DRAFT BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

(For official use only)

File Reference Number:

NEAS Number:

Date Received:

Basic assessment report in terms of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2014 as amended, 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, 2014 as amended and is meant to streamline applications. Please make sure that it is the report used by the particular competent authority for the activity that is being applied for.

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

3. Where applicable tick the boxes that are applicable or black out the boxes that are not applicable in the report.

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

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

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

7. No faxed or e-mailed reports will be accepted unless indicated otherwise by the Department.

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

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

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

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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 form XX for each specialist thus appointed:

Any specialist reports must be contained in Appendix D.

1. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION

Describe the activity, which is being applied for, in detail 1. Introduction

1.1 Project Location and Description

The proposed Breidbach Mixed-Use Housing Development and Service Station is located in the area of Breidbach near King Williams Town within the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM), Province of the Eastern Cape. The site is accessed via the National Route 2 from East London to King Williams Town approximately 50Km from East London. The properties that form part of the development are Erf 447 and Erf 34 both fall within the jurisdiction of the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, in the Eastern Cape Province (Figure 1-1).

The boundary co-ordinates of the study area are listed below: Latitude (S) (DDMMSS) Longitude (E) (DDMMSS) Study Area (Erf 34 and 447) 32°53'12.14"S 27°26'6.62"E 32°53'8.73"S 27°26'21.39"E 32°53'33.32"S 27°26'35.06"E 32°53'34.65"S 27°26'29.94"E

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Figure 1: Map indicating the location of the proposed study area, Erf 34 and Erf 447.

Figure 2: Layout plan for the Breidbach Mixed-Use Housing Development and Service Station (also see Appendix A).

The intention of the subdivision of the 23 Ha development area is to create 15 separate erven with different land uses as follows: • Business Zone 1 (Service Station, Office Space, Supermarket etc.) – About 3 Ha; • Residential Zone 3B – About 15 Ha; • Private Open Space – About 0.5 Ha; and • Transport Zone (internal roads) – About 4 Ha.

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The development is located within the BCMM Urban Edge according to the BCMM Spatial Development Framework.

1.2 Existing and proposed infrastructure for bulk services

Electricity The Breidbach Mixed-Use Development and Service Station will be connected to the existing BCMM electricity supply grid.

Water Bulk water supply to the Breidbach Township is currently provided by the BCMM. The proposed development will also be connected to the existing bulk water supply.

Sanitation An existing 300mm diameter BCMM interceptor sewer gravitates from North to South along the periphery of the Breidbach Township before crossing the Yellowwoods River and entering the treatment works further along. The current proposed development will connect to this system.

2. FEASIBLE AND REASONABLE ALTERNATIVES

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

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

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

ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES

FUNDAMENTAL, INCREMENTAL AND NO-GO ALTERNATIVES

Fundamental alternatives

Fundamental alternatives are developments that are totally different from the proposed project and usually include the following:

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• Alternative property or location where it is proposed to undertake the activity (i.e. site alternatives); • Alternative type of activity to be undertaken (i.e. land-use alternatives); and • Alternative technology to be used in the activity (i.e. technical alternatives);

Incremental alternatives

Incremental alternatives relate to modifications or variations to the design of a project that provide different options to reduce or minimise environmental impacts. There are very few incremental alternatives that can be considered with respect to the Breidbach Mixed-Use Development.

No-go alternative

It is mandatory to consider the “no-go” option in the EIA process. The “no-go” alternative refers to the current status quo and the risks and impacts associated with it. Some existing activities may carry risks and may be undesirable (e.g. an existing contaminated site earmarked for a development). In the case of the current proposed mixed-use development, the only “no-go” activity is: • Infrastructure on the site is taken down and the area is rehabilitated.

COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT OF ALTERNATIVES

Table 2.1 below provides a comparative assessment of identified alternatives to the proposed activity, including advantages and disadvantages. An overall assessment is made concerning whether the identified alternatives are reasonable and feasible for the further assessment of impacts.

CONCLUSION

It was determined that the current proposal (the preferred option) was the only reasonable and feasible option to take into the assessment phase of the EIA, together with the No-Go option, based on the assessment in Table 2.1.

Based on the manner in which the environment may be affected, a list of general environmental issues and resulting direct, indirect and cumulative impacts were identified and assessed in terms of spatial, temporal, likelihood and severity criteria for all feasible and reasonable alternatives (see Appendix F).

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Alternative level Alternatives Advantages Disadvantages Reasonable and Further Comment feasible assessment

Property or location Alternative location • Located close to • Land previously YES YES The main determining 1 - Current existing undeveloped factors for selecting the This refers to the proposed site necessary bulk (is it pristine? A proposed location were:- fundamental infrastructure CBA area?) (Preferred for simplified Because this is location options, alternative) • Proximity to a grid and the electricity, not a connection point water and disadvantage environmental risks and other municipal sewage unless it is services. and impacts connection. potential loss associated with such of pristine land. • Available land. options. • The land is owned by the developer and falls within the Breidbach urban edge.

Alternative location • NA NA NA NA Alternative locations for 2 - None identified the current project will not be feasible as the

developer does not have access to any other available land.

Type of activity Alternative activity • It will • The retail YES YES The site is suitable for a 1 - Residential contribute to outlets, mixed-use development This refers to the Development safe and supermarket as it falls within the fundamental land forming part of the attractive and office Breidbach Urban edge middle class space will use options, such as Breidbach mixed- and is in line with BCMM industrial, housing create an influx use housing facilities to of job seekers spatial planning policy. residential, development site. contribute to into the area infrastructure,

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Alternative level Alternatives Advantages Disadvantages Reasonable and Further Comment feasible assessment farming, 2 – Service Station the placing strain conservation, etc. Development, development of on housing and and the forming part of the the Breidbach civil services area. such as health environmental risks residential and education. and impacts development. • Densification of associated with such the urban node (Preferred options is in line with alternative) BCM spatial planning policy.

• The potential to stimulate economic activity and jobs in the area.

• Natural areas can be maintained in order to meet conservation objectives, whilst developing land within the urban edge.

Alternative activity • The site would • The spread of YES NO Development of the site 2 – Rehabilitation be rehabilitated alien has not commenced. of the land or retain with indigenous vegetation Rehabilitation of the vegetation. as open space. could occur area could lead to an due to the

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Alternative level Alternatives Advantages Disadvantages Reasonable and Further Comment feasible assessment

disturbance of increase in informal the area. squatting in the area.

Design or layout Alternative layout 1 • This layout is NA YES YES NA the optimal This relates mostly to (Preferred layout from an alternative ways in alternative) environmental which the proposed perspective, development or where environmentally activity can be sensitive areas physically laid out on have been the ground to avoided. minimise or reduce environmental risks or impacts

No-go option There are currently • The land will If left in the current NA NA Assessed in the impact no existing remain in its state, degradation assessment process. This refers to the activities on the natural state. of the land could current status quo site. occur or squatters and the risks and could inhabit the impacts associated area. with it. Some existing activities may carry risks (e.g. an existing contaminated site earmarked for a development)

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3. ACTIVITY POSITION

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

Latitude (S): Longitude (E): Alternative: Alternative S11 (preferred or only site 32o 53‘ 12.14” 27o 26‘ 6.62” alternative) 32o 53‘ 8.73” 27o 26‘ 21.39” 32o 53‘ 25.54” 27o 26‘ 26.60” 32o 53‘ 23.27” 27o 26‘ 9.90” Alternative S2 (if any) o ‘ o ‘ Alternative S3 (if any) o ‘ o ‘ In the case of linear activities: Alternative: Latitude (S): Longitude (E): Alternative S1 (preferred or only route alternative) • Starting point of the activity o ‘ o ‘

• Middle point of the activity o ‘ o ‘

• End point of the activity o ‘ o ‘

Alternative S2 (if any) • Starting point of the activity o ‘ o ‘

• Middle point of the activity o ‘ o ‘

• End point of the activity o ‘ o ‘

Alternative S3 (if any) • Starting point of the activity o ‘ o ‘

• Middle point of the activity o ‘ o ‘

• End point of the activity o ‘ o ‘

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

4. PHYSICAL SIZE OF THE ACTIVITY

1 “Alternative S..” refer to site alternatives.

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Indicate the physical size of the preferred activity/technology as well as alternative activities/technologies (footprints): Alternative: Size of the activity: Alternative A12 (preferred activity alternative) 230000m2 Alternative A2 (if any) m2 Alternative A3 (if any) m2 or, for linear activities: Alternative: Length of the activity: Alternative A1 (preferred activity alternative) m Alternative A2 (if any) m Alternative A3 (if any) m

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

5. SITE ACCESS

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

Describe the type of access road planned:

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

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From the Breidbach Township leg, site access will be gained off the four-way intersection of the National Route 2 between East London and King Williams Town with the R22 to Bhisho and Zwelitsha.

Figure 3: Image illustrating the access to Erf 447 and Erf 34 (indicated by the white line).

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.

6. SITE OR ROUTE PLAN

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

The site or route plans must indicate the following: 6.1 the scale of the plan which must be at least a scale of 1:500;

6.2 the property boundaries and numbers of all the properties within 50 metres of the site;

6.3 the current land use as well as the land use zoning of each of the properties adjoining the site or sites;

6.4 the exact position of each element of the application as well as any other structures on the site;

6.5 the position of services, including electricity supply cables (indicate above or underground), water supply pipelines, boreholes, street lights, sewage pipelines, storm water infrastructure and telecommunication infrastructure;

6.6 all trees and shrubs taller than 1.8 metres;

6.7 walls and fencing including details of the height and construction material;

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6.8 servitudes indicating the purpose of the servitude;

6.9 sensitive environmental elements within 100 metres of the site or sites including (but not limited thereto):

▪ rivers;

▪ the 1:100 year flood line (where available or where it is required by DWA);

▪ ridges;

▪ cultural and historical features;

▪ areas with indigenous vegetation (even if it is degraded or invested with alien species);

6.9 for gentle slopes the 1 metre contour intervals must be indicated on the plan and whenever the slope of the site exceeds 1:10, the 500mm contours must be indicated on the plan; and

6.10 the positions from where photographs of the site were taken.

7. SITE PHOTOGRAPHS

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

8. FACILITY ILLUSTRATION

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

9. ACTIVITY MOTIVATION

9(a) Socio-economic value of the activity

What is the expected capital value of the activity on completion? R200 million plus

What is the expected yearly income that will be generated by or as a result of the activity? Unknown

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 phase of the 200-300 activity?

What is the expected value of the employment opportunities during the development R100 phase? million

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What percentage of this will accrue to previously disadvantaged individuals? Not Determined

How many permanent new employment opportunities will be created during the Up to 100 operational phase of the activity?

What is the expected current value of the employment opportunities during the first 10 R120 years? Million

What percentage of this will accrue to previously disadvantaged individuals? 80%

R96 million

9(b) Need and desirability of the activity

Motivate and explain the need and desirability of the activity (including demand for the activity): The proposed development is located within the BCMM Urban Edge and is consistent with the SDF which promotes development within the urban edge where municipal services can be provided (rather than outside then urban edge where services cannot be provided). The development presents the opportunity for a sustainable low-density affordable housing development. It will also have positive impacts on the value of the surrounding land and property. The local economy will in turn increase due to an increase in the number of people coming to Breidbach to shop, work as well as a pit stop (service station).

Indicate any benefits that the activity will have for society in general: The development achieves the goals of social, economic and environmental sustainability, it will assist with land use efficiency as well as the protection of environmental resources. The proposed use is compatible with local need and surrounding uses particularly affordable housing and the petrol station will support passing traffic. The application will remain within infrastructural guidelines and capacity, there is also a demand and need for facility of this nature, particularly more affordable housing. The development will help towards employment creation and promote efficient use of land and existing infrastructure.

Indicate any benefits that the activity will have for the local communities where the activity will be located:

Local community will be positively impacted due to the cumulative impacts of the increase in opportunities associated with the development particularly in terms of affordable housing.

The development will improve local infrastructure. Local communities will also benefit through job creation during the construction phase as well as daily operations of the entire development. Potential jobs may include: • Petrol attendants; • Cashiers; • Managers; • Office workers; • Cleaners; etc.

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10. APPLICABLE LEGISLATION, POLICIES AND/OR GUIDELINES

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

Title of legislation, policy or guideline: Administering authority: Date:

Constitution Act (No. 108 of 1996) Constitution Assembly 1996 National Environmental Management Act (No. 107 of 1998) Department of Environment, 1998 Forestry and Fisheries)

National Water Act (No. 36 of 1998) Department of Water and 1998 Sanitation (DWS)

National Forests Act (No 84 of 1998) Department of Environment, 1998 Fisheries and Forestry (DEFF) National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act DEFF & DEDEAT 2004 (No. 10 of 2004)

National Heritage Resource Act (No. 25 of 1999) South African (SAHRA) 1999 Occupational Health and Safety Act (No. 85 of 1993) Department of Labour 1993 National Waste Act (No. 59 of 2008) National Norms and DEFF 2008 Standards for the Storage of Waste

11. WASTE, EFFLUENT, EMISSION AND NOISE MANAGEMENT

11(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? Unknown

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

During the construction phase, construction solid waste generated by the project will be gathered and stored in an appropriate, central area on site. This waste will later be removed and disposed of at the East London Regional Waste Disposal Site, in Berlin, near East London.

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

At the East London Regional Waste Disposal Site, in Berlin, near East London.

Will the activity produce solid waste during its operational phase? YES NO

If yes, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? Unknown

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

The solid waste will consist of general waste generated at the development site, which will be collected and stored in a designated bunded area where it will be collected by a service provider and disposed at the East London Regional Waste Disposal Facility.

Where will the solid waste be disposed if it does not feed into a municipal waste stream (describe)?

At the East London Regional Solid Waste Disposal Facility, in Berlin near East London.

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

Can any part of the solid waste be classified as hazardous in terms of the YES NO relevant legislation? If yes, inform the competent authority and request a change to an application for scoping and EIA. 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.

11(b) Liquid effluent

Will the activity produce effluent, other than normal sewage, that will be disposed of in a YES NO 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 person: N/A

Postal address: N/A

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:

None. Wastewater will be reticulated into the BCMM municipal sewer system.

11(c) Emissions into the atmosphere

Will the activity release emissions into the atmosphere? YES NO

If yes, is it controlled by any legislation of any sphere of government? YES NO

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

If no, describe the emissions in terms of type and concentration:

During the construction phase, emissions into the atmosphere will be limited to construction dust and these will be low in both quantity and severity. Sources of emissions include those produced by heavy vehicles and machinery involved in site preparation of the proposed building and parking areas and road maintenance. These activities are anticipated to occur only over a short time period.

During the operational phase, the proposed development is not expected to release any significant emissions into the atmosphere.

11(d) Generation of noise

Will the activity generate noise? YES NO

If yes, is it controlled by any legislation of any sphere of government? YES NO

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

If no, describe the noise in terms of type and level:

There will be low level noise emissions during the construction phase due to construction vehicles and general construction activities. There should be minimal noise generated from the proposed activity during operation.

12. WATER USE

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

municipal water board groundwater river, stream, dam other the activity will not use or lake water

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If water is to be extracted from groundwater, river, stream, dam, lake or any other natural feature, please indicate

the volume that will be extracted per month: NA

Does the activity require a water use permit from the Department of Water Affairs? YES NO

If yes, please submit the necessary application to the Department of Water Affairs and attach proof thereof to this application if it has been submitted.

13. ENERGY EFFICIENCY

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

The development will make use of solar where possible to reduce electricity usage and to encourage green energy usage.

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

The use of alternative renewable energy sources such as solar panels could be installed on roof tops.

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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 C and indicate the area, which is covered by each copy No. on the Site Plan.

Section C Copy No. (e.g. 1 A):

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

3. Has a specialist been consulted to assist with the completion of YES NO this section?

If YES, please complete form XX for each specialist thus appointed:

All specialist reports must be contained in Appendix D.

1. GRADIENT OF THE SITE

The topography of the site is depicted by the figure below as moderately sloping from north to south, with altitudes ranging from 380m north to 360m south.

Figure 4: Elevation profile of the study area.

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Figure 5: Elevation profile of the site slope as depicted by the yellow cross-sectional line from north to south.

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

3. GROUNDWATER, SOIL AND GEOLOGICAL STABILITY OF THE SITE

Is the site(s) located on any of the following (tick the appropriate boxes)? Alternative S1: Alternative S2 (if Alternative S3 (if any): any):

Shallow water table (less than YES NO YES NO YES NO 1.5m deep)

Dolomite, sinkhole or doline YES NO YES NO YES NO areas

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Seasonally wet soils (often close YES NO YES NO YES NO to water bodies)

Unstable rocky slopes or steep YES NO YES NO YES NO slopes with loose soil

Dispersive soils (soils that YES NO YES NO YES NO dissolve in water)

Soils with high clay content (clay YES NO YES NO YES NO fraction more than 40%)

Any other unstable soil or YES NO YES NO YES NO geological feature

An area sensitive to erosion YES NO YES NO YES NO

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

4. GROUNDCOVER

Indicate the types of groundcover present on the site:

4.1 Natural veld – good condition E 4.2 Natural veld – scattered aliens E 4.3 Natural veld with heavy alien infestation E 4.4 Veld dominated by alien species E 4.5 Gardens 4.6 Sport field 4.7 Cultivated land 4.8 Paved surface 4.9 Building or other structure 4.10 Bare soil

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

Natural veld Natural veld with Veld dominated Natural veld - good with scattered heavy alien by alien Gardens conditionE aliensE infestationE speciesE

Building or Sport field Cultivated land Paved surface Bare soil other structure

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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.

Vegetation and floristics South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) The vegetation in the Breidbach area falls within the Savanna Biome, which is distinctly known for its herbaceous layer that is usually dominated by grass species and a discontinuous to sometimes very open tree layer. The National Vegetation Map (2018) classifies the vegetation type as Buffels Valley Thicket vegetation type, (Mucina and Rutherford, 2006) (Figure 8).

Buffels Valley Thicket is found in the Eastern Cape Province, in the upper stretches of the Buffels River Valley between approximately 30 and 60km from the coast, and in the upper Keiskamma River Valley around Keiskammahoek. The vegetation is dominated by a broken canopy of small trees and woody shrubs. Euphorbia triangularis can be locally dominant and emerges above the thicket canopy. Portulacaria afra is rare, but occurs in small populations on rocky, north-facing slopes. The vegetation is found on steep river valleys in highly dissected hills and moderately undulating plains. This vegetation type does not have a thread status available. The conservation target is 19% (Not Protected) and statutory conserved in the Eastern Cape and in a number of private game reserves.

Figure 8: SANBI Vegetation Map (Mucina et al., 2018) of the study site

Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (ECBCP)

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The ECBCP is a first attempt at detailed, low-level conservation mapping for land-use planning purposes. Specifically, the aims of the plan were to map critical biodiversity areas through a systematic conservation planning process. The current biodiversity plan includes the mapping of priority aquatic features, land-use pressures, critical biodiversity areas and develops guidelines for land and resource-use planning and decision-making.

The main outputs of the ECBCP are "critical biodiversity areas" or CBAs. The main CBA was identified in the study site: CBA 2

The ECBCP maps CBAs based on extensive biological data and input from key stakeholders. The ECBCP, although mapped at a finer scale than the National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment (Driver et al., 2005) is still, for the large part, inaccurate and "course". Therefore, it is imperative that the status of the environment, for any proposed development MUST first be verified before the management recommendations associated with the ECBCP are considered (Berliner and Desmet, 2007). In spite of these short-comings, the ECBCP has been adopted by the Provincial Department of Economic Development and Environmental Affairs & Tourism (DEDEAT) as a strategic biodiversity for the Eastern Cape.

Figure 9: ECBCP Map of the Breidbach Mixed-Use Housing Development and Service Station.

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The study site falls within CBA 2 area. The management recommendations for this area is to maintain the biodiversity in a near-natural state with minimal loss of ecosystem integrity. No transformation of natural habitat should be permitted. However, the proposed development site is already mostly transformed and does not have high conservation potential. The ECBCP is also in the process of being updated where more refined mapping of CBAs is being conducted.

Terrestrial Fauna The site is partially degraded due to rubble which has been dumped. Currently, the site has three homesteads on it. The majority of the area is unmodified veld infested with aliens, another part of the site is cultivated land.

During the various site visits a number of faunal species have been recorded at various localities on site, but always in close proximity to dense vegetation stands which serve as migratory corridors. Some of the more commonly observed species are - Bitter Aloe (Aloe ferox), prickly pear (Opuntia ficus-indica), Sisal hemp (Agave sisalana), various snake species, many rodent species.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

BIOPHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

Climate The proposed development is located at longitude 32.3206oS and 27.1554oE and thus enjoys a mild climate with wet summers and dry mild winters. The prevailing winds are predominantly from the South West and the North East. The area receives about 502mm of rain per year, with most rainfall occurring during summer. It receives the lowest rainfall (8mm) in July and the highest (74mm) in March. The average midday temperatures range from 19.7oC in July to 26.7oC in February. The region is the coldest during July with temperatures dropping to 6.5oC on average during the night.

Figure 11: King Williams Town average annual rainfall (blue lines) and temperature (red).

Topography The environment within the Breidbach area has been largely transformed and/ or degraded. The site drops in gradient from the Yellowwoods River southwards towards the study area. The area is relatively

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flat even surface which gradually get more steep northwards. Most of the development is located on flatter section. The ridges further north are characterised by dense bush and grassland vegetation and old cultivated lands. Steep drainage valleys on the site are covered by Thicket/Forest vegetation and will not be unnecessarily disturbed.

Geology and Soils The study area is underlain by the rocks of the Balfour Formation. The Permian Aged Balfour Formation form part of the Adelaide Subgroup, which in turn forms part of the Beaufort Group. The Adelaide Subgroup consists of altering layers of grey fine grained sandstone and greenish-grey or blueish-grey mudstone, with minor grey shale. The sandstone is typically horizontally laminated while the mudstone is typically massive. The sediments comprising the Adelaide Subgroup indicate a fluvial depositional environment.

Post depositional dolerite intrusions are present as well. The dolerite intrusions may occur as either, horizontal sills and lenses or vertical dykes which cut through the sedimentary layers. Furthermore, the vertical dykes may bisect the horizontal sills as well.

Figure 6: Geology map of the study area.

The site is underlain by the mudstones of the Adelaide Subgroup (Beauford Group, Karoo Supergroup). The Soil and Terrain database (SOTER) for South Africa classifies the site as having soils with minimal development, usually shallow on hard or weathering rock, with or without intermitted diverse soils.

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Figure 7: SOTER Soil association map of the study site.

Current land use The area is currently mostly veld infested with alien species. There are five homesteads that can be found in the area and a few patches of cultivated land where there is subsistence farming taking place.

SOCIO-ECONOMIC PROFILE The site for the Breidbach Mixed-Use Housing Development falls within the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM). The BCMM is located within the Eastern Cape Province and covers an extent of approximately 2 536 km2 and consists of 50 wards which are the amalgamation of previously different communities and municipal entities, Bisho, Dimbaza, East London, Kidd's Beach, King William's Town, Mdantsane, Phakamisa, Zwelitsha. It is likely that the development will have indirect socio-economic impacts on the municipal area and its population. Accordingly the discussion that follows provides a brief socio-economic profile of the municipal area.

Population The most recent population data for BCMM is provided by the Metro’s IDP 2018/2019 data. Based on these data, the population in 2016 was determined to be about 848 000 , BCMM housed 1.5% of South Africa’s total population in 2016. Compared to Eastern Capes average annual growth rate (0.83%), the growth rate in BCMM’s population at 1.01% was slightly higher than that of the province(Figure 4.5). With an average annual growth rate of 1.09%, the Mdantsane, Chalumna sub-metro region had the second highest growth in terms of its population, with an average annual growth rate of 1.08%. The Macleantown, Sandisiwe Buffalo City 12% Nelson Mandela Bay 18% Sarah Baartman 7% Amatole 12% Chris Hani 12%

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Joe Gqabi 6% O.R.Tambo 21% Alfred Nzo 12% sub-metro region had the lowest average annual growth rate of 0.70% relative to the other within Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality.

Figure 4-4: Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality population growth, illustrating the population growth.

BCMM's male/female split in population was 92.4 males per 100 females in 2016. The BCMM appears to be a fairly stable population with the share of female population (51.97%) being very similar to the national average of (51.07%). In total there were 441 000 (51.97%) females and 408 000 (48.03%) males. This is different from Eastern Cape Province as a whole where the female population counted 3.67 million which constitutes 52.31% of the total population of 7.01 million. There is a significantly larger share of young working age people - aged 20 to 34 (32.6%) - in BCMM, compared to the national picture (28.6%).

Income and poverty levels In 2016, there were 448 000 people living in poverty, using the upper poverty line definition, across BCMM - this is 0.26% higher than the 447 000 in 2006. The percentage of people living in poverty has decreased from 58.33% in 2006 to 52.87% in 2016, which indicates a decrease of 5.46 percentage points. In 2016, the population group with the highest percentage of people living in poverty was the African population group with a total of 65.2% people living in poverty, using the upper poverty line definition. The proportion of the African population group, living in poverty, decreased by 6.63 percentage points, as can be seen by the change from 65.19% in 2006 to 58.56% in 2016. In 2016 0.38% of the White population group lived in poverty, as compared to the 0.61% in 2006. The Asian and the Coloured population group saw a decrease in the percentage of people living in poverty, with a decrease of -3.08 and 4.64 percentage points respectively.

Employment

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BCMM employs a total number of 256 000 people within its metropolitan municipality. In 2006, the unemployment rate for BCMM was 26.6% and decreased overtime to 26.3% in 2016. The gap between the labour force participation rate and the unemployment rate decreased which indicates a negative outlook for the employment within BCMM.

5. 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:

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

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5.37 Museum 5.38 Historical building 5.39 Protected Area 5.40 Graveyard 5.41 Archaeological site 5.42 Other land uses (describe)

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

Part of the study boundary crosses the National Route 2 between King Williams Town and East London, even so the development will not affect this road.

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

If YES, specify:

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

If YES, specify:

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6. CULTURAL/HISTORICAL FEATURES

Are there any signs of culturally or historically significant elements, as YES NO defined in section 2 of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999, (Act No. 25 of 1999), including Archaeological or palaeontological sites, on or close (within 20m) to the Uncertain site? If YES, There are two historical sites, namely: explain: • Bramwell Cottage • Farmworkers Compound Site

Refer to Appendix A3: Site sensitivity map.

If uncertain, conduct a specialist investigation by a recognised specialist in the field to establish whether there is such a feature(s) present on or close to the site.

Briefly explain HIA Specialist recommended avoiding the following two sites: the findings of the specialist: Historical Period Site “Bramwell Cottage” • Avoidance: Implement a heritage conservation buffer of at least 20m. • Site Monitoring: Strict frequent monitoring during construction by the heritage consultant or an ECO familiar with the heritage occurrences of the site. • Phase 2 Mitigation: Legally compliant Phase 2 Study and assessment if impacted on. • Permitting: Apply for relevant alteration / destruction permits for Phase 2 and consequent impact.

Historical Period Site - Farmworkers Compound Site • Monitoring: Frequent monitoring must be conducted during construction by the heritage consultant or an ECO familiar with the heritage occurrences of the site. • Permitting: Apply for relevant destruction permits if impacted on.

YES NO Will any building or structure older than 60 years be affected in any way? Is it necessary to apply for a permit in terms of the National Heritage YES NO – Resources Act, 1999 (Act 25 of 1999)? not planned

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

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SECTION C: PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

1. ADVERTISEMENT

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

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

Plate 1: Site notice placed on the boundary fence of the study area

(b) giving written notice to— (i) the owner or person in control of that land if the applicant is not the owner or person in control of the land; (ii) the occupiers of the site where the activity is or is to be undertaken or to any alternative site where the activity is to be undertaken; (iii) owners and occupiers of land adjacent to the site where the activity is or is to be undertaken or to any alternative site where the activity is to be undertaken; (iv) the municipal councillor of the ward in which the site or alternative site is situated and any organisation of ratepayers that represent the community in the area; (v) the municipality which has jurisdiction in the area; (vi) any organ of state having jurisdiction in respect of any aspect of the activity; and (vii) any other party as required by the competent authority;

Insert landowner and surrounding landowner notification: • BCMM City manager • BCMM Ward Councillors • SANRAL • Department of Public Works

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(c) placing an advertisement in— (i) one local newspaper; or (ii) any official Gazette that is published specifically for the purpose of providing public notice of applications or other submissions made in terms of these Regulations; (d) placing an advertisement in at least one provincial newspaper or national newspaper, if the activity has or may have an impact that extends beyond the boundaries of the metropolitan or local municipality in which it is or will be undertaken: Provided that this paragraph need not be complied with if an advertisement has been placed in an official Gazette referred to in subregulation 54(c)(ii); and

An advertisement was placed in the Daily Dispatch on 14th April 2021 in order to inform the public of the proposed project. See Appendix XXX.

(e) using reasonable alternative methods, as agreed to by the competent authority, in those instances where a person is desiring of but unable to participate in the process due to— (i) illiteracy; (ii) disability; or (iii) any other disadvantage.

2. CONTENT OF ADVERTISEMENTS AND NOTICES

A notice board, advertisement or notices must:

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

3. PLACEMENT OF ADVERTISEMENTS AND NOTICES

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

Advertisements and notices must make provision for all alternatives.

4. DETERMINATION OF APPROPRIATE MEASURES

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

5. COMMENTS AND RESPONSE REPORT

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

6. AUTHORITY PARTICIPATION

Authorities are key interested and affected parties in each application and no decision on any application will be made before the relevant local authority is provided with the opportunity to give input. The planning and the environmental sections of the local authority must be informed of the application at least 30 (thirty) calendar days before the submission of the application.

List of authorities informed: Will include BCMM, DHSWS, DEDEAT, DEFF etc. Name Surname Organisation Email

Andiswa Mgadle DWS [email protected]

Lizna Fourie DWS [email protected]

Sello Mokyana ECPHRA [email protected]

Hlomela Hanise DEDEAT [email protected]

Nonzukiso Nthutsha DEDEAT [email protected] Mbulelo Sonqishe ECDRT [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Randall Moore ECDRT [email protected]

Nenekazi Sonxaba SANRAL [email protected] Nomantombaza Gazi DAFF [email protected]

TV Ramantshibila DAFF [email protected] Sonwabile Bavu Department of Human [email protected] Settlements Sazi Sobopa Department of Human [email protected] Settlements

Andile Sihlahla BCMM city manger [email protected] Ward Councillor Water services Roads

Owen Becker BCMM – Disaster [email protected] Management Nomathandazo Hanise BCMM – IEMP Unit [email protected]

Jane Galo BCMM – IEMP Unit [email protected]

List of authorities from whom comments have been received:

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This section will be updated once Draft BAR has gone out for 30 day public review.

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7. CONSULTATION WITH OTHER STAKEHOLDERS

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

Any stakeholder that has a direct interest in the site or property, such as servitude holders and service providers, should be informed of the application at least 30 (thirty) calendar days before the submission of the application and be provided with the opportunity to comment.

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

This section will be updated once Draft BAR has gone out for 30 day public review.

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SECTION D: IMPACT ASSESSMENT

The assessment of impacts must adhere to the minimum requirements in the EIA Regulations, 2014 as amended, and should take applicable official guidelines into account. The issues raised by interested and affected parties should also be addressed in the assessment of impacts.

1. ISSUES RAISED BY INTERESTED AND AFFECTED PARTIES

List the main issues raised by interested and affected parties.

No comments have been received.

Response from the practitioner to the issues raised by the interested and affected parties (A full response must be given in the Comments and Response Report that must be attached to this report): N/A

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

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

SEE CES IMPACT RATING METHODOLOGY AT APPENDIX G

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Table 1.1: Technical scope of the impacts identified during all phases of the proposed Breidbach Mixed-Use Housing Development and Service Station.

THEME POTENTIAL SOURCE OF ISSUE POTENTIAL RECEPTORS PHASE ASSESSMENT ISSUES PLANNING CONSTRUCTION OPERATIONAL ACTIONS AND DESIGN General EIA and Environmental Legal and policy • Licensing and Authorisations • Breidbach Properties (Pty) Ltd X X obtaining authorisation policy compliance from relevant CA • Terrestrial environment • Aquatic environment Site • Siting and placement • Heritage and paleontological X General EIA Establishment • Footprint creep resources • Surrounding landowners Bulk services • Siting and placement • Terrestrial environment and • Earthworks • Aquatic environment X X General EIA • Accidental leakages • Heritage and paleontological infrastructure • Maintenance resources Material • Siting and placement • Terrestrial environment • Aquatic environment X General EIA Stockpiling • Inadequate management of Built stockpiles • Surrounding landowners environment Stormwater • Terrestrial environment • Poor maintenance X X X General EIA management • Aquatic environment • Poor planning for storage, Waste handling and disposal of • Terrestrial environment general waste • Aquatic environment X General EIA Management • Construction rubble • Surrounding landowners • General refuse • Poor planning for storage, Hazardous handling and disposal of • Terrestrial environment hazardous fuels and • Aquatic environment X General EIA substances construction waste • Surrounding landowners • Spillages Aquatic and Vegetation • Inappropriate design plans Aquatic Erosion and Impact Assessment and for erosion management. • Aquatic environment X X X environment sedimentation • Inappropriate material geohydrological impact stockpiling assessment

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THEME POTENTIAL SOURCE OF ISSUE POTENTIAL RECEPTORS PHASE ASSESSMENT ISSUES PLANNING CONSTRUCTION OPERATIONAL ACTIONS AND DESIGN • Inappropriate stormwater management • Unnecessary vegetation clearing Altered hydrology and • Inappropriate layout and design plans geomorphology • Aquatic environment X X of the watercourse

Pollution of the • Accidental chemical spills • Aquatic environment X watercourse • Inappropriate waste management Loss of aquatic • Inappropriate planning • Aquatic environment X X fauna • Construction activities • Inappropriate layout planning Natural • Inappropriate demarcation of • Flora in development footprint X X vegetation construction footprint • Unauthorised vegetation clearance Floral • Unauthorised vegetation • Flora within the development X X biodiversity clearance footprint Species of X Conservation • Unauthorised vegetation • SCC in development footprint X

Vegetation Concern (SCC) clearance Loss/ Fragmentation • Unauthorised vegetation • Habitats within development X footprint of habitats clearance

• Unauthorised X Establishment vegetation clearance of alien • Disturbed terrestrial and aquatic X • Inappropriate planning areas vegetation for management/ X rehabilitation of alien vegetation Page 37 of 100

THEME POTENTIAL SOURCE OF ISSUE POTENTIAL RECEPTORS PHASE ASSESSMENT ISSUES PLANNING CONSTRUCTION OPERATIONAL ACTIONS AND DESIGN • Local community Job creation • Construction activities X • General public • Surrounding landowners and Traffic flow • Traffic diversions X general public • Inappropriate demarcation of Health and the construction site • Construction workers X safety • Construction activities • Surrounding community • Obstruction of traffic Socio- • Vegetation clearance Air quality and • Surrounding landowners and General EIA economic • Earthworks X dust control community • Construction activities • Surrounding landowners and Visual • Construction activities X community • Surrounding landowners and Noise • Construction activities X community • Poor planning for emergency • Terrestrial environment On-site fire risk response procedures • Surrounding landowners and X • Flammable goods general public Loss of cultural, • Insufficient planning • Heritage resources and Heritage and heritage and • Siting and placement Paleontological findings Heritage impact paleontological X X paleontological • Earthworks assessment environment resources Inadequate • Inadequate planning and • Aquatic and terrestrial Rehabilitation rehabilitation provisioning environment and X X General EIA and • Lack of maintenance of • Surrounding landowners and maintenance maintenance infrastructure general public

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Table 1.2: Summary of impacts and associated significance and proposed mitigation measures for the Breidbach Mixed-Use Housing Development and Service Station.

SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE OF IMPACT POTENTIAL ISSUES WITHOUT MITIGATION MEASURES WITH MITIGATION MITIGATION

PLANNING AND DESIGN • All relevant legislation and policy must be consulted and the proponent must ensure that the project is compliant with such legislation and policy. • These should include (but are not restricted to): Legal and policy HIGH NEMA, Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation LOW compliance Plan (ECBCP), Local Municipal bylaws. • All relevant permits and authorisations including: EA, Water Use Licences, Building Plan Approvals and plant removal permits must be in place prior to commencement of construction.

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• Planning for the layout and placement of infrastructure must be done so as to avoid sensitive areas as far as possible. This includes placing infrastructure and buildings out of the floodline and maintaining appropriate buffers from sensitive features, particularly water courses and aquatic habitats. • All necessary Water Use Authorisations must be obtained for any of the following activities: o Construction within 500 m of a wetland; and o Construction within a watercourse.

The following recommendations by the Specialist Aquatic Impact Assessment must be implemented:

Aquatic buffer zone recommendations: • Without specific impact/risk mitigation a buffer of 27m must be maintained for the onsite watercourses. • With specific mitigation (focusing on construction phase sediment management and operation phase stormwater quality and quantity management) the buffers may be reduced to Loss of natural 15m. vegetation, habitats

and Species of Stormwater management recommendations: Conservation Concern HIGH LOW • When developing a stormwater management due to layout of plan for the site, consideration must be given to structures and the collection and basic filtering of stormwater infrastructure prior to discharge into the natural environment. • The stormwater management plan should be developed with appropriate ecological input and be developed based on Sustainable Drainage Systems (SUDS). • Best practice stormwater management design measures have been outlined in Section 5.2 of the aquatic report. • Special attention must be paid to the fuel station to ensure that contaminated runoff is not generated or discharged to the environment.

Underground (fuel) Storage Tanks: The following environmental design guidelines must be implemented for Underground (fuel) Storage Tanks (USTs) and pipework required for the service station: • The USTs must be installed according to: o Applicable petrol station engineering. guidelines and specifications. o Relevant National Building Regulations. o Relevant SANS and SABS codes. • Additional UST design recommendations relating to USTs, are provided in section 5.3 of the aquatic report.

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SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE OF IMPACT POTENTIAL ISSUES WITHOUT MITIGATION MEASURES WITH MITIGATION MITIGATION

The following recommendations by the Specialist Geohydrological Impact Assessment must be implemented: • All dispenser pumps will be located on pump islands surrounded by hardened surfaces, which will prevent downward migration of any free phase product and promote Contamination of soil horizontal flow into the collection pit/s. & groundwater • The filler points are located inside pollution due to containment manholes, which are HIGH LOW surface fuel spillages. surrounded by concrete hard standing. • The containment manholes must be able to contain minor spillages from flexible fuel delivery pipe disconnection.

Other recommendations provided in the Specialist Geohydrological Impact Assessment relating to fuel dispenser design and hardware, should also be implemented:

The following recommendations by the Specialist Geohydrological Impact Assessment must be implemented:

• The proposed installation must comply with SANS 1535 (relating to tank manufacture standards) and SANS 10089 Part 3 (relating Contamination of soil to underground tanks and pipe installation & groundwater standards). pollution due to HIGH • Consideration should be given to the LOW subsurface fuel leaks. installation of double composite tanks, steel

with fibre glass outer.

• Non-corrosive pipe work systems should also be installed. This is to limit the possibility of pipe failure due to corrosion; this being the most common cause of pipe failure before this system was introduced to the RSA. • Any joints in the fuel lines should be located within containment manholes,

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SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE OF IMPACT POTENTIAL ISSUES WITHOUT MITIGATION MEASURES WITH MITIGATION MITIGATION

The following recommendations by the Specialist Geohydrological Impact Assessment must be implemented: • Soil Management (erosion control): Erosion Risk of increase in control measures must be installed to surface runoff on MODERATE stabilize the banks and prevent future LOW flooding. erosion that may affect the development

and the vegetation. • Pollution Control: Sewerage and waste water systems must be properly connected to the existing BCMM infrastructure. The following recommendations by the Specialist Geohydrological Impact Assessment must be implemented:

• Ensure due design, construction and Risk of sewage effluent HIGH maintenance of sewage pipeline. LOW entering groundwater • Ensure correct siting of the sewage pipeline. • Ensure that a back-up system is designed to reduce the risk of accidental sewage releases.

The following recommendations by the Specialist Geohydrological Impact Assessment must be implemented with respect to existing or new groundwater sources: • Ensure no hydraulic shortcut between Aquifer vulnerability MODERATE shallow and deeper aquifer (boreholes only LOW

screened at greater depth and proper sealing of upper borehole sections). • Extract water as recommended at greater depth from the Burgerdorp aquifer.

The recommendations of the Specialist Heritage Impact Assessment must be implemented, including:

Historical Period Site “Bramwell Cottage” • Avoidance: Implement a heritage conservation buffer of at least 20m. Heritage and • Phase 2 Mitigation: Legally compliant Phase paleontological HIGH 2 Study and assessment if impacted on. LOW resources • Permitting: Apply for relevant alteration / destruction permits for Phase 2 and consequent impact.

Historical Period Site Farmworkers Compound Site • Permitting: Apply for relevant destruction permits if impacted on. CONSTRUCTION

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SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE OF IMPACT POTENTIAL ISSUES WITHOUT MITIGATION MEASURES WITH MITIGATION MITIGATION

• The Applicant must employ an independent Environmental Control Officer (ECO) for the Legal and policy duration of the construction phase to audit the HIGH LOW compliance contractors compliance with the specifications in the EA, EMPr and any other permits/authorisations. • The site camp must be established well away from sensitive areas, especially any water courses, and preferably on previously Site establishment MODERATE LOW transformed areas. • Vegetation clearance must be kept to a minimum during site clearance activities. • Vegetation clearance must be kept to construction footprint and extra care must be Site clearing MODERATE taken when working within close proximity to LOW sensitive areas, particularly aquatic habitats and water courses. • Material stockpiles must be located away from sensitive areas and they must be monitored for Material stockpiling MODERATE erosion and alien vegetation. LOW • Material stockpiles locations must be approved by the ECO. • The construction site must be managed in a manner that prevents pollution of downstream watercourses or groundwater, due to suspended solids, silt or chemical pollutants. Stormwater MODERATE • Berms and swathes must be placed in areas that LOW management may be prone to erosion. • Temporary cut-off drains and berms may be required to capture storm water and promote infiltration.

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SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE OF IMPACT POTENTIAL ISSUES WITHOUT MITIGATION MEASURES WITH MITIGATION MITIGATION

• A Waste Management Plan for handling onsite general and hazardous waste during the construction phases must be developed and implemented. • All general waste must be disposed of in bins/waste skips labelled “general waste”. • Sufficient waste bins must be provided throughout the construction site for collecting waste. • All general waste collected on site must be disposed of at a licensed general waste disposal site. Waste management MODERATE LOW • All hazardous waste generated on site must be placed in a temporary impermeable bunded containment area which must be disposed of at a hazardous landfill site or be collected by the appropriate service provider. • Proof of receipt of hazardous waste by a licenced service provider must be maintained on the site. • Adequate sanitary facilities must be provided for construction workers and they must be properly secured to the ground. • Maintenance of the chemical toilets should be done on a regular basis to prevent any leakages.

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SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE OF IMPACT POTENTIAL ISSUES WITHOUT MITIGATION MEASURES WITH MITIGATION MITIGATION

• Any storage tanks containing hazardous materials (ie fuel, diesel) must be placed in bunded containment areas with sealed surfaces and the capacity of the bunded containment areas must be 110% the volume of the storage tanks within it. • Cement and concrete must not be mixed directly on the ground, or during rainfall events when the potential for transport of pollutants to watercourses is the greatest. • Used cement bags should be collected and stored in containers to prevent wind-blown cement dust and water contamination. • Mixed cement/concrete must not be allowed to Hazardous substances HIGH flow into any watercourses. LOW • Drip trays must be placed under stationary construction machinery overnight to avoid soil contamination from oil and fuel leaks. • Absorbent materials in the form of a spill kit must be provided 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. • 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 suitable containers until appropriate disposal. • Wind screening and stormwater control must be undertaken to prevent soil loss from the site. • The contractor must develop and implement an Erosion Management Plan. • All erosion control mechanisms must be regularly maintained. • Natural vegetation must be retained where possible to avoid soil erosion. Soils MODERATE • Construction must be phased in order to LOW minimise the area of exposed soil at any one time. • Disturbed areas of natural vegetation must be rehabilitated immediately to prevent further soil erosion. • Fill and stabilise all erosion rills before they develop into larger gullies that advance from erosion and runoff due to construction activities

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SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE OF IMPACT POTENTIAL ISSUES WITHOUT MITIGATION MEASURES WITH MITIGATION MITIGATION

• The construction footprint must be surveyed and demarcated prior to construction commencing. • No construction activities must be allowed outside the demarcated footprint. Natural vegetation MODERATE • Where vegetation has been cleared, site LOW rehabilitation in terms of soil stabilisation and vegetation must be undertaken. • The contractor's staff must not harvest any natural vegetation. • A search and rescue operation must be conducted by the relevant authority prior to commencement of construction activities. • All SCC impacted by construction activities must Species of be conserved and rescued. Conservation Concern MODERATE • All rescued SCC must be transplanted to a LOW (SCC) suitable habitat or nursery for the duration of the construction phase; • All rescued SCC must be replanted within the site where it was originally found or in close proximity during rehabilitation • All staff on site must be trained regarding the proper management and response should Wildlife mortalities MODERATE animals be encountered. LOW • No animal must be killed or deliberately injured. • No hunting, baiting or trapping smust be allowed. • The approved Alien Vegetation Management Plan must be implemented during the construction phase to reduce the establishment and spread of undesirable alien plant species. • All temporarily impacted areas must be rehabilitated with indigenous vegetation as soon Establishments of as construction in the particular area or phase of HIGH LOW alien plant species work is complete, i.e. rehabilitation is on-going throughout construction. • Alien plants must be removed from the site through appropriate methods such as hand pulling, application of chemicals, cutting etc. as in accordance to the NEMBA: Alien Invasive Species Regulations. • Clearance of riparian vegetation must be kept to an absolute minimum and only if absolutely necessary. Riparian vegetation HIGH LOW • All riparian vegetation clearance activities must be monitored by the appointed ECO throughout the construction phase.

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SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE OF IMPACT POTENTIAL ISSUES WITHOUT MITIGATION MEASURES WITH MITIGATION MITIGATION

• All chemicals/hazardous substances must be stored safely in bunded area at least 100m from any watercourse. • Emergency plans must be in place in case of Aquatic habitat loss, spillages of hazardous substances/materials. destruction and HIGH LOW • Ablution facilities must not be located within pollution 50m of any rivers. • Chemical toilets must be regularly maintained/ serviced to prevent ground or surface water pollution. • A health and safety officer must be appointed throughout the construction phase. Health, safety and • The health and safety officer must ensure that MODERATE LOW crime the relevant health and safety officer control measures are developed and implemented in terms of relevant health and safety legislation. • During windy periods un-surfaced and un- vegetated areas must be dampened down. Air quality and dust MODERATE • Any complaints or claims emanating from dust LOW control issues must be attended to immediately and noted in the complaints register. • Activities which include the movement of construction vehicles and the operation of machinery should be restricted to normal Noise MODERATE working hours (07:00am – 17:00pm). LOW • There must be a complaints register on site for nearby residents to make complaints. These must be addressed and recorded. • All flammable substances must be stored in dry areas which do not pose an ignition risk to the said substances. • Smoking must not be permitted near flammable substances. On-site fire risk MODERATE LOW • All cooking must be done in demarcated areas that are safe in terms of runaway or uncontrolled fires. • No open fires must be allowed on site. • Fire extinguishers must be available onsite. • Local residents should be made aware of the presence of construction vehicles by making use of high-visibility signage. Traffic MODERATE LOW • All traffic safety (flagmen) and traffic calming measures should be in place within the site and where traffic enters the main road.

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SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE OF IMPACT POTENTIAL ISSUES WITHOUT MITIGATION MEASURES WITH MITIGATION MITIGATION

The recommendations of the Specialist Heritage Impact Assessment must be implemented, including: • Monitoring: Frequent monitoring must be conducted during construction by the heritage consultant or an ECO familiar with the heritage occurrences of the site. • All heritage permits or buffer zones must be in Heritage and place prior to construction. paleontological MODERATE LOW • Should any incidental heritage or paleontological resources resources be uncovered during construction, works must be stopped immediately, the appropriate heritage practitioner must be notified and undertake a site inspection. The heritage practitioner must compile a report and make recommendations for the way forward as well as the legal requirements. • The rehabilitation plan must be implemented during and after the construction has been completed. Inadequate • All temporarily disturbed areas must be rehabilitation and MODERATE rehabilitated with indigenous vegetation as soon LOW maintenance as construction in the particular area or phase of work is complete, i.e. rehabilitation is on-going throughout construction as phases have been completed. OPERATION • The proponent must ensure that the operation of the Breidbach fuel station and accompanying infrastructure is compliant with the relevant Legal and policy HIGH legislation and policy. LOW compliance • These should include (but are not restricted to): NEMA, EA, WULA, plant removal permits and any other permits/ . • Regular maintenance and inspections of all infrastructure and services must be undertaken. Bulk services and MODERATE • Any leakages of sewage infrastructure on site LOW infrastructure must be stopped immediately and contaminated areas remediated.

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SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE OF IMPACT POTENTIAL ISSUES WITHOUT MITIGATION MEASURES WITH MITIGATION MITIGATION

The following recommendations by the Specialist Geohydrological Impact Assessment must be implemented: Contamination of soil, • All petrol station operations must be groundwater and conducted according to industry best surface water due to practice with respect to maintaining surface and HIGH LOW pollution control infrastructure. subsurface fuel leaks. • Appropriate UST fuel leak detection

measures must be implemented.

• There must be regular inspections and maintenance of pollution control infrastructure to ensure effectiveness. • Stormwater management measures such as attenuation structures, channels, etc. must be properly maintained and monitored. Stormwater • If the stormwater management measures put in MODERATE LOW management place are deemed insufficient, a qualified engineer must be approached to assist with additional storm water attenuation mechanisms and remediation. • A waste management plan must be implemented to ensure appropriate handling, collection, processing and disposal of solid waste. (An adequate backup system for waste management should be in place in case of service delivery strikes). • Reuse, recycling and separation-at-source of Waste management MODERATE waste should be promoted. LOW • If any hazardous waste that is generated on site it must be stored in an impermeable container until such time as it can be disposed at a registered hazardous landfill site or be collected by the appropriate service provider. • A “clean site policy” must be adopted by all employees. • The approved Alien Vegetation Management Plan must be implemented to reduce the establishment and spread of undesirable alien plant species. Establishment of alien MODERATE • Alien plants must be removed from the site LOW plant species through appropriate methods such as hand pulling, application of chemicals, cutting etc. as in accordance to the NEMBA: Alien Invasive Species Regulations.

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SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE OF IMPACT POTENTIAL ISSUES WITHOUT MITIGATION MEASURES WITH MITIGATION MITIGATION

• Fire extinguishers must be placed throughout the site. • No smoking or open flame should be permitted On-site fire risk HIGH LOW on the site. • An Emergency Response Plan must be in place and must be known by all employees.

The Table below provides a summary of all negative impacts associated with the proposed Breidbach Mixed Use development:

PRE-MITIGATION POST-MITIGATION

VERY VERY LOW MODERATE HIGH LOW MODERATE HIGH HIGH HIGH

Planning and 0 2 6 0 8 0 0 0 Design

Construction 0 16 5 0 21 0 0 0

Operation 0 4 3 0 7 0 0 0

TOTAL 0 22 14 0 36 0 0 0

SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE OF POTENTIAL ISSUES WITHOUT MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT WITH MITIGATION MITIGATION

NO-GO No development MODERATE • No mitigation required. MODERATE • An Erosion Management Plan must be developed to mitigate the unnecessary loss Soil Erosion MODERATE LOW of soil and sedimentation of watercourses during all phases of the project. • An Alien Vegetation Management Plan must Alien invasive be developed to mitigate the establishment MODERATE LOW species and spread of undesirable alien plant species during all phases of the project.

Job creation MODERATE • No mitigation required. LOW Tourism MODERATE • No mitigation required. LOW Loss of agricultural • No mitigation required. LOW LOW land

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SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE OF POTENTIAL ISSUES WITHOUT MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT WITH MITIGATION MITIGATION

Heritage and • No mitigation required. paleontological LOW LOW resources

4. 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.

Summary of the Proposed Development

The proposed Breidbach mixed-use housing and business development including a service station, is located in the suburb of Breidbach near King Williams Town within the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM), Province of the Eastern Cape. The site has access via the National Route 2 from East London to King Williams Town, intersection approximately 50 km from East London. The properties that form part of the development, Erf 447 and 34, within BCMM.

The intention of the subdivision of the development area is to divide separate uses into 15 separate erven. The Breidbach Mixed-Use Development will comprise the following zones: • Business Zone 1 (Shops, office space, service station); • Residential Zone 3B; • Transport Zone 2; and • Private Open Space.

The development is located within the BCMM Urban Edge according to the BCMM Spatial Development Framework.

A. Alternatives

The Breidbach Mixed Use Development is the Preferred Alternative and no alternatives other than the No- Go alternative has been assessed in the current BAR.

Alternative 1 (Preferred Alternative): The proposed Breidbach mixed-use housing development and associated infrastructure intends to plan for the creation of a sustainable urban environment, while also promoting and environmentally sensitive and economically sustainable development that benefits not only local residents, but the area as a whole.

Due to the nature of the activity (construction of a fuel station along the N2, residential erven and shopping complex) and the limited feasible options to undertake the activity which is consistent with the BCMM Spatial Development Framework for the area.

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No-go Alternative: If the status quo remains unchanged, the area will remain in its current state and no development will take place. This will mean no new job opportunities for the local residents.

B. Biological Environment

Terrestrial environment The entire study area is located on Buffels Mesic Thicket. The conservation status of this vegetation type is Least threatened, it has been given a conservation target of 19%. According to ECBCP the site is classified as CBA 2, due to its function as an ecological corridor, however the site assessment indicated that the area has been invaded by alien plant species.

Aquatic Environment

The proposed development is located adjacent to the Yellowwoods River and tributary. The following two specialist studies dealt with aquatic impacts: • Aquatic Impact Assessment; and • Geohydrological Impact Assessment.

The two specialist studies identified the following main issues relating to aquatic systems: • Loss of natural riparian vegetation, habitats and Species of Conservation Concern due to layout of structures and infrastructure; • Risks of erosion due to stormwater; • Contamination of aquifer, ground water and surface water due to pollutants emanating particularly from the proposed fuel station and other business activities.

No water use licence application is necessary provided that all development remains outside the 32 metres buffer from water courses.

C. Heritage economic environment

The specialist Heritage Impact Assessment recommended avoiding the following two sites should be avoided: • Bramwell Cottage; and • Farmworkers compound site.

If the developer wishes to impact on these sites, the relevant destruction permits must be obtained.

D. Socio economic environment The construction of the mixed-use housing development and associated infrastructure will positively influence the socio-economic environment as it will result in improved livelihoods for the surrounding community, it will also assist travelers travelling along the N2 between King Williams Town and East London to have a resting stop.

E. Sensitivity statement

The environmental sensitivity of the study area relates mostly to aquatic ecosystems associated with the Yellowwoods River and tributary, and two heritage sites. The sensitivity map depicted below shows the aquatic and heritage site locations where development must be avoided:

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Site Sensitivity Map for the proposed Breidbach Mixed-Use Housing development and service station.

Environmental Impact Statement

In terms of the environmental assessment, no impacts were identified that could not be adequately mitigated to a low significance rating. With mitigation measures in place, there are a number of significantly positive impacts which would result from the proposed development. The No-Go option (status quo remaining unchanged) would have several negative impacts.

Cumulative impact statement

Cumulative impacts have been assessed as part of the impact assessment process in Appendix G2. All cumulative impacts are considered as minimal provided the mitigation measures listed below are implemented during all phases of the proposed.

Opinion of the EAP

CES hereby provides the following opinion concerning the proposed Breidbach Mixed-Use Housing Development and Service Station, in King Williams Town within the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape.

It is the opinion of CES that NO FATAL FLAWS are associated with the proposed construction and that all impacts can be adequately mitigated to reduce the risk or significance of impacts to an acceptable level.

CES is also of the opinion that this BAR contains sufficient information to allow DEDEAT to make an informed decision. CES therefore recommends that the application for authorisation should be approved on condition that the recommended mitigation measures stated herein and in the EMPr are effectively implemented.

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SECTION E. RECOMMENDATIONS OF PRACTITIONER

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

Is an EMPr attached? YES NO

The EMPr must be attached as Appendix F.

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):

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:

ISSUES MITIGATION MEASURES PLANNING AND DESIGN Legal and policy • All relevant legislation and policy must be consulted and the proponent must compliance ensure that the project is compliant with such legislation and policy. • These should include (but are not restricted to): NEMA, Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (ECBCP), Local Municipal bylaws. • All relevant permits and authorisations including: EA, Water Use Licences, Building Plan Approvals and plant removal permits must be in place prior to commencement of construction.

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ISSUES MITIGATION MEASURES Loss of natural • Planning for the layout and placement of infrastructure must be done so as to vegetation, avoid sensitive areas as far as possible. This includes placing infrastructure and habitats and buildings out of the floodline and maintaining appropriate buffers from sensitive Species of features, particularly water courses and aquatic habitats. Conservation • All necessary Water Use Authorisations must be obtained for any of the following Concern due to activities: layout of o Construction within 500 m of a wetland; and structures and o Construction within a watercourse. infrastructure The following recommendations by the Specialist Aquatic Impact Assessment must be implemented:

Aquatic buffer zone recommendations: • Without specific impact/risk mitigation a buffer of 27m must be maintained for the onsite watercourses. • With specific mitigation (focusing on construction phase sediment management and operation phase stormwater quality and quantity management) the buffers may be reduced to 15m.

Stormwater management recommendations: • When developing a stormwater management plan for the site, consideration must be given to the collection and basic filtering of stormwater prior to discharge into the natural environment. • The stormwater management plan should be developed with appropriate ecological input and be developed based on Sustainable Drainage Systems (SUDS). • Best practice stormwater management design measures have been outlined in Section 5.2 of the aquatic report. • Special attention must be paid to the fuel station to ensure that contaminated runoff is not generated or discharged to the environment.

Underground (fuel) Storage Tanks: The following environmental design guidelines must be implemented for Underground (fuel) Storage Tanks (USTs) and pipework required for the service station: • The USTs must be installed according to: o Applicable petrol station engineering. guidelines and specifications. o Relevant National Building Regulations. o Relevant SANS and SABS codes. • Additional UST design recommendations relating to USTs, are provided in section 5.3 of the aquatic report. Contamination of The following recommendations by the Specialist Geohydrological Impact Assessment soil & must be implemented: groundwater • All dispenser pumps will be located on pump islands surrounded by hardened pollution due to surfaces, which will prevent downward migration of any free phase product surface fuel and promote horizontal flow into the collection pit/s. spillages. • The filler points are located inside containment manholes, which are surrounded by concrete hard standing. • The containment manholes must be able to contain minor spillages from flexible fuel delivery pipe disconnection.

Other recommendations provided in the Specialist Geohydrological Impact Assessment relating to fuel dispenser design and hardware, should also be implemented:

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ISSUES MITIGATION MEASURES Contamination of The following recommendations by the Specialist Geohydrological Impact Assessment soil & must be implemented: groundwater • The proposed installation must comply with SANS 1535 (relating to tank pollution due to manufacture standards) and SANS 10089 Part 3 (relating to underground subsurface fuel tanks and pipe installation standards). leaks. • Consideration should be given to the installation of double composite tanks, steel with fibre glass outer. • Non-corrosive pipe work systems should also be installed. This is to limit the possibility of pipe failure due to corrosion; this being the most common cause of pipe failure before this system was introduced to the RSA. • Any joints in the fuel lines should be located within containment manholes, Risk of increase in The following recommendations by the Specialist Geohydrological Impact Assessment surface runoff on must be implemented: flooding. • Soil Management (erosion control): Erosion control measures must be installed to stabilize the banks and prevent future erosion that may affect the development and the vegetation. • Pollution Control: Sewerage and waste water systems must be properly connected to the existing BCMM infrastructure. Risk of sewage The following recommendations by the Specialist Geohydrological Impact Assessment effluent entering must be implemented: groundwater • Ensure due design, construction and maintenance of sewage pipeline. • Ensure correct siting of the sewage pipeline. • Ensure that a back-up system is designed to reduce the risk of accidental sewage releases.

Aquifer The following recommendations by the Specialist Geohydrological Impact Assessment vulnerability must be implemented with respect to existing or new groundwater sources: • Ensure no hydraulic shortcut between shallow and deeper aquifer (boreholes only screened at greater depth and proper sealing of upper borehole sections). • Extract water as recommended at greater depth from the Burgerdorp aquifer.

Heritage and The recommendations of the Specialist Heritage Impact Assessment must be paleontological implemented, including: resources Historical Period Site “Bramwell Cottage” • Avoidance: Implement a heritage conservation buffer of at least 20m. • Phase 2 Mitigation: Legally compliant Phase 2 Study and assessment if impacted on. • Permitting: Apply for relevant alteration / destruction permits for Phase 2 and consequent impact.

Historical Period Site Farmworkers Compound Site • Permitting: Apply for relevant destruction permits if impacted on. CONSTRUCTION Legal and policy • The Applicant must employ an independent Environmental Control Officer (ECO) compliance for the duration of the construction phase to audit the contractors compliance with the specifications in the EA, EMPr and any other permits/authorisations.

Site • The site camp must be established well away from sensitive areas, especially any establishment water courses, and preferably on previously transformed areas. • Vegetation clearance must be kept to a minimum during site clearance activities.

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ISSUES MITIGATION MEASURES Site clearing • Vegetation clearance must be kept to construction footprint and extra care must be taken when working within close proximity to sensitive areas, particularly aquatic habitats and water courses.

Material • Material stockpiles must be located away from sensitive areas and they must be stockpiling monitored for erosion and alien vegetation. • Material stockpiles locations must be approved by the ECO.

Stormwater • The construction site must be managed in a manner that prevents pollution of management downstream watercourses or groundwater, due to suspended solids, silt or chemical pollutants. • Berms and swathes must be placed in areas that may be prone to erosion. • Temporary cut-off drains and berms may be required to capture storm water and promote infiltration. Waste • A Waste Management Plan for handling onsite general and hazardous waste management during the construction phases must be developed and implemented. • All general waste must be disposed of in bins/waste skips labelled “general waste”. • Sufficient waste bins must be provided throughout the construction site for collecting waste. • All general waste collected on site must be disposed of at a licensed general waste disposal site. • All hazardous waste generated on site must be placed in a temporary impermeable bunded containment area which must be disposed of at a hazardous landfill site or be collected by the appropriate service provider. • Proof of receipt of hazardous waste by a licenced service provider must be maintained on the site. • Adequate sanitary facilities must be provided for construction workers and they must be properly secured to the ground. • Maintenance of the chemical toilets should be done on a regular basis to prevent any leakages. Hazardous • Any storage tanks containing hazardous materials (ie fuel, diesel) must be placed substances in bunded containment areas with sealed surfaces and the capacity of the bunded containment areas must be 110% the volume of the storage tanks within it. • Cement and concrete must not be mixed directly on the ground, or during rainfall events when the potential for transport of pollutants to watercourses is the greatest. • Used cement bags should be collected and stored in containers to prevent wind- blown cement dust and water contamination. • Mixed cement/concrete must not be allowed to flow into any watercourses. • Drip trays must be placed under stationary construction machinery overnight to avoid soil contamination from oil and fuel leaks. • Absorbent materials in the form of a spill kit must be provided 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. • 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 suitable containers until appropriate disposal.

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ISSUES MITIGATION MEASURES Soils • Wind screening and stormwater control must be undertaken to prevent soil loss from the site. • The contractor must develop and implement an Erosion Management Plan. • All erosion control mechanisms must be regularly maintained. • Natural vegetation must be retained where possible to avoid soil erosion. • Construction must be phased in order to minimise the area of exposed soil at any one time. • Disturbed areas of natural vegetation must be rehabilitated immediately to prevent further soil erosion. • Fill and stabilise all erosion rills before they develop into larger gullies that advance from erosion and runoff due to construction activities Natural • The construction footprint must be surveyed and demarcated prior to construction vegetation commencing. • No construction activities must be allowed outside the demarcated footprint. • Where vegetation has been cleared, site rehabilitation in terms of soil stabilisation and vegetation must be undertaken. • The contractor's staff must not harvest any natural vegetation. Species of • A search and rescue operation must be conducted by the relevant authority prior Conservation to commencement of construction activities. Concern (SCC) • All SCC impacted by construction activities must be conserved and rescued. • All rescued SCC must be transplanted to a suitable habitat or nursery for the duration of the construction phase; • All rescued SCC must be replanted within the site where it was originally found or in close proximity during rehabilitation Wildlife • All staff on site must be trained regarding the proper management and response mortalities should animals be encountered. • No animal must be killed or deliberately injured. • No hunting, baiting or trapping smust be allowed. Establishments of • The approved Alien Vegetation Management Plan must be implemented during alien plant the construction phase to reduce the establishment and spread of undesirable species alien plant species. • All temporarily impacted areas must be rehabilitated with indigenous vegetation as soon as construction in the particular area or phase of work is complete, i.e. rehabilitation is on-going throughout construction. • Alien plants must be removed from the site through appropriate methods such as hand pulling, application of chemicals, cutting etc. as in accordance to the NEMBA: Alien Invasive Species Regulations. Riparian • Clearance of riparian vegetation must be kept to an absolute minimum and only if vegetation absolutely necessary. • All riparian vegetation clearance activities must be monitored by the appointed ECO throughout the construction phase. Aquatic habitat • All chemicals/hazardous substances must be stored safely in bunded area at least loss, destruction 100m from any watercourse. and pollution • Emergency plans must be in place in case of spillages of hazardous substances/materials. • Ablution facilities must not be located within 50m of any rivers. • Chemical toilets must be regularly maintained/ serviced to prevent ground or surface water pollution. Health, safety and • A health and safety officer must be appointed throughout the construction phase. crime • The health and safety officer must ensure that the relevant health and safety officer control measures are developed and implemented in terms of relevant health and safety legislation.

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ISSUES MITIGATION MEASURES Air quality and • During windy periods un-surfaced and un-vegetated areas must be dampened dust control down. • Any complaints or claims emanating from dust issues must be attended to immediately and noted in the complaints register.

Noise • Activities which include the movement of construction vehicles and the operation of machinery should be restricted to normal working hours (07:00am – 17:00pm). • There must be a complaints register on site for nearby residents to make complaints. These must be addressed and recorded.

On-site fire risk • All flammable substances must be stored in dry areas which do not pose an ignition risk to the said substances. • Smoking must not be permitted near flammable substances. • All cooking must be done in demarcated areas that are safe in terms of runaway or uncontrolled fires. • No open fires must be allowed on site. • Fire extinguishers must be available onsite. Traffic • Local residents should be made aware of the presence of construction vehicles by making use of high-visibility signage. • All traffic safety (flagmen) and traffic calming measures should be in place within the site and where traffic enters the main road. Heritage and The recommendations of the Specialist Heritage Impact Assessment must be paleontological implemented, including: resources • Monitoring: Frequent monitoring must be conducted during construction by the heritage consultant or an ECO familiar with the heritage occurrences of the site. • All heritage permits or buffer zones must be in place prior to construction. • Should any incidental heritage or paleontological resources be uncovered during construction, works must be stopped immediately, the appropriate heritage practitioner must be notified and undertake a site inspection. The heritage practitioner must compile a report and make recommendations for the way forward as well as the legal requirements. Inadequate • The rehabilitation plan must be implemented during and after the construction rehabilitation and has been completed. maintenance • All temporarily disturbed areas must be rehabilitated with indigenous vegetation as soon as construction in the particular area or phase of work is complete, i.e. rehabilitation is on-going throughout construction as phases have been completed. OPERATION Legal and policy • The proponent must ensure that the operation of the Breidbach fuel station and compliance accompanying infrastructure is compliant with the relevant legislation and policy. • These should include (but are not restricted to): NEMA, EA, WULA, plant removal permits and any other permits/ .

Bulk services and • Regular maintenance and inspections of all infrastructure and services must be infrastructure undertaken. • Any leakages of sewage infrastructure on site must be stopped immediately and contaminated areas remediated.

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ISSUES MITIGATION MEASURES Contamination of The following recommendations by the Specialist Geohydrological Impact Assessment soil, groundwater must be implemented: and surface water • All petrol station operations must be conducted according to industry best due to surface practice with respect to maintaining pollution control infrastructure. and subsurface • Appropriate UST fuel leak detection measures must be implemented. fuel leaks. • There must be regular inspections and maintenance of pollution control infrastructure to ensure effectiveness.

Stormwater • Stormwater management measures such as attenuation structures, channels, etc. management must be properly maintained and monitored. • If the stormwater management measures put in place are deemed insufficient, a qualified engineer must be approached to assist with additional storm water attenuation mechanisms and remediation. Waste • A waste management plan must be implemented to ensure appropriate handling, management collection, processing and disposal of solid waste. (An adequate backup system for waste management should be in place in case of service delivery strikes). • Reuse, recycling and separation-at-source of waste should be promoted. • If any hazardous waste that is generated on site it must be stored in an impermeable container until such time as it can be disposed at a registered hazardous landfill site or be collected by the appropriate service provider. • A “clean site policy” must be adopted by all employees. Establishment of • The approved Alien Vegetation Management Plan must be implemented to reduce alien plant the establishment and spread of undesirable alien plant species. species • Alien plants must be removed from the site through appropriate methods such as hand pulling, application of chemicals, cutting etc. as in accordance to the NEMBA: Alien Invasive Species Regulations. On-site fire risk • Fire extinguishers must be placed throughout the site. • No smoking or open flame should be permitted on the site. • An Emergency Response Plan must be in place and must be known by all employees.

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SECTION F: APPENDICES

The following appendixes must be attached as appropriate:

Appendix A: Site plan(s) • A1: Site development plan • A2: Site subdivision plan • A3: Site sensitivity map

Appendix B: Photographs

Appendix C: Facility illustration(s)

Appendix D: Specialist reports • Heritage • Aquatic • Geohydrological

Appendix E: Comments and responses report

NONE So FAR

Appendix F: Environmental Management Programme (EMPr)

Appendix G: Other information

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Appendix A1: Site Development Plan

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Appendix 1B: Site Subdivision plan

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Appendix A3: Site sensitivity map

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Appendix B: Site photographs

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Part of the development area where non-authorized sale of sand and gravel took place.

N2 to King Williams Town and East London bordering the western edge of the development area.

Farm located adjacent to the development area, across the Yellowwoods River.

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Small stream crossing located in the eastern View of the riparian vegetation along the portion of site (tributary of the Yellowwoods Yellowwoods River. River).

Farmhouse and informal dwelling located on the site.

Wetland identified on site located near the N2.

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Appendix C: Facility Illustration

There is currently no conceptual illustrations of the proposed project other than the layout designs.

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Appendix D: Specialist Reports

• Ecological Impact Assessment

• Freshwater Aquatic Impact Assessment

• Geohydrological Impact Assessment

• Heritage Impact Assessment

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Appendix E: Comments and Response Reports

Appendix E1: Advertisement Appendix E2: Noticeboards Appendix E3: Background Information Documents and Letter of Notification Appendix E4: Public Meeting Minutes, Attendance Register and Presentation Appendix E5: Stakeholder database Appendix E6: Issues and Response Trail

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APPENDIX E1: ADVERTISEMENT

The advert below appeared in the Dispatch on the 14th April 2021.

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APPENDIX E2: NOTICEBOARDS

The following notice board was placed on site:

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APPENDIX E3: BACKGROUND INFORMATION DOCUMENT (Bid) and LETTER OF NOTIFICATION

The following BID was provided to stakeholders and I&APs

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Letter of notification

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APPENDIX E4: PUBLIC MEETING MINUTES, ATTENDANCE REGISTER AND PRESENTATION

NA

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APPENDIX E5: STAKEHOLDER DATABASE

TO BE INCLUDED IN FINAL BAR

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APPENDIX E6: ISSUES AND RESPONSE TRAIL

TO BE INCLUDED IN FINAL BAR

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APPENDIX E6: COMMENTS RECEIVED

TO BE INCLUDED IN FINAL BAR

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Appendix F: Environmental Management Programme

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Appendix G: Methodology for Assessing Impacts

Identified impacts will be assessed against the following criteria:

• Temporal scale • Spatial scale • Degree of confidence or certainty • Severity or benefits • Significance

The relationship of the issue to the temporal scale, spatial scale and the severity are combined to describe the overall importance rating, namely the significance.

Description of criteria Table 3.5.a Significance Rating Table

Significance Rating Table

Temporal Scale (The duration of the impact) Short term Less than 5 years (Many construction phase impacts are of a short duration).

Medium term Between 5 and 20 years.

Long term Between 20 and 40 years (From a human perspective almost permanent).

Permanent Over 40 years or resulting in a permanent and lasting change that will always be there. Spatial Scale (The area in which any impact will have an affect) Individual Impacts affect an individual.

Localised Impacts affect a small area of a few hectares in extent. Often only a portion of the project area. Project Level Impacts affect the entire project area.

Surrounding Areas Impacts that affect the area surrounding the development.

Municipal Impacts affect the Local Municipality, or any towns within them.

Regional Impacts affect the wider district municipality or the province as a whole.

National Impacts affect the entire country.

International/Global Impacts affect other countries or have a global influence.

Degree of Confidence or Certainty (The confidence with which one has predicted the significance of an impact)

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Definite More than 90% sure of a particular fact. Should have substantial supportive data.

Probable Over 70% sure of a particular fact, or of the likelihood of that impact occurring.

Possible Only over 40% sure of a particular fact or of the likelihood of an impact occurring.

Unsure Less than 40% sure of a particular fact or of the likelihood of an impact occurring.

Impact Severity Rating

Impact severity (The severity of negative impacts, or how beneficial positive impacts would be on a particular affected system or affected party) Very severe Very beneficial An irreversible and permanent change to the affected A permanent and very substantial benefit to the system(s) or party(ies) which cannot be mitigated. For affected system(s) or party(ies), with no real example the permanent loss of land. alternative to achieving this benefit. For example the vast improvement of sewage effluent quality. Severe Beneficial Long term impacts on the affected system(s) or A long term impact and substantial benefit to the party(ies) that could be mitigated. However, this affected system(s) or party(ies). Alternative ways of mitigation would be difficult, expensive or time achieving this benefit would be difficult, expensive or consuming, or some combination of these. For example, time consuming, or some combination of these. For the clearing of forest vegetation. example an increase in the local economy. Moderately severe Moderately beneficial Medium to long term impacts on the affected system(s) A medium to long term impact of real benefit to the or party (ies), which could be mitigated. For example affected system(s) or party(ies). Other ways of constructing the sewage treatment facility where there optimising the beneficial effects are equally difficult, was vegetation with a low conservation value. expensive and time consuming (or some combination of these), as achieving them in this way. For example a ‘slight’ improvement in sewage effluent quality. Slight Slightly beneficial Medium or short term impacts on the affected system(s) A short to medium term impact and negligible benefit or party(ies). Mitigation is very easy, cheap, less time to the affected system(s) or party(ies). Other ways of consuming or not necessary. For example a temporary optimising the beneficial effects are easier, cheaper fluctuation in the water table due to water abstraction. and quicker, or some combination of these. No effect Don’t know/Can’t know The system(s) or party(ies) is not affected by the In certain cases it may not be possible to determine proposed development. the severity of an impact.

Overall Significance Rating

Overall Significance (The combination of all the above criteria as an overall significance) VERY HIGH NEGATIVE VERY BENEFICIAL

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Overall Significance (The combination of all the above criteria as an overall significance) These impacts would be considered by society as constituting a major and usually permanent change to the (natural and/or social) environment, and usually result in severe or very severe effects, or beneficial or very beneficial effects. Example: The loss of a species would be viewed by informed society as being of VERY HIGH significance. Example: The establishment of a large amount of infrastructure in a rural area, which previously had very few services, would be regarded by the affected parties as resulting in benefits with VERY HIGH significance. HIGH NEGATIVE BENEFICIAL These impacts will usually result in long term effects on the social and/or natural environment. Impacts rated as HIGH will need to be considered by society as constituting an important and usually long term change to the (natural and/or social) environment. Society would probably view these impacts in a serious light. Example: The loss of a diverse vegetation type, which is fairly common elsewhere, would have a significance rating of HIGH over the long term, as the area could be rehabilitated. Example: The change to soil conditions will impact the natural system, and the impact on affected parties (such as people growing crops in the soil) would be HIGH. MODERATE NEGATIVE SOME BENEFITS These impacts will usually result in medium to long term effects on the social and/or natural environment. Impacts rated as MODERATE will need to be considered by society as constituting a fairly important and usually medium term change to the (natural and/or social) environment. These impacts are real but not substantial. Example: The loss of a sparse, open vegetation type of low diversity may be regarded as MODERATELY significant. LOW NEGATIVE FEW BENEFITS These impacts will usually result in medium to short term effects on the social and/or natural environment. Impacts rated as LOW will need to be considered by the public and/or the specialist as constituting a fairly unimportant and usually short term change to the (natural and/or social) environment. These impacts are not substantial and are likely to have little real effect. Example: The temporary change in the water table of a wetland habitat, as these systems is adapted to fluctuating water levels. Example: The increased earning potential of people employed as a result of a development would only result in benefits of LOW significance to people who live some distance away. NO SIGNIFICANCE There are no primary or secondary effects at all that are important to scientists or the public. Example: A change to the geology of a particular formation may be regarded as severe from a geological perspective, but is of NO significance in the overall context. DON’T KNOW In certain cases it may not be possible to determine the significance of an impact. For example, the primary or secondary impacts on the social or natural environment given the available information. Example: The effect of a particular development on people’s psychological perspective of the environment.

Page 87 of 100

Appendix G: Environmental Impact Statement

Assessment of impacts and issues associated with all phases of the proposed Breidbach Mixed-Use Housing Development.

All issues and impacts identified in Section 11.1 are assessed according to the assessment matrix as described in Section 9.1 and summarised in Table 11.2 to 11.5 below.

Table 11.2 Assessment of impacts during the Planning and Design Phase

SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE OF

POTENTIAL ISSUES ALTERNATIVES SOURCE OF ISSUE WITHOUT MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT WITH

TYPE

IMPACT IMPACT IMPACT

NATURE MITIGATION MITIGATION

POTENTIAL

MITIGATION MITIGATION

DURATION OF OF DURATION

REVERSIBILITY

PROBABILITY OF OF PROBABILITY

CONSEQUENCE OF OF CONSEQUENCE

EXTENT OF IMPACT EXTENTOF IRREPLACEABLE LOSS IRREPLACEABLE (SIGNIFICANCE WITHOUT MITIGATION) (SIGNIFICANCE WITH MITIGATION) PLANNING AND DESIGN PHASE Environmental Policy

During the planning and design phase, failure to • All relevant legislation and policy must be consulted adhere to existing policies and legal obligations and and the proponent must ensure that the project is

obtain the necessary authorisations could lead to the compliant with such legislation and policy.

project conflicting with local, provincial and national •

These should include (but are not restricted to):

Legal and policy policies, legislation, etc. This could result in lack of term NEMA, Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan All - HIGH LOW

compliance institutional support for the project, overall project (ECBCP), Local Municipal bylaws.

Direct

Severe

Possible

National

Negative

Reversible Long failure and undue disturbance to the natural Achievable • All relevant permits and authorisations including: EA, environment. Water Use Licences, Building Plan Approvals and plant removal permits must be in place prior to Resourcewill be partly lost commencement of construction. Built Environment

Version 1, 6 January 2021 Page 88 of 100

During the planning and design phase, the • Planning for the layout and placement of inappropriate planning and layout of structures and infrastructure must be done so as to avoid sensitive associated infrastructure could result in the areas as far as possible. This includes placing unnecessary loss of natural habitats, and sensitive infrastructure and buildings out of the floodline and areas, and Species of Conservation Concern, maintaining appropriate buffers from sensitive particularly aquatic environments. features, particularly water courses and aquatic habitats. • All necessary Water Use Authorisations must be obtained for any of the following activities: o Construction within 500 m of a wetland; and o Construction within a watercourse.

The following recommendations by the Specialist Aquatic Impact Assessment must be implemented:

Aquatic buffer zone recommendations: • Without specific impact/risk mitigation a buffer of 27m must be maintained for the onsite watercourses. • With specific mitigation (focusing on construction phase sediment management and operation phase

stormwater quality and quantity management) the

buffers may be reduced to 15m.

Loss of natural

vegetation, habitats and

Stormwater management recommendations: term Species of Conservation Preferred Site - • When developing a stormwater management plan for HIGH LOW

Concern due to layout of Alternative 1 Achievable

Direct the site, consideration must be given to the collection

Severe

Possible

Negative Reversible

structures and Studyarea and basic filtering of stormwater prior to discharge Medium

infrastructure Easily into the natural environment.

• The stormwater management plan should be Resourcewill not lost be developed with appropriate ecological input and be developed based on Sustainable Drainage Systems (SUDS). • Best practice stormwater management design measures have been outlined in Section 5.2 of the aquatic report. • Special attention must be paid to the fuel station to ensure that contaminated runoff is not generated or discharged to the environment.

Underground (fuel) Storage Tanks: The following environmental design guidelines must be implemented for Underground (fuel) Storage Tanks (USTs) and pipework required for the service station: • The USTs must be installed according to: o Applicable petrol station engineering. guidelines and specifications. o Relevant National Building Regulations. o Relevant SANS and SABS codes. • Additional UST design recommendations relating to USTs, are provided in section 5.3 of the aquatic report.

During the planning and design phase, inappropriate The following recommendations by the Specialist

Contamination of soil & design of the petrol station can result in Geohydrological Impact Assessment must be

groundwater pollution contamination of surface water runoff from the implemented:

term due to surface fuel forecourt area as a result of fuel spillages during - • All dispenser pumps will be located on pump All HIGH LOW

spillages. vehicle refuelling and from vehicle leaks whilst lost islands surrounded by hardened surfaces, which

Direct

Severe

Possible

Negative Reversible

parked at the service station during the operational Studyarea will prevent downward migration of any free Medium

phase when the surface is paved. EasilyAchievable phase product and promote horizontal flow into Resourcewill not be the collection pit/s. Page 89 of 100

SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE OF

POTENTIAL ISSUES ALTERNATIVES SOURCE OF ISSUE WITHOUT MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT WITH

TYPE

IMPACT IMPACT IMPACT

NATURE MITIGATION MITIGATION

POTENTIAL

MITIGATION MITIGATION

DURATION OF OF DURATION

REVERSIBILITY

PROBABILITY OF OF PROBABILITY

CONSEQUENCE OF OF CONSEQUENCE

EXTENT OF IMPACT EXTENTOF IRREPLACEABLE LOSS IRREPLACEABLE (SIGNIFICANCE WITHOUT MITIGATION) (SIGNIFICANCE WITH MITIGATION) PLANNING AND DESIGN PHASE • The filler points are located inside containment manholes, which are surrounded by concrete hard standing. • The containment manholes must be able to contain minor spillages from flexible fuel delivery pipe disconnection.

Other recommendations provided in the Specialist Geohydrological Impact Assessment relating to fuel dispenser design and hardware, should also be implemented:

During the planning and design phase, inappropriate The following recommendations by the Specialist design of the petrol station can result in fuel leakages Geohydrological Impact Assessment must be from tanks/pipe work leading to fuel pollution implemented: migrating into permeable sub soils beneath the site and to the water table below. • The proposed installation must comply with SANS

1535 (relating to tank manufacture standards)

Contamination of soil & and SANS 10089 Part 3 (relating to underground

groundwater pollution tanks and pipe installation standards).

term due to subsurface fuel - • Consideration should be given to the installation All HIGH LOW

leaks. of double composite tanks, steel with fibre glass

Direct

Severe

Possible

Negative Reversible

Studyarea outer. Medium

EasilyAchievable • Non-corrosive pipe work systems should also be

installed. This is to limit the possibility of pipe Resourcewill not lost be failure due to corrosion; this being the most common cause of pipe failure before this system was introduced to the RSA. • Any joints in the fuel lines should be located within containment manholes,

During the planning and design phase, inadequate The following recommendations by the Specialist

provision for stormwater runoff from impervious Geohydrological Impact Assessment must be

surfaces may promote erosion and flash floods. implemented:

• Soil Management (erosion control): Erosion

Risk of increase in surface term - control measures must be installed to stabilize runoff on flooding. All MODERATE LOW

the banks and prevent future erosion that may

Direct

Severe Possible

Negative Reversible

Studyarea affect the development and the vegetation. Medium

EasilyAchievable • Pollution Control: Sewerage and waste water

systems must be properly connected to the Resourcewill not lost be existing BCMM infrastructure.

The following recommendations by the Specialist

There is a minimal possibility of leakage of Geohydrological Impact Assessment must be

wastewater into the underlying fractured aquifer and implemented:

is considered of no significant consequence.

term Risk of sewage effluent - • Ensure due design, construction and maintenance All HIGH LOW

entering groundwater of sewage pipeline.

Direct

Severe

Possible

Negative Reversible

Studyarea • Ensure correct siting of the sewage pipeline. Medium

EasilyAchievable • Ensure that a back-up system is designed to

reduce the risk of accidental sewage releases. Resourcewill not lost be

Page 90 of 100

SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE OF

POTENTIAL ISSUES ALTERNATIVES SOURCE OF ISSUE WITHOUT MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT WITH

TYPE

IMPACT IMPACT IMPACT

NATURE MITIGATION MITIGATION

POTENTIAL

MITIGATION MITIGATION

DURATION OF OF DURATION

REVERSIBILITY

PROBABILITY OF OF PROBABILITY

CONSEQUENCE OF OF CONSEQUENCE

EXTENT OF IMPACT EXTENTOF IRREPLACEABLE LOSS IRREPLACEABLE (SIGNIFICANCE WITHOUT MITIGATION) (SIGNIFICANCE WITH MITIGATION) PLANNING AND DESIGN PHASE

Based on the high hydraulic conductivity (10 - 40 The following recommendations by the Specialist

m/d) and low retardation potential (mostly Alluvium Geohydrological Impact Assessment must be implemented

/sand), the shallow aquifer is highly vulnerable to with respect to existing or new groundwater sources:

pollution. • Ensure no hydraulic shortcut between shallow and

term Aquifer vulnerability - deeper aquifer (boreholes only screened at greater MODERATE LOW

depth and proper sealing of upper borehole

Direct

Severe

Possible

Negative Reversible

Studyarea sections). Medium

EasilyAchievable • Extract water as recommended at greater depth

from the Burgerdorp aquifer. Resourcewill not lost be

Socio-economic During the planning and design phase, failure to plan The recommendations of the Specialist Heritage Impact for and identify heritage and paleontological Assessment must be implemented, including: resources may result in potential harm of these resources Historical Period Site “Bramwell Cottage”

• Avoidance: Implement a heritage conservation

buffer of at least 20m.

• Phase 2 Mitigation: Legally compliant Phase 2 Heritage and All HIGH Study and assessment if impacted on. LOW

paleontological resources

Direct

Severe Possible

Negative • Permitting: Apply for relevant alteration /

Reversible

Studyarea Achievable Permanent destruction permits for Phase 2 and consequent impact.

Resourcewill be parly lost Historical Period Site Farmworkers Compound Site • Permitting: Apply for relevant destruction permits if impacted on.

Page 91 of 100

Table 11.3 Assessment of impacts during the Construction phase.

SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE OF POTENTIAL ALTERNATIVES SOURCE OF ISSUE WITHOUT MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT WITH

ISSUES TYPE

IMPACT IMPACT IMPACT

NATURE MITIGATION MITIGATION

POTENTIAL

MITIGATION MITIGATION

DURATION OF OF DURATION

REVERSIBILITY

PROBABILITY OF OF PROBABILITY

CONSEQUENCE OF OF CONSEQUENCE

EXTENT OF IMPACT EXTENTOF IRREPLACEABLE LOSS IRREPLACEABLE (SIGNIFICANCE WITHOUT MITIGATION) (SIGNIFICANCE WITH MITIGATION) CONSTRUCTION PHASE Environmental Policy

During the construction phase, failure to adhere to • The Applicant must employ an independent Environmental

existing policies and legal obligations and obtain the

Control Officer (ECO) for the duration of the construction

necessary authorisations could lead to the project phase to audit the contractors compliance with the

Legal and policy term All conflicting with local, provincial and national policies, - HIGH specifications in the EA, EMPr and any other LOW

compliance

Direct

Severe

Possible National

legislation, etc. This could result in lack of institutional Negative permits/authorisations.

partlylost

Reversible Long support for the project, overall project failure and undue Achievable disturbance to the natural environment. Resourcewill be

Built Environment

During the construction phase, inappropriate siting of • The site camp must be established well away from

-

the site camp could lead to unnecessary degradation of sensitive areas, especially any water courses, and

Site establishment All the surrounding environment. MODERATE preferably on previously transformed areas. LOW

lost

term

Easily

Direct, Direct,

Indirect Possible

Negative • Vegetation clearance must be kept to a minimum during

Medium Resource

Moderate

Reversible

will not will be Studyarea

Achievable site clearance activities.

During the construction phase, uncontrolled site •

Vegetation clearance must be kept to construction

-

preparation and clearing of vegetation and construction footprint and extra care must be taken when working

Site clearing All activities within or within close proximity to sensitive MODERATE within close proximity to sensitive areas, particularly LOW

lost

term

Easily

Direct, Direct,

Indirect Possible

areas may result in the unnecessary degradation of the Negative aquatic habitats and water courses.

Medium Resource

Moderate

Reversible

will not will be Studyarea

surrounding environment. Achievable

During the construction phase, inappropriate location • Material stockpiles must be located away from sensitive

and management of material stockpiles may result in areas and they must be monitored for erosion and alien

Material term

All erosion and mobilization of materials into nearby - MODERATE vegetation. LOW lost

stockpiling Easily

Direct. Direct. Indirect

watercourses. Possible

Negative • Material stockpiles locations must be approved by the

Localised

Resource

Moderate

Reversible

will not will be Achievable Short ECO. During the construction phase, failure to implement • The construction site must be managed in a manner that effective stormwater management measures may result prevents pollution of downstream watercourses or in increased surface soil erosion and contamination of groundwater, due to suspended solids, silt or chemical

stormwater and resulting surrounding watercourses. pollutants.

• Berms and swathes must be placed in areas that may be

prone to erosion.

Stormwater term All - MODERATE LOW management • Temporary cut-off drains and berms may be required to

Possible

Negative capture storm water and promote infiltration.

Moderate

Reversible Long

Studyarea Direct, Indirect Direct, EasilyAchievable

Resourcewill not lost be

Page 92 of 100

SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE OF POTENTIAL ALTERNATIVES SOURCE OF ISSUE WITHOUT MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT WITH

ISSUES TYPE

IMPACT IMPACT IMPACT

NATURE MITIGATION MITIGATION

POTENTIAL

MITIGATION MITIGATION

DURATION OF OF DURATION

REVERSIBILITY

PROBABILITY OF OF PROBABILITY

CONSEQUENCE OF OF CONSEQUENCE

EXTENT OF IMPACT EXTENTOF IRREPLACEABLE LOSS IRREPLACEABLE (SIGNIFICANCE WITHOUT MITIGATION) (SIGNIFICANCE WITH MITIGATION) CONSTRUCTION PHASE During the construction phase, poor management of • A Waste Management Plan for handling onsite general and handling, disposal and storage of general and hazardous hazardous waste during the construction phases must be waste may lead to the pollution of the surrounding developed and implemented. environment. • All general waste must be disposed of in bins/waste skips labelled “general waste”. • Sufficient waste bins must be provided throughout the

construction site for collecting waste.

• All general waste collected on site must be disposed of at a

licensed general waste disposal site. term Waste - • All hazardous waste generated on site must be placed in a All MODERATE LOW

management temporary impermeable bunded containment area which

Possible

Negative

Moderate Reversible

Studyarea must be disposed of at a hazardous landfill site or be

Medium Direct, Indirect Direct,

EasilyAchievable collected by the appropriate service provider.

• Proof of receipt of hazardous waste by a licenced service Resourcewill not lost be provider must be maintained on the site. • Adequate sanitary facilities must be provided for construction workers and they must be properly secured to the ground. • Maintenance of the chemical toilets should be done on a regular basis to prevent any leakages. During the construction phase, inappropriate storage • Any storage tanks containing hazardous materials (ie fuel, and handling of hazardous substances may result in the diesel) must be placed in bunded containment areas with contamination of the surrounding environment. sealed surfaces and the capacity of the bunded containment areas must be 110% the volume of the storage tanks within it. • Cement and concrete must not be mixed directly on the ground, or during rainfall events when the potential for transport of pollutants to watercourses is the greatest. • Used cement bags should be collected and stored in

containers to prevent wind-blown cement dust and water

contamination.

• Mixed cement/concrete must not be allowed to flow into

term Hazardous - any watercourses. All HIGH LOW

substances High • Drip trays must be placed under stationary construction

Possible

Negative Reversible

Studyarea machinery overnight to avoid soil contamination from oil

Medium Direct, Indirect Direct,

EasilyAchievable and fuel leaks.

• Absorbent materials in the form of a spill kit must be Resourcewill not lost be provided 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. • 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 suitable containers until appropriate disposal. Terrestrial environment

Page 93 of 100

SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE OF POTENTIAL ALTERNATIVES SOURCE OF ISSUE WITHOUT MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT WITH

ISSUES TYPE

IMPACT IMPACT IMPACT

NATURE MITIGATION MITIGATION

POTENTIAL

MITIGATION MITIGATION

DURATION OF OF DURATION

REVERSIBILITY

PROBABILITY OF OF PROBABILITY

CONSEQUENCE OF OF CONSEQUENCE

EXTENT OF IMPACT EXTENTOF IRREPLACEABLE LOSS IRREPLACEABLE (SIGNIFICANCE WITHOUT MITIGATION) (SIGNIFICANCE WITH MITIGATION) CONSTRUCTION PHASE During construction phase, erosion resulting from • Wind screening and stormwater control must be construction activities may result in the loss of soil from undertaken to prevent soil loss from the site. the development area and surrounds. • The contractor must develop and implement an Erosion Management Plan.

• All erosion control mechanisms must be regularly

maintained.

term • Natural vegetation must be retained where possible to -

Soils All MODERATE avoid soil erosion. LOW

Direct Possible

Negative • Construction must be phased in order to minimise the area

Moderate

Reversible

Studyarea Achievable

Medium of exposed soil at any one time. • Disturbed areas of natural vegetation must be

Resourcewill be party lost rehabilitated immediately to prevent further soil erosion. • Fill and stabilise all erosion rills before they develop into larger gullies that advance from erosion and runoff due to construction activities During the construction phase the clearing of natural • The construction footprint must be surveyed and

vegetation outside the approved development footprint demarcated prior to construction commencing.

will lead to the unnecessary loss of natural vegetation . • No construction activities must be allowed outside the

demarcated footprint. Natural

All MODERATE • Where vegetation has been cleared, site rehabilitation in LOW lost

vegetation High Possible

Negative terms of soil stabilisation and vegetation must be

Reversible

Studyarea

Achievable cumulative

Permanent undertaken. Direct, indirect, Direct, • The contractor's staff must not harvest any natural Resourcewill be partly vegetation. During the construction phase, activities may • A search and rescue operation must be conducted by the permanently damage or remove plant and animal SCC relevant authority prior to commencement of construction

present on site. activities.

• All SCC impacted by construction activities must be Species of conserved and rescued. Conservation All MODERATE LOW •

Direct All rescued SCC must be transplanted to a suitable habitat Severe

Concern (SCC) Negative

Probable

Localised Permanent Irreversible or nursery for the duration of the construction phase;

EasilyAchievable • All rescued SCC must be replanted within the site where it

Resourcebe partly lost was originally found or in close proximity during

rehabilitation

During the construction phase, vehicles, crew and • All staff on site must be trained regarding the proper

materials may increase animal fatalities through management and response should animals be Wildlife All opportunistic hunting, collisions, accidents or baiting MODERATE encountered. LOW

mortalities

Direct will be will

and trapping. Possible •

Negative No animal must be killed or deliberately injured.

Localised

Resource

Moderate partlylost

Achievable Permanent Irreversible • No hunting, baiting or trapping smust be allowed.

Page 94 of 100

SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE OF POTENTIAL ALTERNATIVES SOURCE OF ISSUE WITHOUT MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT WITH

ISSUES TYPE

IMPACT IMPACT IMPACT

NATURE MITIGATION MITIGATION

POTENTIAL

MITIGATION MITIGATION

DURATION OF OF DURATION

REVERSIBILITY

PROBABILITY OF OF PROBABILITY

CONSEQUENCE OF OF CONSEQUENCE

EXTENT OF IMPACT EXTENTOF IRREPLACEABLE LOSS IRREPLACEABLE (SIGNIFICANCE WITHOUT MITIGATION) (SIGNIFICANCE WITH MITIGATION) CONSTRUCTION PHASE During the construction phase, the removal of natural • The approved Alien Vegetation Management Plan must be

vegetation creates open habitats that favour the implemented during the construction phase to reduce the establishment of undesirable alien plant species in areas establishment and spread of undesirable alien plant

that are typically very difficult to eradicate and may pose species.

a threat to neighbouring ecosystems • All temporarily impacted areas must be rehabilitated with

Establishments of term indigenous vegetation as soon as construction in the All - HIGH LOW

alien plant species particular area or phase of work is complete, i.e.

Severe

Indirect

Negative

Probable

Reversible

Long Studyarea Achievable rehabilitation is on-going throughout construction. • Alien plants must be removed from the site through

appropriate methods such as hand pulling, application of Resourcewill not lost be chemicals, cutting etc. as in accordance to the NEMBA: Alien Invasive Species Regulations.

Aquatic environment

During the construction phase the clearing of riparian • Clearance of riparian vegetation must be kept to an

vegetation for the construction of the Breidbach mixed- absolute minimum and only if absolutely necessary.

Riparian Preferred site term

use housing development may result in the unnecessary - HIGH • All riparian vegetation clearance activities must be LOW lost

vegetation alternative 1 Easily Direct

loss of riparian vegetation. Possible

Negative monitored by the appointed ECO throughout the

Localised

Resource

Moderate

Reversible

Long will not will be achievable construction phase. During the construction phase, accidental chemical or • All chemicals/hazardous substances must be stored safely

other spills (sewage, concrete, etc.) in the vicinity of the in bunded area at least 100m from any watercourse.

watercourses will result in water pollution, adversely • Emergency plans must be in place in case of spillages of

Aquatic habitat

affecting the aquatic ecosystem. term hazardous substances/materials. loss, destruction All - HIGH LOW lost •

Direct Ablution facilities must not be located within 50m of any Possible

and pollution Negative

Localised

Moderate

Reversible Achievable Short rivers. • Chemical toilets must be regularly maintained/ serviced to Resourcewill not be prevent ground or surface water pollution. Socio-economic

During the construction phase, inadequate proper • A health and safety officer must be appointed throughout

health and safety measures in place could result in the construction phase.

Health, safety and potential harm to site staff, surrounding landowners term • The health and safety officer must ensure that the relevant All - MODERATE LOW

crime and the general public. health and safety officer control measures are developed

be lost be

Possible

Negative

Moderate

Long

Studyarea Achievable

Irreversible and implemented in terms of relevant health and safety Resourcewill

Direct, Indirect Direct, legislation.

During the construction phase, dust generated by • During windy periods un-surfaced and un-vegetated areas

construction vehicles and construction activities could must be dampened down.

Air quality and term All result in significant dust during windy conditions. - MODERATE • Any complaints or claims emanating from dust issues must LOW

dust control lost

Direct Definite

Negative be attended to immediately and noted in the complaints

Resource

Moderate

Reversible

will not will be

Studyarea Achievable Short register.

During the construction phase, construction activities • Activities which include the movement of construction

could result in an increase in ambient noise levels on site vehicles and the operation of machinery should be

and affect surrounding landowners, road users and the term restricted to normal working hours (07:00am – 17:00pm). Noise All - MODERATE LOW general public. •

Direct There must be a complaints register on site for nearby

Difficult

Definite

Negative

Moderate

Reversible

Studyarea not lost be

Short residents to make complaints. These must be addressed Resourcewill and recorded.

Page 95 of 100

SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE OF POTENTIAL ALTERNATIVES SOURCE OF ISSUE WITHOUT MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT WITH

ISSUES TYPE

IMPACT IMPACT IMPACT

NATURE MITIGATION MITIGATION

POTENTIAL

MITIGATION MITIGATION

DURATION OF OF DURATION

REVERSIBILITY

PROBABILITY OF OF PROBABILITY

CONSEQUENCE OF OF CONSEQUENCE

EXTENT OF IMPACT EXTENTOF IRREPLACEABLE LOSS IRREPLACEABLE (SIGNIFICANCE WITHOUT MITIGATION) (SIGNIFICANCE WITH MITIGATION) CONSTRUCTION PHASE

During the construction phase inadequate attention to • All flammable substances must be stored in dry areas

fire safety awareness and fire safety equipment could which do not pose an ignition risk to the said substances.

result in uncontrolled fires, posing a threat to animals,

• Smoking must not be permitted near flammable

vegetation and the surrounding landowners. term substances. On-site fire risk All - MODERATE LOW •

Direct All cooking must be done in demarcated areas that are

Severe

Possible

Negative

Long Studyarea

Irreversible safe in terms of runaway or uncontrolled fires.

EasilyAchievable • No open fires must be allowed on site. Resourcewill be lost • Fire extinguishers must be available onsite.

During the construction phase, there is likely to be an • Local residents should be made aware of the presence of

increase in traffic volumes to and from the site which construction vehicles by making use of high-visibility

may result in vehicle/pedestrian collisions and degrade term signage. Traffic All - MODERATE LOW the existing road conditions •

Direct All traffic safety (flagmen) and traffic calming measures

Difficult

Negative

Probable

Moderate

Reversible

Studyarea not lost be

Short should be in place within the site and where traffic enters Resourcewill the main road. During the construction phase, there is the possibility of The recommendations of the Specialist Heritage Impact impacts on identified and unidentified heritage Assessment must be implemented, including:

resources. • Monitoring: Frequent monitoring must be conducted during construction by the heritage consultant or an ECO

familiar with the heritage occurrences of the site.

• All heritage permits or buffer zones must be in place prior Heritage and to construction. paleontological All MODERATE LOW

• Should any incidental heritage or paleontological

Severe Possible

resources Negative

Studyarea

Achievable Permanent Irreversible resources be uncovered during construction, works must Direct, indirect Direct, be stopped immediately, the appropriate heritage practitioner must be notified and undertake a site Resourcewill be partly lost inspection. The heritage practitioner must compile a report and make recommendations for the way forward as well as the legal requirements. Rehabilitation and maintenance

During the construction phase inadequate provision and • The rehabilitation plan must be implemented during and

implementation of rehabilitation measures may lead to after the construction has been completed.

Inadequate the degradation of the surrounding environment. term • All temporarily disturbed areas must be rehabilitated with -

rehabilitation and All MODERATE indigenous vegetation as soon as construction in the LOW Possible

maintenance Negative particular area or phase of work is complete, i.e.

Moderate

partlylost

Reversible

Studyarea Medium

Direct, Indirect Direct, rehabilitation is on-going throughout construction as Resourcewill be EasilyAchievable phases have been completed.

Page 96 of 100

Table 11.4 Assessment of impacts during the Operation phase

SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE OF IMPACT

POTENTIAL ISSUES ALTERNATIVES SOURCE OF ISSUE WITHOUT MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT WITH

TYPE

IMPACT IMPACT IMPACT

NATURE MITIGATION MITIGATION

POTENTIAL

MITIGATION MITIGATION

DURATION OF OF DURATION

REVERSIBILITY

PROBABILITY OF OF PROBABILITY

CONSEQUENCE OF OF CONSEQUENCE

EXTENT OF EXTENTOF IRREPLACEABLE LOSS IRREPLACEABLE (SIGNIFICANCE WITHOUT MITIGATION) (SIGNIFICANCE WITH MITIGATION) OPERATION PHASE Environmental Policy

During the operation phase, failure to adhere to all permits, • The proponent must ensure that the

authorisations and regulations may lead to financial penalties. operation of the Breidbach fuel station and

accompanying infrastructure is compliant

Legal and policy term All - HIGH with the relevant legislation and policy. LOW

compliance

Direct

Severe

Possible National

Negative • These should include (but are not restricted

partlylost

Reversible Long Achievable to): NEMA, EA, WULA, plant removal permits Resourcewill be and any other permits/ . Built Environment

During the operation phase, failure to maintain bulk services (ie. • Regular maintenance and inspections of all

sewerage pipelines and manholes) and other infrastructure may infrastructure and services must be term Bulk services and All result in leakages or failure of systems which may pollute the - undertaken. MODERATE LOW

infrastructure surrounding environment. Easily • Any leakages of sewage infrastructure on site

Indirect

Possible

Negative

Moderate

Reversible

Studyarea not lost be

Achievable must be stopped immediately and Resourcewill Medium contaminated areas remediated. During the operational phase, inadequate maintenance of fuel The following recommendations by the Specialist

station pollution mitigation measures and failure to detect fuel Geohydrological Impact Assessment must be leakages (UST and pipelines) and other pollutant discharges (e.g. implemented: Contamination of soil,

contaminated stormwater), can result in pollution migrating • All petrol station operations must be

groundwater and

into permeable sub soils beneath the site, the water table below conducted according to industry best

surface water due to term and surface water discharges into the Yellowwoods river. - practice with respect to maintaining surface and subsurface All HIGH LOW

pollution control infrastructure.

Direct

Severe Possible

fuel leaks. Negative Reversible Studyarea • Appropriate UST fuel leak detection

Medium

EasilyAchievable measures must be implemented.

• There must be regular inspections and Resourcewill not lost be maintenance of pollution control infrastructure to ensure effectiveness.

During the operation phase, failure of the stormwater system • Stormwater management measures such as

and or lack of maintenance of the stormwater system may result attenuation structures, channels, etc. must

in the erosion and or pollution of the surrounding environment be properly maintained and monitored.

Stormwater should the stormwater be contaminated. term • If the stormwater management measures put

All - MODERATE LOW lost

management Achievable in place are deemed insufficient, a qualified

Possible

Negative

Moderate

Reversible Long

Studyarea engineer must be approached to assist with Direct, Indirect Direct,

Easily additional storm water attenuation Resourcewill not be mechanisms and remediation.

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SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE OF IMPACT

POTENTIAL ISSUES ALTERNATIVES SOURCE OF ISSUE WITHOUT MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACT WITH

TYPE

IMPACT IMPACT IMPACT

NATURE MITIGATION MITIGATION

POTENTIAL

MITIGATION MITIGATION

DURATION OF OF DURATION

REVERSIBILITY

PROBABILITY OF OF PROBABILITY

CONSEQUENCE OF OF CONSEQUENCE

EXTENT OF EXTENTOF IRREPLACEABLE LOSS IRREPLACEABLE (SIGNIFICANCE WITHOUT MITIGATION) (SIGNIFICANCE WITH MITIGATION) OPERATION PHASE During the operation phase, inappropriate handling, storage • A waste management plan must be and disposal of general and hazardous waste may lead to implemented to ensure appropriate handling, pollution of soil, surface and/or groundwater as well as pose a collection, processing and disposal of solid health and safety risk to staff, the general public and

waste. (An adequate backup system for

surrounding landowners. waste management should be in place in

case of service delivery strikes).

• Reuse, recycling and separation-at-source of

term - waste should be promoted. Waste management All MODERATE LOW •

Direct If any hazardous waste that is generated on

Possible

Negative

Moderate Reversible

Studyarea site it must be stored in an impermeable Medium

EasilyAchievable container until such time as it can be

disposed at a registered hazardous landfill Resourcewill not lost be site or be collected by the appropriate service provider. • A “clean site policy” must be adopted by all employees. Ecological environment

During the operational phase, the poor rehabilitation of • The approved Alien Vegetation Management

disturbed areas may lead to the permanent establishment of Plan must be implemented to reduce the

alien vegetation. establishment and spread of undesirable

alien plant species.

Establishment of alien term All - MODERATE • Alien plants must be removed from the site LOW

plant species Possible

Negative through appropriate methods such as hand

Moderate

Reversible

Long

Studyarea Achievable

Direct, indirect Direct, pulling, application of chemicals, cutting etc. as in accordance to the NEMBA: Alien

Resourcewill not lost be Invasive Species Regulations. Socio-economic

During the operation phase there is a risk of explosions • Fire extinguishers must be placed throughout

associated with the operation of the fuel station which may the site.

harm staff and surrounding landowners/general public. term • No smoking or open flame should be

On-site fire risk All - HIGH LOW Easily

Direct permitted on the site.

be lost be

Severe

Possible

Negative

Long

Studyarea Achievable

Irreversible • An Emergency Response Plan must be in Resourcewill place and must be known by all employees.

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Table 11.5 Assessment of the No-Go alternative.

SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE OF IMPACT

POTENTIAL ISSUES SOURCE OF ISSUE WITHOUT MITIGATION MEASURES LOSS

TYPE WITH MITIGATION

IMPACT IMPACT IMPACT

NATURE MITIGATION

EXTENT OF

POTENTIAL

OF IMPACT OF

MITIGATION

DURATIONOF

REVERSIBILITY

CONSEQUENCE

IRREPLACEABLE PROBABILITY OF

(SIGNIFICANCE WITHOUT MITIGATION) (SIGNIFICANCE WITH MITIGATION)

Ecological environment

• No mitigation

required.

Should the project not proceed, the current land term

No development - MODERATE MODERATE lost

use will remain the same. Easily

Positive

Possible

Indirect,

Resource

Moderate

Reversible

Long

will not will be

Studyarea

Achievable cumulative

• An Erosion Management Plan

must be developed

A baseline analysis of the present condition of to mitigate the

the study area indicated the presence of areas term unnecessary loss of -

Soil Erosion ersible MODERATE LOW

that are moderately susceptible to erosion as an soil and

Indirect

Negative

Probable

Moderate

Long

Studyarea Achievable existing impact on the development site. Irrev sedimentation of watercourses during all phases of the Resourcewill be partly lost project.

• An Alien Vegetation

Management Plan lost

must be developed

A baseline analysis of the present condition of to mitigate the

the study area indicated the presence of alien term establishment and Alien invasive species - MODERATE LOW

invasive plant species as an existing impact on spread of

Indirect

Negative

Probable

Moderate

Reversible

Long Studyarea the development site. Achievable undesirable alien plant species during

all phases of the Resourcewill not be project.

Socio-economic environment

•

No mitigation

If the development does not proceed, then

required.

there will be no temporary and permanent job term Job creation - MODERATE LOW

creation opportunities associated with the lost

Indirect

Difficult

Possible

Negative

Resource

Municipal

Moderate

Reversible Long

development not will be

•

No mitigation

If the development does not proceed, then

required.

there will be no tourism growth and term Tourism - MODERATE LOW

opportunities that are associated with the lost

Indirect

Difficult

Possible

Negative

Resource

Municipal

Moderate

Reversible Long

proposed development. not will be

•

No mitigation

required. If the development does not proceed, then term

Loss of agricultural land - LOW LOW

lost Low

there will be no loss of agricultural land. Easily

Direct

Positive

Possible

Resource

Municipal

Reversible

will not will be

Achievable

Short

•

No mitigation

If the development does not proceed, then required. term

Heritage and paleontological resources there will be little to no impact on identified and - LOW LOW

lost

Low

Indirect Positive

unidentified resources. Possible

Resource

Reversible

Long

will not will be

Studyarea Achievable

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