CEN INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT UNIT Environmental and Rural Development Specialist

Basic Assessment Report

Public Access to Sardinia Bay Beach

Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape

DEDEAT Reference: ECm1/C/LN1&3/M/13-2015

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT FOR PUBLIC ACCESS TO SARDINIA BAY BEACH, NELSON MANDELA BAY METROPOLITAN MUNICIPALITY, EASTERN CAPE

FOR REVIEW BY INTERESTED AND AFFECTED PARTIES

14 August 2015

PREPARED FOR: Mr. George Branford Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality: P.O Box 11 Port Elizabeth 6000

PREPARED BY: CEN Integrated Environmental Management Unit 36 River Road Walmer, Port Elizabeth. 6070 South Africa Phone (041) 581-2983 | Fax (041) 581-2983 E-mail: [email protected]

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The sand dunes at Sardinia Bay Local Authority Nature Reserve, Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality (NMBM), are moving at approximately 2 – 5 metres per year in an east- north-eastward direction and have progressively inundated infrastructure. There is no longer access to the lower car park, the ablution block opposite the upper car park has been completely overrun and the dunes are beginning to encroach on the upper car park facility. Temporary measures were implemented to halt the sand inundation by clearing with a front end loader but this measure proved to be unsustainable. In addition, this measure is not in line with the National Environmental Management: Integrated Coastal Management Act (Act 24 of 2008) as amended by Act No. 36 of 2014: National Environmental Management: Integrated Coastal Management Amendment Act, 2014).

In response to the moving sand dunes, the NMBM is proposing to establish a new car park on a site that is not in the path of the moving sand dunes. The amended environmental authorisation granted for public access to Sardinia Bay in 2011 has lapsed. The proposed development requires a new environmental authorisation in terms of the National Environmental Management Act (No 107 of 1998) and Section 63 of the National Environmental Management: Integrated Coastal Management Act 24 of 2008 as amended by National Environmental Management: Integrated Coastal Management Amendment Act No. 36 of 2014 before construction can commence.

The development footprint of the parking bay facility is expected to be ~2500 m². This would be sufficient for ~160 cars as well an area allocated for the development of a toilet block (~100 m²) and an area allocated to the Sardinia Bay Lifesavers Club to develop a new clubhouse facility (~100 m²). Two sites have been proposed as being a suitable site for the proposed development and assessed to determine the environmentally preferred site (See Figure 1).

Both sites are situated within Sardinia Bay Local Authority Nature Reserve which is a formal land- based protected area in terms of the National Environmental Management: Protect Areas Act (No 57 of 2003), as amended, and the National Biodiversity Assessment 2011 (NBA 2011).

The activities proposed to be undertaken within Sardinia Bay Local Nature Reserve include; removal of infrastructure at upper car park; demolition of upper car park; site clearing and subsequent rehabilitation; widening of jeep track to a 6 metres wide gravel road; installation of water supply system; erection of gate / bollards across road to prevent vehicular access to upper car park; erection of gate / bollards to prevent vehicular access to other parts of Sardinia bay nature reserve; construction of parking bay facility; establishment of clubhouse within development footprint of parking bay facility; establishment of toilet block within development footprint of parking bay facility and the installation of conservancy tank at toilet block.

Figure 1: Proposed parking bays (Site Alternatives 1 and 2)

Alternative Site 1 is situated ~300 metres from the swimming beach of Sardinia bay and situated on top of the escarpment overlooking the beach. Alternative Site 2 is located ~600 metres from the Sardinia bay swimming beach. Access to the preferred site will be east off Sardinia Bay Road, via the existing jeep track which will be upgraded to gravel road standards (width of 6 metres). The length of the upgraded route will be 20 metres to alternative site 2 and 460 metres to alternative site 1. Municipal water will be supplied to the site to service the water block and the water pipe will follow the route of the upgraded road. Alternative site 1 has a bigger development footprint (4100 m²) than site 2 (1600 m²) due to the proposed gravel road covering a distance of ~460 metres to site 1.

The impacts expected as a result of the construction and operational phases of the proposed development do not differ significantly between the two site alternatives. The significance of the impact on flora from construction activities differs between the two sites and the significance of the impact on impact on dunes, fauna and flora and “sense of place” during operation differs between the two sites.

Change in land use is the most significant impact expected during the construction phase for both site alternatives. A portion of the reserve will be changed into a parking bay facility (~2500 m²) and 460 meters (site 1) / 20 meters (site 2) of the jeep track will be upgraded to a 6 metre wide gravel road. The impact is expected to be negative with a medium significance for both sites. No mitigation is possible and the impact is likely to be permanent.

The land rises steeply by 10 – 15 m behind the rocky shore forming an escarpment. The area is characterised by soil with high shifting potential and shifting dunes. The orientation of the dunes

2 is directed mainly by the prevailing south westerly winds. Easterly winds may become significant in spring and summer and north westerlies in autumn and winter. The dunes are predicted to move up the slope to the east of the lower car park and to eventually head north-west and close the lower parking bay naturally. Alternative site 1 is situated ~50 metres from the edge of the escarpment and the dune, at its current nearest distance, is situated ~120 metres south west of alternative site 1. It is unlikely that the dunes will “walk” in a northerly direction up the escarpment face and impact on the alternative site 1 parking facility. The dune is situated ~230 metres south- south west of site alternative 2. Based on the current path of the dune and the topography of the land, an impact of the moving dune on the facilities at site alternatives 1 and 2 has a slim probability of occurring.

The impact on the dune as a result of demolishing the upper car park area during the construction phase is expected to be of a low significance with mitigation measures in place. The impact on the dune during the operational phase of alternative site 1 is expected to result in a negative impact of low significance with mitigation measures in place. The shorter walk from site 1, and existing footpath and ramp to “guide” visitors on to the beach is will make it easier to prevent visitors walking over the dune to get to the beach. Less mobility on the dune will encourage revegetation and could allow for the eventual stabilization of the dune. During operation, alternative site 2 is expected to have a negative impact on dunes with a medium significance. This is rated higher than site 1 due to the fact that visitors may still opt to walk over the foredune to get to the beach and mitigation to prevent this is very difficult to implement.

Vegetation at the proposed parking area site alternatives is most accurately classified as St Francis Dune Fynbos Thicket Mosaic vegetation [Ecosystem status: Endangered] (Stewart, 2015). Fynbos is fire-adapted vegetation. The optimal fire cycle of fynbos is between 10-14 years. Controlled fires must continue in the area and uncontrolled fires, prevented. The impact on the social and natural environment at both sites as a result of a fire is rated as a negative impact with a high significance if no measures are in place. An emergency fire management plan must be implemented prior to the commencement of construction and updated to be specific for the operational phase. A fire break is recommended around the perimeter of the parking bay site which must be maintained, or, alternatively, burnt each year. An additional 1200 m² fynbos is expected to be removed to create a 5 meter fire break around the perimeter of the parking bay at site 1 and 900 m² fynbos is expected to be removed to create for a 2 - 5 meter fire break around the perimeter of the facility at site 2. With mitigation measures in place the risk of fire is low.

Due to the protection status of Sardinia Bay and the undeveloped characteristics of the reserve, high species diversity and numbers are expected. A total of fifty-eight plant species were identified on site, of which two are listed as exotic and/or invasive species i.e. Acacia cyclops and Pennisetum clandestinum (Kikuyu Grass). Alternative Site 2 has higher species richness, with 37 plant species identified, and a stronger, significant presence of SCC’s than alternative Site 1. Due to the higher species richness and presence of SCC’s at site 2, the removal of indigenous vegetation is expected to result in an impact of medium high significance before mitigation and of

3 medium significance after mitigation, even though only a relatively smaller area is required for the road upgrade. Site 1 is expected to have an impact of lower significance after mitigation measures are in place. There are a small number of scattered aliens occurring on both sites. Removal of the small number of aliens will result in a positive impact with low significance after mitigation.

No fauna species regarded as critically endangered or endangered has been mapped within the Sardinia Bay area. Species regarded as vulnerable and near threatened may occur in the area (IUCN Red List of threatened species, Version 3.1). However, the area proposed for development is small and it is anticipated that most of the fauna (particularly fast moving reptiles, avifauna and mammals) currently inhabiting the site will move off site when vegetation clearing commences. The surrounding area will offer suitable forage and shelter to the disturbed fauna. The impact on fauna during the construction phase at alternative sites 1 and 2 is likely to occur and expected to be of a low significance with mitigation measures in place.

Fauna and flora Species of Special Concern (SSCs) identified on site require permits from the DEDEAT prior to their removal. Mitigation measures must be implemented to ensure disturbance to vegetation is limited to that which is absolutely necessary. It is recommended that areas previously disturbed (jeep track / upgraded road / upper car park area) be designated as laydown / work / parking areas to prevent unnecessary disturbance to vegetation outside the development footprint.

During the operation of the parking bay, Alternative Site 1 is expected to have a medium impact on flora and fauna before and after mitigation as it will be a permanent structure situated 450 metres inside the reserve and likely to be intrusive on the movement of fauna. However the locality of the site, shorter walk and existing footpaths and ramp to guide visitors onto the beach will help to prevent additional ongoing disturbance to flora and fauna in the reserve. Alternative Site 2 is expected to have an impact of medium high significance on fauna and flora before mitigation and of medium significance after mitigation. Site 2 presents options for visitors to get to the beach; visitors may walk along the jeep track, footpath and ramp; visitors may walk down Sardinia bay road and over dune; or visitors may attempt to walk through the vegetation in the reserve. An ongoing disturbance to fauna and flora may therefore result. Implementing mitigation measures to prevent visitors from parking on / walking through vegetation and dunes is likely to be difficult.

The soil type at both sites is Arenosol (Ar) - sandy soil with no more profile development than an A horizon. The soils are considered to be moderately susceptible to water erosion and highly susceptible to wind erosion. Mitigation measures must be implemented to ensure minimal erosion and efficient rehabilitation of disturbed areas within the reserve area. Dust control measures must be implemented during construction. Suitable erosion and storm water control mechanisms must be implemented and maintained. The parking bay and gravel road are to be designed and maintained to facilitate good drainage and remain accessible on a year round basis. With mitigation measures in place, the impact regarding soil erosion at both sites is predicted to be low. The impact on topography at both sites as result of construction is expected to be low if the

4 design of the parking bay follows natural contour lines and appropriate erosion and storm water control measures are in place.

The groundwater table of the area proposed for alternative sites 1 and 2 is considered to be deep and highly unlikely to be affected by the proposed project. There are no rivers, or groundwater courses in the vicinity of the area and the sites do not fall within aquatic CBA areas (ECBCP). A wetland assessment was carried out and it was concluded that no wetlands fall within 500 metres of the proposed sites.

An emergency procedure is to be put in place to deal with hazardous spills; mitigation measures are to be implemented to ensure appropriate storage and use of hazardous substances and prevent leaking of hazardous substances. A sewage management plan for the construction and operational phase must be implemented. Sufficient closed sanitation facilities are to be provided and suitably maintained during construction. Only closed sanitation systems to be allowed (e.g. conservancy tanks) during operation. A soil management plan should be implemented to ensure appropriate stockpiling of topsoil and subsoil and appropriate management of soils during rehabilitation of the site post construction. A waste management plan is to be implemented for the construction and operation of the site.

Pollution of soil, air, surface water and groundwater as a result of construction activities at both sites can be easily mitigated and an impact of a low significance is expected. The impact as a result of stormwater, water, and waste and sewage management at both sites during the operational phase is expected to be negligible with mitigation measures in place.

Noise impacts and visual impacts at both sites are expected to be of a low significance before and after mitigation. Traffic impacts during construction phase at both sites are expected to be of low significance after mitigation. During operation traffic impacts of medium significance may occur at both sites during peak season however the impacts are expected to be very short lived. Unskilled employment positions (20 - 30) will be created as a result of the construction phase resulting in a positive impact with low significance after mitigation.

Both sites fall within the sensitive coastal archaeological zone. An Archaeological Impact Assessment (AIA) was carried out and no significant archaeological remains were observed at alternative sites 1 and 2. A palaeontological heritage desktop study was carried out and concluded that the palaeontological sensitivity of the rock succession in the area is considered to be low. However it is possible that sites/materials may be covered by sand and vegetation. Management measures must be implemented to ensure impacts on heritage resources are avoided. If heritage resources are unearthed during construction, the find brought to the immediate attention of the developer and all work has to be stopped immediately and reported to the Eastern Cape Provincial Heritage Resources Authority. Any destruction / removal of heritage resources can only be allowed once a permit is obtained from the South African Heritage Resources Agency and the

5 site has been mapped and noted. With mitigation measures in place, the impact on heritage resources is expected to be of a low significance.

During the operational phase, educational posters should be placed to educate visitors about the sensitivity of the area (i.e. fauna, flora and dune types). Signage should be placed to warn visitors what is and is not permitted within the area i.e. no fires, no removal of fauna / flora etc. Signage should be placed to direct people to beach along existing footpaths and ramp; this could assist to help vegetation regrowth and dune stabilisation in the long term.

With regards to the impact of the operation of the parking bay facility on the visitors and “sense of place”, alternative site 1 is expected to have a higher positive impact (medium significance) than site 2 (low significance). Alternative site 1 will be situated at the edge of the escarpment ~300 meters from the beach where alternative site 2 parking bay will be situated ~600 meters from the beach. A footpath and ramp to “guide” visitors on to the beach is already in place at site 1 and the site offers an easy and short walk to the beach. Site 2 offers a longer walk (particularly for children and elderly people) to the beach, and visitors may still opt to walk over the foredune to enjoy the beach. Alternative site 1 will be a convenient look-out point for dolphin spotting and general sea-watching. The beach cannot be seen from alternative site 2 and therefore the sense of place of visiting a beach is reduced. Ablution facilities will be closer than those at site alternative 2 and more likely to be used on a regular basis. The lifesavers house would be built on higher ground at the edge of the escarpment at site 1 and the swimming beach will be in the line of sight and the lifesavers will benefit from the shorter walk. The swimming beach will not be in line of sight at site 2. The existing boardwalk access point will allow for the improved access to the beach in the event of an emergency and the upgraded jeep track would conveniently serve as an evacuation route. Rescue helicopters would be able to land and take off from the beach if need be. The alternative site 1 parking facility will assist to maintain and possibly increase the popularity of the beach.

Taking into consideration impacts on the natural and social environment arising from the construction and operational phases of the proposed development, the environmentally preferred site is site alternative 1. It is recommended that the parking facility and associated infrastructures be developed at alternative site 1 on condition that the mitigation measures proposed in this basic assessment report are implemented.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS ...... 1

LIST OF FIGURES ...... 4

LIST OF TABLES ...... 6

LIST OF APPENDICES ...... 7

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS ...... 8

SECTION A: ACTIVITY INFORMATION ...... 2

1. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION...... 2

2. FEASIBLE AND REASONABLE ALTERNATIVES ...... 10

3. ACTIVITY POSITION ...... 11

4. PHYSICAL SIZE OF THE ACTIVITY ...... 12

5. SITE ACCESS ...... 12

6. SITE OR ROUTE PLAN ...... 13

7. Site PHOTOGRAPHS ...... 14

8. FACILITY ILLUSTRATION ...... 14

9. ACTIVITY MOTIVATION ...... 15

9(a) Socio-economic value of the activity ...... 15

9(b) Need and desirability of the activity ...... 15

10. Applicable legislation, policies and/or guidelines ...... 18

11. Waste, effluent, emission and noise management ...... 25

11(a) Solid waste management ...... 25

11(b) Liquid effluent ...... 27

11(c) Emissions into the atmosphere ...... 27

11(d) Generation of noise...... 28

12. WATER USE ...... 28

13. ENERGY EFFICIENCY ...... 28

SECTION B: SITE/AREA/PROPERTY DESCRIPTION ...... 29

1. GRADIENT OF THE SITE...... 29

2. LOCATION IN LANDSCAPE ...... 29

3. GROUNDWATER, SOIL AND GEOLOGICAL STABILITY OF THE SITE ...... 33

4. GROUNDCOVER ...... 39

5. LAND USE CHARACTER OF SURROUNDING AREA ...... 53

6. Cultural/Historical Features ...... 56

Section C: public participation...... 59

1. ADVERTISEMENT ...... 59

2. Content of advertisements and notices ...... 60

3. Placement of advertisements and notices ...... 60

4. Determination of appropriate measures ...... 61

5. Comments and response report ...... 61

6. AUTHORITY PARTICIPATION ...... 61

7. CONSULTATION WITH OTHER STAKEHOLDERS ...... 64

SECTION D: IMPACT ASSESSMENT ...... 65

1. ISSUES RAISED BY INTERESTED AND AFFECTED PARTIES ...... 65

Planning and Design Phase – Alternative sites 1 and 2 and No Go alternative ...... 74

Construction Phase - Alternative site 1 (preferred site / activity and technology alternative) ...... 74

Construction Phase - Alternative site 2 ...... 84

Construction Phase – No Go Alternative ...... 94

Operational Phase - Alternative site 1 (preferred site / activity and technology alternative) ...... 95

Operational Phase – Alternative site 2 ...... 99

Operational Phase – No Go Alternative ...... 104

Decommissioning and closure Phase ...... 104

3. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT ...... 105

SECTION E. RECOMMENDATIONS OF PRACTITIONER ...... 110

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1: Proposed parking bays (Site Alternatives 1 and 2) ...... 2

Figure 2: Regional location ...... 3

Figure 3: Urban growth boundary (adapted from SDF 2009) ...... 4

Figure 4: Proposed parking bays (Alternative Sites 1 and 2) ...... 7

Figure 5: Topography of alternative site 1 ...... 31

Figure 6: Distance of alternative site 1 to dune ...... 31

Figure 7: Topography of alternative site 2 ...... 32

Figure 8: Distance of alternative site 2 to dune ...... 32

Figure 9: Stratigraphic layers of Sardinia bay (Council for Geoscience, 2000) ...... 34

Figure 10: Soil Type; Sardinia Bay (adapted from SANBI BGIS) ...... 35

Figure 11: Saline and sodic soils ...... 36

Figure 12: Predicted soil loss ...... 36

Figure 13: Rainfall erosivity ...... 36

Figure 14: Sediment delivery potential ...... 37

Figure 15: Susceptibility of land to water erosion ...... 37

Figure 16: Soils susceptible to wind erosion ...... 38

Figure 17: Potential shifting sands ...... 38

Figure 18: Mean annual rainfall (AGIS) ...... 41

Figure 19: Critical Biodiversity Areas (ECBCP) ...... 42

Figure 20: Critical Biodiversity Areas (NMB Conservation Assessment and Plan) 42

Figure 21: Broad Vegetation Units (Mucina and Rutherford, 2006) ...... 43

Figure 22: Vegetation types (NMB Conservation Plan and Assessment; NMB Final Bioregional Plan) ...... 44

Figure 23: Google Earth image with GPS waypoints indicating the presence of SCC’s in the general Sardinia Bay Nature Reserve area [Key – Erica glumiflora: Eri_glum; Erica chloroloma: Eri_chlor; Rapanea gilliana: Rap_gill; Syncarpha sordescens: Syn_sord]...... 47

Figure 24: Google Earth image with GPS waypoints indicating the presence of SCC’s on and around Site Alternative 2 [Key – Erica glumiflora: Eri_glum; Erica chloroloma: Eri_chlor; Syncarpha sordescens: Syn_sord]...... 48

Figure 25: 500 metre radius around centre point of alternative site 1 ...... 54

Figure 26: 500 metre radius around centre point of alternative site 2 ...... 55

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1: Impact Assessment Rating methodology ...... 71

LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix A: Site Plan (s)

Appendix B: Photographs

Appendix C: Facility Illustrations

Appendix D: Traffic Impact Assessment

Appendix E: Comments and Response report and details of public participation

Appendix F: Environmental Management Programme (EMPr)

Appendix G: Other information

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS

BAR Basic Assessment Report DEDEAT Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism EMP Environmental Management Programme CRR Comment and Response Report DAFF Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry DFA Development Facilitation Act (No 67 of 1995) DWS Department of Water and Sanitation GIS Geographic Information Systems IAP Interested and Affected Party IDP Integrated Development Plan LSDF Local Spatial Development Framework MAR Mean Annual Runoff mamsl Metres above mean sea level Mm Millimetres NEMA National Environmental Management Act (No 107 of 1998) NEMWA National Environmental Management: Waste Act (No 59 of 2008) NMBM Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality NHRA National Heritage Resources Act (No 25 of 1999) SANBI South African National Biodiversity Institute SABS South African Bureau of Standards SAHRA South African Heritage Resources Agency SANS South African National Standards SDF Spatial Development Framework WMA Water Management Area

www.dedea.gov.za

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

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

Basic assessment report in terms of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2014, 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 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. 7. No faxed or e-mailed reports will be accepted. 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.

www.dedea.gov.za

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. A vegetation assessment was conducted in house by Miss Merika Louw. A wetland assessment was carried out by Mr. Brian Colloty of Sherman Colloty & Associates. An Archaeology study was carried out by Mr. Johan Binneman and Mr Kobus Reichert of Eastern Cape Heritage Consultants cc. A paleontology study was carried out by Dr John Almond of Natura Viva cc. See Appendix D for Specialist Reports.

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

Introduction The Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality (NMBM) is proposing to establish a new car park and toilet block at Sardinia Bay. A portion of the car park area is proposed to be made available to the Sardinia Bay Lifesavers Club to develop a new clubhouse facility (supported by its own cost). An existing jeep track is proposed to be upgraded to gravel road standards (width of 6 metres) to provide access to the proposed parking bay.

Location Sardinia Bay Local Authority Nature Reserve (Sardinia Bay) is an area of ~249 hectares situated southwest of Port Elizabeth city centre at 34 02’ S, 25 30’ E, to where it is linked with a tarred access road (DR01901) via the New Seaview Road, in the NMBM, Eastern Cape (See Figure 2).

Sardinia Bay was designated a local nature reserve in terms of Section 7 (5) of the Nature Conservation Ordinance, 1974 (Ordinance 19 of 1974) and is a formal land-based protected area in terms of the National Environmental Management: Protect Areas Act (No 57 of 2003), as amended, and the National Biodiversity Assessment 2011(NBA 2011).

Sardinia Bay is adjacent to the Sardinia Bay Marine Protected Area (MPA). The Sardinia Bay MPA was declared under Ordinance 19 of 1974 Nature and Environmental Conservation Ordinance. The MPA was re-declared under Marine Living resources Act (Act 18 of 1998) on 29 December 2000, Government Gazette No. 21948 and thus regarded as a marine protected areas declared as in terms

www.dedea.gov.za of the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act (Act 57 of 2003), as amended. Sardinia Bay and the MPA are under the management of the NMBM.

Figure 2: Regional location

According to the NMB Spatial Development Framework (SDF) 2009 Sardinia Bay is located outside the urban growth boundary of NMBM (See Figure 3). Sardinia Bay is undeveloped with the exception of two clubhouses (Sardinia Bay Ski-boat Club and Sardinia Bay Lifesavers Club), public toilets, an upper and lower car park and a ramp leading from the escarpment to the beach. The main attractions of Sardinia Bay are its Marine Reserve with miles of unspoilt coastline and crystal clear water excellent for kite boarding, surfing, swimming, horse riding, scenic walks and the Sacramento Hiking Trail.

www.dedea.gov.za

Figure 3: Urban growth boundary (adapted from SDF 2009)

Background Information The sand dunes at Sardinia Bay, NMBM, are moving in an east-north-eastward direction at approximately 2 - 5 metres per year. Temporary measures were implemented in 2007 and 2008 to halt the sand inundation by clearing with a front end loader. This measure proved to be expensive and fruitless in the long term. In addition, this measure is not in line with the National Environmental Management: Integrated Coastal Management Act (Act 24 of 2008) which states that the natural attributes of coastal landscapes are to be maintained and natural sand movement is not to be interfered with. This is particularly important in a nature reserve.

The moving dunes at Sardinia Bay have progressively inundated infrastructure. There is no longer access to the lower car park. The ablution block opposite the upper car park has been completely overrun by the dunes. The dunes are now beginning to overrun the upper car park. In ±40 years from now the dune will completely overrun the entire lower car park as well as the two clubhouses (Ski-boat club, lifesavers club). The dunes will eventually move up the slope to the east of the lower car park. The dunes will eventually head north west and close the parking bay naturally.

www.dedea.gov.za

Predicted climate change and rise in sea level further demands the relocation of structures that were built too close to the sea. The problem with sea level rise is its interaction with changing storm intensities and wind field conditions that overwhelm existing infrastructure. At present, the sea is washing at the foundations and stilts of the clubhouses during storm tides. It is only a matter of time that the clubhouses will be toppled by the sea. In the medium term (a few years at most), the clubhouses would have to be given up. Similar incidents are bound to happen over large stretches of coast as South Africa comes face to face with the impacts of a changing coastline as a result of climate change.

Previous assessments A basic assessment was carried out in 2009 by Arcus Gibb for public access to Sardinia Bay. The proposed development activities which were assessed in 2009, and for which an environmental authorisation was granted (amended authorisation granted 2011), included:  Upgrade of jeep track to gravel road standards.  Construction of a new car park at the end of the upgraded jeep track on the top at the edge of the escarpment.  Construction of boardwalk stairs leading down the escarpment to the beach.  Construction of a ramp for emergency purposes from the edge of the escarpment to the beach.  Construction of toilet block.  Closure of the horse track descending from the escarpment to the beach to the east of the clubhouses.  Closure and demolition of the public toilets at upper car park.  Closure of the lower portion of the road leading to the lower car park.

Due to the movement of the sand dunes between 2009 and 2015, the following activities which were proposed and authorised in 2009 are no longer applicable:  Closure and demolition of the public toilets at upper car park. These have been completely overrun by sand dunes.  Closure of the lower portion of the road leading to the lower car park. Access to the lower portion of the car park has been closed by the moving sand dunes.

Current assessment As a response to the moving sand dunes, the NMBM is proposing to establish a new car park and toilet block at Sardinia Bay. The proposed car park and toilet facilities will ideally be established on a site that is not in the path of the moving sand dunes.

The development footprint of the parking bay facility is expected to be ~2500 m². This would be sufficient for ~160 cars as well as an area allocated for the development of a lifesavers clubhouse and a toilet block. 5

www.dedea.gov.za

A portion of the car park area (~100 m²) will be made available to the Sardinia Bay Lifesavers Club to develop a new clubhouse facility (supported by its own cost). This new lifesavers house would be under the control of NMBM – the present one is not.

A new toilet block (~100 m²) equipped with a conservancy tank for periodic servicing would be erected at the new car park. This system has been successful at the existing parking bay facility. Water for the toilet block would be sourced from the NMBM main water supply pipeline nearby. The NMBM have confirmed that water supply will not be a problem as the previous and existing toilet facilities at Sardinia Bay have been supplied with water with no problems.

Access to the parking bay will be via an upgraded jeep track. Upgrade of the jeep track to gravel road standards will require minor earthworks. The upgraded gravel road will be designed and constructed to act as a storm water channels and to prevent the parking of cars on natural vegetation. Running in parallel to the upgraded gravel road, a bridle path for horse riders would be allowed for. Vehicle access by the general public to other parts of the Sardinia Bay Nature Reserve would be restricted by suitable means, e.g. gates and bollards. A locked gate will be erected and placed across the road which extends to the existing upper parking bay to prevent vehicular access to this area. This gate will however still allow for emergency vehicles to have access to the beach, in the event of an emergency situation.

No electricity services will be provided to the proposed parking bay area. There is no electricity provided at the existing parking bay facility. General waste and litter will be managed through the provision of waste receptacles at the proposed parking bay facility. The waste receptacles will be emptied and removed offsite by the NMBM and disposed of at a licensed NMBM waste site.

The existing upper parking bay will be closed and demolished. Existing infrastructure (toilets) will be removed. The construction rubble from the demolished parking bay will be used as fill material at the proposed parking bay site. Additional construction material (G5) will be used to establish the proposed parking bay.

Two sites have been proposed as being suitable for the development of the proposed parking bay and associated infrastructures and structures (See Figure 4). Alternative sites 1 and 2 will be assessed in order to determine the preferred site for the development of the proposed parking bay.

www.dedea.gov.za

Figure 4: Proposed parking bays (Alternative Sites 1 and 2)

Fires are important to the fynbos occurring in the area and controlled fires must continue in the area. A fire break is therefore suggested around the perimeter of the parking bay site or, alternatively, a fire break can be burned each year. Uncontrolled fires must however be prevented. Fires are common in the Sardinia Bay area with major veld fires recorded in June 1996 and January 2009.

Alternative 1 Alternative Site 1 is situated ~300 metres from the swimming beach of Sardinia bay and situated on top of the escarpment overlooking the beach, more or less directly above the lower car park. The vista from the top of the hill will be a duplication of what is at Schoenmakerskop. (See Figure 4). The lifesavers house would thus be built on higher ground at the edge of the escarpment. Alternative 1 is expected to have similar characteristics as the existing upper car park in that it consists of naturally occurring compacted calcrete.

The centre coordinates of Alternative Site 1 are as follows: Latitude (S) (DDMMSS) Longitude (E) (DDMMSS) SITE Alternative 1 34° 1' 53.06" 25° 30' 3.77"

 Access to Site 1

www.dedea.gov.za

Access to site 1 will be east from the Sardinia Bay Road (DR01901) at the Green Gate turnoff. This turnoff will be widened and controlled by a boom. The existing 2.5 metre wide jeep track will be upgraded to gravel road standards (width of 6 metres; distance of ~460 metres). The placement of a gatehouse for access control at the turnoff would be optional. Approximately 1610 m² (460 m x 3.5 m) fynbos is expected to be removed to make way for the road upgrade.

The upgraded jeep track would conveniently serve as an evacuation route in the event of a medical emergency. The existing boardwalk access point will allow for the improved access to the beach in the event of an emergency. Rescue helicopters would be able to land and take on the beach if need be.

The toilets will be closer and more regularly used. The walk to the beach will be shorter; maintaining and possibly increasing the popularity of the beach. Beach access for the public already exists in the form of a boardwalk ramp which leads down the escarpment to the beach. The convenient use of the ramp may encourage people to stop walking the dune to get to the beach.

 Water supply to Site 1 The water pipe will be extended and run underground to service the toilet block. The extended length of the proposed underground water pipe will be ~460 metres and follow the road servitude.

 Vegetation removal to accommodate development footprint of Site 1 Approximately 4100 m² of fynbos is expected to be removed to make way for the proposed development (car park facility, toilet block, lifesavers clubhouse, water pipe and road upgrade). Approximately 1200 m² fynbos is expected to be removed to create a 5 meter fire break around the perimeter of the parking bay.

Alternative 2 Alternative Site 2 is located ~600 metres from the Sardinia bay swimming beach (see Figure 4). The parking bay, lifesavers house and toilet facilities would be built out of the way of rising sea levels and predicted dune movement.

The centre coordinates of Alternative Site 2 are as follows: Latitude (S) (DDMMSS) Longitude (E) (DDMMSS) SITE Alternative 2 34° 1' 51.60" 25° 29' 56.59"

 Access to Site 2 Access to Alternative Site 2 will be east from the Sardinia Bay Road (DR01901) at the Green Gate turnoff. The turnoff will be widened and controlled by a boom. The existing 2.5 metre wide jeep track would be upgraded to gravel road standards (width of 6 metres; distance of ~20 metres). The placement of a gatehouse for access control at the turnoff would be optional. Approximately 70 m² (20 m x 3.5 m) fynbos would be destroyed to make way for the road upgrade. 8

www.dedea.gov.za

In the case of emergencies, the ramp in existence can be used to transport persons on the stretcher up the 250 metre ramp. From this point, it would be another 600 meter walk to the clubhouse through the reserve. As in the past, the rescue helicopter would be landing and taking off on the beach. The general public would have to walk further to access the beach and the toilet facilities wouldn’t be as easily accessible once on the beach due its increased proximity from the beach.

 Water supply to Site 2 The water pipe will be extended and run underground to service the toilet block. The extended length of the proposed underground water pipe will be ~ 20 metres and follow the road servitude.

 Vegetation removal to accommodate development footprint of Site 2 Approximately 2500 m² of fynbos is expected to be destroyed to make way for the proposed development (car park facility, toilet block, lifesavers clubhouse, water pipe and road upgrade). Approximately 900 m² fynbos is expected to be destroyed for a 2 - 5 meter fire break around the perimeter of parking bay. The 2 metre firebreak is proposed where the site is adjacent to the road.

Employment creation The proposed development will create approximately 20 - 30 unskilled jobs during the construction phase. Once the parking bay is in operation, there will be no additional jobs created. Maintenance will take place by skilled personnel already employed at the NMBM.

Timeframes The development of the parking bay and access road is proposed to take place over a 6 month period. The proposed date for commencement of construction is January 2015.

Conclusion In alignment with key coastal legislation and policy papers (e.g. National Environmental Management: Integrated Coastal Management Act, Coastal Management Programme for NMBM), NMBM is striving to create a more environmentally friendly, healthy and sustainable city with substantial socio- economic, health, recreation and tourism benefits. The key objective is to preserve the natural character of the metro beachfront as far as possible and to rehabilitate degraded coastal areas through harmonious landscaping following principles of international best practice. Construction of a new car park, public toilet facility and an adequate clubhouse for lifeguards has been identified as a need and priority in the NMBM Draft Integrated Development Plan, 2011 – 2016.

The environmental authorisation granted for public access to Sardinia Bay, and amended authorisation granted in 2011 has lapsed. The proposed development requires a new environmental authorisation before construction can commence.

www.dedea.gov.za

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.

www.dedea.gov.za

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 alternative) 34° 1.968' 25° 30.063' Alternative S2 (if any) 34° 1.860' 25° 29.943' 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 34° 1.861' 25° 29.918'  Middle point of the activity 34° 1.916' 25° 29.998'  End point of the activity 34° 1.954' 25° 30.062'

Alternative S2 (if any)  Starting point of the activity 34° 1.861' 25° 29.918'  Middle point of the activity 34° 1.866' 25° 29.925'  End point of the activity 34° 1.868' 25° 29.931' 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.

1 “Alternative S..” refer to site alternatives. 11

www.dedea.gov.za

4. PHYSICAL SIZE OF THE ACTIVITY 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) 2500 m² and 1200 m² fire break Alternative A2 (if any) 2500 m² and 900 m² fire break Alternative A3 (if any)

or, for linear activities: Alternative: Length of the activity: Alternative A1 (preferred activity alternative) 460 m Alternative A2 (if any) 20 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) 4100 m² and 1200 m² fire break Alternative A2 (if any) 2600 m² and 900 m² fire break Alternative A3 (if any)

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. 12

www.dedea.gov.za

Alternative 1 site access Access to site 1 will be east from the Sardinia Bay Road (DR01901) at the Green Gate turnoff. This turnoff will be widened and controlled by a boom.

The existing 2.5 metre wide jeep track will be upgraded to gravel road standards (width of 6 metres; distance of ~460 metres).

Approximately 1610 m² (460 m x 3.5 m) fynbos is expected to be destroyed to make way for the road upgrade.

Alternative 2 site access Access to Alternative Site 2 will be east from the Sardinia Bay Road (DR01901) at the Green Gate turnoff. The turnoff will be widened and controlled by a boom.

The existing 2.5 metre wide jeep track would be upgraded to gravel road standards (width of 6 metres; distance of ~20 metres).

Approximately 70 m² (20 m x 3.5 m) fynbos would be destroyed to make way for the road upgrade.

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; 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; 13

www.dedea.gov.za

. 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.

Site and Route Plans See Appendix A for the site plan. The photographs were taken from the centre of the alternative sites 1 and 2 in the eight compass directions. See Appendix B for photographs and an indication the positions of where the photographs 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.

Site Photographs The photographs were taken from the centre of the alternative sites 1 and 2 in the eight compass directions. See Appendix B for photographs and an indication the positions of where the photographs were taken.

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.

Facility Illustration See Appendix C.

www.dedea.gov.za

9. ACTIVITY MOTIVATION

9(a) Socio-economic value of the activity Alternative Site 1 Alternative Site 2 What is the expected capital value of the activity on R 2,000,000 R 2,000,000 completion? What is the expected yearly income that will be generated by R 0 (No access fees R 0 (No access or as a result of the activity? applicable) fees applicable) Will the activity contribute to service infrastructure? YES NO YES NO Is the activity a public amenity? YES NO YES NO How many new employment opportunities will be created in the 20 – 30 (unskilled) 20 – 30 (unskilled) development phase of the activity? What is the expected value of the employment opportunities R 200 000.00 to R 200 000.00 to during the development phase? R 400 000.00 R 400 000.00 (SMME’s percentage) (SMME’s percentage) What percentage of this will accrue to previously 95% 95% disadvantaged individuals? How many permanent new employment opportunities will be None None created during the operational phase of the activity? (security guards from (security guards upper car park will be from upper car park retained) will be retained) What is the expected current value of the employment R 500 000 R 500 000 opportunities during the first 10 years? Security guards from Security guards upper car park will be from upper car park retained) R4000 x 12 will be retained) x10 R4000 x 12 x10 What percentage of this will accrue to previously None None disadvantaged individuals? (security guards from (security guards upper car park will be from upper car park retained) will be retained)

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

Need of Activity - Alternative Sites 1 and 2 The sand dunes at Sardinia Bay, NMBM, are moving in an east-north-eastward direction at approximately 2 - 5 metres per year. Temporary measures were implemented in 2007 and 2008 to halt the sand inundation 15

www.dedea.gov.za by clearing with a front end loader. This measure proved to be expensive and fruitless in the long term. In addition, this measure is not in line with the National Environmental Management: Integrated Coastal Management Act (Act 24 of 2008).

Construction of a new car park, public toilet facility and an adequate clubhouse for lifeguards has been identified as a need and priority in the NMBM Draft Integrated Development Plan, 2011 – 2016. The proposed car park and toilet facilities will ideally be established on a site that is not in the path of the moving sand dunes.

Desirability of Activity - Alternative Site 1 Alternative Site 1 is situated ~300 metres from the swimming beach of Sardinia bay and situated on the top at the edge of the escarpment overlooking the beach, more or less directly above the lower car park. The site is not likely to be impacted by dune movement.

Desirability of Activity - Alternative Site 2 Approximately 1600 m² of fynbos is expected to be destroyed to make way for the proposed development (car park facility, toilet block, lifesavers clubhouse, water pipe and road upgrade) at alternative site 2.

Alternative Site 2 is located ~600 metres from the Sardinia bay swimming beach and safely out the way of dune movement. In the case of emergencies, the ramp in existence can be used to transport persons on the stretcher up the 250 metre ramp. From this point, it would be another 600 meter walk to the clubhouse through the reserve. Site 2 is not as desirable as site 1 from a social point of view as the general public would have to walk further to access the beach and the toilet facilities wouldn’t be as easily accessible once

www.dedea.gov.za on the beach due its increased proximity from the beach. The public may also opt to walk through vegetation or continue to walk over the dune to get to the beach causing a long term impact on vegetation in the area.

Indicate any benefits that the activity will have for society in general: Benefits of Activity to Society - Alternative Sites 1 and 2 Both sites offer benefits to society in the sense that a parking bay will be provided to ensure the public has convenient access to Sardinia Bay beach. In addition, a portion of the car park area is proposed to be made available to the Sardinia Bay Lifesavers Club to develop a new clubhouse facility. This new lifesavers house would be under the control of NMBM – the present one is not. The sea is currently washing at the foundations and stilts of the clubhouses during storm tides and demands the relocation of structures that were built too close to the sea. It is only a matter of time that the clubhouses will be toppled by the sea.

Another benefit to society includes temporary job creation. The proposed project is expected to create between 20 - 30 unskilled jobs during the construction phase.

Benefits of Activity to Society - Alternative Site 1 Alternative 1 offers more benefits to society than site 2. The parking bay (and lifesaver house) will be built on higher ground at the edge of the escarpment and will be only 300 metres from the swimming beach. Alternative site 1 will be a convenient look-out point for dolphin spotting and general sea- watching. Alternative site 1 will provide improved access to the beach.The existing boardwalk access point will allow for the improved access to the beach in the event of an emergency. The upgraded jeep track would conveniently serve as an evacuation route in the event of a medical emergency. The toilets will be closer and more regularly used. The walk to the beach will be shorter; maintaining and possibly increasing the popularity of the beach.

Indicate any benefits that the activity will have for the local communities where the activity will be located: Benefits of Activity to Local Communities In terms of alternative site 1, the toilets will be closer and more regularly used. The walk to the beach will be shorter; maintaining and possibly increasing the popularity of the beach the existing footpaths and boardwalk will allow for easy access to the beach. The boardwalk ramp and upgraded jeep track would conveniently serve as an evacuation route in the event of a medical emergency.

Both sites will create between 20 - 30 unskilled jobs during the construction phase.

www.dedea.gov.za

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:

Legislation applicable to Alternative Sites 1 and 2

Title of legislation, policy or guideline: Administering authority: Date: National Environmental Management: Integrated Coastal Department of Environmental 2015 Management Act 24 of 2008 as amended by Act No. 36 of 2014: Affairs National Environmental Management: Integrated Coastal Management Amendment Act, 2014) National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (No. 107 of 1998) Department of Environmental 1998 (NEMA) Affairs GN R 982 National Environmental Management Act (107/1998): Department of Environmental 2014 Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2014 Affairs GN R. 983.: Listing notice 1: List of activities and competent Department of Economic 2014 authorities identified in terms of sections 24 (2) and 24 D NEMA Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT) - Cacadu Region GNR.983 - Activity 17 Development- (i) in the sea; (ii) in an estuary; (iii) within the littoral active zone; (iv) in front of a development setback; or (v) if no development setback exists, within a distance of 100 metres inland of the high-water mark

in respect of- (a) fixed or floating jetties and slipways; (b) tidal pools; (c) embankments; (d) rock revetments or stabilising structures including stabilising walls; (e) buildings of 50 square metres or more; or (f) infrastructure with a development footprint of 50 square metres or more –

but excluding- (aa) the development of infrastructure and structures within existing ports or harbours that will not increase the development footprint of the port or harbour;

www.dedea.gov.za

Title of legislation, policy or guideline: Administering authority: Date: (bb) where such development is related to the development of a port or harbour, in which case activity 26 in Listing Notice 2 of 2014 applies; (cc) the development of temporary infrastructure or structures where such structures will be removed within 6 weeks of the commencement of development and where indigenous vegetation will not be cleared; or (dd) where such development occurs within an urban area.

Activity Description Sardinia Bay Nature Reserve is a formal land-based protected area. Alternative sites 1 and 2 can be considered to be within the littoral active zone. The existing upper parking bay, situated within littoral active zone, will be closed and demolished. The construction rubble from the demolished parking bay will be used as fill material at the proposed parking bay site. The development footprint of the parking bay will be ~2500 square meters. The development footprint (car park facility, toilet block, lifesavers clubhouse, water pipe and road upgrade) will be ~4100 m² in terms of alternative site 1 and ~2600 m² in terms of alternative site 2. GNR.983 - Activity 18 The planting of vegetation or placing of any material on dunes or exposed sand surfaces of more than 10 square metres, within the littoral active zone, for the purpose of preventing the free movement of sand, erosion or accretion, excluding where - (i) the planting of vegetation or placement of material relates to restoration and maintenance of indigenous coastal vegetation undertaken in accordance with a maintenance management plan; or ii) such planting of vegetation or placing of material will occur behind a development setback.

www.dedea.gov.za

Title of legislation, policy or guideline: Administering authority: Date: of alternative site 1 and ~2600 m² in terms of alternative site 2. As part of maintenance of the public access facilities it may be required that vegetation be placed on dunes. GNR.983 - Activity 19 The infilling or depositing of any material of more than 5 cubic metres into, or the dredging, excavation, removal or moving of soil, sand, shells, shell grit, pebbles or rock of more than 5 cubic metres from- (i) a watercourse; (ii) the seashore; or -

(iii) the littoral active zone, an estuary or a distance of 100 metres inland of the high-water mark of the sea or an estuary, whichever distance is the greater

But excluding where such infilling, depositing , dredging, excavation, removal or moving- (a) will occur behind a development setback; (b) is for maintenance purposes undertaken in accordance with a maintenance management plan; or (c) falls within the ambit of activity 21 in this Notice, in which case that activity applies.

Activity Description Alternative sites 1 and 2 can be considered to be within the littoral active zone. The existing upper parking bay, situated within littoral active zone, will be closed and demolished. The construction rubble from the demolished parking bay will be used as fill material at the proposed parking bay site. Additional G5 construction material may be used for levelling. The material is likely to exceed 5 square metres GNR.983 - Activity 31 The decommissioning of existing facilities, structures or infrastructure for- (i) any development and related operation activity or activities listed in this Notice, Listing Notice 2 of 2014 or Listing Notice 3 of 2014; (ii) any expansion and related operation activity or activities listed in this Notice, Listing Notice 2 of 2014 or Listing Notice 3 of 2014; (iii) any development and related operation activity or activities and expansion and related operation activity or activities listed in this Notice, Listing Notice 2 of 2014 or Listing Notice 3 of 2014; 20

www.dedea.gov.za

Title of legislation, policy or guideline: Administering authority: Date: (iv) any phased activity or activities for development and related operation activity or expansion or related operation activities listed in this Notice or Listing Notice 3 of 2014; or (v) any activity regardless the time the activity was commenced with, where such activity: (a) is similarly listed to an activity in (i), (ii), (iii), or (iv) above; and (b) is still in operation or development is still in progress; excluding where- (aa) activity 22 of this notice applies; or (bb) the decommissioning is covered by part 8 of the National Environmental Management: Waste Act, 2008 (Act No. 59 of 2008) in which case the National Environmental Management: Waste Act, 2008 applies.

Activity Description The upper car park will be closed and demolished. The demolished material will be used as fill material at the selected site.

GNR.983 - Activity 32 The continuation of any development where the environmental authorisation has lapsed and where the continuation of the development, after the date the environmental authorisation has lapsed will meet the threshold of any activity or activities listed in this Notice, Listing Notice 2 of 2014, or Listing Notice 3 or Listing Notice 4 of 2014.

Activity Description A basic assessment was carried out for public access to Sardinia Bay in 2009 and an environmental authorisation was granted (amended authorisation granted 2011); activities included: - Upgrade of jeep track to gravel road standards. - Construction of a new car park at the end of the upgraded jeep track on the top at the edge of the escarpment. - Construction of boardwalk stairs leading down the escarpment to the beach. - Construction of a ramp for emergency purposes from the edge of the escarpment to the beach. - Construction of toilet block. - Closure of the horse track descending from the escarpment to the beach to the east of the clubhouses. - Closure and demolition of the public toilets at upper car park. 21

www.dedea.gov.za

Title of legislation, policy or guideline: Administering authority: Date: - Closure of the lower portion of the road leading to the lower car park

Due to the movement of the sand dunes between 2009 and 2015, the following activities which were proposed and authorised in 2009 are no longer applicable: - Closure and demolition of the public toilets at upper car park. These have been completely overrun by sand dunes. - Closure of the lower portion of the road leading to the lower car park. Access to the lower portion of the car park has been closed by the moving sand dunes.

The authorisation has lapsed and a basic assessment is required for the construction of the parking bay and associated facilities and infrastructures. GN R. 984.: Listing notice 2: List of activities and competent No activities triggered 2014 authorities identified in terms of sections 24 (2) and 24 D GN R. 985.: Listing notice 3: List of activities and competent Department of Economic 2014 authorities identified in terms of sections 24 (2) and 24 D Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT) - Cacadu Region GNR.985 - Activity 4 The development of a road wider than 4 metres with a reserve less than 13,5 metres.

(b) In Eastern Cape: i. In an estuarine functional zone; ii. Outside urban areas, in: (aa) A protected area identified in terms of NEMPAA, excluding disturbed areas; (bb) National Protected Area Expansion Strategy Focus areas; (cc) Sensitive areas as identified in an environmental management framework as contemplated in chapter 5 of the Act and as adopted by the competent authority; (dd) Sites or areas identified in terms of an International Convention; (ee) Critical biodiversity areas as identified in systematic biodiversity plans adopted by the competent authority or in bioregional plans; (ff) Core areas in biosphere reserves; (gg) Areas within 10 kilometres from national parks or world heritage sites or 5 kilometres from any other protected area

www.dedea.gov.za

Title of legislation, policy or guideline: Administering authority: Date: identified in terms of NEMPAA or from the core areas of a biosphere reserve, excluding disturbed areas; or (hh) Areas seawards of the development setback line or within 1 kilometre from the high-water mark of the sea if no such development setback line is determined; or iii. In urban areas: (aa) Areas zoned for use as public open space; (bb) Areas designated for conservation use in Spatial Development Frameworks adopted by the competent authority or zoned for a conservation purpose; or (cc) Seawards of the development setback line or within urban protected areas.

Alternative site 1 - the existing 2.5 metre wide jeep track would be upgraded to gravel road standards to a width of 6 metres and for a distance of ~460 metres. Alternative site 2 - the existing 2.5 metre wide jeep track would be upgraded to gravel road standards to a width of 6 metres and for a distance of ~20 metres. GNR.985 - Activity 12 The clearance of an area of 300 square metres or more of indigenous vegetation except where such clearance of indigenous vegetation is required for maintenance purposes undertaken in accordance with a maintenance management plan.

(a) In Eastern Cape, Free State, Gauteng, Limpopo, North West and Western Cape provinces: i. Within any critically endangered or endangered ecosystem listed in terms of section 52 of the NEMBA prior to the publication of such a list, within an area that has been identified as critically endangered in the National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment 2004; ii. Within critical biodiversity areas identified in bioregional plans; iii. Within the littoral active zone or 100 metres inland from high water mark of the sea or an estuarine functional zone, whichever distance is the greater, excluding where such removal will occur behind the development setback line on erven in urban areas; or 23

www.dedea.gov.za

Title of legislation, policy or guideline: Administering authority: Date: iv. On land, where, at the time of the coming into effect of this Notice or thereafter such land was zoned open space, conservation or had an equivalent zoning.

Activity Description Sardinia Bay Nature Reserve is a formal land-based protected area. Sardinia Bay is classified as a Protected Area 1 Unit (Nelson Mandela Bay Conservation Plan and Assessment) and CBA1, CBA 2 and CBA 3 categories (ECBCP). Alternative Sites 1 and 2 are situated within 1 kilometre of the high-water mark of the sea. Alternative Sites 1 and 2 can be considered to be within the littoral active zone. The development footprint (car park facility, toilet block, lifesavers clubhouse, water pipe and road upgrade) will be ~4100 m² in terms of alternative site 1 and ~2600 m² in terms of alternative site 1. GNR.985 - Activity 15 The transformation of land bigger than 1000 square metres in size, to residential, retail, commercial, industrial or institutional use, where, such land was zoned open space, conservation or had an equivalent zoning, on or after 02 August 2010.

Activity Description Note: Eastern Cape not included in NEMA 2014 regulations, GN R 985 Activity 15. Eastern cape DEDEAT authorities have indicated that the Eastern Cape will be included in an amendment to NEMA 2014 regulations.

This activity is included for the transformation of more than 1000 square metres of a protected area for use as a public car park (institutional use). Public Participation 2010, Integrated Environmental Management Department of Environmental 2012 Guideline Series 7 Affairs Development Facilitation Act (No 67 of 1995) Nelson Mandela Bay 1995 Municipality Land Use Planning Ordinance 15 of 1985 (LUPO, 15, 1985) Nelson Mandela Bay 1985 Municipality: Human Settlements Directorate; Land Planning and Management sub-directive; Executive Director: Housing and Land; Executive Director: Environmental Services; 24

www.dedea.gov.za

Title of legislation, policy or guideline: Administering authority: Date: Executive Director: Infrastructure and Engineering; Executive Director: Electricity and Energy Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act (No. 16 of 2013) Nelson Mandela Bay 2013 Municipality National Heritage Resources Act 25 of 1999 South African Heritage 1999 Resources Agency Eastern Cape Nature and Environmental Conservation Ordinance Department of Economic 1974 19 of 1974 Development and Environmental Affairs (DEDEA) - Eastern Region National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (No. 10 of EC Department of Economic 2004 2004) Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT) Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan Handbook, 2007 EC Department of Economic 2007 Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT) Nelson Mandela Bay Conservation Assessment and Plan, 2009 Nelson Mandela Bay 2009 Municipality Eastern Cape Groundwater Plan, 2003 Department of Water Affairs 2003 National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act (No. Department of Environmental 2014 57 of 2003), as amended, 2014 Affairs Classification and definition of protected areas and conservation Department of Environmental 2013 areas. Affairs Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Bioregional Plan Nelson Mandela Bay 2014 Municipality Establishment of Coastal Setback Lines for NMBM, Draft, V4 Nelson Mandela Bay 2014 Municipality

11. WASTE, EFFLUENT, EMISSION AND NOISE MANAGEMENT

11(a) Solid waste management Will the activity produce solid construction waste during the construction/initiation phase? YES NO If yes, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? 100 m3 How will the construction solid waste be disposed of (describe)? Management of Construction Solid Waste – Alternative Sites 1 and 2

www.dedea.gov.za

 Construction phase packaging materials, containers and similar construction waste will be sorted into recyclable and non-recyclable waste.  Litter receptacles will be provided and maintained on site for construction phase litter waste.  Where possible waste will be reused or recycled.  Unrecyclable waste will be disposed of at an appropriately registered and licensed waste disposal facility, e.g. Arlington  Suitable portable sanitation systems for construction personnel will be provided and maintained on site for the duration of construction.  Excavated material from site levelling and landscaping activities will, as far as possible, be used on-site as fill material. Excess excavated material that cannot be used in this way will be exported from the site used in construction activities elsewhere in the NMBM.

Where will the construction solid waste be disposed of (describe)? Disposal of Construction Solid Waste – Alternative Sites 1 and 2 Unrecyclable hazardous waste will be disposed of at an appropriately registered and licensed hazardous waste disposal facility as is appropriate e.g. Arlington. Unrecyclable general waste will be disposed of at an appropriately registered and licensed general waste disposal facility as is appropriate e.g. Arlington. Will the activity produce solid waste during its operational phase? YES NO If yes, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? 10 m3 How will the solid waste be disposed of (describe)? Management of Operational Solid Waste – Alternative Sites 1 and 2 General waste and litter will be managed through the provision of waste receptacles at the proposed parking bay facility. The waste receptacles will be emptied and removed offsite by the NMBM and disposed of at a licensed NMBM waste site.

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

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 relevant legislation? YES NO 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.

www.dedea.gov.za

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: Contact person: Postal address: Postal code: Telephone: Cell: E-mail: Fax: Describe the measures that will be taken to ensure the optimal reuse or recycling of waste water, if any:

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: Description of Air Emissions – Alternative Sites 1 and 2 During construction, vegetation will be cleared (4100 m² for alternative site 1; 2600 m² for alternative site 2). The clearing of vegetation will give rise to dust in the form of windblown dust and dust via vehicle entrainment. Fumes will be emitted from construction vehicles. The Particulate Matter concentration in the atmosphere will slightly increase due to the construction activities and this slight increase will be short lived. The amount of emissions expected will be very small and will not trigger any of the listed activities promulgated 1 November 2013 (GN R. 893) in terms of Section 21(1) b of the National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act (No of 2004) as amended. Furthermore, the emissions will be within the acceptable dustfall rate (D < 600 mg/m2/day, 30-days average) as according to the Dust Control Regulations promulgated 1 November 2013 (GN R. 827) in terms of the National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act (No of 2004) as amended.

www.dedea.gov.za

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: Description of Noise Type and Level – Alternative Sites 1 and 2 Noise will be generated during the construction phase of the activity. The source of the noise will include construction vehicles, generator noise, pressure hammers and construction worker’s voices, etc. These noise levels will be very short lived and are not assessed to be a nuisance.

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 or lake other the activity will not use water 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:

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: Alternative Sites 1 and 2 N/A Generators will be used during construction phase. No electricity will be provided to the site during operational phase.

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

www.dedea.gov.za

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. A):

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

3. Has a specialist been consulted to assist with the completion of this section? YES NO If YES, please complete form XX for each specialist thus appointed: All specialist reports must be contained in Appendix D.

1. GRADIENT OF THE SITE Indicate the general gradient of the site. Alternative S1: Flat 1:50 – 1:20 – 1:15 – 1:10 1:10 – 1:7,5 1:7,5 – 1:5 Steeper than 1:5 1:20 1:15

Alternative S2 (if any): Flat 1:50 – 1:20 – 1:15 – 1:10 1:10 – 1:7,5 1:7,5 – 1:5 Steeper than 1:5 (1:100) 1:20 1:15

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

2. LOCATION IN LANDSCAPE Indicate the landform(s) that best describes the site: 2.1 Ridgeline 2.2 Plateau

www.dedea.gov.za

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

Description of gradient and landscape – Alternative site 1 The course of the road and pipeline will traverse over an area which has a fairly flat gradient, starting at an elevation of 29 metres above sea level (ASL) and gradually decreasing in elevation to 27 m ASL at the end of the ~460m route. The parking bay site is situated at approximately 27 m ASL with the north western corner sitting at 26 m ASL. The parking bay site has a fairly flat gradient, with the average gradient being 1:20 (5% slope) (See Figure 5).

The dune is moving in an east-north-eastward direction at approximately 2 - 5 metres per year. The dunes are predicted to move up the slope to the east of the lower car park and to eventually head north west and close the lower parking bay naturally. The dune, at its current nearest distance, is situated ~121 metres south west of the proposed alternative site 1 (See Figure 6). Based on the current path of the dune and the topography of the land, it is unlikely that the dune will move up the escarpment towards alternative site 1.

www.dedea.gov.za

Figure 5: Topography of alternative site 1

Figure 6: Distance of alternative site 1 to dune

Description of gradient and landscape – Alternative site 2 The course of the road and pipeline will traverse over an area which has a flat gradient, with an elevation of 29 m ASL along the route. The parking bay site has a flat gradient with an elevation of 29

www.dedea.gov.za m ASL along the entire site. The dune, at its current nearest distance, is situated ~237 metres south- south west of the proposed alternative site 2 (See Figure 8). Alternative 2 is not in the path of the moving dune.

Figure 7: Topography of alternative site 2

Figure 8: Distance of alternative site 2 to dune

www.dedea.gov.za

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

Geology – Alternative sites 1 and 2 Aeolian Sand is the youngest geological formation of this area and characteristic of shifting sand dunes. Shifting sand dunes are present along much of the coastline, occurring as far as 4 km inland and reaching up to 30 m heights. The dunes are predominantly longitudinal with a north-north easterly strike along most of the coastline; their orientation being directed mainly by prevailing south westerly winds. The primary source of sand is evidently sandstone of the Cape Supergroup (Council for Geoscience, 2000).

The area is underlain by coastal aeolianites (ancient of “fossil” dune sands) of the Nanaga Formation (T - Qn) (Le Roux, 1992). The aeolianites accumulated as coastal dune fields while the coastline receded. The aeolianites therefore become gradually younger from the inland margin of the palaeodunefield towards the coast (Council for Geoscience, 2000). Coastal aeolianites are comprised of calcareous sandstones and sandy limestones (Maud & Botha, 2000). The sandstone is whitish to yellowish and in some localities, reddish in colour. It is mainly fine to medium grained in texture and in most places calcareous due to the high content of shell fragments. A widespread cover of calcrete may be overlain by grey to redishbrown soil, which is not part of the formation. Surface relief governs the thickness of the formation, which commonly attains 150 m, and exceptionally, 250 m. Large scale aeolian cross-bedding is typical. The formation shows signs of local weathering and redistribution. The Nanaga aeolianites are typically partially to well consolidated, however unconsolidated sands occur west of Port Elizabeth, especially in the outcrops, and

www.dedea.gov.za are present in the Sardinia Bay area. The Nanaga Formation is correlated with the Wankoe Formation of Bredasdorp Group in the Southernwest Cape. (Council for Geoscience, 2000). The Peninsula Formation consisting of Quartzitic Sandstone underlies the Nanaga formation. The peninsula formation is areally, stratigraphically and topographically the most prominent formation of the Table Mountain group (Cape Supergroup) and consists of medium- to coarse-grained supermature sandstone, becoming quartzitic in places. The Sardinia Bay Formation is a predominantly arenaceous sequence of rocks comprising thin-to medium-bedded, often cross-bedded, quartzite sandstone with intercalated olive-grey to greenish black phyllitic shale and minor small-pebble conglomerates consisting mainly of vein-quartz clasts. All rocks younger than the Gamtoos Group and underlying the Peninsula Formation within this area is the Sardinia Bay Formation. The sandstone is usually fine to medium grained, light grey when fresh, and felspathic. The Peninsula and Sardinia bay formations occur well below the Nanaga formation and highly unlikely to be encountered by the proposed project.

Figure 9: Stratigraphic layers of Sardinia bay (Council for Geoscience, 2000)

Groundwater – Alternative sites 1 and 2 The site falls within the Fish to Tsitsikamma water management area (WMA) and the Algoa sub WMA. The subquaternary catchment area has a fresh water priority status. The site falls within the quaternary catchment M20A. In terms of the National Water Act (Act 36 of 1998), M20A is listed in Zone A and no water may be taken from these drainage regions except as set out under Schedule 1. According to the Groundwater Plan for Eastern Cape, 2010, the groundwater occurrence for this area is located within the Southern Cape Mountain Range Hydrogeological Region and characterised by fractured aquifer yielding 0.5- 2.0 l/s. This type of aquifer is considered to have a low development potential. The groundwater table of the area proposed for alternative sites 1 and 2 is considered to be deep and highly unlikely to be affected by the

www.dedea.gov.za proposed project. There are no rivers present; the site does not fall within aquatic CBA areas (ECBCP). A wetland assessment was carried out and it was concluded that no wetlands fall within 500 metres of the proposed sites.

Soils – Alternative sites 1 and 2 The soil is generally described as comprised of greyish, sandy soils and the national soil class is soil is imperfectly drained sandy soils (SANBI BGIS). According to SOTER (Soil and Terrain digital database) classification, the soil type is Arenosol (Ar), described as sandy soil with no more profile development than an A horizon. Soil is classed as ‘imperfectly drained sandy’ soil – the coastal plain of Port Elizabeth is characterised by the presence of calcrete bands, particularly in dune slacks, creating seasonal wetlands and / or waterlogged sands. A favourable property of this soil class is that it has ‘favourable water-holding properties’. Limitations are that soil ‘may be highly erodible’ (Biodiversity GIS online interactive maps, 2007), as is typical of coastal sands.

Rocky outcrops of highly folded and jointed quartzitic sandstone are found on the shoreline to the east of the sites towards Schoenmakerskop. The land rises steeply by 10 – 15 m behind the rocky shore forming an escarpment. Soils on top of the escarpment are rich in calcrete. Sandy beaches backed by high (30 m), mobile dunes occur to the west.

Figure 10: Soil Type; Sardinia Bay (adapted from SANBI BGIS)

The soil in the area is considered to be slightly saline and the predicted soil loss of the area is very low. The rainfall erosivity of the area is relatively low and the predicted sediment delivery potential of the area is very low. 35

www.dedea.gov.za

Figure 11: Saline and sodic soils

Figure 12: Predicted soil loss

Figure 13: Rainfall erosivity

www.dedea.gov.za

Figure 14: Sediment delivery potential

The soils are considered to be moderately susceptible to water erosion and they are highly susceptible to wind erosion. The area is characterised by soil with high shifting potential and the area is characterised by shifting dunes. Erosion protection measures are particularly important in the case of vegetation removal.

Figure 15: Susceptibility of land to water erosion

www.dedea.gov.za

Figure 16: Soils susceptible to wind erosion

Figure 17: Potential shifting sands

During the 20th century the artificial stabilisation at Sardinia Bay was successful in that large quantities of sand were retained and the movement of dune sand towards the east was retarded. However, it is estimated that by 1980, the artificial littoral dune started to destabilize into mobile parabolic dunes along much of the artificial littoral dune, and resulted in the current situation at Sardinia Bay (Arcus Gibb, 2009). 38

www.dedea.gov.za

The re-activation of the dunes in the Sardinia Bay-Gulchways area is largely due to the inherent dynamics of coastal dune fields. When the amount of sand which is artificially retained is increased, it becomes ever more difficult to keep the dunes fixed. Once a parabolic dune is initiated it is very difficult to stop as the wind flow is channelled through the dune which increases the wind-blown sand movement, and the rapidly moving sand engulfs vegetation (Arcus Gibb, 2009). The dune sand is piled up and gravity assists the movement of the dune and speeds it up even more, as is the case of the dune along the access road to the lower car park. Managing the dune through artificial vegetation to fix the dunes is not a management option as it becomes increasingly expensive and unviable.

It is very likely that the effects of global climate change have also assisted in the re-activation of the dunes in the Sardinia Bay-Gulchways area. Increasing temperatures result in sea level rise by the thermal expansion of water and through the addition of water to the oceans from the melting of continental ice sheets. An important consequence of global warming on the South African coast is that average wind velocity is beginning to increase in all seasons. If due to climate change, winds become only 10% stronger, then wave height increases by 26%, and coastal sediment transport rates potentially increases by 40% to 100%, thus setting coastal dunes on the march. Another effect of global warming is that along the South African shores storm activity and severity are beginning to increase. Higher sea levels will require smaller storm events to overtop existing storm protection measures. The clubhouses situated at what is now the extreme high water mark will become more and more often swamped by the sea.

In the interest of public safety and environmental sustainability it is therefore expedient for NMBM to retreat to higher ground and not to try to fight the natural processes operating in the highly malleable and dynamic coastal dune environment.

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 39

www.dedea.gov.za

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

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

www.dedea.gov.za

Description of Groundcover Sardinia Bay Local Authority Nature Reserve (Sardinia Bay) is an area of ~249 hectares, designated a local nature reserve in terms of Section 7 (5) of the Nature Conservation Ordinance, 1974 (Ordinance 19 of 1974), and a formal land-based protected area in terms of the National Environmental Management: Protect Areas Act (No 57 of 2003), as amended, and the National Biodiversity Assessment 2011 (NBA 2011).

The wind regime is vigorous and fresh strong winds occur throughout the year. The prevailing wind is usually from the south west, but easterly winds may become significant in spring and summer and north westerlies in autumn and winter. The windiest conditions occur from August to December and the calmest wind periods occur from March to May (Source: S A Weather Bureau). The mean rainfall received in the area is between 401 - 600 mm per annum (AGIS).

Figure 18: Mean annual rainfall (AGIS)

The Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (2007) indicates that the Sardinia Bay Nature Reserve largely falls within a Terrestrial Critical Biodiversity Area 2 (Coast C2, Corridor 1, STEP T3). Terrestrial CBA2 areas are included within Biodiversity Land Management Class 2: Near-natural landscapes. The recommended land use objectives for BLMC 2 areas are to ‘maintain biodiversity in a near natural state with minimal loss of ecosystem integrity. No transformation of natural habitat should be permitted’ (Berliner et al., 2007). Alternative sites 1 and 2 are situated within CBA2 (see Figure 19). The site does not fall within an Aquatic CBA, as mapped in the ECBCP (2007).

www.dedea.gov.za

In terms of the Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB) Conservation Plan and Assessment regarding CBA categories, Sardinia Bay is a classified as a Protected Area 1 Unit (See Figure 20). PA1 areas refers to protected areas managed by SAN Parks, provincial or local authorities, parastatals (e.g. NMMU), or the private sector.

Figure 19: Critical Biodiversity Areas (ECBCP)

Figure 20: Critical Biodiversity Areas (NMB Conservation Assessment and Plan)

www.dedea.gov.za

Alternative sites 1 and 2 are situated within the Fynbos biome (NMB Bioregional Plan, 2014). Mucina and Rutherford (2006) have mapped vegetation of the greatest part of the Sardinia Bay Nature Reserve, which includes the proposed site alternatives, as Algoa Dune Strandveld (AZs 1) vegetation, an Azonal vegetation type, falling within the Eastern Strandveld Bioregion. Algoa Dune Strandveld vegetation is assigned a conservation status of Least Threatened, and a protection status of Poorly Protected [Conservation target: 20%; Protected: 4.1% (+ 7.2%); Remaining habitat: 88.9%]. (See Figure 21).

Figure 21: Broad Vegetation Units (Mucina and Rutherford, 2006)

Algoa Dune Strandveld vegetation is described as ‘tall (up to 5 m) dense thickets on dunes mainly outside the influence of salt spray, dominated by stunted trees, shrubs (often armed with spines and thorns), abundant lianas and sparse herbaceous and grassy undergrowth’ (Mucina and Rutherford, 2006). This vegetation type is further described as present on aeolian quaternary (dune) sands, and dominated by trees and shrubs typical of coastal thicket vegetation, which experiences salt-laden winds and regular veld fires. Though a good description of coastal thicket vegetation of the more densely- vegetated dune slacks at Sardinia Bay – it does not describe the significant presence of fynbos-thicket mosaic-type vegetation on the inland coastal plain, beyond the dunefield, in which the site alternatives fall.

Vegetation at the proposed parking area site alternatives is, therefore, classified in more detail in the Nelson Mandela Bay Conservation Assessment and Plan (Stewart, 2015). Though the sites are mapped as Driftsands Bypass Dunefield vegetation, which falls under the broader Bypass Dunefield 43

www.dedea.gov.za habitat unit, an Azonal vegetation type [Ecosystem status: Endangered] – vegetation at the sites is most accurately classified as St Francis Dune Fynbos Thicket Mosaic vegetation [Ecosystem status: Endangered]. (See Figure 22).

Figure 22: Vegetation types (NMB Conservation Plan and Assessment; NMB Final Bioregional Plan)

St Francis Dune Fynbos Thicket Mosaic vegetation, first described as St Francis Dune Thicket by STEP (Vlok and Euston-Brown, 2002), is described as ‘typically present on sands of marine origin’ (Stewart, 2015). It consists of ‘clumps of Algoa Dune Thicket, with Dwarf Cape Beech (Rapanea gilliana), within a matrix of fynbos typically confined to shallow soils’ (Stewart, 2015) – a true description for vegetation at the two site alternatives. Fynbos species characteristic of St Francis Dune Fynbos Thicket Mosaic vegetation, include: Agathosma apiculata, Carpobrotus deliciosus, Carpobrotus edulis, Osteospermum moniliferum, Diospyros lycioides, Erica chloroloma, Metalasia aurea, Metalasia muricata, Morella quercifolia, Osteospermum imbricatum, Passerina falcifolia, Passerina obtusifolia, Searsia crenata and Syncarpha argentea. Species characteristic of dune thicket clumps, present in deeper, moist sands, include: Carissa bispinosa, Lauridia tetragona, Osteospermum moniliferum, Euclea natalensis, Searsia laevigata, Searsia longispina and Scutia myrtina (Stewart, 2015).

www.dedea.gov.za

Invasive species The dunefield was artificially vegetated ~100 years ago in order to stop the discharge of sand onto the Algoa Bay beaches. As part of this stabilisation, an artificial littoral dune was constructed along the sandy coast in the Sardinia Bay-Gulchways area. Stabilisation at Sardinia Bay was achieved by constructing drift fences and planting various alien species such as marram grass (Ammophila sp.,) and rooikrans (Acacia cyclops) which explains the presence of the alien invasive in the area.

Acacia cyclops is classified as a Category 2 invader under the Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act 43 of 1983 (CARA), and Category 1b under the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act 10 of 2004 (NEM:BA) – National Invasive Terrestrial and Fresh-water Plant Species List (published August 2014).

Pennisetum clandestinum is not listed under CARA, but it is listed as a Category 1b invader under NEM:BA, due to its presence in a Protected Area.

Protected Plants and Species of Conservation Concern (SCC’s) Protected plants, listed under the Eastern Province Nature and Environmental Conservation Ordinance of 1974 and the Eastern Cape Environmental Conservation Act of 2003, identified on site, include: a number of commonly-found mesems i.e. Aizoon rigidum, Carpobrotus deliciosus, Mesembryanthemum aitonis and Tetragonia fruticosa; Cynanchum natalitium; Lauridia tetragona; Euclea racemose; Chironia baccifera and C. decumbens; Pelargonium capitatum; a commonly-found restio i.e. Chondropetalum microcarpum; Agathosma apiculata and Coleonema pulchellum.

There is also a marked presence of Species of Conservation Concern i.e. threatened plant species listed under the Red List of South African Plants (2014.1), on and around the site alternatives, and along the jeep track between site alternatives. Erica chloroloma, Erica glumiflora and Syncarpha sordescens (see Photos 1 to 3, below) are listed as Vulnerable. Rapanea gilliana (see Photo 4) is listed as Endangered.

www.dedea.gov.za

Photo 1. Erica Photo 2. Erica glumiflora Photo 3. Syncarpha Photo 4. Rapanea gilliana chloroloma (VU). (VU). sordescens (VU). (EN) (Photo: Adriaan Grobler).

Syncarpha sordescens is found scattered and widespread in coastal fynbos vegetation in the general Sardinia Bay Nature Reserve area, whereas Erica glumiflora and Rapanea gilliana occur in smaller, isolated patches on level calcrete areas. Erica chloroloma occurs in continuous stands in the wetter dune slacks to the west and east of Sardinia Bay Road, and on level calcrete areas with Erica glumiflora, as seen at Site Alternative 2. See Figure 23 and Figure 24 for waypoints taken for presence of the abovementioned SCC’s.

Site Alternative 1 is located in an area with shallow, sandy soil and exposed calcrete in some areas, and dominated by low-growing Fynbos shrubs i.e. Metalasia muricata, Phylica ericoides var. ericoides, Morella quercifolia, M. cordifolia, Jamesbrittenia microphylla and Chironia baccifera. Species of Conservation Concern (SCC’s) Syncarpha sordescens (VU) and Rapanea gilliana (EN) are also present on site (see Figure 23).

Site Alternative 2, located just east of Sardinia Bay Road is located in a shallow and relatively flat and wide dune slack. Coastal thicket species i.e. Scutia myrtina, Searsia crenata and Searsia glauca, occur in the deeper sandy soil to the south, along the dirt track. The site is however largely dominated by low- growing Fynbos shrubs i.e. Erica glumiflora, E. chloroloma, Metalasia muricata, Phylica ericoides var. ericoides and Coleonema pulchellum, with patches of restio’s i.e. Chondropetalum microcarpum, and grass species i.e. Stipagrostis zeyheri. It is important to note that Erica glumiflora (VU) and E. chloroloma (VU) which are both SCC’s, are present as dominant shrubs across the site, with Syncarpha sordescens also present (see Figure 24).

www.dedea.gov.za

Protected plants require permits from the relevant authorities i.e. DEDEAT and DAFF, prior to their disturbance (which includes trimming of the branches of protected trees), removal, and/or transplantation. However, no protected trees listed under the National Forests Act 84 of 1998 (updated 7 September 2012), were identified on site.

Site Alternative 2 has higher species richness, with 37 plant species identified, and a strong, significant presence of SCC’s i.e. dense populations of Erica glumiflora and E. chloroloma (see Photo 5, below), than Site Alternative 1, which has a species richness of 31, and a relatively weaker presence of SCC’s i.e. Syncarpha sordescens and Rapanea gilliana, which occur as scattered individuals across the Sardinia Bay Nature Reserve area.

www.dedea.gov.za

Photo 5. Site Alternative 2, facing north, showing significant presence of Erica glumiflora (yellowish shrubs) and Erica chloroloma (red-flecked shrubs).

Fynbos is a fire-adapted vegetation, thriving on infertile soils and requires regular burning for its persistence as fire is the mechanism that recycles nutrients from old moribund growth into the soil. Fynbos vegetation will progressively be replaced by thicket in the absence of fire. Fire in fynbos is a vital trigger that resets the fynbos ‘successional clock’ by providing the stimulus for dormant seeds to germinate and an opportunity for annuals, short-lived perennials and bulbs to grow, flower and seed during times of abundant nutrients and sunlight. They complete their short life cycles, return to the soil when larger shrubs overwhelm them, and remain dormant until the next fire. The optimal fire cycle for fynbos is between 10-14 years. Fires are important to the fynbos and controlled fires must continue in the area. Uncontrolled fires must however be prevented. A fire break is recommended so that there is protection in the event of an accidental fire and so that controlled fires in the area can take place when needed. A permanent fire break of 5 metres is suggested around the perimeter of the parking bay site which must be maintained, or, alternatively, a fire break can be burned each year when a controlled fire is planned. The fire break will increase the vegetation removal by approximately 1000 m².

Fauna species Due to the protected status and the complex mixture of vegetation types occurring in the Sardinia Bay area, a high diversity of fauna is expected. Many of the birds and insects are important and specific pollinators of the fynbos. The faunal species occurring in the area depend on the presence of large enough areas of intact natural vegetation for their existence.

www.dedea.gov.za

No species regarded as critically endangered or endangered has been mapped by the IUCN Red List of threatened species, Version 3.1 Second edition, 2012, within the Sardinia Bay area. The blue duiker (Philantomba monticola) is likely to occur within the Sardinia bay area and has a vulnerable status. The honey badger (Mellivora capensis) may be found in the area and has a near threatened status.

The Yellow bellied house snake (Lamprophis fuscus) has a near threatened status (Ver 2.3) and may occur in the area.

The black harrier (Circus maurus) has a vulnerable status, and is likely to source food from the area and the area may serve as breeding ground. The martial eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus), has a vulnerable status, and may source food from the area but the area is not likely to serve as breeding ground. The Cape Griffon (Gyps coprotheres) may scavenge for food in the area, but the area is not breeding ground for the vulture.

The blue crane (Anthropoides paradiseus), vulnerable, and Stanley’s Bustard (Neotis denhami), near threatened, occur in the area and the area may serve as breeding ground for the birds. The chestnut plover (Charadrius pallidus) may forage for food in the area but the area is not likely to as breeding ground

A list of faunal species likely to occur in the Sardinia Bay area is provided below with an indication of their status as assigned in the IUCN Red List of threatened species, Version 3.1 Second edition, 2012.

www.dedea.gov.za

Common Name Species name Status (Ver 3.1) Notes Mammals Aardvark Orycteropus afer Least Concern Blue Duiker Philantomba monticola Vulnerable Bushbuck Tragelaphus sylvaticus Least Concern Bushpig Potomochoerus larvatus Least Concern Cape (Large-spotted) genet Genetta tigrina Least Concern Cape grey mongoose Herpestes pulverulentus Least Concern Cape grysbok Raphicerus melanotis Least Concern Cape Horseshoe Bat Rhinolophus capensis Least Concern Cape Rock Sengi Elephantulus edwardii Least Concern Caracal Caracal caracal Least Concern Chacma baboon Papio ursinus Least Concern Common Duiker Sylvicapra grimmia Least Concern Honey Badger Mellivora capensis Near threatened Hottentot Golden Mole Amblysomus hottentotus Least Concern Large Grey (Egyptian) mongoose Herpestes ichneumon Least Concern Porcupine Hystrix africaeaustralis Least Concern Scrub hare Lepus saxatilis Least Concern Spectacled Dormouse Graphiurus ocularis Least Concern Saunder's Vlei Rat Otomys saundersiae Least Concern Vervet monkey Chlorocebus pygerythrus Least Concern Aves African Marsh Harrier Circus ranivorus Least Concern Not breeding ground Black Harrier Circus maurus Vulnerable Possible breeding ground Black-winged plover Vanellus melanopterus Least Concern Not breeding ground Blue Crane Anthropoides paradiseus Vulnerable Possible breeding ground Cape bulbul Pycnonotus capensis Least Concern Possible breeding ground Cape Bunting Emberiza capensis Least Concern Possible breeding ground Cape Canary Serinus canicollis Least Concern Possible breeding ground Cape clapper lark Mirafra apiata Least Concern Possible breeding ground Cape Francolin Pternisitis capensis Least Concern Possible breeding ground Cape grassbird Sphenoeacus afer Least Concern Possible breeding ground Cape Griffon Gyps coprotheres Vulnerable Not breeding ground Cape sugarbird Promerops cafer Least Concern Possible breeding ground Chestnut-banded Plover Charadrius pallidus Near threatened Not breeding ground Lesser Kestrel Falco naumanni Least Concern Not breeding ground Martial Eagle Polemaetus bellicosus Vulnerable Not breeding ground Orange-breasted sunbird Nectarina violacea Least Concern Possible breeding ground Stanley's bustard Neotis denhami Near Threatened Possible breeding ground Yellow (Cape) bishop Euplectes capensis Least Concern Possible breeding ground Amphibians and Reptiles Dark-throated River Frog Amietia fuscigula Least Concern Albany adder Bitis albanica Least Concern Berg Adder Bitis atropos Least Concern 51

www.dedea.gov.za

Green water snake Philothamnus hoplogaster Not Assessed Herald snake Crotaphopeltis hotamboeia Not Assessed Spotted grass snake Psammophylax rhombeatus Not Assessed Yellow bellied house snake Lamprophis fuscus Near threatened, Version 2.3 Common slug Eater Duberria lutrix Least Concern Spotted Thick-toed Gecko Pachydactylus maculatus Least Concern Examples of arthropods African Meadow Katydid Conocephalus conocephalus Least Concern Alfred's Shieldback Alfredectes semiaeneus Least Concern Endemic Armoured Katydid Acanthoplus discoidalis Least Concern Burrowing scorpion Opistophthalmus macer Not Assessed Green Hooktail Paragomphus genei Least Concern Little Scarlet Crocothemis sanguinolenta Least Concern Orange Emperor Anax speratus Least Concern Rain spider Palystes superciliosus Not Assessed Spotted Meadow Katydid Conocephalus maculatus Least Concern

References for faunal species list:  The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2015.2.  Hockey P.A.R; Dean W.R.J & Ryan P.G. 2005. Roberts - Birds of southern Africa, VIIth ed. The Trustees of the John Voelcker Bird Book Fund, Cape Town.  Broadley, D.G. 1983. FitzSimons' Snakes of Southern Africa. Delta Books, Johannesburg.  Marais, J. 2004. A Complete Guide to Snakes of Southern Africa. Struik Publishing, Cape Town.

www.dedea.gov.za

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 53

www.dedea.gov.za

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

Land use of Surrounding Area – Alternative Site 1 and site 2 Alternative sites 1 and 2 are situated within the Sardinia Bay Local Authority Reserve, a formal land- based protected area in terms of the National Environmental Management: Protect Areas Act (No 57 of 2003), as amended, and the National Biodiversity Assessment 2011(NBA 2011). Surrounding land uses include the reserve area, the escarpment and unspoilt beaches. The ocean (Sardinia Bay Marine Protected Area) is within 500 metres of site 1 and a slight ridge is north west of the site. (See Figure 25 and Figure 26).

Figure 25: 500 metre radius around centre point of alternative site 1

www.dedea.gov.za

Figure 26: 500 metre radius around centre point of alternative site 2

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

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:

www.dedea.gov.za

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 Yes site? If YES, The sites are situated between 300 (alternative site 1) and 600 explain: (alternative site 2) metres of the coast and therefore fall within the sensitive coastal archaeological zone. 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 Eastern Cape Heritage Consultants cc conducted a Phase 1 the findings of Archaeological Impact Assessment (AIA) for the proposed the specialist: development of a new car park, toilet block and associated infrastructures.

Natura Viva cc conducted a palaeontological heritage desktop study of the proposed area.

Webley (2005) recorded several shell middens some 400 metres southwest of the proposed area for development. However, apart from a few flaked cobbles of Holocene Later Stone Age origin (past 10 000 years) no other archaeological or historical sites/materials were observed in the study area.

The surface dune sand layer is relatively thin and many large calcrete floors are visible in between the dense fynbos vegetation. These calcrete floors along the coast usually act as catchments for archaeological material which were previously living sites located on/in overlying sand dunes. No significant archaeological remains were observed on these floors, but it is possible that sites/materials may be covered by sand and vegetation. In general the areas investigated appear to be of low archaeological sensitivity and it seems unlikely that any archaeological remains of significance will be found in situ or exposed during the development. There are no known graves or buildings older than 60 years on the sites. The development may proceed as planned and any of the two sites identified may be used.

See AIA included as Appendix D2. 56

www.dedea.gov.za

The Sardinia Bay Formation bedrocks have yielded low diversity assemblages of acritarchs (organic-walled microfossils) from finer- grained horizons (Gaucher & Germs 2006) as well as questionable shallow marine trace fossils (Cruziana, Skolithos etc) (Shone 1991). The palaeontological sensitivity of this rock succession is considered to be LOW.

The overall palaeontological sensitivity of the Schelm Hoek Formation is assessed as LOW, although pockets of locally HIGH sensitivity may occur locally.

See palaeontological heritage desktop study in Appendix D3. Will any building or structure older than 60 years be affected in any way? YES NO Is it necessary to apply for a permit in terms of the National Heritage YES NO Resources Act, 1999 (Act 25 of 1999)? Uncertain 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.

Note on Cultural/Historical Features The Archaeological Impact Assessment (AIA) report and palaeontological heritage desktop study was compiled for the Eastern Cape Provincial Heritage Resources Authority (ECPHRA) to enable them to make informed decisions regarding the heritage resources assessed and only they have the authority to revise the report. This Report must be reviewed by the ECPHRA where after they will issue their Review Comments to the EAP/developer. The final decision rests with the ECPHRA who must grant permits if there will be any impact on cultural sites/materials as a result of the development.

It is recommended that all construction work must be monitored. An archaeologist/heritage specialist must be present when the areas earmarked for development are cleaned from vegetation. Alternatively a person must be trained as a site monitor to report to the foreman when heritage sites/materials are found.

If any concentrations of archaeological material are exposed (human remains, shell middens, stone tools etc.), work must stop immediately and reported to the archaeologist at the Albany Museum (046 6222312) or to the Eastern Cape Provincial Heritage Resources Authority (043 6422811). Sufficient time should be allowed to investigate and to remove/collect such material.

www.dedea.gov.za

Construction managers/foremen should be informed before construction starts on the possible types of heritage sites and cultural material they may encounter and the procedures to follow when they find sites. Alternatively it is suggested that a person be trained to be on site to report to the site manager if sites are found.

These recommendations are included in the Environmental Management Programme (EMP).

With regards to palaeontology, it is recommended by the specialist that, pending the discovery of significant new fossils remains before or during construction, exemption from further specialist palaeontological studies and mitigation is granted for the proposed public access and associated infrastructure developments within the Sardinia Bay Nature Reserve near Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape.

Should any substantial fossil remains (e.g. vertebrate bones and teeth, petrified wood, plant fossil assemblages) be encountered during excavation, however, these should be safeguarded, preferably in situ, and reported by the ECO to ECPHRA (i.e. The Eastern Cape Provincial Heritage Resources Authority. Contact details: Mr Sello Mokhanya, 74 Alexander Road, King Williams Town 5600; [email protected]) and a suitably qualified palaeontologist so that specimens can be examined, recorded and, if necessary, professionally excavated at the developer’s expense.

See AIA included as Appendix D2. See palaeontological heritage desktop study in Appendix D3.

www.dedea.gov.za

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; (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; (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 (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.

www.dedea.gov.za

Public Participation information. See Appendix E for details of public participation activities carried out for the proposed development.

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.

Public Participation information. See Appendix E for details of public participation activities carried out for the proposed development.

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.

Public Participation information. See Appendix E for details of public participation activities carried out for the proposed development. 60

www.dedea.gov.za

4. DETERMINATION OF APPROPRIATE MEASURES 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.

Public Participation information. See Appendix E for details of public participation activities carried out for the proposed development.

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.

Comments and Response Report. See 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: List of Authorities Notified  Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism – Cacadu Region, Eastern Cape Andries Struwig (Assistant Manager) Dyalan Govendor (Regional Manager: Environmental Affairs Cacadu Region)

www.dedea.gov.za

 Department of Environmental Affairs – Oceans and Coast Dr D.E. (Niel) Malan (Senior Scientific Advisor (L13) Oceans and Coasts)  Department of Water and Sanitation, Eastern Cape (Port Elizabeth) Marissa Bloem (Port Elizabeth - Water Use Authorisation Section)  Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, Water Division Mr Barry Martin / Ansie Snyman (Director : Water & Sanitation)  Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, Roads, Stormwater and transportation Mr Yusuf Gaffore / Ms Sandra Van Rensburg (Acting Director)  Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, Infrastructure and Engineering Directorate Khayalethu Mconi / Ansie Snyman (Director)  Heritage Resource Agency (SAHRA / ECPHRA) S. Mokhanya Mariagrazia Galimberti  Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, Directorate of Environmental Health Mr Joram Mkosana (NMBM Environmental Manager) Ms Kithi Ngesi (NMBM Environmental Manager) Rosa Blaauw  Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality – Coastal Management Mr George Branford Mr Godfrey Murrel  NMBM Ward Councillor Rob Wylde (Ward 1 Councillor)

Stakeholders informed include:  WESSA / Blue Flag Morgan Griffiths (Environmental Officer)  Sardinia Bay Lifesaving Club Sue Hoffman  NMMU and Institute of Coastal and Marine Research Dr Pierre Pistorius  Coast Watch Dr Peter Schwarz  Cape Recife Conservancy Elana Storm

www.dedea.gov.za

 Sardinia Bay Conservancy and Sardinia Bay Horse Riders Association Jenny Rump  Schoenmakerskop Ratepayers Association Andre Lemmer  NMMU and Institute of Coastal and Marine Research Dr Pierre Pistorius  Ocean Messengers / ProDive / Ocean Divers Rainier Schimpf  Beachfront traders Johan Gerber  EP Surfing Kerry Wright  Sardinia Bay Ski-boat Club  Bushy Park  Bayworld  Sardinia Bay Public Users Group Penny Meiswinkel  Glendore Sand & Stone

List of authorities from whom comments have been received:

List of authorities from whom comments have been received  NMB Ward 1 Councillor Mr Rob Wylde  Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, Water Division Mr Barry Martin (Director : Water & Sanitation)  Department of Environmental Affairs – Oceans and Coast Dr D.E. (Niel) Malan (Senior Scientific Advisor)

www.dedea.gov.za

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): Note on comments from Stakeholders  Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, Water Division Mr Barry Martin (Director : Water & Sanitation) The following communication was received via Ms Shannon Barkes on behalf of Mr Barry Martin:

“I can confirm that water won't be a problem in this case. Water was previously supplied to the old facilities without any problems”

See Comments and Response Report in Appendix E.

www.dedea.gov.za

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

1. ISSUES RAISED BY INTERESTED AND AFFECTED PARTIES List the main issues raised by interested and affected parties. 1. Alternative options for management of the sand dunes We totally disagree with what is proposed, but would like to see any documentation that you have available. The public, including the disabled, old and infirm, and those with young children have been enjoying access to Sardinia Bay by means of the existing road for the last 60 years at least. Why should it now be closed? It is quite obvious that the problem is being caused by the destabilization of the foredune through the activities of the public. This area should be fenced off as it was a number of years ago and the re- establishment of the foredune made a priority. This should be done by the metro with the assistance of the Lifesaving Club and security firms. The costs could be covered by charging an entrance fee at week ends and during school holidays. My business, Glendore Sand, removed approximately 20 000 m3 of sand from the access to the car park at NO COST to the NMMM during 2011-2013. (yes, we removed it at no charge in exchange for the sand). We would be prepared to continue this arrangement provided the necessary permissions were obtained by the Metro, until such time as the foredune is once again established. The previous ablution block disappeared – why will this new one be any different? While I absolutely agree that the environment should be protected, it should not be at the expense of one of our most pristine and unspoilt beaches becoming inaccessible to about 50% of it’s regular users, particularly if this access can be maintained by reversing the adverse impact caused to the environment by undisciplined members of the public. We were involved with removing sand from Sardinia Bay beach some time back, with the full support of the Metro, the residents, the Sardinia Bay Conservancy, and the Lifesavers Club. However, the support of the Metro evaporated when certain officials intervened, and decided that it had to stop. Thereafter the beach access road closed up with sand, and the beach became the disaster zone that it is now! We have tried to reopen the discussions, and our offer to remove the sand free of charge still stands. In 2013, and environmental engineer (no names as he does some work for the NMMM) indicated that the reason for not allowing us to continue removing the sand was one of inconvenience on their part- - it was just easier to ignore the problem than to be continually removing the sand!!! they were also concerned about the ongoing costs of keeping it cleared. Yet it was not causing them any inconvenience nor costs!! Apparently one of the very experienced opinions they got, in fact suggested that clearing the sand was the way to go?? it was ignored!!! 65

www.dedea.gov.za

Comment received from Mr Gavin Eales, representing Glendore Sand & Stone on 09 June 2015.

2. Provision of water “I can confirm that water won't be a problem in this case. Water was previously supplied to the old facilities without any problems.”

Comment received from representative of Mr Barry Martin (Director: Water and Sanitation) on 31/05/2015.

3. Support for proposed public access facilities Support the new carpark proposal as the existing carpark will soon be engulfed by the sand dune. Please record my name me as an IAP

4. Preferred Site alternative The Sardinia Bay Surf Lifesaving Club (SBSLC) would obviously prefer to be allocated the area on Site one. This is based on the fact that lifesaving duties are performed as close to the bathing beach as possible. It is certainly the preferred site by Committee members. Should the beach & dunes change & move further to higher ground than this should be dealt with at that stage only.”

Comment received from Ms Sue Hoffman, representative of SBSLC on 03/08/2015.

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): Response to comment received from Mr Gavin Eales, representing Glendore Sand & Stone sent 05/08/2015. Alternative sites 1 and 2 are both situated on top of the escarpment. Here there are existing footpaths and ramps which will allow for the disabled to enjoy the ocean view and will also allow for an easier walk onto the beach, particularly for children and elderly persons.

Walking on the sensitive coastal dunes can lead to blow-outs and destruction of valuable sand-binding vegetation. The two alternative sites selected for the proposed parking bay aims to guide visitors along the footpaths and down the ramp and therefore hopes to decrease the number of people walking over the foredune to get to the beach. This may assist in allowing natural revegetation of the dune and long term stabilisation. Access to the existing parking bay will be prevented by suitable means (e.g. gates / bollards) which will also encourage visitors to use the new parking bay and prevent the climbing of the dune.

Alternative site 1 is situated on top of the escarpment, approximately 300 metres from the beach; Alternative site 2 is situated on top of the escarpment approximately 600 metres from the beach. The dune will not engulf site 2 and is unlikely to engulf site 1. The options of using footpaths and ramps will hopefully encourage visitors to opt for the easier walk and not climb the dune to get to the beach. This may assist in allowing natural revegetation of the dune and stabilisation in the long term. Temporary measures have been implemented to halt the sand inundation by clearing with a front end loader. However, this measure proved expensive and fruitless in the long term. In addition, this measure is not in line 66

www.dedea.gov.za with the National Environmental Management: Integrated Coastal Management Act (Act 24 of 2008) which states that the natural attributes of coastal landscapes are to be maintained and natural sand movement is not to be interfered with. This is particularly important in a nature reserve. Biophysical features (such as beach and dune areas) act as buffers against coastal processes and hazards and need to be protected and retained. Coastal dunes are protected in the Cape Recife, Sardinia Bay and Sylvic reserves. A basic assessment was carried out in 2009 by Arcus Gibb for public access to Sardinia Bay. Environmental Authorisation was granted in 2009. Similar comment was received when the authorisation was initially issued and the action group for Sardinia Bay opposed decision on appeal. The National Department took note of missives received but dismissed calls for sand removal and opening of road and granted a revised ROD that did not allow for sand removal. The amended authorisation was granted in 2011. It must be noted that national policy dictates coastal interventions permissible with regards to the removal of mobile sand dunes. In summary the national department is unwilling to grant approval for interventions that interfere with natural processes.

Please see below for extracts from the National Environmental Management: Integrated Coastal Management Act 24 of 2008 as amended by Act No. 36 of 2014: National Environmental Management: Integrated Coastal Management Amendment Act, 2014

“15. Measures affecting erosion and accretion (1) No person, owner or occupier of land adjacent to the seashore or other coastal public property capable of erosion or accretion may require any organ of state or any other person to take measures to prevent the erosion or accretion of the seashore or such other coastal public property, or of land adjacent to coastal public property, unless the erosion is caused by an intentional act or omission of that organ of state or other person.” (2) No person may construct, maintain or extend any structure, or take other measures on coastal public property to prevent or promote erosion or accretion of the seashore except as provided for in this Act, the National Environmental Management Act or any other specific environmental management Act.’’.

“17. Purpose of coastal protection zone The coastal protection zone is established for enabling the use of land that is adjacent to coastal public property or that plays a significant role in a coastal ecosystem to be managed, regulated or restricted in order to- BID sent for comment on 10/07/2015 BAR sent for comment on 21/07/2015. Official response to first comment sent 5/08/2015.

Response to comment received from Ms Sue Hoffman, representative of SBSLC sent 05/08/2015 Your comments regarding the preferred site of the Sardinia Bay Surf Lifesaving Club will be taken into consideration during the environmental assessment process and will be included in the Basic assessment report. A draft basic assessment report (BAR) will be provided to you for a period of 30 days where you can review and comment on the report. The draft BAR is then updated with any further comments received during the 30 day review period and the final BAR is sent to DEDEAT for decision making.

See Comments and response report in Appendix E.

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.

Impact Identification and Assessment Methodology The purpose of impact assessment is to assign a qualified significance to impacts which are predicted to occur as a result of the various aspects of an activity.

The following definitions apply:  Activity: A distinct process or task undertaken by an organisation for which a responsibility can be assigned. Activities also include facilities or pieces of infrastructure that are possessed by an organisation.  Environmental aspect: An element of an organisations activities, products and services which can interact with the environment. The interaction of an aspect with the environment may result in an impact.  Environmental impacts: The consequences of these aspects on environmental resources or receptors of particular value or sensitivity, for example, disturbance due to noise and health effects due to poorer air quality.  Receptors: Comprise, but are not limited to, people or human-made systems, such as local residents, communities and social infrastructure, as well as components of the biophysical environment such as aquifers, flora and paleontology.

Aspects Aspects associated with the proposed project are differentiated into construction and operation phases of the project. The nature of the impact is described. Once this has been undertaken the significance of the impact is determined.

Identifying significant environmental impacts The significant environmental impacts are identified using three sources of information:  The nature of the receiving environment (the environment includes the social, cultural and biophysical environment)  A review and understanding of the aspects associated with the proposed project.  All comments received from interested and affected parties during the public participation process. The issues raised will be described giving consideration to the associated activity and the aspect of that activity that is likely to result in an impact.

Nature of the impact Impacts on the environment can lead to changes in existing conditions; the nature of the impact can be direct, indirect or cumulative. 68

 Direct impacts refer to changes in environmental components that result from direct cause-effect consequences of interactions between the environment and project activities. The direct impact is caused by the action and occurs at the same time and place.  Indirect (Secondary) impacts result from cause-effect consequences of interactions between the environment and direct impacts. The indirect impact is caused by the action and occurs later in time or is further removed in distance.  Cumulative impacts refer to the combined effect of changes to the environment caused by multiple human activities over space and time. Cumulative impact is the sum of existing conditions and the direct / indirect impacts resulting from the project. Example: A single cut in the forest is unlikely to have a detectable change, however increasing multiple cuts in the forest caused by a number of human activities is likely to decrease fauna and flora and increase soil erosion. Cumulative effects can thus be additive or synergistic. A synergistic effect refers to when the combined effect is greater than the sum of individual effects.

Method for assessing the overall significance of impacts The overall significance of the impact is critical for defining mitigation and monitoring strategies. The qualified significance of predicted impacts assists to determine the manner in which aspects should be managed in order to avoid or minimise the predicted impacts.

Overall significance of the impacts is determined through systematically rating the following criteria of the impacts:  The status of the impact  The spatial extent of the impact  The severity of negativity or degree of positivity of the impact o The duration of the impact o The frequency of the impact o The intensity of the impact  The consequence of the impact  The probability of the impact occurring

Impact Status A qualitative rating of positive or negative is assigned to impact status. Refer to Table 1 (methodology).

Spatial Extent The spatial extent for each aspect, receptor and impact is defined. The geographical coverage (spatial extent) description will take account of the following factors:  The physical extent / distribution of the aspect  The physical extent / distribution of the receptor  The proposed impact as a result of the aspect  The nature of the baseline environment within the area of impact

For example, the impacts of noise are likely to be confined to a smaller geographical area than the impacts of atmospheric emissions, which may be experienced at some distance. The significance of impacts also varies spatially; noise may be significant in the immediate vicinity. A qualitative description is assigned to the rating. A quantitative value ranging from 1 – 6 is assigned to the rating. Refer to Table 1 (methodology).

Duration

The duration refers to the length of time that an aspect of a proposed project may cause change on the receiving environment. The receiving environment could refer to either the social or cultural or biophysical environment. The change caused may be a positive or negative change. A qualitative description is assigned to the rating. A quantitative value ranging from 1 – 6 is assigned to the rating.

Frequency The frequency of the impact occurring refers to how often the aspect results in a given impact on the receiving environment. The receiving environment could refer to either the social or cultural or biophysical environment. The impact may be positive or negative. A qualitative description is assigned to the rating. A quantitative value ranging from 1 – 6 is assigned to the rating.

Intensity The intensity refers to the magnitude of the impact experienced by the receiving environment. The environment could refer to either the social or cultural or biophysical environment. The impact experienced may be a positive or negative impact. A qualitative description is assigned to the rating. A quantitative value ranging from 1 – 6 is assigned to the rating.

Severity / Degree The severity is the sum of the intensity, duration and frequency of the impact and therefore a quantitative value ranging from 3 – 18 is assigned to the rating. If the impact is positive, the degree of positivity is determined. A qualitative description is assigned to the rating.

Consequence A qualitative description is assigned to the rating. The consequence is the sum of the Severity (Intensity + Duration + Frequency) and Spatial Extent. Therefore a quantitative value ranging from 4 – 24 is assigned to the rating.

Probability In order to determine the significance of the impact, the probability of the impact occurring must first be rated. The probability refers to the likelihood that an impact will result from the aspect in question. A qualitative description is assigned to the rating. A quantitative value ranging from 1 – 6 is assigned to the rating.

Overall Significance A definition of a “significant impact‟ for the purposes of the study is: “An impact which, either in isolation or in combination with others, could, in the opinion of the specialist, have a material influence on the decision- making process, including the specification of mitigating measures.”

A qualitative description is assigned to the rating. The significance is the sum of the Consequence and Probability. Therefore a quantitative value ranging from 5 - 30 is assigned to the rating. A value of 5, 6 or 7 represents a low significance and described as “not harmful”. A value of 30 presents a Very High Significance and is described as an “environmental disaster”.

Mitigation The Mitigation ratings are described qualitatively according to the success and feasibility of the mitigation option in question. The impacts are further rated before and after mitigation / management options. Negative impacts are assessed with mitigation measures in place in order to give an overall significance rating with mitigation in place. Positive impacts are assessed with management measures in place in order to give an overall significance rating with management in place.

Confidence The confidence of the EAP is assigned a qualitative value.

Table 1: Impact Assessment Rating methodology Impact Status Rating Negative Positive An impact is rated negative if any degree of An impact is rated positive if any degree of negative change will occur in the receiving positive change will occur in the receiving environment as a result of any aspect of the environment as a result of any aspect of the proposed project. proposed project. Description The environment refers to the social environment The environment refers to the social or the cultural environment or the biophysical environment or the cultural environment or the environment. biophysical environment. Negative impacts are to be avoided, minimised, Positive impacts are to be enhanced. or mitigated. Scale (Spatial Extent) Refers to the spatial area the aspect will impact on the environment. The impact may be positive or negative. Activity Local area Provincial / Rating Site specific Municipal International specific Specific National Impact Impact Impact extends Impact only Impact extends extends beyond Impact experienced extends to the beyond site beyond local municipal extends Description on area where entire site of into area into area into beyond activity is the project surrounding municipal provincial and national area located areas areas may extend nationally Value 1 2 3 4 5 6 Duration Refers to the length of time that the aspect may cause a change on the environment. The change may be positive or negative. Very Short Short - Medium - Rating Short term Medium term Long term term Medium term Long term Extends 1 day to 3 3 months to One year to Three years Life of Description beyond post month one year three years to ten years operation closure Value 1 2 3 4 5 6 Frequency Refers to how often the aspect may impact on the environment. The impact may be positive or negative. Rating Rarely Infrequent Seldom Regular Often Continuously Could occur Could occur Description within 6 Monthly Weekly Daily Non stop annually months Value 1 2 3 4 5 6 Intensity (Magnitude / Size) Refers to the intensity of the impact experienced by the receiving environment. The impact may be positive or negative. Low to Medium to Rating Low Medium High Very High medium High Low intensity Low – Medium Medium to High intensity Very high experienced medium intensity on high intensity on receiving intensity on only by intensity on receiving on receiving environment receiving Description receiving receiving environment environment and / or environment environment environment and / or and / or occurs within and / or within and / or and / or occurs 500 – occurs within 5000 – 10 000 10 000 metres 71

occurs within occurs 100 – 1000 metres 1000 – 5000 metres of or beyond of 100 metres of 500 metres of of activity metres of activity the activity activity activity activity Value 1 2 3 4 5 6 Severity of negative impact Severity (Intensity + Duration + Frequency) The severity of an environmental aspect is determined by the degree of change to the baseline environment, and considers the following: The reversibility of the negative impact, The sensitivity of the receptor to the stressor, The impact duration, its permanency and whether it increases or decreases with time. Medium - Low Medium High Very High Rating Negligible High Negative Negative Negative Negative Negative The aspect There will be The aspect The aspect The aspect will result in a There will be a minor will result in a will result in a will result in a moderate negligible impact as a high impact. high impact. severe impact. Description impact as a result of the Reversibility Reversibility impact. Reversibility result of the aspect. This is of the impact of the impact Reversibility of the impact aspect easily possible but difficult and of the impact easy but reversible. costly. costly. not likely. costly. Value 3 4-6 7-9 10-12 13-15 16-18 Degree of positive impact Degree (Intensity + Duration + Frequency) The severity of an environmental aspect is determined by the degree of change to the baseline environment, and considers the following: The enhancement of the positive impact, The sensitivity of the receptor to the opportunity, The impact duration, its permanency and whether it increases or decreases with time. Medium Medium High Very High Rating Negligible Low Positive High Positive Positive Positive Positive There will be There will be The aspect The aspect negligible a minor The aspect The aspect will result in a will result in a Description impact as a impact as a will result in a will result in a very high moderate result of the result of the high impact. high impact. positive impact. aspect aspect. impact. Value 3 4-6 7-9 10-12 13-15 16-18 Negative Consequence Consequence = (Severity + Spatial extent) Negative Negative Negative Negative Rating Negligible Negative low Medium Medium High High Very High Impact Impact has requires in Impact insignificant situ mitigation, Impact Impact requires in consequence receptor requires in requires in situ mitigation, on receiving mitigation and Impact is to Description situ mitigation situ mitigation receptor environment. repair or be avoided and receptor and receptor mitigation and Requires little restoration mitigation. mitigation repair or or no and possible restoration. mitigation. compensation . Value 4 5-8 9-12 13-16 17-20 20-24 Positive Consequence Consequence = (Degree + Spatial extent) Positive Positive Positive Very Rating Negligible Positive low Positive High Medium Medium High High Impact has Impact has a Impact has a Impact has a Impact has a Widespread / Description insignificant positive positive positive positive substantial 72

consequence consequence; consequence; consequence; consequence; beneficial on receiving management management management management effect. No environment. required to required to required to required to alternative enhance enhance enhance maintain ways to positive positive positive positive achieve same outcomes. outcomes. outcomes. outcomes. benefits. Management required to maintain positive outcomes. Value 4 5-8 9-12 13-16 17-20 20-24 Probability Refers to the likelihood that an impact will result from the aspect in question. The impact may be positive or negative. Rating Slim Slight Plausible Probable Expected Anticipated 0 - 9% 10 – 25 % 26 - 50% 51 - 75% 76 - 90% 91 - 100 % Description likelihood likelihood likelihood likelihood likelihood likelihood Value 1 2 3 4 5 6 Negative Significance (Consequence + Probability) Rating Negligible Low Medium Medium High High Very High Slightly Considerably Description Not harmful Harmful Very Harmful Disaster harmful Harmful Value 5 6-10 11-15 16-20 21-25 26-30 Positive Significance (Consequence + Probability) Rating Negligible Low Medium Medium High High Very High Positive but Substantial Slightly Description Insignificant Positive not positive Necessity positive substantial. impact. Value 5 6-10 11-15 16-20 21-25 26-30 Mitigation of negative impact Rating None Likely Possible Difficult Unlikely Not possible Impact can be Mitigation not avoided with Impact can be required. Difficult or Difficult and mitigation minimised and Impact cannot Description Impact costly to costly to which has managed with be mitigated remains the mitigate. mitigate proven mitigation same. results. Management of positive impact Rating None Likely Possible Difficult Unlikely Not possible Impact can be easily Management enhanced Difficult or not required. Impact can be Difficult and with costly to Impact cannot Description Impact enhanced with costly to management enhance but be enhanced remains the management enhance which has possible same. proven results. Confidence Refers to the confidence level the EAP has in predicting the impact. Rating Low Medium low Medium Medium High High Very High

Planning and Design Phase – Alternative sites 1 and 2 and No Go alternative No impacts are expected to occur as a result of the planning and design phase of the development.

Construction Phase - Alternative site 1 (preferred site / activity and technology alternative) Direct Impacts Aspect: Clearing of on site and servitude related vegetation Direct Impact 1: Direct loss of indigenous vegetation Description of impact Removal of indigenous vegetation will occur for the upgrade of the jeep track to road, extension of the water pipe (~1600 m²) and development of the parking bay (~2500 m²). Alternative site 1 is dominated by low-growing Fynbos shrubs i.e. Metalasia muricata, Phylica ericoides var. ericoides, Morella quercifolia, M. cordifolia, Jamesbrittenia microphylla and Chironia baccifera. SCC’s occurring on the site includes Syncarpha sordescens (VU) and Rapanea gilliana (EN). Fynbos is fire-adapted vegetation that requires regular burning for its persistence. The optimal fire cycle for fynbos is between 10-14 years. A fire break is recommended which will result in the removal of additional ~ 1000 m² fynbos vegetation. In comparison to alternative site 2, alternative site 1, has lower species richness (31), and a relatively weaker presence of SCC’s. The impact regarding direct loss of vegetation is a permanent impact. Mitigation Measures  Basic environmental awareness training to be provided to all personnel prior to the start of construction.  Do not exceed footprint of activity with regards to vegetation removal. Vegetation disturbance is to be limited to that which is absolutely necessary. Physical damage to natural vegetation on the periphery of the construction activity is to be avoided.  Site clearing to be done in phased manner. No blanket clearing of vegetation is permitted.  It is recommended that the jeep track / upgraded road be used as laydown areas, vehicle parking, a maintenance area, a stockpiling area as well as the transport route to the site. This will prevent surrounding vegetation being used as laydown areas.  It is recommended that the road upgrade and installation of water pipe to be done prior to the construction of the car park area.  Movement of workers must be limited to areas under construction and access to the surrounding reserve area must be regulated. These must be designated as no-go areas during construction. All identified species of special concern must be included in designated no go areas.  Areas must be designated for stockpiling of any materials. The footprint must remain within the area in which the activity is taking place. It is suggested that sections of the jeep track / upgraded road be used as laydown areas rather than vegetation areas. Excavated materials to be re used as far as possible (i.e. as fill material); excavation materials not re-used are to be removed as quickly as possible from the area and disposed at an appropriately licensed waste site. No dumping of any materials on surrounding vegetation / dune areas is allowed.  Make use of existing roads, tracks and paths. No new paths may be created through the vegetation.  When Indigenous vegetation is removed, preserve the seeds and topsoil and spread any stored topsoil (with plant matter mixed in, to spread seeds) over areas requiring revegation as soon as possible. Preserved seeds may also be sown in the area, provided there is mulch to hold the seeds. Avoid replanting of the indigenous vegetation. The surrounding areas are densely vegetated and replanting may cause disturbance to established vegetation. In addition, the calcrete nature of the area will make digging difficult and predominant plants, such as Erica's do not like to have their roots disturbed, due to mycorrhizal interaction.  Carpobrotus should be planted on erodible areas - it's a good soil binder and will facilitate recruitment.  Should SSCs be removed, permits for the removal of SSCs will need to be obtained from the DEDEAT  Contractual fines to be imposed on any employee who is found attempting to remove indigenous flora.  A firebreak of 5 metres (~1500 m²) around the perimeter of the parking bay is suggested so that controlled fires can continue in the area and to prevent unwanted destruction in the event of an accidental fire. This can either be a permanent fire break that must be maintained or a fire break can be created each year.  Establish an environmental code of conduct for staff on site.  Construction to be monitored by an ECO according to the stipulations of the EMPr. Direct loss of indigenous Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation vegetation Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Activity Specific 1 Activity specific 1

Duration Long- term 5 Long- term 5 Frequency Rarely (Once off) 1 Rarely (Once off) 1 Intensity Low to medium 2 Low 1 Severity Medium 8 Medium 7 Consequence Medium 9 Low 8 Impact Criteria Impact Probability Anticipated 6 Anticipated 6

Significance Medium 15 Medium 14 Mitigation Difficult Confidence High

Aspect: Clearing of on site and servitude related vegetation Direct Impact 2: Direct loss of fauna and habitat and forage for terrestrial fauna Description of impact Because the area is a local authority reserve and a protected area, a high number of fauna species are expected to occur on alternative site 1 as well as in the immediate surrounding area. No species regarded as critically endangered or endangered has been mapped within the Sardinia Bay area. Species regarded as vulnerable and near threatened may occur in the area (IUCN Red List of threatened species, Version 3.1).However, the area proposed for development is small (~4100 m²) and it is anticipated that most of the fauna (particularly fast moving reptiles, avifauna and mammals) currently inhabiting the site will move off the site when vegetation clearing commences. The surrounding area will offer suitable forage and shelter to the disturbed fauna. The natural surrounding area provides suitable habitats if translocation of any faunal species is required. The smaller and less mobile faunal species (e.g. tortoises) that may remain within the vegetation may suffer injury when vegetation is cleared, however, this is not likely to occur as the site is small and any injury to fauna can be avoided though appropriate search and rescue operations and through training provided to construction personnel. Mitigation Measures  Basic environmental awareness training to be provided to all personnel prior to the start of construction. All personnel should be made aware of the need to prevent harm to fauna on site.  A faunal search and rescue operation should be undertaken prior to commencement of vegetation clearing on site.  Should faunal Species of Special Concern (SSCs) be identified during search and rescue operation, permits for the removal of SSCs will need to be obtained from the DEDEAT.  Relocate all herpetofauna found on the construction site to other localities with suitable habitat close to the site.  Site clearing must be done in a phased manner to allow fauna the chance to move off the site. No blanket clearing of vegetation is to be permitted. It is recommended that the road upgrade and installation of water pipe to be done prior to the construction of the car park area. The upgraded road can then serve as laydown areas for stockpiles and constructions materials as well as a transport route to the site. This will ensure surrounding vegetation is not used as laydown areas and will minimise the impact to vegetation in the reserve area. Dust from vehicle entrainment will also be minimised.  Movement of workers must be limited to areas under construction and access to surrounding area open areas in the reserve must be regulated. These must be designated as no-go areas during construction.  Areas must be designated for stockpiling of any materials. The footprint must remain within the area in which the activity is taking place.  No fauna encountered at the site may intentionally be harmed or killed.  Severe contractual fines must be imposed and immediate dismissal on any contract employee who is found attempting to snare or otherwise harms wild animals.  Establish strict speeding regulations during construction phase. All personnel and visitors to abide to speeding regulations.  Establish an environmental code of conduct for staff at the site.  Construction to be monitored by an ECO according to the stipulations of the EMPr.

Direct loss of fauna and direct Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation loss of habitat and forage for Negative Impact Negative Impact terrestrial fauna Spatial Site Specific 2 Activity Specific 1

Duration Short term 2 Very short term 1 Frequency Often 5 Often 5 Intensity Medium 3 Low 1 Severity Medium High 10 Medium 7 Consequence Medium 12 Low 8

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Expected 5 Slight 2 Significance Medium High 17 Low 10 Mitigation Possible Confidence High

Aspect: Clearing of on site and servitude related vegetation Direct Impact 3: Direct loss of alien vegetation

Description of impact There are a small number of scattered aliens such as marram grass (Ammophila sp.,) and rooikrans (Acacia cyclops) occurring on the proposed site. These species will be removed as a result of the development. Soil, in which alien vegetation is growing, is contaminated with their seed and provides a potential source of seed for new invasions. Care must be taken when removing or disturbing this topsoil, so as not to spread alien vegetation. If mitigation measures are implemented with regards to alien invasive removal there is expected to be a low positive impact; without mitigation the impact is negligible. Mitigation is necessary to avoid an increase in alien invasive vegetation and a negative impact. Mitigation Measures  Basic environmental awareness training to be provided to all personnel prior to the start of construction.  Removal of all alien vegetation on site. No planting of alien vegetation allowed.  Minimal disturbance to indigenous vegetation.  If soil in which alien vegetation (particularly Australian Acacia species) grows is disturbed or removed, it should be disposed of off-site to prevent further alien invasion.  Visual inspection of stockpiled soils to ensure there is no alien vegetation regrowth  Follow up clearing operations to take place to remove any regrowth of alien invasive vegetation.  No alien invasive vegetation is permitted to be used for erosion control in the area.  Construction to be monitored by an ECO according to the stipulations of the EMPr. Direct Loss of alien vegetation Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation Negligible Impact Positive Impact Spatial Activity Specific 1 Activity Specific 1

Duration Very Short 1 Short term 2 Frequency Rarely 1 Regular 4 Intensity Low 1 Low 1 Severity Negligible 3 Medium 7 Consequence Negligible 4 Low 8

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Slim 1 Slight 2 Significance Negligible 5 Low 10 Management Possible Confidence High

Aspect: Clearing of on site and servitude related vegetation Direct Impact 4: Soil erosion and sedimentation Description of impact The soil type in the area is Arenosol (Ar) (sandy soil) and consists of naturally occurring compacted calcrete. The soils are considered to be moderately susceptible to water erosion and highly susceptible to wind erosion. Removal of vegetation could lead destabilization of sandy sediment leading to erosion. . Erosion protection measures are important in the case of vegetation removal. Care must be taken to ensure appropriate storm management measures are in place to prevent unnecessary erosion, sedimentation and pollution in a natural area. The site is small, the topography of the site is gently undulating, calcrete is present and deep excavation on a large scale is not necessary for establishment of the parking bay, so if the area is properly managed, this impact is considered to be of low significance. Foundation poles may be erected for establishment of lifesaving club and ablution facilities resulting in compaction of the soil. Mitigation Measures  Basic environmental awareness training to be provided to all personnel prior to the start of construction.  Ensure appropriate erosion and storm water control mechanisms are implemented.  Do not exceed footprint of activity with regards to vegetation removal. Construction activities must not encroach on surrounding vegetation. Minimal disturbance to indigenous vegetation to ensure soil is retained and potential for erosion and sedimentation is minimised. Once structures have been placed, rehabilitate open areas with indigenous seeds and / or topsoil and / or Carpobrotus species.  Adjacent area may not be used for the stockpiling of any materials. The footprint must remain within the area in which the activity is taking place.  Road upgrade and pipe installation to be monitored for erosion and pooling. Road must be upgraded to ensure that good drainage occurs and to ensure the road remains accessible on a year round basis. Road maintenance should be undertaken on a regular basis.  As necessary, dampen exposed soil areas on very windy days (>45 km/hr wind speeds) to prevent soil erosion by wind.  Carpobrotus should be planted on erodible areas - it's a good soil binder and will facilitate recruitment. 76

Soil erosion and sedimentation Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Activity Specific 1 Activity Specific 1 Duration Very short 1 Very short 1 Frequency Often 5 Regular 4 Intensity Low to Medium 2 Low 1 Severity Medium 8 Low 6 Consequence Medium 9 Low 7

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Plausible 3 Slight 2 Significance Medium 12 Low 9 Mitigation Likely Confidence High

Aspect: Construction activities and waste management Direct Impact 5: Soil, air, surface water and groundwater pollution Description of impact The site falls within the Fish to Tsitsikamma water management area (WMA) and the Algoa sub WMA. The subquaternary catchment area has a fresh water priority status. There are no rivers present; the site does not fall within aquatic CBA areas (ECBCP). The groundwater table of the area is considered to be deep and unlikely to be affected by the proposed project. There are no rivers or groundwater courses in the vicinity of the area. A wetland assessment was carried out and it was concluded that no wetlands fall within 500 metres of the proposed sites. Care must be taken to ensure appropriate waste management measures are in place to prevent unnecessary pollution in a natural area. Sources of dust generation during construction phase incudes removal of vegetation, excavation activities, stockpiling and vehicle entrainment. The dust generated is expected to be short lived and have a low impact. Sources of volatiles and particulate matter include cleaning fluids, fuels and building materials although the impact from volatiles is expected to be very low. Mitigation Measures  Basic environmental awareness training to be provided to all personnel prior to the start of construction.  Topsoil should be cleared in a phased manner to avoid large areas of unconsolidated soils. Topsoil and soil stockpiles should be covered, wetted or otherwise stabilised to prevent wind erosion and dust generation. A water cart or sufficient watering equipment should be available to wet soils during windy days if wind-blown sand and dust becomes a problem. During strong wind conditions it may be necessary to halt operations until conditions improve.  Do not leave machinery / vehicles running unnecessarily. Service machines and vehicles regularly to prevent unnecessary leaks.  Ensure cleaning materials, volatile materials and other hazardous materials (e.g. chemicals and fuels) are securely stored within a suitable sealable non-corrosive container. Ensure lids are secure to avoid unnecessary release into the environment. Leaking or empty drums must be removed from the site immediately and disposed of at a registered waste disposal site. All hazardous waste to be disposed an appropriately registered waste disposal facility.  Ideally, no fuel to be stored on site. The risk of spilling fuel is at its greatest during refuelling of vehicles and plants. Where possible, refuel mobile plants offsite or in a designated area, preferably on an impermeable surface. If generators are refuelled on site, they must be placed on trays, which rest on clean sand and once construction is complete this must be removed from the site and disposed of at an appropriately registered waste disposal facility.  No cement / concrete mixing are to take place on the soil surface. Cement mixers are to be placed on large trays to prevent accidental spills from coming into contact with the soil surface.  Sufficient portable chemical toilets or similar sanitation facilities should be provided and suitably maintained at the site for the duration of construction. Only closed sanitation systems to be allowed (e.g. conservancy tanks). Sanitation systems must be properly maintained and regularly emptied.  Emergency procedure in place to deal with hazardous spills. Job specific training to be provided to individuals responsible for dealing with hazardous spills.  Adequate covered receptacles for general waste disposal to be provided and placed on site. Adequate covered receptacles for hazardous waste disposal (oily rags etc.) to be provided and placed on site. Waste receptacles should be emptied on a regular basis.  Where possible waste are to be reused or recycled. Waste that is not reused / recycled must be disposed of at an appropriately registered and licensed waste disposal facility, e.g. Arlington or Koedoes Kloof.  Excavated material from site levelling and landscaping activities will as far as possible be used on-site as fill material. Excess excavated material that cannot be used in this way will be exported from the site used in construction activities elsewhere in the NMBM or disposed of at an appropriately licensed waste disposal facility.  Construction waste (e.g. packaging material, unused concrete) not reused / recycled must be disposed of at an appropriately licensed waste disposal facility. 77

Sedimentation, erosion and air, Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation soil, surface water and Negligible Impact Positive Impact groundwater pollution Spatial Site Specific 2 Activity Specific 1

Duration Short term 2 Very Short term 1 Frequency Seldom 3 Infrequent 2 Intensity Low 1 Low 1 Severity Low 6 Medium 4 Consequence Low 8 Low 5

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Slight 2 Slim 1 Significance Low 10 Low 6 Mitigation Likely Confidence High

Aspect: Parking bay Direct Impact 6: Change in land use Description of impact The current land use of the area is a reserve (protected area). A portion of the reserve will be changed into a parking bay facility (~2500 m²) and the jeep track will be upgraded to a 6 metre wide road. The change in land use from natural area to institutional use is not desirable, however, in order to offer the public a parking bay facility that is not likely to be engulfed by moving sand dunes, the conversion of a portion of natural area is necessary. It is not feasible to continuously move the sand from the upper car park and it is also illegal to interfere with natural dune processes. No mitigation is possible as the land use of this portion of the reserve will be permanently changed to institutional use. However, the outmost care must be taken during the construction phase in order to maintain the natural characteristics of the surrounding area. Alien invasive species on site are to be removed and natural vegetation in surrounding areas is to be maintained. Mitigation Measures  Minimal disturbance to indigenous vegetation. Removal of alien invasive vegetation.  Carpobrotus should be planted on erodible areas - it's a good soil binder and will facilitate recruitment.  Sufficient portable chemical toilets should be provided and suitably maintained at the site for the duration of construction. Only closed sanitation systems to be allowed (e.g. conservancy tanks) Change in land use Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Activity Specific 1 Activity Specific 1

Duration Long term 6 Long term 6 Frequency Rarely 1 Rarely 1 Intensity Low 1 Low 1 Severity Medium 8 Medium 8 Consequence Medium 9 Medium 9

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Anticipated 6 Anticipated 6 Significance Medium 15 Medium 15 Mitigation None Confidence High

Aspect: Construction works Direct Impact 7: Topography Description of impact The parking bay site can be described as gently sloping from the north eastern to the south western corner. The jeep track proposed for upgrade and pipe installation is generally flat. Parts of the site will be levelled for building foundations and road infrastructure. Change in the topography of the site will occur where levelling takes place. Mitigation Measures  Design of parking bay and road to follow natural contour lines so as to minimize effect on topography.  Ensure that appropriate erosion and storm water control mechanisms are implemented.  Minimal disturbance to indigenous vegetation to minimize erosion. 78

 Do not exceed footprint of activity with regards to vegetation removal.  Levelling only permitted where vegetation is cleared for development. Visual impact Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Activity Specific 1 Activity Specific 1

Duration Long term 6 Long term 6 Frequency Rarely 1 Rarely 1 Intensity Low 1 Low 1 Severity Medium 8 Medium 8 Consequence Medium 9 Medium 9

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Slight 2 Slim 1 Significance Medium 11 Low 10 Mitigation Possible Confidence High

Aspect: Demolishing upper car park and removal of infrastructure Direct Impact 8: Impact on dunes and surrounding area Description of impact The upper car park will be demolished and structures form the upper car park will be removed. Dismantling of the ablutions block may leave rubble and timber behind if site clean-up is ineffective. Closure of the car park may leave wire fencing, rubble and timber poles behind if site clean-up is ineffective. The dune is encroaching on the upper car park. The dune must not be disturbed in any way during these activities. Mitigation Measures  Basic environmental awareness training to be provided to all personnel prior to the start of construction.  No disturbance to dunes or dune vegetation.  No stockpiling of any materials is permitted on the dunes.  Dunes must be designated as no go areas during construction phases.  Carpobrotus should be planted on erodible areas - it's a good soil binder and will facilitate recruitment. Visual impact Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Activity Specific 1 Activity Specific 1

Duration Short 2 Short 2 Frequency Regular 4 Infrequent 2 Intensity Low – medium 2 Low 1 Severity Medium 8 Low 5 Consequence Medium 9 Low 6

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Probable 4 Plausible 3 Significance Medium 13 Low 9 Mitigation Possible Confidence High

Aspect: Construction works Direct Impact 9: Noise generation Description of impact Sardinia Bay is not characterised by activities generating noise. Sources of noise during construction phase include construction personnel, vehicles and machinery used for clearing of vegetation, levelling, and excavation. The noise generated is likely to be experience by those in the immediate vicinity of the construction activity. The noise impacts are of low significance. Mitigation Measures  Basic environmental awareness training to be provided to all personnel prior to the start of construction.  A complaints register should be kept to document complaints and the corrective action taken.  No loud music to be allowed on site.  All vehicles must be kept in good working condition.

Noise generation Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Activity Specific 1 Activity Specific 1

Duration Very Short term 1 Very Short term 1 Frequency Seldom 3 Infrequent 2 Intensity Low 1 Low 1 Severity Low 5 Low 4 Consequence Low 6 Low 5

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Slight 2 Slim 1 Significance Low 8 Low 6 Mitigation Likely Confidence High

Aspect: Construction works Direct Impact 10: Visual impact Description of impact Construction vehicles may be visible from Sardinia Bay Road but the line of sight from the beach will be obstructed by the dunes. The site will be visible users of the reserve. The impact will not be substantial and will be very short lived. Users of the beach may experience a short lived impact when the upper car park is demolished. Mitigation Measures  Basic environmental awareness training to be provided to all personnel prior to the start of construction.  Ensure the site has no litter.  Ensure good housekeeping measures on site.  Contractors must monitor construction vehicles to ensure that they are not overly full – thus increasing the likelihood of spillage of debris on the site.  Ensure any debris spilled onto roads is cleared up.  A complaints register should be kept to document complaints and the corrective action taken. Visual impact Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Activity Specific 1 Activity Specific 1

Duration Very Short term 1 Very Short term 1 Frequency Seldom 3 Infrequent 2 Intensity Low 1 Low 1 Severity Low 5 Low 4 Consequence Low 6 Low 5

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Slight 2 Slim 1 Significance Low 8 Low 6 Mitigation Likely Confidence High

 Construction managers/foremen should be informed before construction starts on the possible types of heritage sites and cultural material they may encounter and the procedures to follow when they find sites. Alternatively it is suggested that a person be trained to be on site to report to the site manager if sites are found.  It is recommended that all construction work must be monitored. An archaeologist/heritage specialist must be present when the areas earmarked for development are cleaned from vegetation. Alternatively a person must be trained as a site monitor to report to the foreman when heritage sites/materials are found.  The developer must ensure that a system is in place to halt the specific activity if such an artefact / site is identified.  If archaeological heritage resources are unearthed during construction, the find brought to the immediate attention of the developer and all work has to be stopped immediately and reported to the archaeologist at the Albany Museum (046 6222312) or to the Eastern Cape Provincial Heritage Resources Authority (043 6422811). Sufficient time should be allowed to investigate and to remove/collect such material. The developer may consult a qualified cultural heritage practitioner to examine the site and recommend further action.  Should any substantial fossil remains (e.g. vertebrate bones and teeth, petrified wood, plant fossil assemblages) be encountered during excavation, however, these should be safeguarded, preferably in situ, and reported by the ECO to ECPHRA (i.e. The Eastern Cape Provincial Heritage Resources Authority. Contact details: Mr Sello Mokhanya, 74 Alexander Road, King Williams Town 5600; [email protected]) and a suitably qualified palaeontologist so that specimens can be examined, recorded and, if necessary, professionally excavated at the developer’s expense.  Any discovered artefacts shall not be removed under any circumstances.  Any destruction / removal of artefact can only be allowed once a permit is obtained and the site has been mapped and noted. Permits must be obtained from the South African Heritage Resources Agency.  Any mitigation measures applied by an archaeologist, in the sense of excavation and documentation, should be published in order to bring this information into the public domain.  Following consultation with the heritage specialist, the developer will be responsible for approving the resumption of normal activities. Heritage Impact Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Activity specific 1 Activity specific 1

Duration Very short term 1 Very short term 1 Frequency Infrequent 2 Infrequent 2 Intensity Low 1 Low 1 Severity Low 4 Low 4 Consequence Low 5 Low 5

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Anticipated 6 Slight 2 Significance Medium 11 Low 7 Mitigation Likely Confidence High

Aspect: Demolition of upper parking pay, jeep track upgrade and construction activities. Direct Impact 12: Traffic impact Description of impact The upgrade of the jeep track and installation of the water pipe will have a low impact on existing traffic conditions on Sardinia Bay Road. Demolition of the upper car park will result in visitors temporarily parking on Sardinia Bay road until such time that the new parking bay is available for use. There are more visitors to Sardinia Bay on the weekends and during holiday seasons. Construction should thus be planned to take place out of peak season to minimise impact on Sardinia Bay visitors. Mitigation Measures  There must be appropriate signage and access control to the construction site.  There must be appropriate signage in place and access control (boom control) when the upper car park is demolished.  Road signage should be erected and provided to full municipal standards.  All construction vehicles are to be monitored to ensure they are not overly full so the likelihood of spillage of debris is prevented.  Surrounding area should be monitored for debris and materials associated with the proposed development and cleaned up as soon as such becomes apparent. This includes sand/gravel which may fall from trucks transporting these resources to the site.  All materials used for construction / excavated are to be stockpiled in a safe manner and kept within the footprint of the development site so as not to cause nuisance to traffic. Excavated material’s not used as fill material to be removed as quickly as possible from the area and disposed at an appropriately licensed waste site.  Speed travelled by construction vehicles must be kept to a minimum and speed limits enforced.  If construction machinery is transporting materials to site, it must be done outside of peak holiday / weekend periods.

Traffic impact Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Site specific 2 Site specific 2

Duration Very short term 1 Very short term 1 Frequency Regular 4 Regular 4 Intensity Low to medium 2 Low 1 Severity Low 7 Low 6 Consequence Low 9 Low 8

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Probable 4 Slight 2 Significance Medium 13 Low 10 Mitigation Likely Confidence High

Aspect: Fire Direct Impact 13: Damage to social, natural and equipment due to fire outbreak Description of impact With the occurrence of fynbos, fire is common and a fire started unintentionally during construction would spread rapidly and could damage construction materials and provide a safety risk to surrounding wildlife and construction personnel. Major fires were recorded in the area in 1996 and 2009. The mitigation measures for fire differ during the construction phase (short term) and operational phase (long term) of the parking bay. A fire break should be maintained around the newly built facility so that controlled fires can continue to occur during the operational phase. The impact on the social and natural environment as a result of an accidental fire started during construction phase is not likely to occur and assessed as low with effective mitigation / prevention measures in place. Mitigation Measures  Basic environmental awareness training to be provided to all personnel prior to the start of construction.  An emergency fire management plan must be designed and implemented during construction phase.  Fire break (5 metre width) created on perimeter of parking bay (permanent or created annually), to reduce damage to property from any accidental fires during operational phase and to allow for controlled fires in the fynbos area.  Job specific training to be provided to individuals responsible for dealing with fire management.  Fire-fighting equipment must be available and readily accessible on site.  No fires permitted on construction site.  No cigarette butts or burning substances are permitted to be released into the environment. All cigarette butts to be extinguished first and then disposed of in a litter bin provided.  Vegetation litter is to be removed off site and not stockpiled at the site to reduce fire risk.  If a fire is detected it must be attended to immediately. Damage to social, natural and Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation equipment due to fire outbreak Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Municipal 4 Activity Specific 1

Duration Very short 1 Very Short 1 Frequency Continuous 6 Continuous 6 Intensity Very High 6 Low 1 Severity High 13 Medium 7 Consequence High 17 Low 8

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Expected 5 Slim 1 Significance High 22 Low 9 Mitigation Likely Confidence High

Aspect: Personnel required for construction phase of development Direct Impact 14: Employment Description of impact 20 - 30 unskilled employment positions will be created as a result of the construction phase of the development. No additional jobs will be created during the operational phase. Mitigation Measures  Use local labour as far as possible. 82

 Advertise locally making use of local resources for this purpose.  Use a reputable agency to screen staff employed. Damage to social, natural and Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation equipment due to fire outbreak Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Activity 1 Activity 1

Duration Very Short term 1 Very Short term 1 Frequency Rarely 1 Rarely 1 Intensity Low 1 Low 1 Severity Negligible 3 Negligible 3 Consequence Negligible 4 Negligible 4

Impact Criteria Probability Slim 1 Slight 2 Significance Negligible 5 Low 6 Mitigation Likely Confidence High

Indirect Impacts None identified for construction phase

Cumulative Impacts None identified for construction phase

Construction Phase - Alternative site 2 Direct Impacts Aspect: Clearing of on site and servitude related vegetation Direct Impact 1: Direct loss of indigenous vegetation Description of impact Removal of indigenous vegetation will occur for the upgrade of the jeep track to a 6 metre wide road, the extension of the water pipe (~70 m²) and the development of the parking bay (~2500 m²). Alternative site 2 is dominated by low-growing Fynbos shrubs i.e. Erica glumiflora, E. chloroloma, Metalasia muricata, Phylica ericoides var. ericoides and Coleonema pulchellum, with patches of restio’s i.e. Chondropetalum microcarpum, and grass species i.e. Stipagrostis zeyheri. It is important to note that Erica glumiflora (VU) and E. chloroloma (VU) which are both SCC’s, are present as dominant shrubs across the site, with Syncarpha sordescens also present. Fynbos is fire-adapted vegetation that requires regular burning for its persistence. The optimal fire cycle for fynbos is between 10-14 years. A fire break is recommended which will result in the removal of additional ~ 900 m² fynbos vegetation. Although only a small area is required for the road upgrade (~70 m²), alternative Site 2 has higher species richness, with 37 plant species identified, and a strong, significant presence of SCC’s i.e. dense populations of Erica glumiflora and E. chloroloma than Alternative Site 1. The impact of vegetation loss is therefore considered to be higher (medium significance after mitigation) than for alternative site 1 (low significance after mitigation). Mitigation Measures  Basic environmental awareness training to be provided to all personnel prior to the start of construction.  Do not exceed footprint of activity with regards to vegetation removal. Vegetation disturbance is to be limited to that which is absolutely necessary. Physical damage to natural vegetation on the periphery of the construction activity is to be avoided.  Site clearing to be done in phased manner. No blanket clearing of vegetation is permitted. It is recommended that the road upgrade and installation of water pipe to be done prior to the construction of the car park area. The upgraded road can then serve as laydown areas for stockpiles / constructions materials and a transport route to the site. This will prevent surrounding vegetation being used as laydown areas and will minimise dust generation from vehicle entrainment.  Movement of workers must be limited to areas under construction and access to the surrounding reserve area must be regulated. These must be designated as no-go areas during construction. All identified species of special concern must be included in designated no go areas.  Areas must be designated for stockpiling of any materials. The footprint must remain within the area in which the activity is taking place. It is suggested that sections of the jeep track / upgraded road be used as laydown areas rather than vegetation areas. Excavated materials to be re used as far as possible (i.e. as fill material); excavation materials not re-used are to be removed as quickly as possible from the area and disposed at an appropriately licensed waste site. No dumping of any materials on surrounding vegetation / dune areas is allowed.  Make use of existing roads, tracks and paths. No new paths may be created through the vegetation.  When Indigenous vegetation is removed, preserve the seeds and topsoil and spread any stored topsoil (with plant matter mixed in, to spread seeds) over areas requiring revegation as soon as possible. Preserved seeds may also be sown in the area, provided there is mulch to hold the seeds. Avoid replanting of the indigenous vegetation. The surrounding areas are densely vegetated and replanting may cause disturbance to established vegetation. In addition, the calcrete nature of the area will make digging difficult and predominant plants, such as Erica's do not like to have their roots disturbed, due to mycorrhizal interaction.  Carpobrotus should be planted on erodible areas - it's a good soil binder and will facilitate recruitment.  Should SSCs be removed, permits for the removal of SSCs will need to be obtained from the DEDEAT  Contractual fines to be imposed on any employee who is found attempting to remove indigenous flora.  A firebreak of 5 metres (~1500 m²) around the perimeter of the parking bay is suggested so that controlled fires can continue in the area and to prevent unwanted destruction in the event of an accidental fire. This can either be a permanent fire break that must be maintained or a fire break can be created each year.  Establish an environmental code of conduct for staff on site.  Construction to be monitored by an ECO according to the stipulations of the EMPr. Direct loss of indigenous Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation vegetation Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Activity Specific 1 Activity specific 1

Duration Long- term 5 Long- term 5 Frequency Rarely (Once off) 1 Rarely (Once off) 1 Intensity Medium 3 Low - medium 2 Severity Medium 9 Medium 8 Consequence Medium 10 Medium 9

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Anticipated 6 Anticipated 6 Significance Medium High 16 Medium 15

Mitigation Difficult Confidence High

Aspect: Clearing of on site and servitude related vegetation Direct Impact 2: Direct loss of fauna and habitat and forage for terrestrial fauna Description of impact Because the area is a local authority reserve and a protected area, a high number of fauna species are expected to occur on alternative site 2 as well as in the immediate surrounding area. No species regarded as critically endangered or endangered has been mapped within the Sardinia Bay area. Species regarded as vulnerable and near threatened may occur in the area (IUCN Red List of threatened species, Version 3.1). The area proposed for development is small (~2600 m²) and only 20 metres of the road will be upgraded, however, there is not expected to be a major difference in the impact on fauna between alternative sites 1 and 2 during construction. It is anticipated that most of the fauna (particularly fast moving reptiles, avifauna and mammals) currently inhabiting the site will move off the site when vegetation clearing commences. The surrounding area will offer suitable forage and shelter to the disturbed fauna. The natural surrounding area provides suitable habitats if translocation of any species is required. The smaller and less mobile faunal species (e.g. tortoise) that may remain within the vegetation may suffer injury when vegetation is cleared, however, this is not likely to occur as the site is small and any injury to fauna can be avoided though appropriate search and rescue operations and through training provided to construction personnel. Mitigation Measures  Basic environmental awareness training to be provided to all personnel prior to the start of construction. All personnel should be made aware of the need to prevent harm to fauna on site.  A faunal search and rescue operation should be undertaken prior to commencement of vegetation clearing on site.  Should faunal Species of Special Concern (SSCs) be identified during search and rescue operation, permits for the removal of SSCs will need to be obtained from the DEDEAT.  Relocate all herpetofauna found on the construction site to other localities with suitable habitat close to the site.  Site clearing must be done in a phased manner to allow fauna the chance to move off the site. No blanket clearing of vegetation is to be permitted. It is recommended that the road upgrade and installation of water pipe to be done prior to the construction of the car park area. The upgraded road can then serve as laydown areas for stockpiles and constructions materials as well as a transport route to the site. This will ensure surrounding vegetation is not used as laydown areas and will minimise the impact to vegetation in the reserve area. Dust from vehicle entrainment will also be minimised.  Movement of workers must be limited to areas under construction and access to surrounding area open areas in the reserve must be regulated. These must be designated as no-go areas during construction.  Areas must be designated for stockpiling of any materials. The footprint must remain within the area in which the activity is taking place.  No fauna encountered at the site may intentionally be harmed or killed.  Severe contractual fines must be imposed and immediate dismissal on any contract employee who is found attempting to snare or otherwise harms wild animals.  Excavations must be checked daily for trapped fauna. Trapped animals are to be rescued and released.  Establish strict speeding regulations during construction phase. All personnel and visitors to abide to speeding regulations.  Establish an environmental code of conduct for staff at the site.  Construction to be monitored by an ECO according to the stipulations of the EMPr. Direct loss of fauna and Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation habitat and forage for Negative Impact Negative Impact terrestrial fauna Spatial Activity Specific 1 Activity Specific 1

Duration Short term 2 Very short term 1 Frequency Often 5 Often 5 Intensity Medium Low 2 Low 1 Severity Medium 9 Medium 7 Consequence Medium 10 Low 8

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Expected 5 Slight 2 Significance Medium 15 Low 10 Mitigation Possible Confidence High

Aspect: Clearing of on site and servitude related vegetation Direct Impact 3: Direct loss of alien vegetation 85

Description of impact There are a small number of rooikrans (Acacia cyclops) occurring on the proposed site. These species will be removed as a result of the development. Soil, in which alien vegetation is growing, is contaminated with their seed and provides a potential source of seed for new invasions. Care must be taken when removing or disturbing this topsoil, so as not to spread alien vegetation. If mitigation measures are implemented with regards to alien invasive removal there is expected to be a low positive impact; without mitigation the impact is negligible. Mitigation is necessary to avoid an increase in alien invasive vegetation and a negative impact. Mitigation Measures  Basic environmental awareness training to be provided to all personnel prior to the start of construction.  Removal of all alien vegetation on site. No planting of alien vegetation allowed.  Minimal disturbance to indigenous vegetation.  If soil in which alien vegetation (particularly Australian Acacia species) grows is disturbed or removed, it should be disposed of off-site to prevent further alien invasion.  Visual inspection of stockpiled soils to ensure there is no alien vegetation regrowth.  Follow up clearing operations to take place to remove any regrowth of alien invasive vegetation.  No alien invasive vegetation is permitted to be used for erosion control in the area.  Construction to be monitored by an ECO according to the stipulations of the EMPr. Direct Loss of alien vegetation Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation Negligible Impact Positive Impact Spatial Activity Specific 1 Activity Specific 1

Duration Very Short 1 Short term 2 Frequency Rarely 1 Regular 4 Intensity Low 1 Low 1 Severity Negligible 3 Medium 7 Consequence Negligible 4 Low 8

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Slim 1 Slight 2 Significance Negligible 5 Low 10 Management Possible Confidence High

Aspect: Clearing of on site and servitude related vegetation Direct Impact 4: Soil erosion and sedimentation Description of impact The soil type in the area is Arenosol (Ar) (sandy soil) and consists of naturally occurring compacted calcrete. The soils are considered to be moderately susceptible to water erosion and highly susceptible to wind erosion. Removal of vegetation could lead destabilization of sandy sediment leading to erosion. Erosion protection measures are important in the case of vegetation removal. Care must be taken to ensure appropriate storm management measures are in place to prevent unnecessary erosion, sedimentation and pollution in a natural area. The site is small, the topography of the site is generally flat, calcrete is present and deep excavation on a large scale is not necessary for establishment of the parking bay, so if the area is properly managed, this impact is considered to be of low significance. Foundation poles may be erected for establishment of lifesaving club and ablution facilities resulting in compaction of the soil. Mitigation Measures  Basic environmental awareness training to be provided to all personnel prior to the start of construction.  Ensure appropriate erosion and storm water control mechanisms are implemented.  Do not exceed footprint of activity with regards to vegetation removal. Construction activities must not encroach on surrounding vegetation. Minimal disturbance to indigenous vegetation to ensure soil is retained and potential for erosion and sedimentation is minimised. Once structures have been placed, rehabilitate open areas with indigenous seeds and / or topsoil and / or Carpobrotus species.  Adjacent area may not be used for the stockpiling of any materials. The footprint must remain within the area in which the activity is taking place.  Road upgrade and pipe installation to be monitored for erosion and pooling. Road must be upgraded to ensure that good drainage occurs and to ensure the road remains accessible on a year round basis. Road maintenance should be undertaken on a regular basis.  As necessary, dampen exposed soil areas on very windy days (>45 km/hr wind speeds) to prevent soil erosion by wind. Soil erosion and sedimentation Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation Negative Impact Negative Impact

I m p a c t SpatialC r i t e r i Activitya Specific 1 Activity Specific 1

Duration Very short 1 Very short 1 Frequency Often 5 Regular 4 Intensity Low 1 Low 1 Severity Medium 7 Low 6 Consequence Low 8 Low 7 Probability Plausible 3 Slight 2 Significance Medium 11 Low 9 Mitigation Likely Confidence High

Aspect: Construction activities and waste management Direct Impact 5: Soil, air, surface water and groundwater pollution Description of impact The site falls within the Fish to Tsitsikamma water management area (WMA) and the Algoa sub WMA. The subquaternary catchment area has a fresh water priority status. There are no rivers present; the site does not fall within aquatic CBA areas (ECBCP). The groundwater table of the area is considered to be deep and unlikely to be affected by the proposed project. There are no rivers or groundwater courses in the vicinity of the area. A wetland assessment was carried out and it was concluded that no wetlands fall within 500 metres of the proposed sites. Care must be taken to ensure appropriate waste management measures are in place to prevent unnecessary pollution in a natural area. Sources of dust generation during construction phase incudes removal of vegetation, excavation activities, stockpiling and vehicle entrainment. The dust generated is expected to be short lived and have a low impact. The proposed development will not generate any dust of significance once operational. Sources of volatiles and particulate matter include cleaning fluids, fuels and building materials. Mitigation Measures  Basic environmental awareness training to be provided to all personnel prior to the start of construction.  Topsoil should be cleared in a phased manner to avoid large areas of unconsolidated soils. Topsoil and soil stockpiles should be covered, wetted or otherwise stabilised to prevent wind erosion and dust generation. A water cart or sufficient watering equipment should be available to wet soils during windy days if wind-blown sand and dust becomes a problem. During strong wind conditions it may be necessary to halt operations until conditions improve.  Do not leave machinery / vehicles running unnecessarily. Service machines and vehicles regularly to prevent unnecessary leaks.  Ensure cleaning materials, volatile materials and other hazardous materials (e.g. chemicals and fuels) are securely stored within a suitable sealable non-corrosive container. Ensure lids are secure to avoid unnecessary release into the environment. Leaking or empty drums must be removed from the site immediately and disposed of at a registered waste disposal site. All hazardous waste to be disposed an appropriately registered waste disposal facility.  Ideally, no fuel to be stored on site. The risk of spilling fuel is at its greatest during refuelling of vehicles and plants. Where possible, refuel mobile plants offsite or in a designated area, preferably on an impermeable surface. If generators are refuelled on site, they must be placed on trays, which rest on clean sand and once construction is complete this must be removed from the site and disposed of at an appropriately registered waste disposal facility.  No cement / concrete mixing are to take place on the soil surface. Cement mixers are to be placed on large trays to prevent accidental spills from coming into contact with the soil surface.  Sufficient portable chemical toilets or similar sanitation facilities should be provided and suitably maintained at the site for the duration of construction. Only closed sanitation systems to be allowed (e.g. conservancy tanks). Sanitation systems must be properly maintained and regularly emptied.  Emergency procedure in place to deal with hazardous spills. Job specific training to be provided to individuals responsible for dealing with hazardous spills.  Adequate covered receptacles for general waste disposal to be provided and placed on site. Adequate covered receptacles for hazardous waste disposal (oily rags etc.) to be provided and placed on site. Waste receptacles should be emptied on a regular basis.  Where possible waste are to be reused or recycled. Waste that is not reused / recycled must be disposed of at an appropriately registered and licensed waste disposal facility, e.g. Arlington or Koedoes Kloof.  Excavated material from site levelling and landscaping activities will as far as possible be used on-site as fill material. Excess excavated material that cannot be used in this way will be exported from the site used in construction activities elsewhere in the NMBM or disposed of at an appropriately licensed waste disposal facility.  Construction waste (e.g. packaging material, unused concrete) not reused / recycled must be disposed of at an appropriately licensed waste disposal facility. Soil, air, surface water and Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation groundwater pollution Negligible Impact Positive Impact 87

Spatial Site Specific 2 Activity Specific 1

Duration Short term 2 Very Short term 1 Frequency Seldom 3 Infrequent 2 Intensity Low 1 Low 1 Severity Low 6 Medium 4 Consequence Low 8 Low 5

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Slight 2 Slim 1 Significance Low 10 Low 6 Mitigation Likely Confidence High

Aspect: Parking bay Direct Impact 6: Change in land use Description of impact The current land use of the area is a reserve (protected area). A portion of the reserve will be changed into a parking bay facility (~2500 m² with ~900 m² firebreak) and 20 metres of the jeep track will be upgraded to a 6 metre wide road (~70 m²). The change in land use from natural area to institutional use is not desirable, however, in order to offer the public a parking bay facility that is not likely to be engulfed by moving sand dunes, the conversion of a portion of natural area is necessary. It is not feasible to continuously move the sand from the upper car park and it is also illegal to interfere with natural dune processes. No mitigation is possible as the land use of this portion of the reserve will be permanently changed to institutional use. However, the outmost care must be taken during the construction phase in order to maintain the natural characteristics of the surrounding area. Alien invasive species on site are to be removed and natural vegetation in the surrounding area is to be maintained. Mitigation Measures  Minimal disturbance to indigenous vegetation. Removal of alien invasive vegetation.  Sufficient portable chemical toilets should be provided and suitably maintained at the site for the duration of construction. Only closed sanitation systems to be allowed (e.g. conservancy tanks) Change in land use Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Activity Specific 1 Activity Specific 1

Duration Long term 6 Long term 6 Frequency Rarely 1 Rarely 1 Intensity Low 1 Low 1 Severity Medium 8 Medium 8 Consequence Medium 9 Medium 9

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Anticipated 6 Anticipated 6 Significance Medium 15 Medium 15 Mitigation None Confidence High

Aspect: Construction works Direct Impact 7: Topography Description of impact Alternative site 2 and the portion of the jeep track can be described as generally flat. Some levelling will be required for building foundations and road infrastructure. Mitigation Measures  Design of parking bay and road to follow natural contour lines so as to minimize effect on topography.  Ensure that appropriate erosion and storm water control mechanisms are implemented.  Levelling only permitted where vegetation is cleared for development. Topography Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Activity Specific 1 Activity Specific 1 Duration Long term 6 Long term 6 Frequency Rarely 1 Rarely 1 Impact Impact Criteria Intensity Low 1 Low 1 Severity Medium 8 Medium 8 88

Consequence Medium 9 Medium 9 Probability Slim 1 Slim 1 Significance Low 10 Low 10 Mitigation Possible Confidence High

Aspect: Demolishing upper car park and removal of infrastructure Direct Impact 8: Impact on dunes and surrounding area Description of impact The upper car park will be demolished and structures form the upper car park will be removed. Dismantling of the ablutions block may leave rubble and timber behind if site clean-up is ineffective. Closure of the car park may leave wire fencing, rubble and timber poles behind if site clean-up is ineffective. The dune is encroaching on the upper car park. The dune must not be disturbed in any way during these activities. Mitigation Measures  Basic environmental awareness training to be provided to all personnel prior to the start of construction.  Ensure no overloading of vehicles to prevent debris falling off into surrounding area.  Ensure effective clean up once structures are removed. Ensure the site has no litter.  No disturbance to dunes or dune vegetation. No stockpiling of any materials is permitted on the dunes.  Dunes must be designated as no go areas during construction phases. Impact on dunes and Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation surrounding area Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Activity Specific 1 Activity Specific 1

Duration Short 2 Short 2 Frequency Regular 4 Infrequent 2 Intensity Low – medium 2 Low 1 Severity Medium 8 Low 5 Consequence Medium 9 Low 6

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Probable 4 Plausible 3 Significance Medium 13 Low 9 Mitigation Possible Confidence High

Aspect: Construction works Direct Impact 9: Noise generation Description of impact Sardinia Bay Reserve is a very quiet area. Sources of noise during construction phase include construction personnel, vehicles and machinery used for clearing of vegetation, levelling, and excavation. The noise generated is likely to be experience by those in the immediate vicinity of the construction activity. The noise impacts are of low significance. Mitigation Measures  Basic environmental awareness training to be provided to all personnel prior to the start of construction.  A complaints register should be kept to document complaints and the corrective action taken.  No loud music to be allowed on site.  All vehicles must be kept in good working condition. Noise generation Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Activity Specific 1 Activity Specific 1

Duration Very Short term 1 Very Short term 1 Frequency Seldom 3 Infrequent 2 Intensity Low 1 Low 1 Severity Low 5 Low 4 Consequence Low 6 Low 5

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Slight 2 Slim 1 Significance Low 8 Low 6 Mitigation Likely Confidence High 89

Aspect: Construction works Direct Impact 10: Visual impact Description of impact The construction site and construction vehicles will be visible from Sardinia Bay Road and users of the reserve, but the line of sight from the beach will be obstructed. The impact will not be substantial and will be very short lived. Users of the beach may experience a short lived impact when the upper car park is demolished. Mitigation Measures  Basic environmental awareness training to be provided to all personnel prior to the start of construction.  Ensure the site has no litter.  Ensure good housekeeping measures on site.  Contractors must monitor construction vehicles to ensure that they are not overly full – thus increasing the likelihood of spillage of debris on the site.  Ensure any debris spilled onto roads is cleared up.  A complaints register should be kept to document complaints and the corrective action taken. Visual impact Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Activity Specific 1 Activity Specific 1

Duration Very Short term 1 Very Short term 1 Frequency Seldom 3 Infrequent 2 Intensity Low 1 Low 1 Severity Low 5 Low 4 Consequence Low 6 Low 5

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Slight 2 Slim 1 Significance Low 8 Low 6 Mitigation Likely Confidence High

Aspect: Construction works Direct Impact 11: Heritage impact Description of impact The surface dune sand layer is relatively thin and many large calcrete floors are visible in between the dense fynbos vegetation. These calcrete floors along the coast usually act as catchments for archaeological material which were previously living sites located on/in overlying sand dunes. No significant archaeological remains were observed on these floors, but it is possible that sites/materials may be covered by sand and vegetation. In general the areas investigated appear to be of low archaeological sensitivity and it seems unlikely that any archaeological remains of significance will be found in situ or exposed during the development. The palaeontological sensitivity of this rock succession of the Sardinia bay formation is considered to be low. The overall palaeontological sensitivity of the Schelm Hoek Formation is assessed as low; although pockets of locally HIGH sensitivity may occur locally There are no known graves or buildings older than 60 years on the sites. The applicant and Contractor(s) should keep in mind that archaeological sites might be exposed during the construction work and mitigation measures must be implemented to avoid unnecessary impacts on heritage resources. Mitigation Measures  Basic environmental awareness training to be provided to all personnel prior to the start of construction.  Construction managers/foremen should be informed before construction starts on the possible types of heritage sites and cultural material they may encounter and the procedures to follow when they find sites. Alternatively it is suggested that a person be trained to be on site to report to the site manager if sites are found.  It is recommended that all construction work must be monitored. An archaeologist/heritage specialist must be present when the areas earmarked for development are cleaned from vegetation. Alternatively a person must be trained as a site monitor to report to the foreman when heritage sites/materials are found.  The developer must ensure that a system is in place to halt the specific activity if such an artefact / site is identified.  If archaeological heritage resources are unearthed during construction, the find brought to the immediate attention of the developer and all work has to be stopped immediately and reported to the archaeologist at the Albany Museum (046 6222312) or to the Eastern Cape Provincial Heritage Resources Authority (043 6422811). Sufficient time should be allowed to investigate and to remove/collect such material. The developer may consult a qualified cultural heritage practitioner to examine the site and recommend further action.

 Should any substantial fossil remains (e.g. vertebrate bones and teeth, petrified wood, plant fossil assemblages) be encountered during excavation, however, these should be safeguarded, preferably in situ, and reported by the ECO to ECPHRA (i.e. The Eastern Cape Provincial Heritage Resources Authority. Contact details: Mr Sello Mokhanya, 74 Alexander Road, King Williams Town 5600; [email protected]) and a suitably qualified palaeontologist so that specimens can be examined, recorded and, if necessary, professionally excavated at the developer’s expense.  Any discovered artefacts shall not be removed under any circumstances.  Any destruction / removal of artefact can only be allowed once a permit is obtained and the site has been mapped and noted. Permits must be obtained from the South African Heritage Resources Agency.  Any mitigation measures applied by an archaeologist, in the sense of excavation and documentation, should be published in order to bring this information into the public domain.  Following consultation with the heritage specialist, the developer will be responsible for approving the resumption of normal activities. Heritage Impact Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Activity specific 1 Activity specific 1

Duration Very short term 1 Very short term 1 Frequency Infrequent 2 Infrequent 2 Intensity Low 1 Low 1 Severity Low 4 Low 4 Consequence Low 5 Low 5

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Anticipated 6 Slight 2 Significance Medium 11 Low 7 Mitigation Likely Confidence High

Aspect: Demolition of upper parking pay, jeep track upgrade and construction activities. Direct Impact 12: Traffic impact Description of impact The upgrade of the jeep track and installation of the water pipe will have a low impact on existing traffic conditions on Sardinia Bay Road. Demolition of the upper car park will result in visitors temporarily parking on Sardinia Bay road until such time that the new parking bay is available for use. There are more visitors to Sardinia Bay on the weekends and during holiday seasons. Construction should thus be planned to take place out of peak season to minimise impact on Sardinia Bay visitors. Mitigation Measures  There must be appropriate signage and access control to the construction site. There must be appropriate signage in place and access control (boom control) when the upper car park is demolished. Road signage should be erected and provided to full municipal standards.  All construction vehicles to be monitored to ensure they are not overly full so the likelihood of spillage of debris is prevented.  Surrounding area should be monitored for debris associated with the proposed development and cleaned up as soon as such becomes apparent. This includes sand / gravel which may fall from trucks transporting these resources to the site.  All materials used for construction / excavated are to be stockpiled in a safe manner and kept within the footprint of the development site so as not to cause nuisance to traffic. Excavated material’s not used as fill material to be removed as quickly as possible from the area and disposed at an appropriately licensed waste site.  Speed travelled by construction vehicles must be kept to a minimum and speed limits enforced.  If construction machinery is transporting materials to site, it must be done outside of peak holiday / weekend periods. Traffic impact Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Site specific 2 Site specific 2

Duration Very short term 1 Very short term 1 Frequency Regular 4 Regular 4 Intensity Low to medium 2 Low 1 Severity Low 7 Low 6 Consequence Low 9 Low 8

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Probable 4 Slight 2 Significance Medium 13 Low 10 Mitigation Likely Confidence High 91

Aspect: Fire Direct Impact 13: Damage to social, natural and equipment due to fire outbreak Description of impact With the occurrence of fynbos, fire is common and a fire started unintentionally during construction would spread rapidly and could damage construction materials and provide a safety risk to surrounding wildlife and construction personnel. Major fires were recorded in the area in 1996 and 2009. The mitigation measures for fire differ during the construction phase (short term) and operational phase (long term) of the parking bay. A fire break should be maintained around the newly built facility so that controlled fires can continue to occur during the operational phase, a fire break (between 2 - 5 m width) around the perimeter of the facility would have to be cleared from natural vegetation and maintained. The impact on the social and natural environment as a result of an accidental fire started during construction phase is not likely to occur and assessed as low with effective mitigation / prevention measures in place. Mitigation Measures  Basic environmental awareness training to be provided to all personnel prior to the start of construction.  An emergency fire management plan must be designed and implemented during construction phase.  Fire break (2 - 5 metre width) created on perimeter of parking bay (permanent or created annually), to reduce damage to property from any accidental fires during operational phase and to allow for controlled fires in the fynbos area.  Job specific training to be provided to individuals responsible for dealing with fire management.  Fire-fighting equipment must be available and readily accessible on site.  No fires permitted on construction site.  No cigarette butts or burning substances are permitted to be released into the environment. All cigarette butts to be extinguished first and then disposed of in a litter bin provided.  Vegetation litter is to be removed off site and not stockpiled at the site to reduce fire risk.  If a fire is detected it must be attended to immediately. Damage to social, natural and Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation equipment due to fire outbreak Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Municipal 4 Activity Specific 1

Duration Very short 1 Very Short 1 Frequency Continuous 6 Continuous 6 Intensity Very High 6 Low 1 Severity High 13 Medium 7 Consequence High 17 Low 8

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Expected 5 Slim 1 Significance High 22 Low 9 Mitigation Likely Confidence High

Aspect: Personnel required for construction phase of development. Direct Impact 14: Employment Description of impact 20 - 30 unskilled employment positions will be created as a result of the construction phase of the development. No additional jobs will be created during the operational phase. Mitigation Measures  Use local labour as far as possible.  Advertise locally making use of local resources for this purpose.  Use a reputable agency to screen staff employed. Employment Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Activity 1 Activity 1 Duration Very Short term Very Short term 1 1 Frequency Rarely 1 Rarely 1 Intensity Low 1 Low 1 Impact Criteria Severity Negligible 3 Negligible 3 Consequence Negligible 4 Negligible 4 Probability Slim 1 Slight 2

Significance Negligible 5 Low 6 Mitigation Likely Confidence High

Indirect Impacts None identified for construction phase

Cumulative Impacts None identified for construction phase

Construction Phase – No Go Alternative Direct Impacts Aspect: Use of current upper car park facility Direct Impact 1: Impact on indigenous vegetation and dunes Description of impact A portion of the reserve will be not be changed into a parking bay facility (~2500 m²) and the jeep track will not be upgraded to a 6 metre wide road. There will be no area provided to the lifesavers for development of a new clubhouse. The parking bay facility currently used will continue to be engulfed by moving sand dunes. It is not feasible to continuously move the sand from the upper car park and it is also illegal to interfere with natural dune processes. The no-go option provides no solutions and could lead to environmental damage. The road to the lower parking area has been engulfed and the dune will continue to encroach on the upper car park facility, decreasing the parking capacity of the beach and resulting in people parking their cars wherever they can find space and visitors will continue walking through the bush, over the dune and over dune vegetation to get to the beach. .

Aspect: Use of current upper car park facility Direct Impact 2: Change in land use, change in topography and visual, noise and heritage impacts Description of impact A portion of the reserve will be not be changed into a parking bay facility (~2500 m²) and the jeep track will not be upgraded to a 6 metre wide road. There will be no area provided to the lifesavers for development of a new clubhouse. The parking bay facility currently used will continue to be engulfed by moving sand dunes. It is not feasible to continuously move the sand from the upper car park and it is also illegal to interfere with natural dune processes. No change in topography will occur. There will be no noise, visual or heritage impacts.

Aspect: Use of current upper car park facility Direct Impact 3: Traffic impact Description of impact The parking bay facility currently used will continue to be engulfed by moving sand dunes. It is not feasible to continuously move the sand from the upper car park and it is also illegal to interfere with natural dune processes. Traffic congestion is likely to be experienced on weekends and during peak holiday. The parking problem will increase as the dune encroaches on the parking area decreasing the parking capacity and resulting in people parking their cars wherever they can find space.

Aspect: Use of current upper car park facility Direct Impact 14: Employment Description of impact No temporary employment positions created.

Indirect Impacts None identified

Cumulative Impacts Aspect: Use of current upper car park facility Impact: Decreased access to Sardinia bay beach Description of impact The parking bay facility currently used will continue to be engulfed by moving sand dunes and decrease the parking capacity. Difficult access to the beach by climbing the steep dune to get to the beach may also cause visitors to choose another beach to visit. Access to one of the most scenic beaches in Port Elizabeth will be very difficult and the popularity of the beach is likely to decrease.

Operational Phase - Alternative site 1 (preferred site / activity and technology alternative) Direct Impacts Aspect: Dune movement Direct Impact 1: Impact of Dune movement on newly built facilities Description of impact Alternative site 1 is situated ~50 metres from the edge of the escarpment. The sand dunes are moving in an east-north-eastward direction at approximately 2 - 5 metres per year and are beginning to engulf the existing upper car park. The dunes are gradually moving up slope to the east of the lower car park and are predicted to head north west and close the lower parking bay naturally. The orientation of the dunes is directed mainly by the prevailing south westerly winds. Easterly winds may become significant in spring and summer and north westerlies in autumn and winter. It is highly unlikely that the dunes will “walk” in a northerly direction up the escarpment face and impact on the alternative site 1 parking facility. Mitigation Measures  Signage to educate visitors about sensitivity of dunes  Signage to direct people onto existing footpaths and to make use of ramp rather than walk over the high dune opposite the upper car park.  This could assist to help vegetation regrow on the dune and stabilise it. Impact of Dune movement on Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation newly built facilities Negligible Impact Negligible Impact Probability Slim 1 Slim 1 Mitigation None Confidence Medium High

Aspect: Operation of parking bay facility Direct Impact 2: Impact on fauna and flora Description of impact The parking bay facility will be a permanent structure. Alternative site 1 parking bay will sit 450 metres inside the reserve and may be more intrusive in the reserve and on the movement of fauna in the reserve than alternative 2. The design of the upgraded road in the reserve will prevent visitors parking alongside it and a boom will be placed to prevent visitors from driving further into the reserve to park on the jeep track and / or vegetation. However the parking facility is situated ~300 meters from the beach and a footpath and ramp to “guide” visitors on to the beach is already in place. This will make it easier to prevent visitors walking through vegetation, and prevent additional disturbance to fauna and flora. Mitigation Measures  Parking only permitted on parking facilities. No parking permitted in vegetation areas. Measures must be put in place to ensure this is enforced.  Ensure waste receptacles are provided and ensure these are emptied on a regular basis to prevent windblown litter.  Ensure any litter at facility and immediate surrounds is picked up by staff (e.g. security guard could be assigned this duty).  Provide signs to direct public to the beach along footpath and ramp.  No walking through vegetation allowed by visitors – only existing footpaths and roads may be used.  Signs placed around parking bay facility – no fires, no litter, encourage use cigarette butts / burning substances to be extinguished and disposed no removal of any fauna / flora, no walking through vegetation allowed, dogs on leads etc.  Educational boards may put on display at facility to educate public about sensitive flora and fauna in area. Impact on fauna and flora Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Site Specific 2 Site Specific 2

Duration Very short term 1 Very short term 1 Frequency Regular 4 Regular 4 Intensity Medium Low 2 Medium Low 2 Severity Medium 7 Medium 7 Consequence Medium 9 Medium 9

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Expected 5 Expected 5 Significance Medium 14 Medium 14 Mitigation Difficult if only parking for 65 cars Confidence High 95

Aspect: Operation of parking bay facility Direct Impact 3: Impact on dunes Description of impact Alternative site 1 parking bay will be situated ~300 meters from the beach and a footpath and ramp to “guide” visitors on to the beach is already in place. This will make it easier to prevent visitors walking over the 30 metre dune (opposite existing upper car park facility) and will prevent users parking / driving on the dune. Less mobility on the dune will encourage revegetation and could allow for the eventual stabilization of the dune. Vegetation will not establish if the dune is constantly walked over. Alternative 1 could result in a lesser impact on the dune in comparison to the current situation (existing upper car park facility). Plants such as Carpobrotus and Chrysanthemoides monilifera will be able to establish quickly and facilitate recruitment. Mitigation Measures  Parking only permitted on parking facilities. No parking permitted in vegetation areas. No parking allowed on dunes. No driving on the beach. Measures must be put in place to ensure this is enforced.  Provide signs to direct public to the beach along footpath and ramp.  No walking through vegetation allowed by visitors – only existing footpaths and roads may be used.  Signs placed around parking bay facility – no fires, no litter, encourage use cigarette butts / burning substances to be extinguished and disposed no removal of any fauna / flora, no walking through vegetation allowed, dogs on leads etc.  Educational boards may put on display at facility to educate public about sensitive flora and fauna in area (including dunes). Impact on dunes Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Activity Specific 1 Activity Specific 1

Duration Very short term 1 Very short term 1 Frequency Regular 4 Seldom 3 Intensity Low to medium 2 Low to medium 2 Severity Medium 7 Low 6 Consequence Low 8 Low 7

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Plausible 3 Plausible 3 Significance Medium 11 Low 10 Mitigation Possible Confidence High

Aspect: Parking bay facility Direct Impact 4: Impact on visitors, character and “sense of place” Description of impact Alternative site 1 parking bay will be situated at the edge of the escarpment ~300 meters from the beach and a footpath and ramp to “guide” visitors on to the beach is already in place. The site offers an easier and shorter walk to the beach than site 2; maintaining and possibly increasing the popularity of the beach. Alternative site 1 will be a convenient look-out point for dolphin spotting and general sea-watching. Ablution facilities will be closer than those at site 2 and more likely to be used on a regular basis. The lifesavers house would be built on higher ground at the edge of the escarpment; the swimming beach will be in the line of sight and lifesavers will benefit from the shorter walk as the facility will be used for storing equipment. The existing boardwalk access point will allow for the improved access to the beach in the event of an emergency and the upgraded jeep track would conveniently serve as an evacuation route. Rescue helicopters would be able to land and take off from the beach if need be. The public will be provided a parking bay facility that is unlikely to be engulfed by the dune and which will allow them access to the beach. Mitigation Measures  Parking only permitted on parking facilities. No parking permitted in vegetation areas. No parking allowed on dunes. No driving on the beach. Measures must be put in place to ensure this is enforced.  Ensure waste receptacles are provided and ensure these are emptied on a regular basis to prevent windblown litter.  Ensure any litter at facility and immediate surrounds is picked up by staff (e.g. security guard could be assigned this duty).  Ensure ablution facilities are maintained.  Ensure security is maintained at new parking facility.  Provide signs to direct public to the beach along footpath and ramp.  No walking through vegetation allowed by visitors – only existing footpaths and roads may be used.  Signs placed around parking bay facility – no fires, no litter, encourage use cigarette butts / burning substances to be extinguished and disposed no removal of any fauna / flora, no walking through vegetation allowed, dogs on leads etc.  Educational boards may put on display at facility to educate public about sensitive flora and fauna in area (including dunes). 96

Impact on visitors, Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation character and “sense of Positive Impact Positive Impact place” Spatial Activity Specific 1 Activity Specific 1

Duration Long term 5 Long term 5 Frequency Regular 4 Often 5 Intensity Low 1 Low 1 Degree Medium High 10 Medium High 11 Consequence Medium 11 Medium High 12

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Slight 2 Plausible 3 Significance Medium 13 Medium 15 Management Likely Confidence High

Aspect: Stormwater, water, waste and sewage management Direct Impact 5: Impact on social and natural environment Description of impact Site 1 is a small and gently undulating area. The impact from stormwater is considered to be negligible if the facility is designed to follow natural contour lines and allow for appropriate storm water drainage. Water for the toilet block would be sourced from the NMBM main water supply pipeline nearby. Impact on water use is considered negligible as water is currently provided to the existing facilities and the NMBM have indicated that supply will not be a problem. The new toilet block will be equipped with a conservancy tank. This system has been successful at the existing parking bay facility. General waste and litter will be managed through the provision of waste receptacles at the proposed parking bay facility. The waste receptacles will be emptied and removed offsite by the NMBM and disposed of at a licensed NMBM waste site. With appropriate mitigation measures in place, there is likely to be negligible impact. Mitigation Measures  Only closed sanitation systems to be allowed (e.g. conservancy tanks)  Ensure ablution facilities are maintained.  Ensure conservancy tanks are serviced on a regular basis.  Ensure appropriate storm water control mechanisms are implemented during the construction phase.  Ensure maintenance of storm water control mechanisms as required.  Ensure maintenance of water pipe as required.  Ensure waste receptacles are provided and ensure these are emptied on a regular basis to prevent windblown litter.  Ensure any litter at facility and immediate surrounds is picked up by staff (e.g. security guard could be assigned this duty).  Ensure hazardous waste is disposed of at an appropriate licensed waste facility. Impact on social and natural Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation environment Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Activity Specific 1 Activity Specific 1

Duration Very short term 1 Very short term 1 Frequency Rarely 1 Rarely 1 Intensity Low 1 Low 1 Severity Negligible 3 Negligible 3 Consequence Negligible 4 Negligible 4

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Negligible 2 Negligible 1 Significance Low 6 Negligible 5 Mitigation Possible Confidence High

visitors parking alongside it and a boom will be placed to prevent visitors from driving further into the reserve to park on the jeep track and / or vegetation. No mitigation measures are proposed to directly alleviate impacts caused from running out of parking space. If an impact is experienced it will be short lived. Mitigation Measures  Parking only permitted on parking facilities.  No parking permitted in vegetation areas.  No parking allowed on dunes.  No driving on the beach.  Measures must be put in place to ensure these mitigation measures are enforced. Traffic impact Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Activity Specific 1 Activity Specific 1

Duration Very Short term 1 Very Short term 1 Frequency Seldom 3 Seldom 3 Intensity Low to medium 2 Low to medium 2 Severity Low 6 Low 6 Consequence Low 7 Low 7

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Expected 5 Expected 5 Significance Medium 12 Medium 12 Mitigation Difficult Confidence High

Aspect: Fire Direct Impact 7: Damage to social, natural and equipment due to fire outbreak Description of impact Fires are crucial to fynbos vegetation. The optimal fire cycle for fynbos is between 10-14 years. A fire break should be maintained around the newly built facility so that controlled fires can continue to occur during the operational phase. Unintentional fires must however be avoided as this can impact negatively on the fynbos as well as on the social environment. The risk of fires in the area is high with major fires recorded in the area in 1996 and 2009. In order to protect the facilities from being destroyed as a result of an unintentional / controlled fire, a fire break with a width of at least 5 m around the perimeter of the facility would have to be cleared from natural vegetation and maintained, alternatively, a fire break can be burned annually. Mitigation Measures  Maintain fire break (5 meter clearance of vegetation or annually burnt)  Fire-fighting equipment must be available and readily accessible at parking facility. Fire-fighting emergency number must be on display.  Ensure waste receptacles are provided and ensure these are emptied on a regular basis to prevent windblown litter.  Ensure any litter at facility and immediate surrounds is picked up by staff (e.g. security guard could be assigned this duty).  Signs placed around parking bay facility – no fires, no litter, encourage use cigarette butts / burning substances to be extinguished and disposed no removal of any fauna / flora, no walking through vegetation allowed, dogs on leads etc.  If a fire is detected it must be attended to immediately. Damage to social, natural Overall impact significance without Overall impact significance with and equipment due to fire mitigation mitigation outbreak Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Municipal 4 Activity Specific 1 Duration Very short 1 Very Short 1 Frequency Continuous 6 Continuous 6 Intensity Very High 6 Low 1 Severity High 13 Medium 7 Consequence High 17 Low 8

Impact Criteria Probability Expected 5 Slight 2 Significance High 22 Low 10 Management Likely Confidence High

Indirect Impacts None identified for operational phase.

Cumulative Impacts None identified for operational phase.

Operational Phase – Alternative site 2 Direct Impacts Aspect: Dune movement Direct Impact 1: Impact of Dune movement on newly built facilities Description of impact Alternative site 2 parking bay will be situated ~600 meters from the beach. It is highly unlikely that the dunes will have any impact on alternative site 2 parking facility. Mitigation Measures  Signage to educate visitors about sensitivity of dunes  Signage to direct people onto existing footpaths and to make use of ramp rather than walk over the high dune opposite the upper car park. This could assist to help vegetation regrow on the dune and stabilise it. Impact of Dune movement on Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation newly built facilities Negligible Impact Negligible Impact Probability Slim 1 Slim 1 Mitigation None Confidence High

Visitors may therefore cause a disturbance to fauna and flora in the in the reserve in their attempt to get to the beach. Mitigation Measures  Parking only permitted on parking facilities. No parking permitted in vegetation areas. Measures must be put in place to ensure this is enforced.  Ensure waste receptacles are provided and ensure these are emptied on a regular basis to prevent windblown litter.  Ensure any litter at facility and immediate surrounds is picked up by staff (e.g. security guard could be assigned this duty).  Provide signs to direct public to the beach along footpath and ramp.  No walking through vegetation allowed by visitors – only existing footpaths and roads may be used.  Signs placed around parking bay facility – no fires, no litter, encourage use cigarette butts / burning substances to be extinguished and disposed no removal of any fauna / flora, no walking through vegetation allowed, dogs on leads etc.  Educational boards may put on display at facility to educate public about sensitive flora and fauna in area. Impact on fauna and flora Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Site Specific 2 Site Specific 2 Duration Very short term 1 Very short term 1 Frequency Often 5 Regular 4 Impact Impact Criteria Intensity Medium 3 Medium Low 2 Severity Medium 9 Medium 7 99

Consequence Medium 11 Medium 9 Probability Expected 5 Expected 5 Significance Medium High 16 Medium 14 Mitigation Difficult Confidence High

Aspect: Operation of parking bay facility Direct Impact 3: Impact on dunes Description of impact Alternative site 2 parking bay will be situated ~600 meters from the beach. Site 2 presents options for visitors to get to the beach -  Visitors may walk along the jeep track, then along the footpath to the ramp and onto the beach;  Visitors may walk down Sardinia bay road and over the 30 metre dune onto the beach, or  Visitors may attempt to walk through the vegetation in the reserve.

Visitors may therefore continue to use the dune to get to the beach and may cause a disturbance to flora and eventually exacerbate the sand movement in some areas. Site 2 does not make it easier to prevent visitors walking over the dune (opposite existing upper car park facility) or prevent users parking / driving on the dune. Vegetation will not easily establish if the dune is constantly walked over. Alternative 2 will likely maintain the status quo of the current situation (existing upper car park facility) with regards to impact on the foredune. Mitigation Measures  Parking only permitted on parking facilities. No parking permitted in vegetation areas. No parking allowed on dunes. No driving on the beach. Measures must be put in place to ensure this is enforced.  Provide signs to direct public to the beach along existing roads, footpaths and ramp.  No walking through vegetation allowed by visitors – only existing footpaths and roads may be used.  Signs placed around parking bay facility – no fires, no litter, encourage use cigarette butts / burning substances to be extinguished and disposed no removal of any fauna / flora, no walking through vegetation allowed, dogs on leads etc.  Educational boards may put on display at facility to educate public about sensitive flora and fauna in area (including dunes). Impact on dunes Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Activity Specific 1 Activity Specific 1

Duration Very short term 1 Very short term 1 Frequency Often 5 Regular 4 Intensity Low to medium 2 Low to medium 2 Severity Medium 8 Medium 7 Consequence Medium 9 Low 8

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Plausible 3 Plausible 3 Significance Medium 12 Medium 11 Mitigation Difficult Confidence High

Aspect: Parking bay facility Direct Impact 4: Impact on visitors, character and “sense of place” Description of impact Alternative site 2 parking bay will be situated ~600 meters from the beach. The site will offer a longer walk (particularly for children and elderly people) to the beach, and visitors may still opt to walk over the foredune to enjoy the beach. Site 2 is not likely to increase the popularity of the beach and may result in people parking alongside Sardinia Bay road to lessen the walking distance. The beach cannot be seen from alternative site 2 and therefore the sense of place of visiting a beach is reduced. Ablution facilities will be further away and not likely to be used on a regular basis (visitors are likely to relieve themselves on the beach, in the sea etc.). The lifesavers house will be further away and there will be no line of sight between the swimming beach and clubhouse. The existing boardwalk will still be used as an access point to the beach in the event of an emergency and the upgraded jeep track would serve as an evacuation route. Rescue helicopters would be able to land and take on the beach if need be. A parking bay facility that will not be engulfed by dunes will be provided for public use, however, a low positive impact is expected from alternative site 2. Mitigation Measures

100

 Parking only permitted on parking facilities. No parking permitted in vegetation areas. No parking allowed on dunes. No driving on the beach. Measures must be put in place to ensure this is enforced.  Ensure waste receptacles are provided and ensure these are emptied on a regular basis to prevent windblown litter.  Ensure any litter at facility and immediate surrounds is picked up by staff (e.g. security guard could be assigned this duty).  Ensure ablution facilities are maintained.  Ensure security is maintained at new parking facility.  Provide signs to direct public to the beach along footpath and ramp.  No walking through vegetation allowed by visitors – only existing footpaths and roads may be used.  Signs placed around parking bay facility – no fires, no litter, encourage use cigarette butts / burning substances to be extinguished and disposed no removal of any fauna / flora, no walking through vegetation allowed, dogs on leads etc.  Educational boards may put on display at facility to educate public about sensitive flora and fauna in area (including dunes). Impact on visitors, Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation character and “sense of Positive Impact Positive Impact place” Spatial Activity Specific 1 Activity Specific 1

Duration Medium Long term 5 Medium Long term 5 Frequency Seldom 3 Seldom 3 Intensity Low 1 Low 1 Degree Medium 8 Medium 8 Consequence Medium 9 Medium 9

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Slim 1 Slim 1 Significance Low 10 Low 10 Management Unlikely Confidence High

Aspect: Stormwater, water, waste and sewage management Direct Impact 5: Impact on social and natural environment Description of impact Site 2 is a small and relatively flat area. The impact from stormwater is considered to be negligible if the facility is designed to follow natural contour lines and allow for appropriate storm water. Water for the toilet block would be sourced from the NMBM main water supply pipeline nearby. Impact on water use is considered negligible as water is currently provided to the existing facilities and the NMBM have indicated that supply will not be a problem. The new toilet block will be equipped with a conservancy tank. This system has been successful at the existing parking bay facility. General waste and litter will be managed through the provision of waste receptacles at the proposed parking bay facility. The waste receptacles will be emptied and removed offsite by the NMBM and disposed of at a licensed NMBM waste site. With appropriate mitigation measures in place, there is likely to be negligible impact. Mitigation Measures  Only closed sanitation systems to be allowed (e.g. conservancy tanks)  Ensure ablution facilities are maintained. Ensure conservancy tanks are serviced on a regular basis.  Ensure appropriate storm water control mechanisms are implemented during the construction phase.  Ensure maintenance of storm water control mechanisms as required.  Road must be upgraded to ensure that good drainage occurs and to ensure the road remains accessible on a year round basis. Road maintenance should be undertaken on a regular basis.  Ensure maintenance of water pipe as required.  Ensure waste receptacles are provided and ensure these are emptied on a regular basis to prevent windblown litter.  Ensure any litter at facility and immediate surrounds is picked up by staff (e.g. security guard could be assigned this duty).  Ensure hazardous waste is disposed of at an appropriate licensed waste facility. Impact on social and natural Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation environment Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Activity Specific 1 Activity Specific 1

Duration Very short term 1 Very short term 1 Frequency Rarely 1 Rarely 1 Intensity Low 1 Low 1 Severity Negligible 3 Negligible 3 Consequence Negligible 4 Negligible 4

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Negligible 2 Negligible 1 Significance Low 6 Negligible 5 101

Mitigation Possible Confidence High

Aspect: Parking facility Direct Impact 6: Traffic impact Description of impact The parking bay will be ~2500 m² and should be able to accommodate parking for roughly 130 vehicles. Visitation to the beach increases on weekends and during peak holiday season (particularly December holiday period). A traffic impact may be experienced during peak visitation times. If parking space runs out visitors will be forced to park alongside Sardinia Bay road which may cause congestion when visitors are trying to enter / exit the parking bay area. The design of the upgraded road in the reserve will prevent visitors parking alongside it and a boom will be placed to prevent visitors from driving further into the reserve to park on the jeep track and / or vegetation. No mitigation measures are proposed to directly alleviate impacts caused from running out of parking space. If an impact is experienced it will be short lived. Mitigation Measures  Parking only permitted on parking facilities. No parking permitted in vegetation areas. No parking allowed on dunes. No driving on the beach. Measures must be put in place to ensure this is enforced. Traffic impact Overall impact significance without mitigation Overall impact significance with mitigation Negative Impact Negative Impact Spatial Activity Specific 1 Activity Specific 1

Duration Very Short term 1 Very Short term 1 Frequency Seldom 3 Seldom 3 Intensity Low to medium 2 Low to medium 2 Severity Low 6 Low 6 Consequence Low 7 Low 7

Impact Criteria Impact Probability Expected 5 Expected 5 Significance Medium 12 Medium 12 Mitigation Difficult Confidence High

Aspect: Fire Direct Impact 7: Damage to social, natural and equipment due to fire outbreak Description of impact Fires are crucial to fynbos vegetation. The optimal fire cycle for fynbos is between 10-14 years. A fire break should be maintained around the newly built facility so that controlled fires can continue to occur during the operational phase. Unintentional fires must however be avoided as this can impact negatively on the fynbos as well as on the social environment. The risk of fires in the area is high with major fires recorded in the area in 1996 and 2009. In order to protect the facilities from being destroyed as a result of an unintentional / controlled fire, a fire break with a width of at least 2 m where the site is close to the road and 5 m around the remaining perimeter of the facility would have to be cleared from natural vegetation and maintained, alternatively, a fire break can be burned annually. Mitigation Measures  Maintain fire break (2 - 5 meter clearance of vegetation or annually burnt)  Fire-fighting equipment must be available and readily accessible at parking facility. Fire-fighting emergency number must be on display.  Ensure waste receptacles are provided and ensure these are emptied on a regular basis to prevent windblown litter.  Ensure any litter at facility and immediate surrounds is picked up by staff (e.g. security guard could be assigned this duty).  Signs placed around parking bay facility – no fires, no litter, encourage use cigarette butts / burning substances to be extinguished and disposed no removal of any fauna / flora, no walking through vegetation allowed, dogs on leads etc.  If a fire is detected it must be attended to immediately. Damage to social, natural Overall impact significance without Overall impact significance with and equipment due to fire mitigation mitigation outbreak Negative Impact Negative Impact

Spatial Municipal 4 Activity Specific 1 Duration Very short 1 Very Short 1 Frequency Continuous 6 Continuous 6 Impact Criteria Intensity Very High 6 Low 1 102

Severity High 13 Medium 7 Consequence High 17 Low 8 Probability Expected 5 Slight 2 Significance High 22 Low 10 Management Likely Confidence High

Indirect Impacts None identified for operational phase.

Cumulative Impacts None identified for operational phase.

103

Operational Phase – No Go Alternative Direct Impacts Aspect: Use of current upper car park facility Direct Impact 1: Impact on indigenous vegetation and dunes Description of impact A portion of the reserve will be not be changed into a parking bay facility (~2500 m²) and the jeep track will not be upgraded to a 6 metre wide road. There will be no area provided to the lifesavers for development of a new clubhouse. The parking bay facility currently used will continue to be engulfed by moving sand dunes. It is not feasible to continuously move the sand from the upper car park and it is also illegal to interfere with natural dune processes. The no-go option provides no solutions and could lead to environmental damage. The road to the lower parking area has been engulfed and the dune will continue to encroach on the upper car park facility, decreasing the parking capacity of the beach and resulting in people parking their cars wherever they can find space and visitors will continue walking through the bush, over the dune and over dune vegetation to get to the beach. .

Aspect: Use of current upper car park facility Direct Impact 3: Traffic impact Description of impact The parking bay facility currently used will continue to be engulfed by moving sand dunes. It is not feasible to continuously move the sand from the upper car park and it is also illegal to interfere with natural dune processes. Traffic congestion is likely to be experienced on weekends and during peak holiday. The parking problem will be exacerbated as the dune encroaches on the parking area, decreasing the parking capacity and resulting in people parking their cars wherever they can find space.

Indirect Impacts None identified

Decommissioning and closure Phase Alternative (preferred alternative) This phase is not applicable to the proposed development.

104

3. 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.

Alternative Site 1

Alternative site 1 is situated within a local authority reserve and is a protected area. The parking bay is proposed to be 2500 m2. Site 1 has a bigger development footprint (4600) than site 2 (1600) due to the proposed gravel road covering a distance of ~460 metres.

In comparison to alternative site 2, alternative site 1 has lower species richness (31), and a relatively weaker presence of SCC’s. The removal of indigenous vegetation required for construction to commence is expected to result in an impact of medium significance before mitigation and of low significance after mitigation. The impact regarding direct loss of vegetation is a permanent impact.

Change in land use is the most significant impact expected during the construction phase. A portion of the reserve will be changed into a parking bay facility (~2500 m²) and 460 meters of the jeep track will be upgraded to a 6 metre wide road. The change in land use from natural area to institutional use is not desirable, however, in order to offer the public a parking bay facility that is not likely to be engulfed by moving sand dunes, the conversion of a portion of natural area is necessary. The impact is expected to be negative with a medium significance. No mitigation is possible and the impact is likely to be permanent.

With the occurrence of fynbos, fire is common and a fire started unintentionally during construction would spread rapidly and could damage construction materials and provide a safety risk to surrounding wildlife and construction personnel. The impact on the social and natural environment as a result of a fire will be a negative impact with a high significance if no measures are in place to prevent the occurrence of fires and attend to accidental fires; however, with mitigation measures in place, it is not likely that an accidental fire will occur during construction phase. Fires are crucial to fynbos vegetation with the optimal fire cycle for fynbos being between 10-14 years. A fire break should be maintained around the newly built facility so that controlled fires can continue to occur during the operational phase. The fire break (5 metre around perimeter of parking bay) will result in the removal of a further 1200 m² of indigenous vegetation. With mitigation measures in place, the impact of fire is predicted to be of low significance. However, with no mitigation measures, fires can have an impact of high significance and therefore it is extremely important to ensure mitigation measures in this regard are implemented.

A high number of fauna species are expected to occur on alternative site 1 as well as in the immediate surrounding area. No species regarded as critically endangered or endangered has been mapped within the Sardinia Bay area. Species regarded as vulnerable and near threatened may occur in the area (IUCN Red List of threatened species, Version 3.1).However, the area proposed for development is small (~4100 m²) and it is anticipated that most of the fauna (particularly fast moving reptiles, avifauna and mammals) currently inhabiting the site will move off the site when vegetation clearing commences. The surrounding 105

area will offer suitable forage and shelter to the disturbed fauna. The impact on fauna during the construction phase is likely to occur and expected to be of a low significance with mitigation measures in place.

During the operation of the parking bay, site 1 is expected to have a medium impact on flora and fauna before and after mitigation as it will be a permanent structure situated 450 metres inside the reserve and therefore likely to be more intrusive on the movement of fauna than site 2. However the locality of the site and existing footpaths and ramp to guide visitors onto the beach will help to prevent additional disturbance to flora and fauna in the reserve.

The soil (Arenosol (Ar) (sandy soil)) is considered to moderately susceptible to water erosion and highly susceptible to wind erosion. The impact is negative with a medium significance before mitigation. However with mitigation measures in place, the impact is predicted to be low.

No significant archaeological remains were observed at site 1, but it is possible that sites/materials may be covered by sand and vegetation. However, with mitigation measures in place, the impact on heritage resources is expected to be of a low significance.

Pollution of soil, air, surface water and groundwater as a result of construction activities can be easily mitigated and an impact of a low significance is expected. The impact as a result of stormwater, water, waste and sewage management during the operational phase is expected to be negligible with mitigation measures in place.

The impact on topography as result of construction is expected to be low if the design of the parking bay follows natural contour lines and with appropriate erosion and storm water control measures in place.

The impact on the dune as a result of demolishing of the upper car park area during the construction phase is expected to be of a low significance with mitigation measures in place. The impact on the dune during the operational phase is expected to result in a negative impact of low significance with mitigation measures in place. Alternative site 1 parking bay will be situated ~300 meters from the beach and a footpath and ramp to “guide” visitors on to the beach is already in place which will make it easier to prevent visitors walking over the dune to get to the beach and will also prevent users parking / driving on the dune. Less mobility on the dune will encourage revegetation (Carpobrotus and Chrysanthemoides monilifera) and could allow for the eventual stabilization of the dune. Vegetation will not establish if the dune is constantly walked over.

The impact of dune movement on the newly built facilities has a slim probability of occurring. Alternative site 1 is situated ~50 metres from the edge of the escarpment. The sand dunes are moving in an east- north-eastward direction at approximately 2 - 5 metres per year and are beginning to engulf the existing upper car park. The dunes are gradually moving up slope to the east of the lower car park and are predicted to head north west and close the lower parking bay naturally. The orientation of the dunes is directed mainly by the prevailing south westerly winds. Easterly winds may become significant in spring and summer and north westerlies in autumn and winter. It is highly unlikely that the dunes will “walk” in a northerly direction up the escarpment face and impact on the alternative site 1 parking facility.

106

Noise impacts and visual impacts are expected to be of a low significance before and after mitigation measures are implemented.

Traffic impacts during construction phase are expected to be of a medium significance before mitigation and low significance after mitigation. Traffic impacts of medium significance may occur during operational phase during peak season however the impacts are expected to be very short lived.

There are a small number of scattered aliens occurring on the proposed site which will be removed as a result of the development which will result in a positive impact with negligible significance before mitigation and low significance after mitigation. Mitigation is necessary to avoid an increase in alien invasive vegetation in the area and consequently, a negative impact.

20 - 30 unskilled employment positions will be created as a result of the construction phase of the development; this will result in a positive impact with negligible significance before mitigation and low significance after mitigation.

The impact of the operation of the parking bay facility on the visitors and “sense of place” is expected to be positive with a medium significance before and after measures are put in place to enhance the positive impact. Alternative site 1 parking bay will be situated at the edge of the escarpment ~300 meters from the beach and a footpath and ramp to “guide” visitors on to the beach is already in place. The site offers an easy and short walk to the beach. Alternative site 1 will be a convenient look-out point for dolphin spotting and general sea-watching. Ablution facilities will be closer than those at site 2 and more likely to be used on a regular basis. The lifesavers house would be built on higher ground at the edge of the escarpment; the swimming beach will be in the line of sight and lifesavers will benefit from the shorter walk. The existing boardwalk access point will allow for the improved access to the beach in the event of an emergency and the upgraded jeep track would conveniently serve as an evacuation route. Rescue helicopters would be able to land and take off from the beach if need be. The public will be provided a parking bay facility that is unlikely to be engulfed by the dune and which will allow them access to the beach. The alternative site 1 parking facility will assist to maintain and possibly increase the popularity of the beach.

Alternative Site 2 Site Alternatives 1 and 2 are situated in a very similar environment (situated within a local authority reserve and protected area). Site 2 has a smaller development footprint (2600 m2) as the proposed gravel road will cover a distance of only ~20 metres. The impacts expected as a result of the construction and operational phases of the proposed development do not differ significantly between the two site alternatives. The only construction phase impact expected to occur at site 2 that differs from those construction phase impacts at site 1 is the impact on flora. The operational phase impact that differs from those at site 1 includes the impact on dunes, fauna and flora and sense of place.

With regards to the construction phase, change in land use will result in a permanent negative impact with medium significance. With mitigation measures in place, it is not likely that an accidental fire will occur during construction phase. The predicted impact on fauna during the construction phase does not

107

differ from that of site 1; the impact is expected to be of a low significance with mitigation measures in place. The predicted impact regarding the erosion of soil (Arenosol (Ar) (sandy soil)) is expected to be of low significance after mitigation. The impact on heritage resources at site 2 is expected to of a low significance after mitigation measures are in place, as for site 1. No significant archaeological remains were observed but it is possible that sites/materials may be covered by sand and vegetation. Pollution of soil, air, surface water and groundwater as a result of construction activities can be easily mitigated and an impact of a low significance is expected. Traffic impacts during construction phase are expected to be of low significance after mitigation. The impact on topography is expected to be low with mitigation measures in place. The impact on the dune as a result of demolishing of the upper car park area is expected to be of a low significance with mitigation measures in place. Noise impacts and visual impacts are expected to be of a low significance before and after mitigation measures are implemented. Removal of the small number of scattered aliens will result in a positive impact with low significance after mitigation. Employment opportunities (20 - 30 unskilled employment positions) will result in a positive impact with low significance after mitigation.

In comparison to alternative site 1, Site Alternative 2 has higher species richness, with 37 plant species identified, and a strong, significant presence of SCC’s i.e. dense populations of Erica glumiflora and E. chloroloma. Therefore, the removal of indigenous vegetation during the construction phase is expected to result in an impact of medium high significance before mitigation and of medium significance after mitigation even though only a small area is required for the road upgrade (~70 m²). The impact regarding direct loss of vegetation is a permanent impact. Site 1 is expected to have an impact of lower significance after mitigation measures are in place.

The impact as a result of stormwater, water, and waste and sewage management during the operational phase is expected to be negligible with mitigation measures in place. The impact of the moving dune on the new facilities has a slim probability of occurring as the site is situated more than 230 meters north of the walking dune and is not in the path of the dune. Traffic impacts of medium significance may occur during operational phase during peak season however the impacts are expected to be very short lived. Fynbos is fire dependent and therefore a fire break is recommended around site 2 perimeter (width of 2 meters near roads and 5 meters on the other edges) so that controlled fires can continue to occur and to protect the facilities in the case of an accidental fire. With mitigation measures in place the impact of fire is expected to be of low significance.

During operational phase the impact on fauna and flora is expected to be of a medium high significance before mitigation and of medium significance if mitigation measures are successful. However, mitigation at site 2 will be difficult to implement as the parking facility is situated ~600 meters from the beach and presents options for visitors to get to the beach. Visitors may walk along the jeep track, then along the footpath to the ramp and onto the beach. Visitors may walk down Sardinia bay road and over dune onto the beach, or visitors may attempt to walk through the vegetation in the reserve. Visitors may therefore cause ongoing disturbance to fauna and flora in the in the reserve in their attempt to get to the beach. Preventing visitors from parking on / walking through vegetation and dunes may be a difficult task as only one security guard is on duty at the facility.

108

Site 2 is expected to have a negative impact on dunes with a medium significance before and after mitigation. This is rated higher than site 1 (low significance) due to the fact that visitors may still opt to walk over the foredune to get to the beach. Mitigation to prevent this is very difficult to implement. Vegetation will not easily establish if the dune is constantly walked over. Alternative 2 will likely maintain the status quo of the current situation (existing upper car park facility) with regards to impact on the foredune.

With regards to the impact of the facility during operational phase on the visitors and “sense of place” the impact is expected to be positive as a parking bay facility that will not be engulfed by dunes will be provided for public use, however, a positive impact of low significance is expected from alternative site 2. Alternative site 2 parking bay will be situated ~600 meters from the beach. The site will offer a longer walk (particularly for children and elderly people) to the beach, and visitors may still opt to walk over the foredune to enjoy the beach. Site 2 is not likely to increase the popularity of the beach and may result in people parking alongside Sardinia Bay road to lessen the walking distance. The beach cannot be seen from alternative site 2 and therefore the sense of place of visiting a beach is reduced. Ablution facilities will be further away and not likely to be used on a regular basis (visitors are likely to relieve themselves on the beach, in the sea etc.). The lifesavers house will be further away and there will be no line of sight between the swimming beach and clubhouse. In this regard, alternative site 1 is expected to have a higher positive impact than site 2.

No-go alternative (compulsory) A portion of the reserve will be not be changed into a parking bay facility (~2500 m²) and the jeep track will not be upgraded to a 6 metre wide road. There will be no impact on indigenous fauna and flora as a result of a new parking facility and there will be no impact as a result of change in land use. . No temporary employment positions created. No change in topography will occur. There will be no noise, visual or heritage impacts. There will be no area provided to the lifesavers for development of a new clubhouse.

The road to the lower parking area has been engulfed by sand dunes. It is not feasible to continuously move the sand from the upper car park and it is also illegal to interfere with natural dune processes. There is likely to be decreased access to Sardinia bay beach. The parking bay facility currently used will continue to be engulfed by moving sand dunes. The parking problem and traffic congestion experienced on weekends and during peak holiday seasons will be exacerbated as the dune encroaches on the parking area, decreasing the parking capacity and resulting in people parking their cars wherever they can find space. Visitors will continue walking through the bush, over the dune and over dune vegetation to get to the beach. Difficult access to the beach by climbing the steep dune to get to the beach may also cause visitors to choose another beach to visit. Access to one of the most scenic beaches in Port Elizabeth will be very difficult and the popularity of the beach is likely to decrease. The no-go option provides no solutions and could lead to environmental damage.

109

SECTION E. RECOMMENDATIONS OF PRACTITIONER

Is the information contained in this report and the documentation YES NO attached hereto 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): The EMPr is attached as Appendix F.

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: Basic environmental awareness training to be provided to all personnel prior to the start of construction and an environmental code of conduct for staff must be established. All construction activities are to be monitored by an ECO according to the stipulations of the EMPr. A complaints register should be kept to document complaints and the corrective action taken during construction and operation of the site.

Mitigation measures must be implemented to ensure minimal disturbance to fauna and flora within the reserve area. The vegetation on site is fynbos and disturbance of the vegetation is to be limited to that which is absolutely necessary. Laydown / work / parking areas must be designated. It is recommended that areas previously disturbed (jeep track / upgraded road / upper car park area) be used as laydown / work / parking areas to prevent unnecessary disturbance to vegetation outside the development footprint. Adjacent areas and dunes may not be used for the stockpiling of any materials. No disturbance to dunes or dune vegetation is permitted when demolition activities take place. Fauna and flora Species of Special Concern (SSCs) identified on site require permits from the DEDEAT prior to their removal. Contractual fines to be imposed on any employee who is found attempting to harm / remove indigenous fauna and / or flora. Existing roads, tracks and paths must be made use of; no new roads, tracks and paths are permitted to be created. Movement of workers must be limited to areas under construction and access to the surrounding reserve area must be regulated and designated as no-go areas. All identified species of special concern, not cleared for construction, must be included in designated no go areas and dunes must be designated as no go areas.

Mitigation measures must be implemented to ensure minimal erosion and efficient rehabilitation of disturbed areas within the reserve area. When indigenous vegetation is removed, preserve the seeds and topsoil and spread the topsoil over areas requiring revegetation as soon as possible. Avoid replanting of the indigenous vegetation. The surrounding areas are densely vegetated and replanting may cause disturbance to established vegetation. Suitable species such as Carpobrotus

110

sp. should be planted on disturbed / erodible areas at construction / demolition sites to bind soil and facilitate recruitment.

An alien invasive management programme should be implemented during the construction phase and continue during the operational phase. Removal of alien invasive species must take place when site clearing commences and soil removed in which alien vegetation was growing is to be disposed off-site. Visual inspection of stockpiled soils must take place to ensure there is no alien vegetation regrowth. During operation visual inspections of the area surrounding the site must take place to ensure there is no alien vegetation regrowth. Aliens observed must be removed.

Fires are important to fynbos. It is critical that an emergency fire management plan be designed and implemented prior the commencement of construction and updated to be specific for the operational phase. Vegetation litter is to be removed off site to reduce fire risk. No fires are permitted on site during construction or operation. Maintain a fire break around the perimeter of the parking bay facility during operational phase.

A soil management plan should be implemented to ensure appropriate stockpiling of topsoil and subsoil and appropriate management of soils during rehabilitation of the site post construction.

It is important that an erosion and storm water management plan be implemented prior to the start of construction and continues during operation of the site. Appropriate erosion and storm water control mechanisms must be implemented. The parking bay and gravel road is to be designed to facilitate good drainage and ensure the road remains accessible on a year round basis. Road upgrade and pipe installation to be monitored during construction and operation for erosion and pooling. Road maintenance should be undertaken on a regular basis. Ensure maintenance of storm water control mechanisms as required. Ensure maintenance of water pipe as required.

Mitigation measures must be implemented to control dust generation during the construction phase. As necessary, dampen exposed soil areas on very windy days (>45 km/hr wind speeds). Topsoil and soil stockpiles should be covered, wetted or otherwise stabilised to prevent wind erosion and dust generation. During strong wind conditions it may be necessary to halt construction operations until conditions improve.

A sewage management plan for the construction and operational phase must be implemented. Sufficient closed sanitation facilities are to be provided and suitably maintained for the duration of construction. Only closed sanitation systems to be allowed (e.g. conservancy tanks) during operational phase; the conservancy tanks are to be serviced and the ablution facilities maintained on a regular basis.

111

A waste management plan is to be implemented for the construction and operation of the site. During construction, adequate covered receptacles for disposal of hazardous waste and general waste are to be provided. Materials from demolition and excavation activities may be reused for levelling and levelling is only permitted where vegetation is cleared for development. Materials not re-used / recycled are to be removed as quickly as possible from the area and disposed at an appropriately licensed waste site. No dumping of any materials on surrounding vegetation / dune areas is allowed. Burying of demolition materials may occur on site only if instructed / authorised to do so from relevant authorities. During operations general waste and litter is to be managed through the provision of waste receptacles at the proposed parking bay facility and the receptacles are to be emptied and removed offsite by the NMBM and disposed of at a licensed waste site.

Management measures must be implemented to ensure impacts on traffic are avoided during the construction and operational phases. A labour management plan should be implemented to enhance the positive impact; ensure the labour is sourced locally.

Management measures must be implemented to ensure impacts on heritage resources are avoided. If heritage resources are unearthed during construction, the find brought to the immediate attention of the developer and all work has to be stopped immediately and reported to the archaeologist at the Albany Museum or to the Eastern Cape Provincial Heritage Resources Authority. Sufficient time should be allowed to investigate and to remove/collect such material. Any destruction / removal of artefact can only be allowed once a permit is obtained from the South African Heritage Resources Agency and the site has been mapped and noted.

During the operational phase, educational posters should be placed to educate visitors about the sensitivity of the area including types of fauna, flora and dune types. Signage should also be placed to warn visitors what is and is not permitted within the area i.e. no fires, burning substances to be extinguished and disposed of, no removal of any fauna / flora, no walking through vegetation allowed, dogs on leads, no parking on surrounding vegetation / dunes no driving on beach etc. Signage should be placed to direct people to beach along existing footpaths and ramp; this could assist to help vegetation regrowth and dune stabilisation in the long term.

Construction of a new car park, public toilet facility and an adequate clubhouse for lifeguards has been identified as a need and priority in the NMBM Draft Integrated Development Plan, 2011 – 2016. Taking into consideration impacts on the natural and social environment arising from the construction and operational phases of the proposed development, the environmentally preferred site is alternative site 1.

112

SECTION F: APPENDICES

The following appendixes must be attached as appropriate:

Appendix A: Site Plan (s)

Appendix B: Photographs

Appendix C: Facility Illustrations Appendix D: Specialist Assessment Appendix D1: Vegetation Assessment Appendix D2: Archaeological Impact Assessment Appendix D3: Paleontology Desktop study Appendix D4: Wetland Assessment Appendix E: Comments and Response report and details of public participation Appendix E1: Notices Appendix E2: Adverts Appendix E3: Posters Appendix E4: Background Information Document Appendix E5: IAP Register Appendix E6: Land surveyor Map Appendix F: Environmental Management Programme (EMPr) Appendix G: Other information Appendix G1: Previous NEMA authorisations

113