in June (7mm) and the highest in March (77mm). The average midday temperature ranges from 18.3oC in July to 25oC in February (Figure 9.1).

Figure 9.1: Average rainfall and temperature variation over a 12 month period throughout the study area.

Topography The elevation profile varies throughout the study area. The access roads are located at various elevations ranging from the lowest point of approximately 500 metres above sea level to the highest point of approximately 800 metres above sea level (Figure 9.2.). The topography of the study area can be described as undulating to moderately steep slopes.

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Figure 9.2: Contour map showing the variation in the elevation profile of the study area.

Geology and Soils The area is underlain by the sediments of the Karoo Supergroup with the mudstones and lesser sandstones of the Adelaide and Tarkastad Subgroups dominant, and some Ecca Group shale. Some areas comprise mudstone with subordinate sandstone of the Adelaide Subgroup, and are intruded by Karoo dolerite dykes and sills. The substrate is primarily loamy soils, but there is significant variability (Figure 9.3).

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Figure 9.3: The geology of the surrounding for the proposed access roads upgrade in Mbhashe and KSD LM.

Vegetation According to SANBI (Mucina and Rutherford, 2006) the vegetation types found in the area include Bhisho Thornveld and Eastern Valley Bushveld (Figure 9.4).

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Figure 9.4: SANBI vegetation map of the surrounding area for the proposed access roads upgrade in KSD and Mbhashe LM.

Bhisho Thornveld comprises of open savannah characterised by small trees of Acacia natalitia with a short to medium, dense, sour grassy understorey, usually dominated by Themeda triandra. A diversity of other woody species also occurs, often increasing under conditions of overgrazing. Bhisho Thornveld is classified “Least Threatened” by Mucina and Rutherford (2006).

Eastern Valley Bushveld is characterised by semi-deciduous savannah woodlands in a mosaic with thicket, often succulent and dominated by species of Euphorbia and Aloe. Eastern Valley Bushveld is classified as “Least Threatened” by Mucina and Rutherford (2006).

Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (ECBCP) The ECBCP is a first attempt for detailed, low-level conservation mapping for land-use planning purposes. The main outputs of the ECBCP are “critical biodiversity areas” or CBAs. Land use management of these areas is classified according to terrestrial Biodiversity Land Management Classes (BLMCs).

A small portion of the study area falls in an area categorised as CBA 2, while a significantly greater portion of the study area is not within a critical biodiversity area (Figure 9.5).

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Figure 9.5: ECBCP map of the surrounding area for the proposed access roads upgrade in Mbhashe and KSD LM.

The recommended land use management for CBA 2 involves maintaining biodiversity in a near natural state with minimal loss of ecosystem integrity. Site observations have confirmed that this site is degraded/transformed by the existing access route, and therefore the proposed development will not disturb any natural or near natural ecosystems.

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SECTION C: PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

1. ADVERTISEMENT AND NOTICE

Publication name Daily Dispatch Date published 120 November 2014 Site notice position Latitude Longitude 31o 50.775’S 28o 31.372’E 31o 56.792’S 28o 25.043’E Date placed 28 January 2015

Include proof of the placement of the relevant advertisements and notices in Appendix E1.

2. DETERMINATION OF APPROPRIATE MEASURES

Provide details of the measures taken to include all potential I&APs as required by Regulation 54(2)(e) and 54(7) of GN R.543.

Key stakeholders (other than organs of state) identified in terms of Regulation 54(2)(b) of GN R.543:

Title, Name and Surname Affiliation/ key stakeholder status Contact details (tel number or e-mail address) Lizna Fourie (Licensing) DWS [email protected] Sello Mokhanya ECPHRA [email protected]

Include proof that the key stakeholder received written notification of the proposed activities as Appendix E2. This proof may include any of the following:

 e-mail delivery reports;  registered mail receipts;  courier waybills;  signed acknowledgements of receipt; and/or  or any other proof as agreed upon by the competent authority.

3. ISSUES RAISED BY INTERESTED AND AFFECTED PARTIES

Summary of main issues raised by I&APs Summary of response from EAP None yet received, BAR still has to undergo Public Review.

4. COMMENTS AND RESPONSE REPORT

The practitioner must record all comments received from I&APs and respond to each comment before the Draft BAR is submitted. The comments and responses must be captured in a comments and response report as prescribed in the EIA regulations and be attached to the Final BAR as Appendix E3.

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5. AUTHORITY PARTICIPATION

Authorities and organs of state identified as key stakeholders:

Authority/Organ Contact Tel No Fax No e-mail Postal of State person address (Title, Name and Surname) DEDEAT Briant [email protected] (Amathole) Noncembu DEDEAT (OR Qondile [email protected] Tambo) Paliso DWS Lizna Fourie [email protected] ECPHRA (EC Sello s.mokhanya@[email protected] Heritage) Mokhanya

Include proof that the Authorities and Organs of State received written notification of the proposed activities as appendix E4.

In the case of renewable energy projects, Eskom and the SKA Project Office must be included in the list of Organs of State.

6. CONSULTATION WITH OTHER STAKEHOLDERS

Note that, for any activities (linear or other) where deviation from the public participation requirements may be appropriate, the person conducting the public participation process may deviate from the requirements of that sub-regulation to the extent and in the manner as may be agreed to by the competent authority.

Proof of any such agreement must be provided, where applicable. Application for any deviation from the regulations relating to the public participation process must be submitted prior to the commencement of the public participation process.

A list of registered I&APs must be included as appendix E5.

Copies of any correspondence and minutes of any meetings held must be included in Appendix E6.

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SECTION D: IMPACT ASSESSMENT

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

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

Provide a summary and anticipated significance of the potential direct, indirect and cumulative impacts that are likely to occur as a result of the planning and design phase, construction phase, operational phase, decommissioning and closure phase, including impacts relating to the choice of site/activity/technology alternatives as well as the mitigation measures that may eliminate or reduce the potential impacts listed. This impact assessment must be applied to all the identified alternatives to the activities identified in Section A(2) of this report.

DISTRIBUTION OF IMPACTS

The following table provides a summary of the distribution of impacts in terms of High, Medium and Low significance, pre and post mitigation.

Summary of impact assessment significance, pre- and post-mitigation PRE-MITIGATION POST-MITIGATION

LOW MODERATE HIGH LOW MODERATE HIGH

Planning and 0 6 1 7 0 0 Design

Construction 2 8+1 beneficial 2 13 1 beneficial 0

Operation 0 1 0 1 0 0

TOTAL 2 16 3 21 1 0

As can be seen, ALL HIGH impacts could be mitigated to a MODERATE or LOW level with the implementation of appropriate mitigation measures.

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS (all impacts that are High pre-mitigation)

The proposed development will result in a number of impacts, both positive and negative, during the Planning and Design, Construction and Operation Phases (see table below). The following table provides a summary of the pre-mitigation impacts that were ranked as HIGH.

PLANNING & DESIGN PHASE

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Significance Significance post- Impacts pre-mitigation mitigation

ECOLOGICAL Soil erosion and sedimentation HIGH LOW NEGATIVE - Inappropriate road stormwater design may lead to an NEGATIVE increase in surface soil erosion and subsequently sedimentation of the surrounding rivers and streams.

CONSTRUCTION PHASE Significance Significance post- Impacts pre-mitigation mitigation STORM WATER MANAGEMENT Offsite contamination due to runoff. HIGH LOW NEGATIVE - Contaminants such as silt, sand, litter and hazardous NEGATIVE substances and residues may be transported offsite via surface runoff and contaminate the surrounding environment. HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE STORAGE & USAGE Site contamination due to hazardous substance spillage. HIGH LOW NEGATIVE - Spillage of any hazardous substances such as fuel, NEGATIVE chemicals, paint, etc. can contaminate underlying soil; and surface and groundwater resources.

A complete impact assessment in terms of Regulation 22(2)(i) of GN R.543 must be included as Appendix F.

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2. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT

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

CONSIDERATION OF ALTERNATIVES

The following alternatives were assessed as part of the Basic Assessment:  Proposed access road, with technology and design alternatives.  No-Go or no development option.

OPINION OF THE EAP

EOH Coastal and Environmental Services (the EAP) hereby provides the following opinion concerning the proposed upgrade of access roads in ward 7 & 8 of Mbhashe LM and ward 19 & 20 of KSD LM.

It is the opinion of EOH Coastal and Environmental Service that NO FATAL FLAWS are associated with the proposed upgrade of Mbhashe and KSD LM access roads and that all impacts can be adequately mitigated to reduce the risk or significance of impacts to an acceptable level.

It is the opinion of EOH CES that the Basic Assessment Report contains sufficient information to allow DEA to make an informed decision. EOH CES therefore recommends that the application for Authorisation should be approved on condition that the recommended mitigation measures stated herein are effectively implemented.

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SECTION E. RECOMMENDATION OF PRACTITIONER

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

If “NO”, indicate the aspects that should be assessed further as part of a Scoping and EIA process before a decision can be made (list the aspects that require further assessment). N/A

If “YES”, please list any recommended conditions, including mitigation measures that should be considered for inclusion in any authorisation that may be granted by the competent authority in respect of the application.

PLANNING AND DESIGN PHASE POLICY COMPLIANCE - The development must comply with relevant legislation and/or policy, e.g. ECBCP, Municipal By-laws, SDFs, etc.

STORMWATER - Flood attenuation and storm water management plans must be drawn up by a qualified engineer and approved by DWS.

ACCESS ROAD DESIGN - Culverts must be designed to accommodate for proper drainage of surface water away from the road and that it does not cause any erosion. - Water Use License applications for culverts must be submitted to DWS to ensure compliance to their DWS standards.

HERITAGE - If human graves are exposed, all work activity in the vicinity must cease immediately, and the Eastern Cape Provincial Heritage Resources Agency (ECPHRA), Heritage Specialist and the SAPS need to be informed.

WASTE MANAGEMENT - A proper waste management plan must be drawn and included in the Construction Environmental Management Programme (EMPr) and is implemented.

ECOLOGICAL - An Environmental Control Officer (ECO) must be appointed to oversee construction activities. - Locality of ancillary activities e.g. camp sites in these areas must be limited in areas where pristine and semi-pristine Bisho Thornveld and Eastern Cape Bushveld are found, as this could result in the loss of vegetation. - Appropriate stormwater structures must be designed and implemented. - All road sections situated on slopes must incorporate storm water diversion - All stormwater structures must be designed in line with DWS requirements. - An Erosion Action Plan must be developed and implemented. CONSTRUCTION PHASE AIR POLLUTION

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- Cleared surfaces must be dampened whenever possible and especially in dry and windy conditions to avoid excessive dust generation. - Any soil excavated, and not utilised for rehabilitation, must be removed from site or covered and no large mounds of soil should be left behind after construction.

NOISE POLLUTION - Construction activity which includes the movement of construction vehicles must be restricted to normal working hours (7:00am – 17:00pm).

HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES STORAGE & USAGE - Concrete must not be mixed directly on the ground, or during rainfall events when the potential for transport to the stormwater system is the greatest (as per the EMPr). - Concrete must be mixed only in the area demarcated for this purpose and on an impermeable surface. - Oil trays must be placed under the machinery to avoid soil contamination. - All areas affected during the Construction Phase should be rehabilitated - Hazardous Chemical Substances Regulations promulgated in terms of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993 and the SABS Code of Practise must be adhered to. This applies to solvents and other chemicals possibly used in the construction process. - Depending on the nature and extent of the spill, contaminated soil must be either excavated or treated on- site. - The ECO must determine the precise method of treatment of polluted soil. - This could involve the application of soil absorbent materials or oil-digestive powders to the contaminated soil. - If a spill occurs on an impermeable surface such as cement or concrete, the surface spill must be contained using oil absorbent materials. - Contaminated remediation materials must be carefully removed from the area of the spill so as to prevent further release of petrochemicals to the environment, and stored in adequate containers until appropriate disposal. - The individual responsible for or who discovers the petrochemical spill must report the incident to the Project Coordinator, ECO and or Contractor as soon as reasonably possible. - The problem must be assessed and the necessary actions required will be undertaken. - The immediate response must be to contain the spill. - Staff that will be handling hazardous materials must be trained to do so. - Hazardous Chemical Substances Regulations promulgated in terms of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993 and the SABS Code of Practise must be adhered to. This applies to solvents and other chemicals possibly used in the construction time. - All hazardous chemicals must be properly stored in a secure, bunded and contained area.

WORKER HEALTH AND SAFETY - Adequate sanitary and ablutions facilities must be provided for construction workers - The facilities must be regularly serviced to reduce the risk of surface or groundwater pollution. - Contaminated wastewater must be managed by the Contractor to ensure existing water resources on the site are not contaminated. - All wastewater from general activities in the camp must be collected and removed from the site for appropriate disposal at a licensed commercial facility.

WASTE MANAGEMENT - Construction rubble must be disposed of in pre – agreed, demarcated spoil dumps that have been approved

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by the KSD Local Municipality or Mbhashe Local Municipality. - Littering by the employees of the Contractor must not be allowed under any circumstances. The ECO must monitor the neatness of the work sites as well as the Contractor campsite. - All waste must be removed from the site and transported to the landfill site in Idutywa.

ECOLOGICAL - An Environmental Control Officer (ECO) must be appointed to oversee construction activities and to assist in identifying suitable areas for the establishment of camp sites and other construction amenities.

RIVERS & STREAMS - Ensure that no construction rubble is left in these rivers and streams after completion of work. - The river/stream must be returned to its natural state after construction.

STORMWATER MANAGEMENT - The site must be managed in a manner that prevents pollution of drains, downstream watercourses or groundwater, due to suspended solids, silt or chemical pollutants. - The area must be monitored by an ECO on a regular basis as described in the EMPr. OPERATIONAL PHASE EROSION - Recommendations of the Stormwater management plan must be implemented. - Vegetation should be retained where possible to avoid soil erosion - Re-vegetation of disturbed surfaces must occur immediately after the construction activities are completed to encourage soil binding. - The site must be monitored by the ECO on the competence of the rehabilitation and re-vegetation process, and to ensure no alien vegetation recurs on site.

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

The details of the EAP who compiled the BAR and the expertise of the EAP to perform the Basic Assessment process must be included as Appendix H.

If any specialist reports were used during the compilation of this BAR, please attach the declaration of interest for each specialist in Appendix I.

Any other information relevant to this application and not previously included must be attached in Appendix J.

______NAME OF EAP

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______SIGNATURE OF EAP DATE

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SECTION F: APPENDIXES

The following appendixes must be attached:

Appendix A: Maps

Appendix B: Photographs

Appendix C: Facility illustration(s)

Appendix D: Specialist reports (including terms of reference)

Appendix E: Public Participation

Appendix F: Impact Assessment

Appendix G: Environmental Management Programme (EMPr)

Appendix H: Details of EAP and expertise

Appendix I: Specialist’s declaration of interest

Appendix J: Additional Information

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Appendix A: Maps

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A-1: Map showing the locality of the proposed activity of KSD and Mbhashe LM access roads, in reference to the surrounding municipalities and towns.

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A-2: The route plan for the proposed Mbhashe and KSD LM access roads.

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A-3: Sensitivity map of the areas surrounding the proposed Mbhashe and KSD LM access roads proposed for upgrade.

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A-4: SANBI Vegetation map of the area surrounding the Mbhashe and KSD access roads proposed for upgrade.

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Appendix B: Photographs

Photographs were taken every few hundred metres along the access routes proposed for upgrade, and on site possibly requiring stormwater infrastructure.

Access Road 1 (KSD LM)

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Access Road 2 (KSD LM)

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Access Road 3 (Mbhashe LM)

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Appendix C: Facility illustration(s)

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Appendix D: Specialist reports (including terms of reference)

N/A

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Appendix E: Public Participation

Background Information Document

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Proof of advert placed in the Daily Dispatch on Wednesday, 12 November 2015

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Photographs of notices placed on site.

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Proof of notification of all stakeholders on project initiation:

1. Notification letter sent to all stakeholders

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2. Email/Registered mail to stakeholders

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3. Email notification of public review period:

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I & AP Database

Organisation Name Email Tel Cell Fax Postal Address Stakeholders Amathole DM Manager Chris Magwangqana [email protected] 043 783 2257 043 742 0337 Amathole DM Local Gvt Support Honjiwe Mayaphi [email protected] 043 722 3282 O R Thambo DM Manager HT Hlazo [email protected] 047 501 6400 047 532 6518 O R Thambo DM Local Gvt Support Onesimo Matetela [email protected] 047 531 0411 Mbhashe LM Municipal Manager Mr Nofemela [email protected] 047 489 5808 079 514 8738 047 489 1137 P O Box 25, Idutywa, 5000 Mbhashe LM MM PA Nontyatyambo Mbola [email protected] 078 4844 484 Mbhashe LM Contact Person Nomfanelo Mqoqi [email protected] 047 489 5800 082 259 7287 047 489 5800 P O Box 25, Idutywa, 5000 KSD LM Municipal Manager (Acting) Ms Nobuzwe Soldati [email protected] 047 501 4238 047 532 5198 KSD MM Secretary Mvuyi Majali [email protected] 047 501 4371 047 532 5198 P O Box 45, Mthatha, 5099 KSD LM Contact Person Heaven Ngovela [email protected] 047 501 4308 079 894 4004 P O Box 45, KSD, Umtata, 5100 Ward 7 cllr Mbhashe LM Xolani Zimba 079 028 9516 P O Box 25, Idutywa, 5000 Ward 8 cllr Mbhashe LM Malgas Khwakhwi 078 733 4271 P O Box 25, Idutywa, 5000 Ward 19 cllr KSD LM Bulelwa Mazini 073 826 8918 P O Box 45, KSD, Umtata, 5100 Ward 20 cllr KSD LM Vela Gwadiso [email protected] 083 491 1579 P O Box 45, KSD, Umtata, 5100 ECPHRA Sello Mokhanya [email protected] ECPHRA Mzikayise L Zote [email protected] 043 642 2811 043 642 2812 ECPHRA Mzolisi Matutu [email protected] 043 604 4019/4020 SAHRA M Galimberti [email protected] DEDEAT (Amathole) Briant Noncembu [email protected] DEDEAT (O R Thambo) Qondile Paliso [email protected] 045 808 4000 DWS Lizna Fourie [email protected] 043 701 0248 Farm Number Farm Name Farm/Erven No Email Tel Fax Postal Address Landowners

Farm Number Name Email Tel Cell Postal Address Surrounding Landowners Dalindyebo Buyelekhaya Zwelibanzi Tyalara RE/42

I &APS Thulani Gweje Thulani Gweje [email protected] 073 491 7384

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Appendix F: Impact Assessment

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PLANNING AND DESIGN PHASE Pre mitigation Post mitigation Issue Impact Description Nature of Tempora Spatial Likelihoo Severity Significance Mitigation Significance impact l d POLICY COMPLIANCE Legal & policy The proposed DIRECT Permane Localise Possible Severe MODERATE - The development LOW NEGATIVE compliance. development may not nt d NEGATIVE must comply with be consistent with relevant legislation relevant and/or policy, e.g. environmental policy ECBCP, Municipal By- and/or spatial laws, SDFs, etc. guideline documents. STORMWATER Inappropriate Inappropriate routing DIRECT Long Localise Possible Moderate MODERATE - Flood attenuation and LOW NEGATIVE routing of of storm water will INDIREC term d Severe NEGATIVE storm water stormwater lead to stream T management plans sedimentation and CUMULA must be drawn up by a erosion of the TIVE qualified engineer and surrounding area. approved by DWS. ACCESS ROAD DESIGN Environmental Inappropriate road DIRECT Long Project Possible Moderate MODERATE - Culverts must be LOW NEGATIVE damage to design and alignment INDIREC term Level Severe NEGATIVE designed to surrounding of the culverts may T accommodate for area lead to sedimentation proper drainage of and erosion of surface water away watercourses. from the road and that it does not cause any erosion. - Water Use License applications for

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PLANNING AND DESIGN PHASE Pre mitigation Post mitigation Issue Impact Description Nature of Tempora Spatial Likelihoo Severity Significance Mitigation Significance impact l d culverts must be submitted to DWS to ensure compliance to their DWS standards. HERITAGE Inadequate Failure to adhere to DIRECT Long Project Possible Severe MODERATE - If human graves are LOW planning for the current road route term level NEGATIVE exposed, all work NEGATIVE areas of may result in activity in the vicinity potential exposure of potential must cease heritage grave sites along the immediately, and the importance (e.g. road edge. Eastern Cape graves). Provincial Heritage Resources Agency (ECPHRA), Heritage Specialist and the SAPS need to be informed WASTE MANAGEMENT Inadequate Failure to plan for DIRECT Medium Localise Definite Moderately MODERATE - A proper waste LOW NEGATIVE planning for waste management INDIREC term d severe NEGATIVE management plan must waste storage. storage can lead to T be drawn and included unsanitary conditions in the Construction & poor waste Environmental management Management practices that will lead Programme (EMPr) and to pollution of the is implemented. environment. ECOLOGICAL

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PLANNING AND DESIGN PHASE Pre mitigation Post mitigation Issue Impact Description Nature of Tempora Spatial Likelihoo Severity Significance Mitigation Significance impact l d Loss of Bisho Thornveld and DIRECT Localised Short- Definite Moderately MODERATE - An Environmental LOW NEGATIVE indigenous Eastern Cape term severe NEGATIVE Control Officer (ECO) vegetation Bushveld are not must be appointed to considered as oversee construction endangered activities. vegetation types. However, high levels - Locality of ancillary of transformation activities e.g. camp particularly in this sites in these areas area, could lead to the must be limited in loss of pristine and areas where pristine semi pristine and semi-pristine environments. Bisho Thornveld and Eastern Cape Bushveld are found, as this could result in the loss of vegetation. Soil erosion and Inappropriate road DIRECT Localised Long- Probable Severe HIGH NEGATIVE - Appropriate LOW sedimentation stormwater design term stormwater structures may lead to an must be designed and increase in surface implemented. soil erosion and - All road sections subsequently situated on slopes sedimentation of the must incorporate storm surrounding rivers water diversion and streams. - All stormwater structures must be designed in line with DWS requirements. - An Erosion Action Plan

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PLANNING AND DESIGN PHASE Pre mitigation Post mitigation Issue Impact Description Nature of Tempora Spatial Likelihoo Severity Significance Mitigation Significance impact l d must be developed and implemented.

CONSTRUCTION PHASE Pre mitigation Post mitigation Issue Impact Description Nature of Temporal Spatial Likelihoo Severity Significance Mitigation Significance Impact d AIR POLLUTION Air pollution in Dust (air) pollution DIRECT Short Localised Probable Moderately MODERATE - Cleared surfaces must LOW NEGATIVE the form of dust caused by grading Term severe NEGATIVE be dampened whenever from construction and levelling possible and especially activities. exposed land can in dry and windy cause a nuisance to conditions to avoid neighbouring excessive dust residential areas. generation. - Any soil excavated, and not utilised for rehabilitation, must be removed from site or covered and no large mounds of soil should be left behind after construction. NOISE POLUTION Noise pollution in Noise pollution DIRECT Short Localised Possible Slight MODERATE - Construction activity LOW NEGATIVE the form of caused during Term NEGATIVE which includes the

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CONSTRUCTION PHASE Pre mitigation Post mitigation Issue Impact Description Nature of Temporal Spatial Likelihoo Severity Significance Mitigation Significance Impact d construction construction could movement of activities. potentially be a construction vehicles nuisance to must be restricted to neighbouring normal working hours residential areas. (7:00am – 17:00pm). HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES STORAGE AND USAGE Site Cement, tar and DIRECT Short Localised Possible Moderately MODERATE - Concrete must not be LOW NEGATIVE contamination bitumen mixing Term severe NEGATIVE mixed directly on the due to hazardous techniques and ground, or during rainfall substance usage. diesel/oil spillage events when the occurring as a result potential for transport to of poorly maintained the stormwater system is machinery can lead the greatest (as per the to soil EMPr). contamination. - Concrete must be mixed only in the area demarcated for this purpose and on an impermeable surface. - Oil trays must be placed under the machinery to avoid soil contamination. - All areas affected during the Construction Phase should be rehabilitated

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CONSTRUCTION PHASE Pre mitigation Post mitigation Issue Impact Description Nature of Temporal Spatial Likelihoo Severity Significance Mitigation Significance Impact d Site Spillage of any DIRECT Short Localised Possible Severe HIGH NEGATIVE - Hazardous Chemical LOW NEGATIVE contamination hazardous Term Substances due to hazardous substances such as Regulations substance fuel, chemicals, promulgated in terms of spillage. paint, etc. can the Occupational Health contaminate and Safety Act 85 of underlying soil; and 1993 and the SABS surface and Code of Practise must groundwater be adhered to. This resources. applies to solvents and other chemicals possibly used in the construction process. - Depending on the nature and extent of the spill, contaminated soil must be either excavated or treated on-site. - The ECO must determine the precise method of treatment of polluted soil. - This could involve the application of soil absorbent materials or oil-digestive powders to

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CONSTRUCTION PHASE Pre mitigation Post mitigation Issue Impact Description Nature of Temporal Spatial Likelihoo Severity Significance Mitigation Significance Impact d the contaminated soil. - If a spill occurs on an impermeable surface such as cement or concrete, the surface spill must be contained using oil absorbent materials. - Contaminated remediation materials must be carefully removed from the area of the spill so as to prevent further release of petrochemicals to the environment, and stored in adequate containers until appropriate disposal. Inappropriate DIRECT Long Localised Possible Severe MODERATE - The individual LOW NEGATIVE responses to Term NEGATIVE responsible for or who petrochemical or discovers the hazardous spill. petrochemical spill must report the incident to the Project Coordinator, ECO and or Contractor

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CONSTRUCTION PHASE Pre mitigation Post mitigation Issue Impact Description Nature of Temporal Spatial Likelihoo Severity Significance Mitigation Significance Impact d as soon as reasonably possible. - The problem must be assessed and the necessary actions required will be undertaken. - The immediate response must be to contain the spill. Site Inappropriate DIRECT Long Localised Possible Severe MODERATE - Staff that will be handling LOW NEGATIVE contamination hazardous material Term NEGATIVE hazardous materials due to storage can lead to must be trained to do so. inappropriate spillages and - Hazardous Chemical storage of contamination of Substances hazardous soil; and surface and Regulations substances. ground water promulgated in terms of resources. the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993 and the SABS Code of Practise must be adhered to. This applies to solvents and other chemicals possibly used in the construction time.

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CONSTRUCTION PHASE Pre mitigation Post mitigation Issue Impact Description Nature of Temporal Spatial Likelihoo Severity Significance Mitigation Significance Impact d - All hazardous chemicals must be properly stored in a secure, bunded and contained area. WORKER HEALTH AND SAFETY Sanitation and Failure to provide DIRECT Short Localised Possible Moderately MODERATE - Adequate sanitary and LOW water adequate onsite Term Severe NEGATIVE ablutions facilities must NEGATVE sanitation and clean be provided for drinking water may construction workers result in runoff - The facilities must be transferring regularly serviced to contaminants into reduce the risk of the surrounding surface or groundwater environment. pollution. - Contaminated wastewater must be managed by the Contractor to ensure existing water resources on the site are not contaminated. - All wastewater from general activities in the camp must be collected and removed from the site for appropriate

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CONSTRUCTION PHASE Pre mitigation Post mitigation Issue Impact Description Nature of Temporal Spatial Likelihoo Severity Significance Mitigation Significance Impact d disposal at a licensed commercial facility. WASTE MANAGMENT Building Construction rubble DIRECT Short Localised Possible Slight LOW NEGATIVE - Construction rubble must LOW NEGATIVE construction and any other Term be disposed of in pre – rubble construction waste agreed, demarcated management. left onsite may spoil dumps that have attract vermin and been approved by the encourage the KSD Local Municipality growth of or Mbhashe Local opportunistic alien Municipality. vegetation. Litter Littering on site may DIRECT Short Localised Possible Slight LOW NEGATIVE - Littering by the LOW NEGATIVE management. attract vermin, Term employees of the detract from the Contractor must not be visual appeal of the allowed under any area, and pollute the circumstances. The ECO surrounding areas. must monitor the neatness of the work sites as well as the Contractor campsite. - All waste must be removed from the site and transported to the landfill site in Idutywa. SOCIAL

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CONSTRUCTION PHASE Pre mitigation Post mitigation Issue Impact Description Nature of Temporal Spatial Likelihoo Severity Significance Mitigation Significance Impact d Job creation There will be INDIREC Short Localised Definite Beneficial MODERATE N/A MODERATE BENEFICIAL during temporary job T Term BENEFICIAL construction. creation during the construction phase. ECOLOGICAL Loss of Establishment of DIRECT Localised Short- Definite Moderately MODERATE - An Environmental LOW NEGATIVE indigenous construction term severe NEGATIVE Control Officer (ECO) vegetation amenities such as must be appointed to oversee construction camp site could activities and to assist impact on pristine in identifying suitable and semi pristine areas for the environments, and establishment of camp result in loss of sites and other vegetation and construction disturbance to amenities. ecological corridors. RIVERS & STREAMS Rivers and There may be DIRECT Short Project definite Moderately MODERATE - Ensure that no LOW NEGATIVE streams may be potential negative term level severe NEGATIVE construction rubble is left impacted by the impacts caused by in these rivers and proposed construction streams after completion development. activities on the of work. various rivers and - The river/stream must be streams associated returned to its natural with the access state after construction. roads

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CONSTRUCTION PHASE Pre mitigation Post mitigation Issue Impact Description Nature of Temporal Spatial Likelihoo Severity Significance Mitigation Significance Impact d STORM WATER MANAGEMENT Offsite Contaminants such DIRECT Long Localised Probable Severe HIGH NEGATIVE - The site must be LOW NEGATIVE contamination as silt, sand, litter Term managed in a manner due to runoff. and hazardous that prevents pollution of substances and drains, downstream residues may be watercourses or transported offsite groundwater, due to via surface runoff suspended solids, silt or and contaminate the chemical pollutants. surrounding - The area must be environment. monitored by an ECO on a regular basis as described in the EMPr.

OPERATIONAL PHASE Pre mitigation Post mitigation Nature Tempora Issue Impact Description of Spatial Likelihood Severity Significance Mitigation Significance l impact EROSION Erosion Severe erosion may DIRECT Long- Project Possible Severe MODERATE - Recommendati LOW NEGATIVE result from poor slope term level NEGATIVE ons of the Stormwater stabilisation and poor CUMULA management plan must be implemented. rehabilitation/re- TIVE - Vegetation vegetation. should be retained where possible to

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OPERATIONAL PHASE Pre mitigation Post mitigation Nature Tempora Issue Impact Description of Spatial Likelihood Severity Significance Mitigation Significance l impact avoid soil erosion - Re-vegetation of disturbed surfaces must occur immediately after the construction activities are completed to encourage soil binding. - The site must be monitored by the ECO on the competence of the rehabilitation and re-vegetation process, and to ensure no alien vegetation recurs on site.

NO-GO OPTION Pre mitigation Post mitigation Nature Tempora Issue Impact Description of Spatial Likelihood Severity Significance Mitigation Significance l impact No access No upgrade and DIRECT Long- Project Definite Moderately MODERATE No mitigation MODERATE NEGATIVE roads upgrade safety improvements term level Severe NEGATIVE

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NO-GO OPTION Pre mitigation Post mitigation Nature Tempora Issue Impact Description of Spatial Likelihood Severity Significance Mitigation Significance l impact to the access roads of Mbhashe and KSD LM. If the upgrade does not proceed then none of the negative impacts identified will take place, but environmental issues such as erosion will continue, and this will have a major impact on nearby rivers and streams.

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Appendix G: Environmental Management Programme (EMPr)

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Appendix H: Details of EAP and expertise

Coastal & Environmental Services (CES) was established in 1990 as a specialist environmental consulting company. Recently EOH Group of Companies acquired the shares in CES. EOH is the largest provider of enterprise applications, technology, outsourcing, cloud and managed services. The group is active in South Africa, Africa and the United Kingdom and has a strong Black Economic Empowerment profile. This integration will allow CES to combine EOH’s great reach and reputation with CES’s recognised excellence in environmental and social advisory services, thus maximising CES’s strengths and comprehensive offerings in the environmental and social fields.

Dr Alan Carter (Pr. Nat. Sci.), Director of the East London Office, has extensive training and experience in both financial accounting and environmental science disciplines with international accounting firms in South Africa and the USA. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and holds a PhD in Plant Sciences. He is also a certified ISO14001 EMS auditor with the American National Standards Institute and the British Standards Institute.

Nande Suka (Cand. Nat. Sci.), an Environmental Consultant. Nande holds a BSc degree with majors in Botany and Zoology, as well as a BSc (Hons) in Botany, majoring in Environmental Management, both obtained from the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) in Port Elizabeth. She conducted two major research projects at honours level. Firstly, the effect of sea level rise on the

97 BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT marine environment and secondly she conducted an EIA and ecological specialist study for the Weston (Eastern Cape) Packaged Sewage Treatment Plant, under the supervision of Public Process Consultants in Port Elizabeth. Other courses in honours include Environmental Management, Conservation Biology, Ecology and basics in Statistics. Nande is interested in environmental conservation research, management and practise. She is currently employed in the East London Office of Coastal & Environmental Services (CES).

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Appendix I: Specialist’s declaration of interest

N/A

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Appendix J: Additional Information

Linear co-ordinates of access route

Access Road 1 (KSD LM) 31° 52.220'S 28° 30.651'E 31° 52.383'S 28° 31.165'E 31° 52.472'S 28° 31.467'E 31° 52.505'S 28° 31.755'E 31° 52.355'S 28° 31.841'E 31° 52.138'S 28° 32.184'E 31° 51.834'S 28° 32.047'E 31° 51.403'S 28° 31.847'E 31° 51.043'S 28° 32.059'E 31° 50.862'S 28° 31.703'E 31° 50.810'S 28° 31.325'E Access Road 2 (KSD LM) 31° 57.746'S 28° 29.252'E 31° 57.569'S 28° 29.225'E 31° 57.562'S 28° 29.517'E 31° 57.606'S 28° 29.777'E 31° 57.598'S 28° 30.139'E 31° 57.552'S 28° 30.483'E 31° 57.494'S 28° 30.802'E 31° 57.203'S 28° 31.046'E 31° 56.753'S 28° 31.194'E 31° 56.410'S 28° 31.918'E 31° 56.276'S 28° 31.986'E 31° 56.322'S 28° 32.138'E 31° 56.473'S 28° 32.035'E 31° 56.403'S 28° 32.469'E 31° 56.469'S 28° 32.795'E 31° 56.613'S 28° 33.084'E 31° 56.542'S 28° 33.314'E 31° 56.343'S 28° 33.209'E Access Road 3 (Mbhashe LM) Latitude (S): Longitude (E): 31° 56.776'S 28° 25.046'E 31° 56.849'S 28° 25.169'E 31° 56.872'S 28° 25.258'E 31° 56.857'S 28° 25.445'E 31° 56.940'S 28° 25.564'E 31° 57.032'S 28° 25.705'E 31° 57.089'S 28° 25.669'E 31° 57.158'S 28° 25.753'E 31° 57.257'S 28° 25.869'E 31° 57.211'S 28° 26.077'E 31° 57.074'S 28° 26.289'E 31° 57.335'S 28° 26.412'E 31° 57.389'S 28° 26.687'E 31° 57.522'S 28° 26.891'E 31° 57.690'S 28° 27.059'E

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31° 57.831'S 28° 27.305'E 31° 57.313'S 28° 26.810'E 31° 57.138'S 28° 26.792'E 31° 56.875'S 28° 26.907'E 31° 56.777'S 28° 27.174'E 31° 56.791'S 28° 27.342'E 31° 56.523'S 28° 27.471'E 31° 56.596'S 28° 27.690'E 31° 56.493'S 28° 27.851'E 31° 56.435'S 28° 27.770'E 31° 56.312'S 28° 27.886'E 31° 56.268'S 28° 28.193'E 31° 56.422'S 28° 28.617'E 31° 56.389'S 28° 28.859'E 31° 56.533'S 28° 29.140'E 31° 56.588'S 28° 29.595'E

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