ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
APPLICATION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION FOR THE PROPOSED TOWNSHIP ESTABLISHMENT TO BE KNOWN AS ZANDSPRUIT PHASE II ON PORTIONS 16, 23, 42, 47, 55, 56, 59, 60, 67, 68, 69, 72, 73, 76, 104, 160 & 175 OF THE FARM ZANDSPRUIT 191-IQ & AGRICULTURAL HOLDING 43 SONNEDAL A.H, WITHIN THE CITY OF JOHANNESBURG METROPOLITAN MUNICIPALITY
GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT (GDARD)
DRAFT BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
Prepared on behalf of:
THE CITY OF JOHANNESBURG METROPOLITAN MUNICIPALITY Contact Person : Ms. Busi Molefe Physical Address : Roodepoort Ground Floor, Roodepoort Civic Centre, 100 Christiaan de Wet Road, Florida Park P.O. Box : Private Bag X 30, Roodepoort Postal Code : 1725
Telephone : 011 761 0135 E-mail : [email protected]
For review and approval by:
GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT 11 Diagonal Street Diamond Building Newtown Johannesburg 2000
Tel: (011) 240 2500 Fax: (011) 240 2700
MAY 2017
A Report Compiled by:
DELRON CONSULTING (Pty) Ltd P.O. Box 177 WOODLANDS 0072
Mobile: 082 571 5396 Fax: 086 588 4242
Director – P De Lange BL (UP) Pr LArch SA Mobile: +27 82 571 5396 Fax: +27 86 588 4242 Email: [email protected] P.O. Box 177 Woodlands 0072 Date May 2017 DRAFT BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT: Application for Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Township Establishment to be known as Zandspruit Phase II on Document Title Portions 16, 23, 42, 47, 55, 56, 59, 60, 67, 68, 69, 72, 73, 76, 104, 160 & 175 of the Farm Zandspruit 191-IQ & Agricultural Holding 43 Sonnedal A.H, within the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality Contact Person : Ms. Busi Molefe
Physical Address : Roodepoort Ground Floor, Roodepoort Civic Centre, 100 Christiaan de Wet Road, Florida Park The City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Proponent / Applicant Municipality P.O. Box : Private Bag X 30, Roodepoort Postal Code : 1725
Telephone : 011 761 0135 E-mail : [email protected] 11 Diagonal Street Diamond Building Newtown Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Johannesburg The Competent Authority Rural Development 2000
Tel: (011) 240 2500 Fax: (011) 240 2700 Authority Reference Number P.O. Box 177 WOODLANDS 0072 Environmental Assessment Delron Consulting (Pty) Ltd Practitioner Mobile: 082 571 5396 Fax: 086 588 4242 E-mail: [email protected] Revision Number: #0
Prepared / Checked by: P De Lange, C Mahlangu
Approved: Mr. P De Lange (BL (UP) Pr LArch SA)
Signature:
COPYRIGHT IS VESTED IN DELRON CONSULTING (PTY) LTD IN TERMS OF THE COPYRIGHT ACT (ACT 98 OF 1978) AND NO USE OR REPRODUCTION OR DUPLICATION THEREOF MAY OCCUR WITHOUT THE WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE AUTHOR
Page i Undertaking by the EAP
I, Pieter De Lange, working as an EAP at Delron Consulting (Pty) Ltd declare that:
All work undertaken relating to the proposed project was done as an independent consultant; I have the necessary expertise to conduct EIAs, including the required knowledge and understanding of any guidelines or policies that are relevant to the proposed activity; I have undertaken all the work and associated studies in an objective manner, even if the findings of these studies were not favourable to the project proponent; I have no vested interest, financial or otherwise, in the proposed project or the outcome thereof, apart from fair remuneration for the work undertaken; I have no vested interest, including any conflicts of interest, in either the proposed project or the studies conducted in respect of the proposed project, other than complying with the relevant required regulations; I have disclosed all material information in my possession that may have the potential to influence the competent authority’s decision and/or objectivity in terms of any reports, plans or documents related to the proposed project as required by the regulations; and I have included all comments and inputs provided by the Interested and Affected Parties during the Public Participation Process in this Basic Assessment Report.
Page ii APPLICATION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION FOR THE PROPOSED TOWNSHIP ESTABLISHMENT TO BE KNOWN AS ZANDSPRUIT PHASE II ON PORTIONS 16, 23, 42, 47, 55, 56, 59, 60, 67, 68, 69, 72, 73, 76, 104, 160 & 175 OF THE FARM ZANDSPRUIT 191-IQ & AGRICULTURAL HOLDING 43 SONNEDAL A.H, WITHIN THE CITY OF JOHANNESBURG METROPOLITAN MUNICIPALITY
BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION A: ACTIVITY INFORMATION ...... 1 1. PROPOSAL OR DEVELOPMENT DESCRIPTION ...... 1 2. APPLICABLE LEGISLATION, POLICIES AND/OR GUIDELINES ...... 9 3. ALTERNATIVES ...... 13 4. PHYSICAL SIZE OF THE ACTIVITY...... 16 5. SITE ACCESS ...... 17 6. LAYOUT OR ROUTE PLAN ...... 18 7. SITE PHOTOGRAPHS ...... 19 8. FACILITY ILLUSTRATION ...... 19 SECTION B: DESCRIPTION OF RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT ...... 20 1. PROPERTY DESCRIPTION...... 20 2. ACTIVITY POSITION...... 21 3. GRADIENT OF THE SITE ...... 22 4. LOCATION IN LANDSCAPE ...... 22 5. GROUNDWATER, SOIL AND GEOLOGICAL STABILITY OF THE SITE...... 22 6. AGRICULTURE ...... 25 7. GROUNDCOVER ...... 26 8. LAND USE CHARACTER OF SURROUNDING AREA...... 34 9. SOCIO-ECONOMIC CONTEXT ...... 35 10. CULTURAL/HISTORICAL FEATURES ...... 36 SECTION C: PUBLIC PARTICIPATION (SECTION 41) ...... 39 1. LOCAL AUTHORITY PARTICIPATION...... 39 2. CONSULTATION WITH OTHER STAKEHOLDERS...... 39 3. GENERAL PUBLIC PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS ...... 40 4. APPENDICES FOR PUBLIC PARTICIPATION...... 40 SECTION D: RESOURCE USE AND PROCESS DETAILS...... 42 1. WASTE, EFFLUENT & EMISSION MANAGEMENT...... 42 2. WATER USE...... 44 3. POWER SUPPLY ...... 44 4. ENERGY EFFICIENCY ...... 45
Page iii SECTION E: IMPACT ASSESSMENT...... 46 1. ISSUES RAISED BY INTERESTED & AFFECTED PARTIES ...... 46 2. IMPACTS THAT MAY RESULT FROM THE CONSTRUCTION & OPERATIONAL PHASE...... 46 3. IMPACTS THAT MAY RESULT FROM THE DECOMMISSIONING & CLOSURE PHASE ...... 78 4. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS...... 78 5. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT...... 79 6. IMPACT SUMMARY OF THE PROPOSAL OR PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE ...... 81 7. SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT TOOLS...... 84 8. RECOMMENDATION OF THE PRACTITIONER ...... 84 9. THE NEEDS AND DESIRABILITY OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT...... 86 10. THE PERIOD FOR WHICH THE ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION IS REQUIRED ...... 87 11. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME (EMPR)...... 87 SECTION F: APPENDIXES ...... 88
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Locality Plan: on Portions 16, 23, 42, 47, 55, 56, 59, 60, 67, 68, 69, 72, 73, 76, 104, 160 & 175 of the Farm Zandspruit 191-IQ & Agricultural Holding 43 Sonnedal A.H...... 2 Figure 2: Vegetation Units ...... 27 Figure 3: Wetland/Stream Areas with 30m Buffer Zone ...... 32 Figure 4: Environmental Sensitivity Map ...... 33
LIST OF APPENDIXES
A LOCALITY MAP B SITE PHOTOGRAPHS
C LAYOUT PLAN D FACILITY ILLUSTRATION
E PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
E.1 PROOF OF SITE NOTICE
E.2 WRITTEN NOTICES ISSUED
E.3 PROOF OF NEWSPAPER ADVERTISEMENTS
E.4 COMMUNICATIONS TO AND FROM I&APS
E.5 MINUTES OF ANY PUBLIC AND/OR STAKEHOLDER MEETINGS
E.6 COMMENTS AND RESPONSES REPORT
E.7 COMMENTS FROM I&APS ON BASIC ASSESSMENT (BA) REPORT
E.8 COMMENTS FROM I&APS ON AMENDMENTS TO THE BA REPORT
E.9 COPY OF THE REGISTER OF I&APS
Page iv E.10 LIST OF STATE DEPARTMENTS WATER USE LICENSE(S) AUTHORISATION, SAHRA INFORMATION, SERVICE LETTERS FROM F MUNICIPALITIES, WATER SUPPLY INFORMATION G TECHNICAL AND SPECIALIST REPORTS H EMPR I OTHER INFORMATION
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Environment The surroundings (biophysical, social and economic) within which humans exist and that are made up of: i. the land, water and atmosphere of the earth; ii. micro-organisms, plant and animal life; iii. any part or combination of (i) and (ii) and the interrelationships among and between them; and iv. the physical, chemical, aesthetic and cultural properties and conditions of the foregoing that influence human health and wellbeing.
Environmental Aspects Elements of an organization’s activities, products or services that can interact with the environment.
Environmental Refers to pollution, disturbance, resource depletion, loss of biodiversity, and other kinds of Degradation environmental damage; usually refers to damage occurring accidentally or intentionally as a result of human activities.
Environmental Impact A study of the environmental consequences of a proposed course of action. Assessment (EIA)
Environmental Impact An environmental change caused by some human act.
Environmental A document that provides procedures for mitigating and monitoring environmental impacts, Management Programme during the construction, operation and decommissioning phases. (EMP)
Land Use The various ways in which land may be employed or occupied. Planners compile, classify, study and analyse land use data for many purposes, including the identification of trends, the forecasting of space and infrastructure requirements, the provision of adequate land area for necessary types of land use, and the development or revision of comprehensive plans and land use regulations.
Public Participation A process of involving the public in order to identify needs, address concerns, in order to Process contribute to more informed decision making relating to a proposed project, programme or development.
Registered Interested and In relation to an application, means an interested and affected party whose name is recorded Affected Party in the register opened for that application.
Watercourse a) A river or spring;
Page v b) A natural channel in which water flows regularly or intermittently; c) A wetland, lake or dam into which, or from which, water flows, and d) Any collection of water which the Minister may, by notice in the Gazette, declare to be watercourse, and a reference to a watercourse includes, where relevant, its bed and banks.
Wetland It is a land area that is saturated with water, either permanently or seasonally, such that it takes on the characteristics of a distinct ecosystem. Primarily, the factor that distinguishes wetlands from other land forms or water bodies is the characteristic vegetation that is adapted to its unique soil conditions. Wetlands consist primarily of hydric soil, which supports aquatic plants.
ABBREVIATIONS
BAR Basic Assessment Report BID Background Information Document CBA Critical Biodiversity Area CoJMM The City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality CRR Comments and Responses Report DBAR Draft Basic Assessment Report DEA Department of Environmental Affairs DEIR Draft Environmental Impact Report DMR Department of Mineral Resources DSR Draft Scoping Report DWA Department of Water Affairs EA Environmental Authorisation EAP Environmental Assessment Practitioner EAPSA Interim Certification Board of the Environmental Assessment Practitioners of South Africa ECO Environmental Control Officer EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EIR Environmental Impact Report EMP Environmental Management Programme EMS Environmental Management System FEIR Final Environmental Impact Report FSR Final Scoping Report GA General Authorisation GDARD Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development GIS Geographical Information System GN Government Notice ha Hectare HIA Heritage Impact Assessment I&AP Interested and Affected Party IDP Integrated Development Plan IWULA Integrated Water Use License Application
Page vi MAR Mean annual rainfall MPRDA Minerals & Petroleum Resources Development Act (Act 28 of 2002) NEMA National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act 107 of 1998) NEMBA National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (Act 10 of 2004) NEM:AQA National Environmental Management Act: Air Quality Act, 2004 (Act 39 of 2004) NEM:WA National Environmental Management: Waste Act, 2008 (Act 59 of 2008) NHRA National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act 25 of 1999) NWA National Water Act, 1998 (Act 36 of 1998) PoS Plan of Study PPP Public Participation Process RSDF Regional Spatial Development Framework SAHRA South African Heritage Resources Agency SDF Spatial Development Framework SIA Social Impact Assessment SR Scoping Report TIA Traffic Impact Assessment ToR Terms of Reference VIA Visual Impact Assessment WML Waste Management License WWTW Wastewater Treatment Works
Page vii Basic Assessment Report in terms of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998), as amended, and the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2014 (Version 1)
Kindly note that:
1. This Basic Assessment Report is the standard report required by GDARD in terms of the EIA Regulations, 2014.
2. This application form is current as of 8 December 2014. It is the responsibility of the EAP to ascertain whether subsequent versions of the form have been published or produced by the competent authority.
3. A draft Basic Assessment Report must be submitted, for purposes of comments within a period of thirty (30) days, to all State Departments administering a law relating to a matter likely to be affected by the activity to be undertaken.
4. A draft Basic Assessment Report (1 hard copy and two CD’s) must be submitted, for purposes of comments within a period of thirty (30) days, to a Competent Authority empowered in terms of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998), as amended to consider and decide on the application.
5. Five (5) copies (3 hard copies and 2 CDs-PDF) of the final report and attachments must be handed in at offices of the relevant competent authority, as detailed below.
6. 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.
7. Selected boxes must be indicated by a cross and, when the form is completed electronically, must also be highlighted.
8. An incomplete report may lead to an application for environmental authorisation being refused.
9. Any report that does not contain a titled and dated full colour large scale layout plan of the proposed activities including a coherent legend, overlain with the sensitivities found on site may lead to an application for environmental authorisation being refused.
10. 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 application for environmental authorisation being refused.
11. No faxed or e-mailed reports will be accepted. Only hand delivered or posted applications will be accepted.
12. Unless protected by law, and clearly indicated as such, all information filled in on this application will become public information on receipt by the competent authority. The applicant/EAP must provide any interested and affected party with the information contained in this application on request, during any stage of the application process.
13. Although pre-application meeting with the Competent Authority is optional, applicants are advised to have these meetings prior to submission of application to seek guidance from the Competent Authority.
DEPARTMENTAL DETAILS
Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Attention: Administrative Unit of the of the Environmental Affairs Branch P.O. Box 8769 Johannesburg 2000
Administrative Unit of the of the Environmental Affairs Branch Ground floor Diamond Building 11 Diagonal Street, Johannesburg
Administrative Unit telephone number: (011) 240 3377 Department central telephone number: (011) 240 2500
Page viii (For official use only)
NEAS Reference Number:
File Reference Number:
Application Number:
Date Received:
If this BAR has not been submitted within 90 days of receipt of the application by the competent authority and permission was not requested to submit within 140 days, please indicate the reasons for not submitting within time frame. Not Applicable
Is a closure plan applicable for this application and has it been included in this report? No if not, state reasons for not including the closure plan. Not Applicable
Has a draft report for this application been submitted to a competent authority and all State Departments Yes administering a law relating to a matter likely to be affected as a result of this activity?
Is a list of the State Departments referred to above attached to this report including their full contact details and contact person? Yes
Refer to Appendix E.10
If no, state reasons for not attaching the list. Not Applicable
Have State Departments including the competent authority commented? No
If no, why? This application is the first Draft Basic Assessment Report submitted.
Page ix SECTION A: ACTIVITY INFORMATION
1. PROPOSAL OR DEVELOPMENT DESCRIPTION
1.1 Project Title (must be the same name as per application form):
Application for Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Township Establishment to be known as Zandspruit Phase II on Portions 16, 23, 42, 47, 55, 56, 59, 60, 67, 68, 69, 72, 73, 76, 104, 160 & 175 of the Farm Zandspruit 191-IQ & Agricultural Holding 43 Sonnedal A.H, within the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality
1.2 Development Description
The City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality (CoJMM) (the Applicant) proposes the development of a mixed-use township development to be known as “Zandspruit Phase II” on Portions 16, 23, 42, 47, 55, 56, 59, 60, 67, 68, 69, 72, 73, 76, 104, 160 & 175 of the Farm Zandspruit 191-IQ & Agricultural Holding 43 Sonnedal A.H, within the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality, hereafter refer to as the subject property.
The Zandspruit informal settlement have a long history of service delivery protests. The City of Johannesburg has secured a number of land parcels of the farm Zandspruit 191-IQ with the intention to be developed as an integrated human settlement development. The Zandspruit Integrated Human Settlement Development is planned to create a holistic, integrated and sustainable mixed-use development that will cater for the gap and rental markets, as well as for the betterment of the critical masses who currently reside in this marginalized area of the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality. It is envisaged that the development will enable the creation a truly mixed-use living environment with varying housing typologies and finance options.
In terms of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act 107 of 1998) (as amended) (herein referred to as NEMA), the proposed development triggers a suite of activities which require authorisation from the competent environmental authority, namely the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (GDARD).
CoJ’s representative Aurecon South Africa (Pty) Ltd, appointed Delron Consulting (Pty) Ltd as the project’s independent Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP) so as to assist in undertaking the process as prescribed in the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (NEMA, 1998) (Act 107 of 1998). This Basic Assessment Report forms part of the application for environmental authorisation for the proposed development.
The application is made in terms of the 2014 EIA Regulations (as amended) under the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998) (NEMA).
CoJMM proposes the development of a township, namely:
“Zandspruit Phase II” on Portions 16, 23, 42, 47, 55, 56, 59, 60, 67, 68, 69, 72, 73, 76, 104, 160 & 175 of the Farm Zandspruit 191-IQ & Agricultural Holding 43 Sonnedal A.H, within the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality.
The land earmarked for the Zandspruit Integrated Human Settlement Development that will accommodate the upgraded Zandspruit informal settlement is immediately adjacent to the existing informal settlement, in the western extents of the City of Joburg Metropolitan Municipality.
Page 1 Zandspruit Phase II is situated northwest of Johannesburg Central Business District (CBD) in Roodepoort, Gauteng Province. The development area boundaries are: Beyer’s Naude (M5), Marina Street, and the Zandspruit stream. The Zandspruit stream is adjacent to Jackal Creek Golf Estate and Cosmo City Extension 3.
The proposed development will take place on a site assembly consisting of 18 portions of the Farm Zandspruit 191-IQ, which measures approximately 128,82 hectares. The development area will take up approx. 95 ha (75 % of the total land area, leaving open space measuring some 33,78 ha undeveloped.
Already developed / Portions 23 (partially), 47, 59, 60, 73, 76, & 175 Brown Field Approx. 45 ha transformed of the Farm Zandspruit 191-IQ Portions 16, 23, 42, 55, 56, 67, 68, 69, 72, 104 Vacant / Green Field and 160 of the Farm Zandspruit 191-IQ & Approx. 83 ha Undeveloped Agricultural Holding 43 Sonnedal A.H
Brown Field Sites (Already developed / transformed) Portions 23 (partially), 47, 59, 60, 73, 76, & 175 of the Farm Zandspruit 191-IQ
Figure 1: Locality Plan: on Portions 16, 23, 42, 47, 55, 56, 59, 60, 67, 68, 69, 72, 73, 76, 104, 160 & 175 of the Farm Zandspruit 191-IQ & Agricultural Holding 43 Sonnedal A.H
1.2.1 Development Proposal
The development proposal is to develop a township comprising (refer to Appendix C for Layout Plan):
Page 2 S CO N % LAN A ( T uni G r Z H R D AN U o o V L O E E e % F f f A N E ts D N n I A SR D A G U I R s o I T ( / N R U N H m ( i A f SI H S H t G E SE I y T G ² T a a Z ) A ) S ) E E
Residential 2 Freestanding 150 sqm 17.685 60 1179 NA 50% 2 storey 14% 13% (bonded) Residential Residential 3 90 sqm Row housing 1.16 80 93 NA 70% 2 storey 1% 1% Residential 4 na BNG Walk-ups 14.99 210 3147 1.5 50% 4 storey 224785.7 12% 35% (Subsidised) Residential 4 (priv Walk-up na 5.00 210 1049 1.5 50% 4 storey 74928.57 4% 12% rental) apartments Residential 4 (social Walk-up na 5.00 210 1049 1.5 50% 4 storey 74928.57 4% 12% housing) apartments Walk-up Residential 4 (CRU) na 5.00 210 1049 1.5 50% 5 storey 74928.57 4% 12% apartments Community Institutional na 7.44 na na 0.5 50% 2 storey 37208.14 6% Centre Transportation Municipal na 1.21 na na 0.5 50% 2 storey 6046.215 1% Facility Primary and Educational na Secondary 3.44 na na 0.5 40% 2 storey 17200 3% Schools Community Facility, Special na Institutional 8.37 210 1500 1.5 50% 3 storey 125491.4 6% 17% Retail, Residential Public Open Space na Parks 1.26 na na na na na na 1% Roads na 25.76482 na na na na na na 20% Floodlines, Open areas na 32.52588 na na na na na na 25% PWV5 etc. TOTAL 128.8241 9066 100% 83%
The bulk development will comprise of medium to higher density residential development between 60 (single) to 210 dwelling units/hectare. This development will be complemented by a wide-ranging community facilities, retail and commercial capacities in the study area.
1.2.2 Associated Infrastructure
An Engineering Services Report was prepared by Aurecon South Africa (Pty) Ltd. A summary is presented here, and the complete report may be found in Appendix G.
1.2.2.1 Road Network
The majority of the existing road network in Zandspruit Phase II will be demolished during township development based on the existing aerial imagery of the area and the draft layout plan, as shown in Appendix C. Upgrades of the surrounding existing road network, such as road widening, may be required to allow for access into the proposed township i.e. additional turning lanes. The developer will be responsible for the construction of any service road within the township, the access road and the upgrading of the Council owned road at any access intersections, where necessary.
1.2.2.2 Site Access
Access to the site has been separated into two categories: major and minor. Major accesses are accesses connecting to major external roads, while minor accesses connect to small existing internal roads. Proposed major accesses are:
Page 3 Via Libhuma Street (Two Residential Access Collectors); Via Peter Road (Local Distributor).
In addition, there are further accesses / connections to the existing road network which are shown as proposed minor accesses.
1.2.2.3 Internal Township Roads
Internal township roads will vary from asphalt roads in 10 – 20 m road reserves with roadway lane widths between 3.0 m – 9.0 meters.
1.2.2.4 Stormwater
Zandspruit Phase II, in general, has no formal stormwater system as majority of the site is undeveloped. “Rivulets” of domestic waste water and possibly sewage water occur across the southern informal settlement area. This water may in part represent groundwater emanating from springs, but based on satellite imagery, generally appears to be associated with runoff from taps.
The concept stormwater design for the Zandspruit Phase II Township Establishment is based on Johannesburg Roads Agency Roads & Stormwater Manual (2015) and has been incorporated into the concept layout of the network. The following concepts have been implemented:
The minor internal stormwater reticulation shall be conveyed to the municipal system. The major overland flow shall be discharged without damage to property. Stormwater attenuation ponds on site shall be constructed by the developer and shall be located outside of the 100 year flood lines. It is noted that the preferred means of attenuation is on surface. The attenuation ponds shall not be less than 350 m³/ha. The runoff associated with the development is to be attenuated such that the predevelopment flows for the 1 in 5 year as well as the 1 in 25 year storm events are not exceeded. The attenuation structure must be capable of withstanding the 1 in 50 year storm event. A flood lines study for the area has been completed and incorporated into the design of the network. Pipe Routing - The proposed stormwater system consists of numerous kerb inlets and underground stormwater pipes. These pipe networks shall be connect to the attenuation pond and discharge into the river at the same rate as the pre- development flows.
1.2.2.5 Water Supply
According to the Existing Systems and Water District / Sub districts Master Plan, the majority of the proposed development falls under Boschkop / Honeydew Reservoir water sub district. A small portion of site located in the north-western corner of the site falls under the Honeydew Reservoir Cosmo City PRV1 water sub district.
There are two 600mm bulk pipelines that feed both areas. An existing 350mm diameter AC water pipeline along Slovenia Street and Bratislava Crescent on the northern boundary of the subject property will be upgraded to a 500mm pipeline. Approx. 150 meters of the pipeline crosses the Zandspruit.
It was noted in the Master Plan that all reservoirs and towers have sufficient capacity for future development.
The estimated annual average daily demand for the development is 6, 373 kl/day.
Page 4 1.2.2.6 Sewerage
According to the Existing Sewer Sub-Basins and Contours, the proposed development falls under Sonnedal Sub-basin which drains to the Zandspruit Pump Station. From this pump station, sewage is pumped to the Western Klein Jukskei Outfall which drains to the Northern Waste Water Treatment Works (NWWTW). The Master Plan indicates that the NWWTW has sufficient capacity. It has, however, indicated that both of the existing Zandspruit Pump Stations have insufficient capacity for future sewer flows.
However, the construction of a WWTW near Lanseria is currently being considered. This would then present the opportunity to decommission the Zandspruit Pump Stations, but only after the construction of extensive outfall sewer linking the pump stations and proposed Lanseria WWTW.
Based on the Master Plan Report, it was indicated that the construction of the Jukskei Park pump station of 240 l/s may be required for the development. The pump station shall be designed that the pumps operates a maximum of 2 duty cycles per hour during average flow conditions. All pump installations shall be supplied with a standby pump of capacity equal to that of the largest duty pump which will be automatically activated when necessary.
1.2.2.7 Electricity
The external electrical reticulation network connection will be taken from the local Eskom distribution networks and will be handed over Eskom on completion of the works.
Based on the proposed future land use and zoning of the new development the expected bulk capacity demand for the development will be in the order of 28.7MVA. The future upgraded Delkeith substation in 2018 will still not have sufficient capacity to cater for this total demand. It’s therefore foreseen that a new 88/11 kV Zandfontein substation be required. The proposed transformer configuration of the new station will be 2x 40MVA, and in line with the current Eskom policy. The position and accompanied substation and line servitudes still needs to be workshopped with Eskom.
1.2.3 Listed & Specified Activities Triggered & Being Applied For
The following listed activities in terms of the NEMA EIA Regulations, GNR 983, 984 and 985 of 4 December 2014 (as amended by GNR 327, 325 and 324 of 07 April 2017) are being applied for:
Table 1: NEMA EIA Regulations, 2014 (as amended) - Listed Activities to be Authorised for the Proposed Project.
Number and Date of the Relevant Activity No. Description Notice GNR 983 (LN1) of 19 Listed Activity: 2014 (as amended The infilling or depositing of any material of more than 10 cubic metres into, by GNR 327 of 07 or the dredging, excavation, removal or moving of soil, sand, shells, shell April 2017) grit, pebbles or rock of more than 10 cubic metres from a watercourse;
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;
Page 5 (c) falls within the ambit of activity 21 in this Notice, in which case that activity applies: (d) occurs within existing ports or harbours that will not increase the development footprint of the port or harbour; or (e) 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. Project Description: For the construction of the following services with a watercourse: collector roads in 20 m road reserve (local distributor), Ø 110 – 355 uPVC water pipelines; Ø 160 – 250 uPVC heavy duty class 34 sewer pipelines; Upgrading of existing 350mm diameter AC water pipeline to a 500mm Ø pipeline crossing the Zandspruit, and Stormwater infrastructure. GNR 983 (LN1) of 27 Listed Activity: 2014 (as amended The clearance of an area of 1 hectares or more, but less than 20 hectares by GNR 327 of 07 of indigenous vegetation, except where such clearance of indigenous April 2017) vegetation is required for - i) The undertaking of a linear activity; or ii) Maintenance purposes undertaken in accordance with a maintenance management plan. Project Description: The proposed development and associated infrastructure will require clearance of vegetation where such vegetation cover constitutes indigenous vegetation.
The biodiversity specialist assessment has confirmed through the site visit that the combined vegetation clearance for the proposed development will be more than 1ha but less than 20ha. GNR 985 (LN3) of 4(c)(iv) Listed Activity: 2014 (as amended The development of a road wider than 4 metres with a reserve less than 13,5 by GNR 324 of 07 metres. April 2017) (c) In Gauteng in (iv) Sites identified as Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBAs) and Ecological Support Areas (ESAs) in the Gauteng Conservation Plan or in bioregional plans. Project Description: For the construction of roads 3.0m – 9.0m wide within 10m – 20m wide road reserves within a Critical Biodiversity Area (CBA) and Ecological Support Area (ESA) in terms of C-Plan. GNR 985 (LN3) of 12(c)(ii) Listed Activity: 2014 (as amended The clearance of an area of 300 square metres or more of indigenous by GNR 324 of 07 vegetation except where such clearance of indigenous vegetation is April 2017) required for maintenance purposes undertaken in accordance with a maintenance plan.
(c) In Gauteng in (ii) Sites identified as Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBAs) and Ecological Support Areas (ESAs) in the Gauteng Conservation Plan or in bioregional plans.
Page 6 Project Description: The subject property is located within a Critical Biodiversity Area (CBA) in terms of C-Plan. The proposed development will take place on a site assembly consisting of 18 portions of the Farm Zandspruit 191-IQ, which measures approximately 128,82 hectares. The development area will take up approx. 95 ha (75 % of the total land area, leaving open space measuring some 33,78 ha undeveloped. Therefore, more than 300m² of indigenous vegetation will be cleared. GNR 985 (LN3) of 14 (ii) Listed Activity: 2014 (as amended (a)(c)(iv) The development of (ii) infrastructure or structures with a physical footprint by GNR 324 of 07 of 10 square metres or more; April 2017) a) within a water course;
(c) In Gauteng in (iv) Sites identified as Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBAs) and Ecological Support Areas (ESAs) in the Gauteng Conservation Plan or in bioregional plans. Project Description: For the construction of the following services within a Critical Biodiversity Area (CBA) in terms of C-Plan: collector roads in 20 m road reserve (local distributor), Ø 110 – 355 uPVC water pipelines; Ø 160 – 250 uPVC heavy duty class 34 sewer pipelines; Upgrading of existing 350mm diameter AC water pipeline to a 500mm Ø pipeline crossing the Zandspruit, and Stormwater infrastructure and attenuation ponds. GNR 985 (LN3) of 18(c)(iv) Listed Activity: 2014 (as amended The widening of a road by more than 4 metres, or the lengthening of a road by GNR 324 of 07 by more than 1 kilometre. April 2017) (c) In Gauteng in (iv) Sites identified as Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBAs) and Ecological Support Areas (ESAs) in the Gauteng Conservation Plan or in bioregional plans. Project Description: For the widening and lengthening of existing roads within a Critical Biodiversity Area (CBA) in terms of C-Plan. GNR 985 (LN3) of 23 (vi) (xii) (a) (d) Listed Activity: 2014 (as amended (iv) The expansion of: … by GNR 324 of 07 (ii) infrastructure or structures where the physical footprint is expanded by April 2017) 10 square metres or more; where such development occurs (a) within a watercourse;
(c) In Gauteng in (iv) sites identified as Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBAs) and Ecological Support Areas (ESAs) in the Gauteng Conservation Plan or in bioregional plans; Project Description: For the possible expansion of the existing water, sewage and stormwater network within a Critical Biodiversity Area (CBA) in terms of C-Plan.
Page 7 Select the appropriate box
The application is for an The application is for a new upgrade of an existing X X Other, specify n/a development development
Does the activity also require any authorisation other than NEMA EIA authorisation?
YES X NO
If yes, describe the legislation and the Competent Authority administering such legislation
Legislation Competent Authority Department of Water Affairs National Water Act, (Act No. 36 of 1998) 285 Schoeman Street, Bothongo Plaza East, 14th Floor, Pretoria, 0001
It must be noted that the National Water Act (Act 36 of 1998) states the following regarding development within the 1: 100 year-flood line and/or delineated riparian habitat, whichever is the greatest distance from the middle of the watercourse
Section 21(c): Impeding or diverting the flow of water in watercourses (including alteration of the hydraulic characteristics of flood events) requires licensing according to the Act.
Section 21(i): Any action that may alter the bed, banks, courses or characteristics of watercourses (including flood events) requires licensing according to the Act, including: i. widening or straightening of the bed or banks of a river to allow for the construction of a bridge, sports ground or housing development. ii. altering the course of a river partially or completely (i.e. river diversion) to be able to use or develop the area where the watercourse originally was.
CoJMM shall conduct a legal validation to identify all the water use activities associated with this project that will require authorisation by the Department of Water Affairs (DWA). The Department of Water Affairs will also be requested to provide comment on the Basic Assessment Report.
WULA to follow after NEMA EIA If yes, have you applied for the authorisation(s)? Authorisation If yes, have you received approval(s)? (attach in appropriate appendix) n/a n/a
Page 8 2. 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:
Title of legislation, policy or guideline: Administering authority: Promulgation Date: Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (Act No 108 of Government of South 18 December 1996 1990) Africa Department of Environmental Affairs National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of (DEA) and Gauteng 27 November 1998 1998 as amended). Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (GDARD) Regulations GNR 982, 983, 984 and 985 promulgated under Chapter 5 of the National Environmental Management Act Gauteng Department of (NEMA, Act 107 of 1998) in Government Gazette 38282 on 4 Agriculture and Rural 07 April 2017 December 2014 (as amended by GNR 324, 325, 326 and 327 Development (GDARD) of 07 April 2017). Department of Water National Water Act (Act No 36 of 1998) 26 August 1998 Affairs (DWA) South African Heritage National Heritage Resources Act No 25 of 1999 (Act No 25 of Resources Agency 28 April 1999 1999 as amended) (SAHRA) Growth Management Strategy, 2010 Spatial Development Framework Review Draft of 2016 City of Johannesburg - Regional Spatial Development Framework 2010/11 Metropolitan Municipality Zandspruit Urban Development Framework, 2020
Description of compliance with the relevant legislation, policy or guidelines: Legislation, policy of Description of compliance guideline Obligation to ensure that the proposed development will not result in pollution and ecological degradation; and Obligation to ensure that the proposed development is ecologically sustainable, while Constitution of the demonstrating economic and social development. Republic of South Africa (Act No 108 of 1990) The proposed project can be considered as a sustainable development that will prevent pollution and ecological degradation whilst promoting justifiable economic and social development. Regulations GNR 982, 983, 984 and 985 promulgated under Chapter 5 of the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA, Act 107 of 1998) in Government Gazette 38282 on National Environmental 4 December 2014 (as amended by GNR 324, 325, 326 and 327 of 07 April 2017). Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998 as In terms of these EIA Regulations, the following listed activities within Government Notice R. amended). 327 and R 324 are triggered by the proposed development, thereby requiring environmental authorisation from the GDARD.
Page 9 Legislation, policy of Description of compliance guideline Listed activities:
GNR 327(LN1) of 07 April 2017 - 19 GNR 327(LN1) of 07 April 2017 - 27 GNR 324(LN3) of 07 April 2017 - 4(c)(iv) GNR 324(LN3) of 07 April 2017 - 12(c)(ii) GNR 324(LN3) of 07 April 2017 - 14 (ii) (a)(c)(iv) GNR 324(LN3) of 07 April 2017 - 18(c)(iv) GNR 324(LN3) of 07 April 2017 - 23 (vi) (xii) (a) (d) (iv)
Government Notice R. 327, R. 325 and R. 324, lists construction, transformation, extraction, exploration and expansion of facilities or activities that require environmental authorisation prior to commencement of construction. A distinction is made between Listing Notices 1 and 3 activities, which require a Basic Assessment, and Listing Notice 2 activities, which require a full EIA (Scoping followed by Impact Assessment).
A Basic Assessment is generally intended for smaller scale activities, or activities whose impacts are well understood and can be easily managed. A Full EIA is required for Listing Notice 2 activities which are activities that due to their nature and/or extent are likely to have significant impacts that cannot be easily predicted. Listing 2 activities are therefore higher risk activities that potentially cause higher levels of pollution, waste and environmental degradation.
The proposed project requires a basic assessment in terms of R. 327 and R. 324. Water uses National Water Act (Act Any proposed water uses must be specified and registered and/or licensed; and No 36 of 1998) Any modifications to drainage lines on site must be investigated in terms of water use requirements. National Heritage Resources Act No 25 of A permit may be required should identify cultural/heritage sites on site be required to be 1999 (Act No 25 of 1999 disturbed or destroyed as a result of the proposed development. as amended) Growth Management Strategy, 2010 The Growth Management Strategy outlined various characteristics within Region C which should be scrutinised along with the Spatial Development Framework, to ensure that both policies guide the township establishment of Zandspruit.
The following can be noted as points of importance;
Growth Management The land development area for the Zandspruit Phase II township establishment falls Strategy, 2010 within a medium priority consolidation area, as per the Growth Management Strategy of 2010. This implies that the land development area for Zandspruit is considered as the preferred areas of development and that integration of the urban fabric will be supported. It further implies that housing, specifically units of 80m ² and larger are associated with this area but that increased densities and smaller residential units will be supported and that increased densities should be supported as suggested in the Spatial Development Framework.
Page 10 Legislation, policy of Description of compliance guideline The Growth Management Strategy prioritises Zandspruit just after Public Transport Areas and intervention in Marginalised Areas, showing that the proposed housing density should comply with the consolidation areas and no high rise buildings will be supported but and instead focus on fully subsidised housing is various typologies from single residential stands to row housing, walk-ups and two storey units and it should be supported by the strategic placement of mixed use development adjacent to taxi ranks, main corridor/ feeder routes (Beyers Naude & Peter Rd).
High Priority Public Transport Areas, should be considered in the layout design and suggests higher residential opportunities along major transport routes, especially near bus stops and taxi ranks. Existing Residential zonings that were approved range from Residential 1 to Residential 4, within the consolidation area. With regards to Zandspruit, owing to its location within the UDB, the recommended residential type ranges from Residential 1 to Residential 4. The Zandspruit Urban Design Framework, 2009 suggests higher densities, up to 80 dwelling units per hectare and up to 4 storeys. Although a maximum density of 80 dwelling units are recommended by the UDF, application is made for higher densities due to the fact that the area is regarded as a Marginalised Area in terms of the MSDF where higher densities are promoted.
Special zoning and business zoning has been approved with past township establishments, in the consolidation areas, subject thereto that they are compliant with the SDF. The SDF Review Draft of 2016 outlined various characteristics within Region C which should be scrutinised along with the Regional Spatial Development Framework, so as to ensure that both policies guide the township establishment of Zandspruit, in terms of pertaining to the unique context of the existing settlement.
The following can be noted as points of importance;
Urban Development Boundary: affecting areas such as Sonnendal Agricultural Holdings, which are present on the proposed township establishment development site. The layout plan ought to take into cognisance the cross-border between City of Johannesburg and Mogale City, in terms of future expansion should this be necessary. The Sonnendal Agricultural Holdings can thus be classified as sub-areas within the Spatial Development Consolidation Area and Peri-Urban area, as per the GMS 2010. Framework Review Draft of 2016 Consolidation Area: Owing to the existing township and development site being in a Consolidation area, as previously mentioned, it should be stressed that the proposed development initiatives comply with the Growth Management Strategy points, by means of placing business land uses adjacent to public transportation intersections, and within close proximity to medium density residential typologies.
Nodal Development: As per the draft SDF, 2016 it is stressed that owing to Zandspruit being a Consolidation Area, nodal development should be along the lines of re- investment and re-development as opposed to erecting new infrastructure. This pertains to the development site being of Medium Priority, furthermore to ensure that Phased in- situ development is achieved, being cost-effective and feasible to the proposed long- term investment plan. A Polycentric Urban Model is communicated in the SDF, owing to
Page 11 Legislation, policy of Description of compliance guideline the outcome of well-connected point within the development and surrounding nodal points as well as balancing linear opportunities of growth and expansion with a booming core or mixed use district. Regional Spatial Development Framework, 2010/11 The Regional Spatial Development Framework, 2010/11 outlined various characteristics within Region C which should be scrutinised during the township establishment of Zandspruit, in terms of land use planning as well as settlement patterns of residential typologies
The following can be noted as a point of importance;
The RSDF 2010/11 document does not specify residential and dwelling characteristics Regional Spatial in relation to Region C, more specifically Zandspruit which is located in Sub Area One. Development Framework The RSDF does however commits the city to creating sustainable integration of 2010/11 communities and one of the key interventions noted is the commitments to facilitate private developments within the area and protect the areas that is identified for government subsidised housing. Mixed housing typologies will be permitted to promote inclusionary housing and densities up to 120 units per hectare in certain areas. It must however be noted that the specific land development area is regarded as a medium density residential area with densities ranging from 20 units per hectare to 80 units per hectare and limited to 4 storeys. The existing nursery, which is located adjacent to the land development area is considered as a District Mixed Use Nodal Periphery area where residential densities of up to 120 units per hectare can be considered. Zandspruit Urban Development Framework 2020, 2009
The Zandspruit Urban Development Framework 2020, 2009 outlined various characteristics within Region C which should be scrutinised along with the Regional Spatial Development Framework, to ensure that both policies guides the township establishment of Zandspruit, pertaining to the unique context of the existing settlement. This was completed after numerous studies from demographic groups to context status quo as well as a performed geotechnical survey at the time.
The following can be noted as points of importance:
Development Concept: As per the Zandspruit UDF 2020, the focused development Zandspruit Urban initiatives pertaining the settlement context are focused on design elements of infill Development Framework, development, nodal and corridor development, land use cohesion (business and 2020 residential owing to vast number of residential dwellings housing “spaza” shop businesses or local taverns) as well as integrating public transportation (a proposed BRT in unity with existing taxi rank services).
Public Transportation BRT Initiative: Owing to development site being of medium priority in a Consolidation Area, the existing proposed expansion of the BRT Route does not cross the urban development boundary, meaning that the BRT Route has not been planned to extend as far as Zandspruit at this time. A BRT route is however suggested in the Urban Design Framework 2020 of 2009 along Peter Road with a TOD location at the intersections with Aureol road in the north of the land development area and at Beyers Naude Drive on the southern edge of the land development area.
Page 12 Legislation, policy of Description of compliance guideline Transit Orientated Development Housing Densities: as per the Zandspruit UDF, 2020, housing densities in close proximity to transport centres should be predominantly higher density, allowing for access to employment opportunities. It is suggested that such housing densities exceeding 20 units per hectare should be within 1km from TODs and greater densities such as 60 units per hectare and higher should be encouraged close to transit stations.
Housing Development: As per the Zandspruit UDF 2020, housing can be used as infill land use, which would result in urban integration of a formerly marginalised area. The Public Transport/BRT Initiatives and the development of TODs will assist in strengthening the housing development and will support the higher densities. Guidelines: i. Companion Guideline on the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2010 ii. Environmental Management Framework Guidelines, 10 October 2012 iii. Public Participation Guideline, 10 October, 10 October 2012 iv. Fee Regulations Guidance Document, April 2014 v. Guideline on need and desirability in terms of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2010 vi. EIA Listed Activities and Timelines (January 2015) vii. Section 24G and Similar Listings (January 2015)
3. ALTERNATIVES
Describe the proposal and 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. The determination of whether the 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.
The no-go option must in all cases be included in the assessment phase as the baseline against which the impacts of the other alternatives are assessed. Do not include the no go option into the alternative table below.
Note: 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.
Please describe the process followed to reach (decide on) the list of alternatives below
The following definition of “alternatives” is given in the 2014 EIA Regulations:
"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 the -
(a) property on which or location where the activity is proposed to be undertaken; (b) type of activity to be undertaken; (c) design or layout of the activity; (d) technology to be used in the activity; or (e) operational aspects of the activity; and
Page 13 (f) includes the option of not implementing the activity.
Typically, alternative assessments are conducted to assist in comparing various projects or attributes of projects that will occur. The most critical comparison is evaluating any proposed project against the No-Go option. The alternatives assessment then considers alternatives to project site selection for the proposed development; alternatives to layout of the development; and alternatives to construction methodologies and/or materials used for the development.
For any alternative to be considered feasible, the alternative must meet the need and purposes of the development proposal without presenting significantly high associated impacts. Alternatives are typically distinguished into discrete or incremental alternatives. Discrete alternatives are overall development options, which are typically identified during the pre-feasibility, feasibility and / or Basic Assessment process. Incremental alternatives typically identified arise during the Basic Assessment process and are usually suggested as a means of addressing / mitigating identified impacts (e.g.: waste management, noise reduction measure, contamination management, etc.) These alternatives are closely linked to the identification of mitigation measures and therefore are not specifically identified as distinct alternatives. The types of alternatives considered for this project are presented below.
Provide a description of the alternatives considered
No. Alternative Type Description The activity is the formalisation and expanding of the Zandspruit informal settlement and integrate the settlement with existing and envisaged developments neighbouring the settlement. The project is in line with the basic urban development principles of the Spatial Development Framework and Growth Management Strategy for the Zandspruit Region located in Administrative Region C of Johannesburg. ACTIVITY 1 ALTERNATIVES No other alternative developments were considered. The current proposal with residential, community facilities, businesses, education, public open space and municipal services components is considered to be the most appropriate, both in terms of land use planning, the needs of the applicant and the community.
The proposed housing development forms an extension of the existing Zandspruit settlement and the land is owned by the applicant.
The development proposal is consistent with the spatial development policies and LOCATION 2 guidelines of the Administrative Region C of the City of Johannesburg. The subject ALTERNATIVES property is situated within the urban edge and is surrounded by existing and future land- uses that are in line with the proposed land-use. Therefore, no location alternatives are considered.
This assessment will consider various layout alternatives. The area being assessed measures approx. 128,82 ha, however the area proposed for development is approximately 95 ha (75 % of the total land area, leaving open space measuring some 33,78 ha undeveloped). LAYOUT 3 ALTERNATIVES Before commencing with layout design various technical and specialist investigations were conducted to determine the feasibility of the proposed project. The proposed layout is based on various team meetings and workshops in order to plan the most efficient and feasible option. Several meetings were held discussing the most feasible options with regards to environmental constraints, bulk services, topography, geo-technical
Page 14 No. Alternative Type Description conditions, storm water as well as other constraints. Portions of the subject property are not suitable for township development due to wetlands, watercourses, 30 meter conservation buffer zones, seepage areas, soil characteristics and other biophysical constraints. This approach to a large-scale development will result in a well-planned area with sufficient services provision.
Various layout alternatives were presented to the environmental assessment practitioners. However, the changes in these layout alternatives presented are not considered to be so significant as to require an individual assessment of each layout of the proposed development. The proposed layout has been formulated taking the following into account:
River/stream/wetland areas, associated 1:50 and 1:100 floodplains and conservation buffer areas. The “wetland” or “seepage area(s)” to the east of the site is indicative of the spring conditions typically associated with granite, and appears to extend up the slope into most of the informal settlement area. The remainder of the site on which development is proposed is transformed and very little habitat is present.
Technology alternatives have not been considered at this stage. Consideration of such alternatives can only reasonably considered at the detailed design stage, at which time TECHNOLOGY 4 consideration will be given to, but will not necessarily be limited to, the following aspects: ALTERNATIVES materials, energy efficiency, rain water harvesting, storm water management etc.
In the event that no alternative(s) has/have been provided, a motivation must be included in the table below.
Not Applicable
Page 15 4. PHYSICAL SIZE OF THE ACTIVITY
Indicate the total physical size (footprint) of the proposal as well as alternatives. Footprints are to include all new infrastructure (roads, services etc), impermeable surfaces and landscaped areas: Size of the activity: Residential 2 (bonded) 17.685 Proposed activity (Total environmental (landscaping, parking, etc.) Residential 3 1.16 and the building footprint) Residential 4 (Subsidised) 14.99 Residential 4 (priv rental) 5.00 Residential 4 (social housing) 5.00 Residential 4 (CRU) 5.00 Institutional 7.44 Municipal 1.21 Educational 3.44 Special 8.37 Public Open Space - Roads 25.76482 Open areas - TOTAL 95.03 ha Alternatives:
Alternative 1 (if any) n/a
Alternative 2 (if any) n/a
Ha / m2 or, for linear activities: Length of the activity:
Proposed activity n/a
Alternatives:
Alternative 1 (if any) n/a
Alternative 2 (if any) n/a
m/km
Indicate the size of the site(s) or servitudes (within which the above footprints will occur): Size of the site/servitude: Proposed activity 128.82 ha Alternatives:
Alternative 1 (if any) n/a
Alternative 2 (if any) n/a
Ha/m2
Page 16 5. SITE ACCESS
Proposal
Does ready access to the site exist, or is access directly from an existing road? YES X NO
If NO, what is the distance over which a new access road will be built n/a
Describe the type of access road planned: There are numerous accesses / connections to the existing road network. Access to the site has been separated into two categories: major and minor. Major accesses are accesses connecting to major external roads, while minor accesses connect to small existing internal roads. Proposed major accesses are: Via Libhuma Street (Two Residential Access Collectors); and Via Peter Road (Local Distributor). Include the position of the access road on the site plan (if the access road is to traverse a sensitive feature the impact thereof must be included in the assessment).
Alternative 1 Does ready access to the site exist, or is access directly from an existing road? n/a n/a
If NO, what is the distance over which a new access road will be built n/a
Describe the type of access road planned:
n/a Include the position of the access road on the site plan. (if the access road is to traverse a sensitive feature the impact thereof must be included in the assessment).
Alternative 2 Does ready access to the site exist, or is access directly from an existing road? n/a n/a
If NO, what is the distance over which a new access road will be built n/a
Describe the type of access road planned:
n/a Include the position of the access road on the site plan. (if the access road is to traverse a sensitive feature the impact thereof must be included in the assessment).
PLEASE NOTE: Points 6 to 8 of Section A must be duplicated where relevant for alternatives
Section A 6-8 has been duplicated 0 Number of times
(only complete when applicable)
Page 17 6. LAYOUT OR ROUTE PLAN
Refer to Appendix C
A detailed site or route (for linear activities) plan(s) must be prepared for each alternative site or alternative activity. It must be attached to this document. The site or route plans must indicate the following:
the layout plan is printed in colour and is overlaid with a sensitivity map (if applicable); layout plan is of acceptable paper size and scale, e.g.
o A4 size for activities with development footprint of 10sqm to 5 hectares; o A3 size for activities with development footprint of ˃ 5 hectares to 20 hectares; o A2 size for activities with development footprint of ˃20 hectares to 50 hectares); o A1 size for activities with development footprint of ˃50 hectares);
The following should serve as a guide for scale issues on the layout plan: o A0 = 1: 500 o A1 = 1: 1000 o A2 = 1: 2000 o A3 = 1: 4000 o A4 = 1: 8000 (±10 000)
shapefiles of the activity must be included in the electronic submission on the CD’s; the property boundaries and Surveyor General numbers of all the properties within 50m of the site; the exact position of each element of the activity as well as any other structures on the site; the position of services, including electricity supply cables (indicate above or underground), water supply pipelines, boreholes, sewage pipelines, septic tanks, storm water infrastructure; servitudes indicating the purpose of the servitude; sensitive environmental elements on and within 100m of the site or sites (including the relevant buffers as prescribed by the competent authority) including (but not limited thereto):
o Rivers and wetlands; o the 1:100 and 1:50 year flood line; o ridges; o cultural and historical features; o areas with indigenous vegetation (even if it is degraded or infested with alien species);
Where a watercourse is located on the site at least one cross section of the water course must be included (to allow the position of the relevant buffer from the bank to be clearly indicated).
FOR LOCALITY MAP (NOTE THIS IS ALSO INCLUDED IN THE APPLICATION FORM REQUIREMENTS)
the scale of locality map must be at least 1:50 000. For linear activities of more than 25 kilometres, a smaller scale e.g. 1:250 000 can be used. The scale must be indicated on the map; the locality map and all other maps must be in colour; locality map must show property boundaries and numbers within 100m of the site, and for poultry and/or piggery, locality map must show properties within 500m and prevailing or predominant wind direction; for gentle slopes the 1m contour intervals must be indicated on the map and whenever the slope of the site exceeds 1:10, the 500mm contours must be indicated on the map;
Page 18 areas with indigenous vegetation (even if it is degraded or infested with alien species); locality map must show exact position of development site or sites; locality map showing and identifying (if possible) public and access roads; and the current land use as well as the land use zoning of each of the properties adjoining the site or sites.
7. SITE PHOTOGRAPHS
Refer to Appendix B
Colour photographs from the center 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 the appropriate Appendix. It should be supplemented with additional photographs of relevant features on the site, where applicable.
8. FACILITY ILLUSTRATION
Facility illustrations not applicable - Refer to Appendix C for Proposed Site Layout Plan
A detailed illustration of the activity must be provided at a scale of 1:200 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 to be attached in the appropriate Appendix.
Page 19 SECTION B: DESCRIPTION OF RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT
Note: Complete Section B for the proposal and alternative(s) (if necessary)
Instructions for completion of Section B for linear activities 1) For linear activities (pipelines etc) it may be necessary to complete Section B for each section of the site that has a significantly different environment. 2) Indicate on a plan(s) the different environments identified 3) Complete Section B for each of the above areas identified 4) Attach to this form in a chronological order 5) Each copy of Section B must clearly indicate the corresponding sections of the route at the top of the next page.
Section B has been duplicated for sections of the route n/a times
Instructions for completion of Section B for location/route alternatives 1) For each location/route alternative identified the entire Section B needs to be completed 2) Each alterative location/route needs to be clearly indicated at the top of the next page 3) Attach the above documents in a chronological order
(complete Section B has been duplicated for location/route alternatives n/a times only when appropriate)
Instructions for completion of Section B when both location/route alternatives and linear activities are applicable for the application
Section B is to be completed and attachments order in the following way All significantly different environments identified for Alternative 1 is to be completed and attached in a chronological order; then All significantly different environments identified for Alternative 2 is to be completed and attached chronological order, etc.
Section B - Section of Route n/a (complete only when appropriate for above)
Section B – Location/route Alternative No. n/a (complete only when appropriate for above)
1. PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
Property Description: Portions 16, 23, 42, 47, 55, 56, 59, 60, 67, 68, 69, 72, 73, 76, 104, 160 & 175 of the Farm (Including Physical Address and Zandspruit 191-IQ & Agricultural Holding 43 Sonnedal A.H, within the City of Johannesburg Farm name, portion etc.) Metropolitan Municipality.
Page 20 2. 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 decimal degrees. The degrees should have at least six decimals to ensure adequate accuracy. The projection that must be used in all cases is the WGS84 spheroid in a national or local projection.
Alternative: Latitude (S): Longitude (E):
1. Project Proposal 26° 3'24.85"S 27°54'34.46"E
2. Alternative 1 n/a n/a
In the case of linear activities: Alternative: Latitude (S): Longitude (E):
Starting point of the activity n/a n/a
Middle point of the activity n/a n/a
End point of the activity n/a n/a
For route alternatives that are longer than 500m, please provide co-ordinates taken every 250 meters along the route and attached in the appropriate Appendix
Addendum of route alternatives attached n/a
The 21 digit Surveyor General code of each cadastral land parcel
Ptn 16 T 0 I Q 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 9 1 0 0 0 1 6
Ptn 23 T 0 I Q 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 9 1 0 0 0 2 3
Ptn 42 T 0 I Q 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 9 1 0 0 0 4 2
Ptn 47 T 0 I Q 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 9 1 0 0 0 4 7
Ptn 55 T 0 I Q 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 9 1 0 0 0 5 5
Ptn 56 T 0 I Q 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 9 1 0 0 0 5 6
Ptn 59 T 0 I Q 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 9 1 0 0 0 5 9
Ptn 60 T 0 I Q 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 9 1 0 0 0 6 0
Ptn 67 T 0 I Q 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 9 1 0 0 0 6 7
Ptn 68 T 0 I Q 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 9 1 0 0 0 6 8
Ptn 69 T 0 I Q 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 9 1 0 0 0 6 9
Ptn 72 T 0 I Q 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 9 1 0 0 0 7 2
Ptn 73 T 0 I Q 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 9 1 0 0 0 7 3
Ptn 76 T 0 I Q 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 9 1 0 0 0 7 6
Ptn 104 T 0 I Q 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 9 1 0 0 1 0 4
Page 21 Ptn 160 T 0 I Q 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 9 1 0 0 1 6 0
Ptn 175 T 0 I Q 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 9 1 0 0 1 7 5 Holding 43 T 0 I Q 0 3 7 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 3 0 0 0 0 0 Sonnedal A.H
3. GRADIENT OF THE SITE
Indicate the general gradient of the site.
Flat X 1:50 – 1:20 X 1:20 – 1:15 X 1:15 – 1:10 1:10 – 1:7,5 1:7,5 – 1:5 Steeper than 1:5
4. LOCATION IN LANDSCAPE
Indicate the landform(s) that best describes the site.
Side slope of Ridgeline Plateau Valley Plain X Undulating plain/low hills X River front X hill/ridge
5. GROUNDWATER, SOIL AND GEOLOGICAL STABILITY OF THE SITE a) Is the site located on any of the following?
Shallow water table (less than 1.5m deep) YES X NO
Dolomite, sinkhole or doline areas YES NO X
Seasonally wet soils (often close to water bodies) YES X NO
Unstable rocky slopes or steep slopes with loose soil YES NO X
Dispersive soils (soils that dissolve in water) YES NO X
Soils with high clay content (clay fraction more than 40%) YES NO X
Any other unstable soil or geological feature YES NO X
An area sensitive to erosion YES NO X
(Information in respect of the above will often be available at the planning sections of local authorities. Where it exists, the 1:50 000 scale Regional Geotechnical Maps prepared by Geological Survey may also be used).
Aurecon South Africa (Pty) Ltd was appointed by the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipal Council: Housing Department to conduct a geotechnical investigation for the proposed upgrade of the informal settlement Zandspruit II in the Roodepoort area, Gauteng Province. A summary is presented here, and the complete report may be found in Appendix G.
Geotechnical Considerations:
The following geotechnical factors are relevant to the proposed upgrade of the settlement area:
Page 22 The occurrence of fill material (waste material) Shallow groundwater Problem soils Excavatability Stability of excavations
The relevance of the above factors to the proposed development is described below. The site zoning with respect to these factors is presented in Drawing No 112225-G01-001. Refer to Appendix G.
Fill Material “Fill” material consisting of a mixture of sand and rubble such as plastic, wood, builders rubble, pipes and domestic waste was encountered in test pits across a major portion of the informal settlement areas (estimated at a total of 50ha). The base depth of the fill varies between 0.1m and 1.2m, with an average of 0.5m. The estimated extent of the fill is shown as Zones 3 and 4.
Shallow Groundwater The Halfway House granite is associated with spring conditions, where groundwater emanates from the ground surface sporadically – especially in the rainy season. With the investigation having been undertaken during the winter months, such shallow groundwater may be more widespread during summer than is suggested by these findings.
“Rivulets” of domestic waste water and possibly sewage water occur across the southern informal settlement area. This water may in part represent groundwater emanating from springs, but based on satellite imagery, generally appears to be associated with runoff from taps. With the investigation having been undertaken during the winter months, such shallow groundwater may be more widespread than suggested by the findings.
The “wetland” or “seepage area(s)” to the east of the site is indicative of the spring conditions typically associated with granite, and appears to extend up the slope into most of the informal settlement area. Groundwater encountered in the test pits on the site is generally confined to areas affected by fill material. Elsewhere, groundwater occurs within the foundation and/or service trench depth in lower lying areas and near the 1:100 year floodline.
Shallow groundwater appears to be confined to Zone 4 on Drawing No 112225-G01-001.
Site Zoning The site was zoned with respect to the occurrence of fill material, shallow groundwater, problem soils, excavatability and the stability of excavations. The zoning shown on Drawing No 112225-G01-001 is as follows:
Zone 1: Medium dense to dense hillwash and sandy residual granite to 2m depth, with granite rock at the base.
Zone 2: Medium dense (or firm) hillwash, underlain by firm to stiff residual dolerite.
Zone 3: (based on 1.2m deep, hand-excavated test pits) Fill material of variable composition to an average estimated depth of 0.8m. Underlain by medium dense hillwash or medium dense to dense residual granite to at least 1.2m.
Zone 4: (based on 1.2m deep, hand-excavated test pits)
Page 23 Fill material of variable composition to an average estimated depth of 0.5m. Underlain by medium dense to dense residual granite or very dense to soft rock hardpan ferricrete to at least 1.2m. Groundwater at an average estimated depth of 0.8m under current ground surface.
Foundation Soils Most of the site is underlain by sandy transported soils and residual granite. Across about 50ha of the site area, fill material occur as cover over these soils (Zones 3 and 4 on Drawing No. 112225-G01-001). Fill material appears to be absent on Zone 1 on the same drawing.
The sandy transported soils and the residual granite soils are expected to be potentially collapsible where local conditions gave rise to soils of low density. Given variable conditions from this point of view, the soils should be assumed to express collapsible characteristics in general. When these soils are in an un-saturated condition, and inundated under load, sudden significant settlements can occur.
Soils derived from dolerite and the occasional greenstone remnant were encountered intermittently in the test pits. Residual dolerite is expected along dykes, while the occurrence of greenstone is random (see conceptual distribution of dolerite on Drawing No. 112225-G01-001). These soils are potentially moderately expansive, and foundation conditions, as well as the suitability for re-use in construction, will be affected. Confirmation of the distribution of these rock types across the site will be required. A conceptual plan of the occurrence of these soils is presented as Zone 3 on Drawing No 112225-G0- 001.
Excavatability The transported soils and residual granite and dolerite can be considered as ‘Soft Excavation’, according to SABS 1200D (1988). “Soft excavation” across the site is expected to be interrupted by hardpan ferricrete in places. Hardpan ferricrete was found in test pit ZHP40 at 0.8m and at in test pit ZTP36 at 0.6m depth. This layer is of very dense to soft rock consistency and is hard to penetrate due to the absence of joints or “cracks” in the deposit.
Stability of Excavations Excavations in the residual granite soils are potentially unstable, especially where it coincides with shallow groundwater. Such excavations should be battered at a vertical to horizontal batter of 1:1, or have to be shored.
b) are any caves located on the site(s) YES NO X
If yes to above provide location details in terms of latitude and longitude and indicate location on site or route map(s) Latitude (S): Longitude (E):
n/a n/a c) are any caves located within a 300m radius of the site(s) YES NO X
If yes to above provide location details in terms of latitude and longitude and indicate location on site or route map(s) Latitude (S): Longitude (E): n/a n/a d) are any sinkholes located within a 300m radius of the site(s) YES NO X
If yes to above provide location details in terms of latitude and longitude and indicate location on site or route map(s)
Page 24 Latitude (S): Longitude (E): n/a n/a
If any of the answers to the above are “YES” or “unsure”, specialist input may be requested by the Department
6. AGRICULTURE
Does the site have high potential agriculture as contemplated in the Gauteng Agricultural YES NO X Potential Atlas (GAPA 4)? Please note: The Department may request specialist input/studies in respect of the above.
Page 25 7. GROUNDCOVER To be noted that the location of all identified rare or endangered species or other elements should be accurately indicated on the site plan(s).
Indicate the types of groundcover present on the site and include the estimated percentage found on site.
Natural veld with Natural veld - good Natural veld with Veld dominated by Landscaped heavy alien condition scattered aliens X alien species X (vegetation) X infestation X % = 10 X % = 7 % = 25 % =3 % = 15 Old Cultivated / Paved surface Building or other Sport field Bare soil grazing land (hard landscaping) structure % = X X % = % = 5 % = % = 35
Please note: The Department may request specialist input/studies depending on the nature of the groundcover and potential impact(s) of the proposed activity/ies.
Ecological Specialist Study (Fauna, Flora and Wetlands / Streams)
Enviroguard Ecological Services cc was appointed to conduct an Ecological Study (Fauna, Flora and Wetlands / Streams) on the subject property. The conclusion is presented here, and the complete report may be found in Appendix G. The study was undertaken by Prof. LR Brown (PhD UP) and Mr. CL Cook (MSc UP) Prof. They are registered as Professional Natural Scientists with the following details:
Prof LR Brown: Reg. No. 400075/98 (Botanical Science and Ecological Science). Mr C Cook: Reg. No. 400084/08 (Zoological Science)
Existing impacts on the site include:
The site is situated mainly within formal and informal houses. The influence of several weirs and dam walls on the hydrological patterns and previous agricultural and current residential activities as well as informal settlements adjacent to the river on the water quality of the Sandspruit. Storm water pipes further upstream and channels have disrupted the natural hydrological flow regime. Massive amounts of water enter directly into the Sandspruit or through eroded drainage channels or concrete pipes. Evidence of sewage spills were found. Deterioration of water quality through surface runoff from surrounding roads and commercial and industrial areas (oils, tires, petroleum etc.) as well as organic pollution (bush toilets) from the adjacent informal settlement. Nutrient loading (eutrophication) taking place due to the use of fertilisers for the golf course greens. Sedimentation and flow regulation that is taking place upstream and downstream from the site. Large scale erosion is present along the roads. Large sections have been cleared of natural vegetation and crops have been planted. Illegal dumping of litter, building rubble and garden refuse occurs throughout the site. Extensive littering adjacent to the roads. Alien invasive vegetation is present throughout the area. Various footpaths and informal roads traverse the area. The streams and drainage channels has water that are foul smelling and polluted. The Sandspruit is channeled under the R573. Stormwater runoff from the Jackal Creek golf course enters the site through heavily eroded drainage channels resulting in increased siltation and sedimentation.
Page 26 Electric and razor fences under the road culverts restrict the migratory movements upstream and downstream from the site. Raw sewage are discharged into the water systems and surrounding areas in many places.
The study area comprises eleven vegetation units (Figure 2 below) namely:
1) Degraded grassland, 2) Developed/Landscaped areas, 3) Bush clump, 4) Open woodland, 5) Eucalyptus camaldulensis woodland, 6) Old fields, 7) Stream, 8) Seep areas, 9) Natural grassland, 10) Hyparrhenia hirta-Themeda triandra woodland and 11) Tributary areas.
Figure 2: Vegetation Units
Page 27 The study area include a variety of different habitats, some natural and other human induced. Due to the large number of informal houses as well as the surrounding commercial, residential and industrial developments the whole study area are traversed by footpaths and areas where rubble and litter are dumped. Other areas are used for the planting of agricultural crops. This has all had a negative impact on the environment leading to degradation and destruction of the natural vegetation.
A total of 195 different plant species were identified for the study area. Apart from the species identified in the Egoli Granite Grassland (unit 9) most of the species identified in this study are either pioneer or secondary successional species or alien invasive species. Vegetation units 7, 9 and 11 are regarded as having high conservation values. Vegetation unit 9 (Natural grassland) is classified as belonging to the endangered Egoli Granite Grassland. This grassland has a high diversity and biodiversity with healthy populations of the different species present. The system has been sustaining itself for many years despite the human influences surrounding it. It is recommended that this area together with the stream (southern section) and a small section of unit 10 (Hyparrhenia hirta-Themeda traindra grassland) along the banks of the stream is conserved as an open natural space.
The other sensitive ecosystems include the stream and tributary areas (Units 7 & 11). Although degraded due to human induced influences (especially the northern section of the stream and the northern tributary) and as a result of seasonal flooding, these areas have a high ecosystem functioning in terms of their water channeling effect. River/stream/wetland areas and associated floodplains are important since they channel water and also supply various terrestrial areas of water and nutrients. The vegetation in and around these systems present unique habitats that are different from the surrounding terrestrial areas and therefore have unique plant and animal species living in and utilising these areas. A series of dams are also present along this stream area that also contribute to the variety of water habitats in this unit. These areas also serve as ecological corridors that would allow for long-term biological movement. They also provide a natural protective area for plants and animals. No development should be allowed within a 30m buffer zone around these areas (Figure 3). Furthermore it is important that all alien vegetation in and along these areas are removed as a high priority.
The seep area (unit 8) is totally degraded due to the area being used for the planting of crops. This area do however, have underground water flowing towards the stream area. This needs to be confirmed by a hydrology expert. Due to it being degraded with no natural ecosystem present this area has a medium conservation value. It is not foreseen that development of this area will negatively affect the ecosystem and its functioning, but whether one would be able to build any structures within this water seeping area needs to be assessed by experts in that field.
Units 1 and 10 are degraded grasslands. These areas most probably represented Egoli Granite Grassland in the past, but due to the use of these areas by humans (small crop fields, dumping of rubble and litter, clearing of small section for social gatherings, footpaths etc.) these areas have slowly become degraded over the years. This has caused a decline in species richness and overall diversity with many climax species and associated fauna disappearing. As a result these areas have a medium conservation value and it is not foreseen that the development of large sections of these units would negatively affect the environment.
All other units (2, 3, 4, 5, 6) are variously degraded due to human induced influences that has mostly resulted in the destruction of the natural ecosystem with is associated plant and animal species. Development within these areas should have no negative effect on the environment.
The various declared alien invasive species present on the study site is alarming, especially along the stream and tributary areas. Not only do these species affect the study area negatively, but also serves as a central point from where there seeds are dispersed into surrounding natural areas. All alien plant species must be removed from the property.
Environmental Sensitivity Map – Refer to Figure 4.
Page 28 An Environmental Sensitivity Map were configured to clearly understand the various environmental characteristics and areas of significance that could be taken into consideration. This map indicates the following in relation to the proposed development site:
High, medium and low ecological sensitivity; and the Drainage Course 30m buffer.
Are there any rare or endangered flora or fauna species (including red list species) YES NO X present on the site If YES, specify and explain: No red data species except for the orange listed medicinal geophyte Hypoxis hemerocallidea, were found on the site (unit 5). Suitable habitat for selected red data species exists along the southern section of the stream (unit 7). It is recommended that the remaining Hypoxis hemerocallidea individuals are removed under supervision of a qualified person from the degraded Eucalyptus woodland (unit 5) and replanted at other suitable habitats or reserves in Gauteng.
Are there any rare or endangered flora or fauna species (including red list species) present within a 200m (if within urban area as defined in the Regulations) or within 600m (if outside YES X NO the urban area as defined in the Regulations) radius of the site. If YES, specify and explain: Vegetation Unit 9: Natural grassland
This unit is classified as being Egoli Granite Grassland and is located on the southern part of the study site. There are few rocks present and the soil is loamy to clay. In some areas bare soil patches are visible with an estimate 5% erosion evident. The conservation priority is High.
The vegetation is dominated by the grass Hyparrhenia hirta with various other grass and forb species prominent. These include the grasses Cymbopogon pospischili, Eragrostis chloromelas, Brachiaria serrata, Andropogon schirensis, Heteropogon contortus, Trachypogon spicatus, Aristida transvaalensis and the forbs Acaclypha angustata, Albuca setosa, Cyanotis speciose, Gladiolus ecklonii, Helichrysum spcies, Polygala hottentotica, Pollichia campestris, Sacbiosa columbaria, Senecio coronatus and Sphenostylis angustifolia. Various woody species are present and occur scattered as individuals or small clumps. These include Vachellia karroo, Disopyros lycioides, Ehrethia rigida and Stoebe vulgaris.
No development is proposed within this area.
Are there any special or sensitive habitats or other natural features present on the site? YES X NO
If YES, specify and explain:
Enviroguard Ecological Services was appointed to conduct a Wetland Assessment. The conclusion is presented here, and the complete report may be found in Appendix G.
The Sandspruit
The site is bisected by the perennial Sandspruit; entering the site of the southern boundary and extending beyond the northern boundary. The entire area surrounding Zandspruit has seen significant impacts from previous agricultural as well
Page 29 as current residential as well as informal settlements. The natural hydrological regime of the Sandspruit on and immediately surrounding the site has been disrupted by the creation of impoundments (dams) upstream and downstream from the site.
The Sandspruit has been impacted on by the adjacent residential activities including the Jackal Creek Golf Estate situated on the eastern boundary of the site; residential plots as well as Cosmos City to the north; an informal settlement to the west of the sites as well as existing residential plots and compounds to the south of the site. These impacts have encroached on the wetland areas of the Sandspruit and as such have led to the transformation of the riparian vegetation as well as alteration of the natural hydrological regime of the Sandspruit. Extensive alien invasive vegetation as well as dense macrophyte or reed invasion occurs along the Sandspruit. The Sandspruit originates to the south of the property and flows outside the northern boundaries of the site.
The Sandspruit is a tributary of the Klein Jukskei with the confluence situated to the north of the site in the Chartwell and Farmall Agricultural Holdings. Large amounts of stormwater runoff from the adjacent catchment area enters directly into the Sandspruit mainly through eroded drainage channels. The size of the Sandpruit and riparian vegetation have been modified through previous disturbances of the land. In some areas damming have led to increased sizes of the features and increased retention of moisture, leading to increased degrees of wetland formation. In other areas the active channel of the Sandpruit has become severely incised and led to decreased retention and moisture and degrees of wetland formation. The riparian vegetation along the Sandspruit has been totally transformed or severely degraded through extensive alien vegetation invasion. An illegal dumping site is situated immediately adjacent to the western banks of the Sandspruit and has resulted in severe habitat degradation including destruction of the riparian vegetation and deterioration in water quality of the Sandspruit. Several vagrants as well as bush toilets were observed along the reach of the Sandspruit.
A central stream and two tributaries were identified and their vegetation described under units 7 and 11. These were delineated and are indicated in Figure 2. A wetland health Level 1 Present Ecological Status (PES) and an Ecological Importance and Sensitivity (EIS) assessment was conducted for these systems as a whole, while an EIS assessment was done for the seep area.
Wetland health (PES)
The hydrology regime of the area has achieved a PES category of E indicating that there is a change in ecosystem processes due to human influences that has resulted in a loss of natural habitat and associated biota. There are however some natural habitat that has remained. The largest section that is negatively influenced occurs in the northern part of the study area. This situation is unfortunately expected to continue to degrade.
The geomorphology of the area (PES = D) is largely natural with the topography and adjacent land systems mostly intact with only a slight shift in ecosystem functioning. The different informal and formal developments and the proposed development around these areas are expected to cause a loss of habitat in the longer term.
The vegetation of the northern section of the study site of these areas have been modified to such an extent that a loss of natural biota and habitat has occurred. These areas include the northern part of the stream, the northern tributary and the transformed seep area. It is highly unlikely that this trend would be reversed, especially in the seep area section. The southern part and the southern tributary is more natural and is regarded as largely natural with moderate modifications to the natural habitat and biota. The infestation of large sections of these areas by alien invasive species are however, expected to cause a further decline in the vegetation’s natural condition with a resultant loss in ecosystem functioning.
Ecological Importance and Sensitivity
The EIS and functions for the wetland were calculated using the new draft DWA guidelines and model, as developed by M. Rountree (unpublished report). Information was used form the SIBIS and VEGMAP products. A mean score between 0 and
Page 30 4 is obtained, with 0 as the lowest and 4 as the highest score (0-1 = Low to very low; >1-2 = Medium to low; >2-3 = Medium- high: >3-4 = High to very high).
The study site has a medium-low Ecological Importance and Sensitivity (EIS) score of 2.02. This is a value between 0 and 4, with 0 being very low and 4 very high. This value indicates the system to have a moderate sensitivity in spite of the degraded and alien infested sections. It is therefore important that all aspects of the proposed development that could affect the whole water channel system is addressed in the development plan.
ECOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT
Overall the stream/wetland area of the study area achieved a PES score of 7.2 indicating that the system is in PES category D and that there is an overall loss of habitat and biota though some natural features are still present. Based on the PES the stream/wetland area is assigned to Ecological Management Class C (DWAF, 1999) meaning that the area must be actively managed to restore some ecosystem services. This will include the removal of all alien vegetation in the and along the banks of the stream/wetland areas and the rehabilitation of these areas. Furthermore all rubble and litter should be removed on an ongoing basis. In terms of water pollution the water quality should be monitored on a quarterly basis and plans implemented to prevent further pollution.
Was a specialist consulted to assist with completing this section YES X NO
If yes complete specialist details Prof. LR Brown (PhD UP); and Name of the specialist: Mr. CL Cook (MSc UP) Prof. Qualification(s) of the Prof LR Brown (PhD UP): Reg. No. 400075/98 (Botanical Science and Ecological Science). specialist: Mr C Cook (MSc UP) Prof: Reg. No. 400084/08 (Zoological Science) PO Box 703 Postal address: Heidelberg Postal code: 1438
Telephone: 082 4641021 Cell: 082 4641021
E-mail: [email protected] Fax: -
Are any further specialist studies recommended by the specialist? YES NO X
If YES, specify: Not Applicable
If YES, is such a report(s) attached? n/a n/a If YES list the specialist reports attached below
1) Enviroguard Ecological Services cc - An Ecological Report on the Fauna, Flora and Wetlands/Streams: Proposed Zandspruit Township Development on Portions 16, 22, 23,26, 42,51,55,56,59,67,68,72, 73, 76, 104, 105,144,160 & Holding 43 of the Farm Zandspruit 191-IQ
Page 31 Figure 3: Wetland/Stream Areas with 30m Buffer Zone
Page 32 Figure 4: Environmental Sensitivity Map
Page 33 7. 1 C-PLAN
The Gauteng C-plan (version 3) focuses on the mapping of biodiversity priority areas within Gauteng, compiled by the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (GDARD). The C-Plan shows that part of the subject area is defined as “Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBAs)”.
8. LAND USE CHARACTER OF SURROUNDING AREA Using the associated number of the relevant current land use or prominent feature from the table below, fill in the position of these land-uses in the vacant blocks below which represent a 500m radius around the site.
2. River, stream, 3. Nature 1. Vacant land 4. Public open space 5. Koppie or ridge wetland conservation area 8. Low density 9. Medium to high 10. Informal 6. Dam or reservoir 7. Agriculture residential density residential residential 14. Commercial & 11. Old age home 12. Retail 13. Offices 15. Light industrial warehousing 19. Education 16. Heavy industrialAN 17. Hospitality facility 18. Church 20. Sport facilities facilities 21. Golf course/polo 23. Train station or 25. Major road (4 22. AirportN 24. Railway lineN fields shunting yardN lanes or more)N 26. Sewage 27. Landfill or waste 28. Historical building 29. Graveyard 30. Archeological site treatment plantA treatment siteA 32. Underground 33.Spoil heap or 31. Open cast mine 34. Small Holdings mine slimes damA Other land uses (describe): 35. Eskom Substation
Page 34 NOTE: Each block represents an area of 250m X 250m, if your proposed development is larger than this please use the appropriate number and orientation of hashed blocks
NORTH
34 9 8 1/2/8 8/9 = Site 34 34 8 1/2/8/14 9
34 34 1/2/8 8 EAST WEST 34 14/ 34 14/34 1/2 1
34 9/34 14/9 1/2/9 1
SOUTH
Note: More than one (1) Land-use may be indicated in a block
Please note: The Department may request specialist input/studies depending on the nature of the land use character of the area and potential impact(s) of the proposed activity/ies. Specialist reports that look at health & air quality and noise impacts may be required for any feature above and in particular those features marked with an “A“ and with an “N” respectively.
Have specialist reports been attached YES NO X
If yes indicate the type of reports below
n/a
9. SOCIO-ECONOMIC CONTEXT Describe the existing social and economic characteristics of the area and the community condition as baseline information to assess the potential social, economic and community impacts.
Zandspruit is mainly informal settlements with ‘Occupied Rent Free’ shacks. This is the tenure type identified in Zandspruit in the UDF. There are no community facilities in this areas and the property zoning is unknown.
Zandspruit is an informal settlement northwest of Johannesburg with an estimated 15 000 shacks. The need for low-income housing opportunities to assist the poor out of poverty and cater for the informal settlements in the region is a critical issue in this region. The issue engages directly with meeting the challenge of poverty and ensuring that vulnerability, inequality and social exclusion are addressed. Furthermore, the incorporation of innovative lower-income housing typologies into the broader urban fabric will directly provide a range of different housing types for different economic needs within the same township.
General socio-economic site characteristics are:
There is a high ratio of informal trading in relation to the residential uses, which indicates a relatively healthy local economy. The density of informal housing is extremely high and can only be countered with multiple storey residential buildings. The prevalence of multi-storey informal structures are high. The streets and passageways in the settlement are extremely narrow and the pedestrian passageways are confusing and often causes young children to get lost.
Page 35 The streets are too narrow for emergency services which is a great concern. There is a high prevalence of self-constructed pit latrines in the settlement but access for sanitation service vehicles is very problematic. Street lighting or high mast lighting is absent. There is a high prevalence of taverns and restaurants in the settlement. Stand pipes do exist but inadequate for the amount of people in the settlement. There is a pedestrian bridge over Beyers Naude Drive to an extension of the Zandspruit settlement on the southern side of Zandspruit. Some NMT infrastructure has been constructed along Beyers Naude Drive and Peter Road and the sidewalk is extensively used for on street trading. The produce that is sold by vendors are purchased at whole sale trading retail outlets close by. Illegal dumping (surrounding factories dumping excess wood; splints; bricks and debris) sites exist on the property, adjacent to houses causing fire hazard. No formal land use exist, business and residential functions per erf. There are many illegal electrical connections in the township and some connections crosses Beyers Naude Drive. Sewer infrastructure is currently lacking and poses a significant health risk. The storm water system is inadequate and grey water and sewer water contaminates the nearby river system.
Specialist Study: Aurecon South Africa (Pty) Ltd conducted a Socio-Economic Study for the proosed Zandspruit Housing Development. The assignment includes the assessment of major economic trends and drivers, a localized demographic profile and assessment and investigating the growth and development potential for the Zandspruit housing development. The complete report may be found in Appendix G.
10. CULTURAL/HISTORICAL FEATURES
Please be advised that if section 38 of the National Heritage Resources Act 25 of 1999 is applicable to your proposal or alternatives, then you are requested to furnish this Department with written comment from the South African Heritage Resource Agency (SAHRA) – Attach comment in appropriate annexure
38. (1) Subject to the provisions of subsections (7), (8) and (9), any person who intends to undertake a development categorised as- (a) the construction of a road, wall, powerline, pipeline, canal or other similar form of linear development or barrier exceeding 300m in length; (b) the construction of a bridge or similar structure exceeding 50m in length; (c) any development or other activity which will change the character of a site- (i) exceeding 5 000 m2 in extent; or (ii) involving three or more existing erven or subdivisions thereof; or (iii) involving three or more erven or divisions thereof which have been consolidated within the past five years; or (iv) the costs of which will exceed a sum set in terms of regulations by SAHRA or a provincial heritage resources authority; (d) the re-zoning of a site exceeding 10 000 m2 in extent; or (e) any other category of development provided for in regulations by SAHRA or a provincial heritage resources authority, must at the very earliest stages of initiating such a development, notify the responsible heritage resources authority and furnish it with details regarding the location, nature and extent of the proposed development.
Page 36 Are there any signs of culturally (aesthetic, social, spiritual, environmental) or historically significant elements, as defined in section 2 of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999, (Act No. 25 of 1999), YES X NO including archaeological or palaeontological sites, on or close (within 20m) to the site? If YES, explain:
Sensitive heritage resources (historical period structures, cemeteries, contemporary period features and religious meeting places) occur inside areas proposed for the Zandspruit Township Establishment development.
If uncertain, the Department may request that specialist input be provided to establish whether there is such a feature(s) present on or close to the site.
Briefly explain the findings of the specialist if one was already appointed: Exigo Sustainability was appointed to conduct an Archaeological Impact Assessment (AIA). The AIA was conducted subject to requirements as set out by the National Environmental Management Act (Act 107 of 1998), the National Heritage Resources Act (NHRA - Act 25 of 1999). The rationale of this AIA is to determine the presence of heritage resources such as archaeological and historical sites and features, graves and places of religious and cultural significance in previously unstudied areas; to consider the impact of the proposed project on such heritage resources, and to submit appropriate recommendations with regard to the cultural resources management measures that may be required at affected sites / features.
A summary of the findings is presented here, and the complete report may be found in Appendix C.
A number of Contemporary Period houses, dwellings, foundation structures and buildings as well as a number of religious meeting places possibly associated with the ZCC occur within the project area but these sites are of low significance due a more recent temporal context thereof. Three fairly well preserved Historical Period buildings and / or compounds occur within the project area and the sites are of medium significance as they might inform on architectural, settlement and social developments at Zandspruit. It is primarily recommended that the sites be avoided and that a 50m conservation buffer around the structures be implemented. Should impact on the sites by development prove inevitable they should be adequately documented by means of further Phase 2 Specialist Analysis (mapped, photographed and documented, described and contextualised by means of a desktop study) and the necessary destruction permits should be obtained from the relevant Heritage Resources Authorities. Two burial sites occurring within the project area are of high significance and these sites will in all probability be impacted on by the proposed project. Primarily it is recommended that cemeteries be avoided and that a conservation buffer of at least 20m be implemented for the heritage receptors on the condition that the burial sites are monitored frequently by a heritage consultant or informed ECO in order to detect and manage negative impact on the sites. In addition, the sites should be fenced prior to the commencement of construction and strict access control should be applied.
Will any building or structure older than 60 years be affected in any way? YES X NO Avoidance, conservation buffer, site monitoring. Phase Is it necessary to apply for a permit in terms of the National Heritage Resources Act, 2 documentation & 1999 (Act 25 of 1999)? destruction permitting if impacted on. If yes, please attached the comments from SAHRA in the appropriate Appendix
Page 37 Page 38 SECTION C: PUBLIC PARTICIPATION (SECTION 41)
Note: The Environmental Assessment Practitioner must conduct public participation process in accordance with the requirement of the EIA Regulations, 2014.
1. LOCAL AUTHORITY PARTICIPATION
Local 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 thirty (30) calendar days before the submission of the application to the competent authority.
Was the draft report submitted to the local authority for comment? YES X NO
If yes, has any comments been received from the local authority? YES NO X Notification of the Application for Environmental Authorisation and this Draft Basic Assessment Report will be submitted to the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality for comment opportunity. A 30-day comment period is allowed.
Any comments received from the CoJMM on the DBAR will be included in the Final Basic Assessment Report.
If “YES”, briefly describe the comment below (also attach any correspondence to and from the local authority to this application):
Any comments received from the CoJMM on the DBAR will be included in the Final Basic Assessment Report.
If “NO” briefly explain why no comments have been received or why the report was not submitted if that is the case.
As this is the first announcement of the project, no comments have been received to date.
2. CONSULTATION WITH OTHER STAKEHOLDERS Any stakeholder that has a direct interest in the activity, site or property, such as servitude holders and service providers, should be informed of the application at least thirty (30) 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 X
If “YES”, briefly describe the feedback below (also attach copies of any correspondence to and from the stakeholders to this application): Notification of the Application for Environmental Authorisation and this Draft Basic Assessment Report will be submitted to registered I&APs for comment opportunity. A 30-day comment period is allowed.
Any comments received from I&APs on the DBAR will be included in the Final Basic Assessment Report.
If “NO” briefly explain why no comments have been received
As this is the first announcement of the project, no comments have been received to date.
Page 39 3. GENERAL PUBLIC PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS
The Environmental Assessment Practitioner must ensure that the public participation process 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 and ratepayers associations. 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 flawed.
The EAP must record all comments and respond to each comment of the public / interested and affected party before the application report is submitted. The comments and responses must be captured in a Comments and Responses Report as prescribed in the regulations and be attached to this application.
Public Participation Information:
i) Notification Letters will be distributed to pre-identified I&APs on the database. Pre-identified I&APs and key stakeholders will be directly notified via email, fax and post. ii) Newspaper Advertisements - In compliance with the EIA Regulations (2014), notification of the commencement of the EIA process for the project will be advertised in the following newspaper: Sowetan – Publication date to be confirmed. iii) Site Notices will be put up at conspicuous places to inform I&APs about the Project. These notices contained information about the Project, the location thereof, legal process to be followed, the contact details of the EAP. iv) The Draft BAR will be made available for public comment. v) All issues raised during the comment period of the DBAR will be recorded in a Comments and Response Report, along with responses from the applicant and consultant.
4. APPENDICES FOR PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
All public participation information is to be attached in the appropriate Appendix. The information in this Appendix is to be ordered as detailed below:
Appendix E provides details of the public consultation process followed so far.
Appendix E.1 PROOF OF SITE NOTICE
Appendix E.2 WRITTEN NOTICES ISSUED
Appendix E.3 PROOF OF NEWSPAPER ADVERTISEMENTS
Appendix E.4 COMMUNICATIONS TO AND FROM I&APS
Appendix E.5 MINUTES OF ANY PUBLIC AND/OR STAKEHOLDER MEETINGS
Appendix E.6 COMMENTS AND RESPONSES REPORT
Appendix E.7 COMMENTS FROM I&APS ON BASIC ASSESSMENT (BA) REPORT
Page 40 Appendix E.8 COMMENTS FROM I&APS ON AMENDMENTS TO THE BA REPORT
Appendix E.9 COPY OF THE REGISTER OF I&APS
Appendix E.10 LIST OF STATE DEPARTMENTS
Page 41 SECTION D: RESOURCE USE AND PROCESS DETAILS
Note: Section D is to be completed for the proposal and alternative(s) (if necessary)
Instructions for completion of Section D for alternatives 1) For each alternative under investigation, where such alternatives will have different resource and process details (e.g. technology alternative), the entire Section D needs to be completed. 2) Each alterative needs to be clearly indicated in the box below. 3) Attach the above documents in a chronological order.
Section D has been duplicated for alternatives 0 times (complete only when appropriate)
(complete only when appropriate for Section D Alternative No. 0 above)
1. WASTE, EFFLUENT & EMISSION MANAGEMENT
Solid Waste Management Will the activity produce solid construction waste during the construction/initiation phase? YES X NO
If yes, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? Unknown
How will the construction solid waste be disposed of (describe)? Building rubble and solid construction waste (such as sand, gravel concrete and spoil material) that cannot be used for filling and rehabilitation and other litter and waste (including packaging, plastics, waste metals, etc.) generated during the construction phase will be placed in a bulk waste collection areas in contractors camps. This waste will disposed at an appropriately registered and licensed waste disposal facility.
Where will the construction solid waste be disposed of (describe)? All non-recycled general waste will be removed by a registered waste contractor and taken to appropriately registered and licensed waste disposal facility.
Will the activity produce solid waste during its operational phase? YES X NO
If yes, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? Approx. 7 500 m³/ month
How will the solid waste be disposed of (describe)? The City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality will collect, transport and dispose waste materials. The CoJMM will provide containers / black refuse bins for general waste and will be lifted once a week. Compaction vehicles or rear-end loaders will collect and dispose of at appropriately registered and licensed waste disposal facilities.
Has the municipality or relevant service provider confirmed that sufficient air space YES X NO exists for treating/disposing of the solid waste to be generated by this activity? Where will the solid waste be disposed if it does not feed into a municipal waste stream (describe)? Waste will feed into the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality’s waste stream.
Page 42 Note: 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, 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 YES NO X legislation? If yes, inform the competent authority and request a change to an application for scoping and EIA.
Is the activity that is being applied for a solid waste handling or treatment facility? YES NO X 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.
Describe the measures, if any, that will be taken to ensure the optimal reuse or recycling of materials: The community will be encouraged to separate waste into glass, tins, paper, hard plastics, organic and general waste. This will be stored in appropriate containers and collected by a contractor on a regular basis, with recyclable waste taken to the nearest appropriate facility, and non-recyclable waste to the municipal landfill site.
Liquid Effluent (other than domestic sewage) Will the activity produce effluent, other than normal sewage, that will be disposed of in a YES NO X municipal sewage system? If yes, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? n/a If yes, has the municipality confirmed that sufficient capacity exist for treating / disposing of n/a n/a the liquid effluent to be generated by this activity(ies)?
Will the activity produce any effluent that will be treated and/or disposed of on site? Yes NO X If yes, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? n/a
If yes describe the nature of the effluent and how it will be disposed. Not Applicable Note that if effluent is to be treated or disposed on site 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 facility? YES NO X If yes, provide the particulars of the facility: Facility name: n/a Contact person: n/a Postal address: n/a Postal code: n/a Telephone: n/a Cell: n/a E-mail: n/a Fax: n/a
Describe the measures that will be taken to ensure the optimal reuse or recycling of waste water, if any: Not Applicable
Page 43 Liquid Effluent (Domestic Sewage) Will the activity produce domestic effluent that will be disposed of in a municipal YES X NO sewage system? If yes, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? 5,099 Kl/month If yes, has the municipality confirmed that sufficient capacity exist for treating / YES X NO disposing of the domestic effluent to be generated by this activity(ies)?
Will the activity produce any effluent that will be treated and/or disposed of on site? YES NO X If yes describe how it will be treated and disposed off. n/a
Emissions into the Atmosphere Will the activity release emissions into the atmosphere? YES NO X If yes, is it controlled by any legislation of any sphere of government? n/a n/a 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: Not Applicable
2. WATER USE Indicate the source(s) of water that will be used for the activity Directly from river, stream, the activity will Municipal X groundwater other water board dam or lake 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: n/a
If Yes, please attach proof of assurance of water supply, e.g. yield of borehole, in the appropriate Appendix Does the activity require a water use permit from the Department of Water Affairs? YES NO X If yes, list the permits required n/a
If yes, have you applied for the water use permit(s)? n/a n/a
If yes, have you received approval(s)? (attached in appropriate appendix) n/a n/a
3. POWER SUPPLY Please indicate the source of power supply eg. Municipality / Eskom / Renewable energy source The external electrical reticulation network connection will be taken from the local Eskom distribution networks and will be handed over Eskom on completion of the works.
If power supply is not available, where will power be sourced from? Not Applicable
Page 44 4. ENERGY EFFICIENCY Describe the design measures, if any, that have been taken to ensure that the activity is energy efficient: The following energy savings methods shall be investigated for possible implementation for the proposed development: Use of energy efficient lighting, Use of day light wherever possible in lieu of artificial lighting, Use of renewable solar powered lighting for external lighting, Switching off of all electrical appliances at night and times not in use, Use of high-efficient HVAC systems, Use of solar water heating, Setting thermostats of water heaters at the most efficient level, Insulation of hot water pipes and hot water storage tanks, Use of low-flow shower heads, Use of high-efficient electric motors, Use of variable speed drives on electric motors, Use of appropriate conductor size to reduce distribution losses, Use of control methods to reduce maximum demand and exploit off peak electricity tariffs, Insulation of windows, wills, ceilings and roofs.
Describe how alternative energy sources have been taken into account or been built into the design of the activity, if any: Not Applicable
Page 45 SECTION E: IMPACT ASSESSMENT
The assessment of impacts must adhere to the minimum requirements in the EIA Regulations, 2014, 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 as well as the impacts of not implementing the activity (Section 24(4)(b)(i).
1. ISSUES RAISED BY INTERESTED & AFFECTED PARTIES Summarise the issues raised by interested and affected parties.
As this is the first announcement of the Basic Assessment Report, no comments have been received to date.
Summary of response from the practitioner to the issues raised by the interested and affected parties (including the manner in which the public comments are incorporated or why they were not included) (A full response must be provided in the Comments and Response Report that must be attached to this report):
No comments have been received at this stage but this will be updated once the 30 day public comment period has been completed, before submission to the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (GDARD).
2. IMPACTS THAT MAY RESULT FROM THE CONSTRUCTION & OPERATIONAL PHASE Briefly describe the methodology utilised in the rating of significance of impacts.
2.1 METHODS USED TO IDENTIFY POTENTIAL IMPACTS
A combination of the following methods was used to identify impacts during the Basic Assessment:
2.1.1 Technical and Specialist Study Findings
Table: Conclusion and Recommendations of Technical and Specialist Studies
SPECIALIST STUDY IMPACT IDENTIFICATION Fauna and Flora “The study area include a variety of different habitats, some natural and other human induced. Due to the large number of informal houses as well as the surrounding commercial, residential and industrial developments the whole study area are traversed by footpaths and areas where rubble and litter are dumped. Other areas are used for the planting of agricultural crops. This has all had a negative impact on the environment leading to degradation and destruction of the natural vegetation.
A total of 195 different plant species were identified for the study area. Apart from the species identified in the Egoli Granite Grassland (unit 9) most of the species identified in this study are either pioneer or secondary successional species or alien invasive species. Vegetation units 7, 9 and 11 are regarded as having high conservation values. Vegetation unit 9 (Natural grassland) is classified as belonging to the endangered Egoli Granite Grassland. This grassland has a high diversity and biodiversity with healthy populations of the different species present. The system has been sustaining itself for many years despite the human influences surrounding it. It is recommended that this area together with the stream (southern section) and a small section of unit 10 (Hyparrhenia hirta-Themeda traindra grassland) along the banks of the stream is conserved as an open natural space. If humans are however, allowed to wander through these
Page 46 SPECIALIST STUDY IMPACT IDENTIFICATION areas on an uncontrolled basis and there is no fences around these areas it would be of no use to conserve this pristine, beautiful and highly diverse grassland. A formal management plan must also be developed for this area and it is recommended that the community living around this area is involved in the implementation of this plan. The people should also be educated to understand the value of this natural grassland and why it should be protected. If this is not done it would slowly become degraded with rubble and litter strewn throughout the area as is the case in the other areas of the site where the same grassland most probably occurred, but which is now destroyed.
The other sensitive ecosystems include the stream and tributary areas (Units 7 & 11). Although degraded due to human induced influences (especially the northern section of the stream and the northern tributary) and as a result of seasonal flooding, these areas have a high ecosystem functioning in terms of their water channelling effect. River/stream/wetland areas and associated floodplains are important since they channel water and also supply various terrestrial areas of water and nutrients. The vegetation in and around these systems present unique habitats that are different from the surrounding terrestrial areas and therefore have unique plant and animal species living in and utilising these areas. A series of dams are also present along this stream area that also contribute to the variety of water habitats in this unit. These areas also serve as ecological corridors that would allow for long-term biological movement. They also provide a natural protective area for plants and animals. No development should be allowed within a 30m buffer zone around these areas. Furthermore it is important that all alien vegetation in and along these areas are removed as a high priority. Where these systems have been disturbed as a result of the proposed development they should be rehabilitated as a matter of urgency.
The seep area (unit 8) is totally degraded due to the area being used for the planting of crops. This area do however, have underground water flowing towards the stream area. This needs to be confirmed by a hydrology expert. Due to it being degraded with no natural ecosystem present this area has a medium conservation value. It is not foreseen that development of this area will negatively affect the ecosystem and its functioning, but whether one would be able to build any structures within this water seeping area needs to be assessed by experts in that field. Furthermore the hydrological report should confirm whether development in such an area will negatively affect the flow of underground water towards the stream system.
Units 1 and 10 are degraded grasslands. These areas most probably represented Egoli Granite Grassland in the past, but due to the use of these areas by humans (small crop fields, dumping of rubble and litter, clearing of small section for social gatherings, footpaths etc.) these areas have slowly become degraded over the years. This has caused a decline in species richness and overall diversity with many climax species and associated fauna disappearing. As a result these areas have a medium conservation value and it is not foreseen that the development of large sections of these units would negatively affect the environment.
All other units (2, 3, 4, 5, 6) are variously degraded due to human induced influences that has mostly resulted in the destruction of the natural ecosystem with is associated plant and animal species. Development within these areas should have no negative effect on the environment.
No red data species except for the orange listed medicinal geophyte Hypoxis hemerocallidea, were found on the site (unit 5). Suitable habitat for selected red data species exists along the southern section of the stream (unit 7). It is recommended that the remaining Hypoxis hemerocallidea individuals are removed under supervision of a qualified person from the
Page 47 SPECIALIST STUDY IMPACT IDENTIFICATION degraded Eucalyptus woodland (unit 5) and replanted at other suitable habitats or reserves in Gauteng.
The various declared alien invasive species present on the study site is alarming, especially along the stream and tributary areas. Not only do these species affect the study area negatively, but also serves as a central point from where there seeds are dispersed into surrounding natural areas. All alien plant species must be removed from the property. The control of alien vegetation along the construction route must be continually monitored. These species causes severe habitat degradation especially adjacent to roads.
The re-vegetation of the areas affected after construction with species indigenous to the area can be considered as a potential positive impact. Activities within the adjacent natural areas not affected by the proposed construction must be strictly managed. It is recommended that the construction programme preferably commences during the dry winter months, when the majority of animal species are dormant. All earthworks shall be undertaken in such a manner so as to minimize the extent of any impacts caused by such activities. Soil stockpiles must be suitably protected from possible erosion. Soil stockpiles must not be placed adjacent to any water bodies preventing possible siltation and sedimentation. The areas affected by the construction must be appropriately rehabilitated after the cessation of construction activities. No animals should be intentionally disturbed, injured or collected during the construction phase. If any animal is disturbed by construction, e.g. nesting birds, rodents or snakes or else during the operational phase it should be allowed to escape without further harassment, noise or interference.
All large indigenous tree and shrub species should be conserved wherever possible. Vegetation clearance must be strictly restricted to the working areas. No dumping of any materials in undeveloped open areas. Activities in the surrounding open undeveloped areas must be strictly regulated and managed.
Any erosion channels developed during the construction period or during the vegetation establishment period shall be backfilled and compacted, and the areas restored to a proper condition. The Contractor shall ensure that cleared areas are effectively stabilised to prevent and control erosion. Exposed slopes and/or destabilised areas should be landscaped to blend in with the surrounding areas if possible. Exposed areas should be rehabilitated with a grass mix that blends in with the surrounding vegetation. The grass mix should consist of indigenous grasses adapted to the local environmental conditions.
In order to deliver cost-effective services and to increase human health and well-being it is important that the proposed development is done in such a way as to conserve as many ecosystems as possible. Green open spaces incorporating the high conservation value areas as well as rehabilitated areas should be one of the main focuses of the proposed development. Humans and their habits not only influence natural ecosystems but also dominate all other ecosystems (Grimm et al., 2008). By taking all the different environmental aspects into consideration and focusing on sustainable development humans and nature can function in harmony and to the benefit of each other.” Wetland A central stream and two tributaries were identified and their vegetation described under units 7 Assessment and 11. These were delineated and are indicated in figure 3. A wetland health Level 1 Present Ecological Status (PES) and an Ecological Importance and Sensitivity (EIS) assessment was conducted for these systems as a whole, while an EIS assessment was done for seep area.
Page 48 SPECIALIST STUDY IMPACT IDENTIFICATION Wetland health (PES) The hydrology regime of the area has achieved a PES category of E indicating that there is a change in ecosystem processes due to human influences that has resulted in a loss of natural habitat and associated biota. There are however some natural habitat that has remained. The largest section that is negatively influenced occurs in the northern part of the study area. This situation is unfortunately expected to continue to degrade.
The vegetation of the northern section of the study site of these areas have been modified to such an extent that a loss of natural biota and habitat has occurred. These areas include the northern part of the stream, the northern tributary and the transformed seep area. It is highly unlikely that this trend would be reversed, especially in the seep area section. The southern part and the southern tributary is more natural and is regarded as largely natural with moderate modifications to the natural habitat and biota. The infestation of large sections of these areas by alien invasive species are however, expected to cause a further decline in the vegetation’s natural condition with a resultant loss in ecosystem functioning.
Ecological Importance and Sensitivity The study site has a medium-low Ecological Importance and Sensitivity (EIS) score of 2.02. This is a value between 0 and 4, with 0 being very low and 4 very high. This value indicates the system to have a moderate sensitivity in spite of the degraded and alien infested sections. It is therefore important that all aspects of the proposed development that could affect the whole water channel system is addressed in the development plan.
Ecological Management Overall the stream/wetland area of the study area achieved a PES score of 7.2 indicating that the system is in PES category D and that there is an overall loss of habitat and biota though some natural features are still present. Based on the PES the stream/wetland area is assigned to Ecological Management Class C (DWAF, 1999) meaning that the area must be actively managed to restore some ecosystem services. This will include the removal of all alien vegetation in the and along the banks of the stream/wetland areas and the rehabilitation of these areas. Furthermore all rubble and litter should be removed on an ongoing basis. In terms of water pollution the water quality should be monitored on a quarterly basis and plans implemented to prevent further pollution.
According to the Gauteng Agricultural Potential Atlas (GAPA Version 3), the proposed Agricultural development site is not situated within a region delineated as an Agricultural Hub. According to Potential the C-Plan the agricultural potential is low. Cultural Heritage Documented site locations and proposed mitigation measures are:
Short Description Coordinate S E Mitigation Action S26.04684° E27.91428° Avoidance, conservation buffer, site Historical Period S26.04602° E27.90931° monitoring. Phase 2 documentation & Structures. destruction permitting if impacted on. S26.04525° E27.90825° General site monitoring by informed ECO. S26.04631° E27.90927° Avoidance & redesign layout to avoid the heritage resource, 20m conservation Cemeteries. buffer, fence all burial places and apply S26.06174° E27.91341° access control, site monitoring, and site management plan implementation.
Page 49 SPECIALIST STUDY IMPACT IDENTIFICATION Grave Relocation Alternative: Relocation of burials and documentation of site, full social consultation with affected parties, possible conservation management and protection measures. Subject to authorizations and relevant permitting from heritage authorities and affected parties. S26.04539° E27.91287° S26.04524° E27.90920° S26.04742° E27.90866° S26.04801° E27.90744° Contemporary Period No further heritage action required. S26.04946° E27.91435° Features. General site monitoring by informed ECO. S26.06815° E27.91048° S26.06367° E27.91045° S26.05009° E27.91167° S26.05573° E27.90858° S26.06320° E27.91262° S26.06296° E27.91433° No further heritage action required. S26.06429° E27.91479° It is suggested that local communities be Religious meeting S26.06349° E27.91599° consulted with regards to religious place. S26.06451° E27.91278° meeting places in the project area and S26.06493° E27.91323° S26.06640° E27.91267° their possible social meanings. S26.06537° E27.91011°
Geo-Technical The major geotechnical constraint on the site is the occurrence of fill material to an average of 0,5m depth, and to a potential maximum depth of 1.5m. Zones 3 and 4 on Drawing No 112225- G01-001 delineate the expected extent of the area affected by fill material. The fill deposits occur across an estimated 50ha or about 30% of the site area.
A further significant constraint is the occurrence of shallow groundwater which is caused by “spring conditions” typical of areas underlain by granite. The area affected by shallow groundwater appears to coincide with Zone 4 on Drawing No 112225-G01-001.
Dolerite dykes along unknown alignments extend across the area. Soils interpreted to be derived from greenstone occurs across a small area. The conceptual areas shown to be underlain by dolerite and greenstones on Drawing No 112225-G01-001 are combined as Zone 3. The dykes and greenstone area are associated with relatively clayey soils that are of moderate potential expansiveness, and represent founding conditions that differ from the norm on this site.
Limited foundation treatment will be required across the entire site.
9.1 Fill material The area affected by fill material appears to be limited to two distinct zones (see Drg No 112225- G01-001), with an estimated total area of about 50ha. The fill is covered by a thin layer of soil. The base depth of the fill varies between 0.1m and 1.2m, with an average of 0.5m.
Page 50 SPECIALIST STUDY IMPACT IDENTIFICATION The fill material in Zones 3 and 4 on Drawing No 112225-G01-001 must be removed to address variability in consistency. The presence of fill material containing such objects as plastic, wood, builder’s rubble, pipes and domestic waste is also not acceptable from a general development point of view.
As the removal of fill would significantly affect the land surface, it is recommended that the fill is removed prior to site survey of civil engineering design purposes.
9.2 Shallow groundwater
The “spring conditions” or shallow groundwater in Zone 4 must be addressed by trenches backfilled with material suitable for the intended function, that would drain shallow groundwater to the depth required to keep foundations dry. Such trenches would possibly be required for each stand across Zone 4. Design of the trenches should be undertaken by the Civil Engineer, and should allow drainage of the water past structures to a downslope exit point at surface.
Excavations for service trenches should be inspected by an engineering geologist during the Phase II township investigation to identify potential shallow groundwater areas that may not have been recognised during the investigation.
9.3 Foundations for structures
9.3.1 Zone 1, Zone 3 and Zone 4 The same foundation solution can be used on Zone 1, Zone 3 and Zone 4. For Zone 3 and Zone 4, the recommendation assumes that the fill material at surface has been removed.
Excavated soils in these zones are generally expected to be suitable for use in foundation preparation and backfilling service trenches. For the variable conditions in hillwash and residual granite in terms of consistency, the foundations should be constructed as follows: Remove insitu material below foundations to a depth and width of 1,5 times the foundation width or to a competent horizon and replace with material compacted to 93% MOD AASHTO density at -1 % to+ 2% of optimum moisture content. Construct normally with lightly reinforced strip footings and light reinforcement in masonry.
9.3.2 Zone 2
Potentially moderately expansive soils derived from dolerite and greenstone should be provided for as follows: Found at convenient depth, and provide for Reinforced strip footings and Articulation joints at some internal and all external doors. Light reinforcement in masonry. Site drainage and service/plumbing precautions
9.4 Excavatability
The transported soils and residual granite and dolerite can be considered as ‘Soft Excavation’, according to SABS 1200D (1988).
Page 51 SPECIALIST STUDY IMPACT IDENTIFICATION Very limited blasting may be required for services trenches. However the hardpan ferricrete is of very dense to soft rock consistency and is hard to penetrate due to the absence of joints or “cracks” in the deposit. Services Provision Responsibility in Infrastructure Provision
Due to the fact that the development is a municipal initiative, it is in its own interest to ensure that the required bulk infrastructure is in place to enable the development.
The City of Johannesburg responsibility is the provision of all bulk services, including the following: The provision of a new reservoir with the correct capacity for the final township requirements and for the upgrades required of the water supply pipelines which connect the complete Zandspruit Phase II development water reticulation network to the reservoir; The construction of the new pump station to allow for connection of the Zandspruit Phase II development sewer reticulation to the Waste Water Treatment Works. The upgrades required to the Waste Water Treatment Works to accommodate additional sewage.
2.1.2 Site Inspection
The EAP and specialist conducted a site visit and identified potential sensitive environments. These areas are then red-flagged to be investigated further and excluded from development if necessary.
2.1.3 Technical / Desktop Studies
Technical and specialist reports such as the town planning memorandum, engineering service report, geo-technical investigation and ecological assessment are used to identify those areas and aspects that may be impacted on.
2.1.4 Public Participation
Conducting public participation produces an issues list. Such a list needs to be screened for relevant impacts which then need to be addressed by specialist studies or identified for further investigation.
2.1.5 GDARD Policies, Review / Terms of Reference
GDARD C-Plan 3 as well as the policies provides the red flags that must be investigated by the specialists. Furthermore, the GDARD officials and the different sub-directorates within the department review the application and give comments to the relevant environmental officer. The issues identified are forwarded to the environmental consultant and these issues are addressed or translated as impacts.
2.1.6 Environmental Aspects
The ISO 14001 international standard on environmental management systems defines ‘environmental aspects’ as elements of an organisation’s activities, products or services that can interact with the environment.
Environmental assessment reports generally include a description of the proposed development for which the assessment is undertaken. The purpose of such a description is to provide the reader with an understanding of what the development involves and thus indicate how the development may interact with the environment. Systematic identification of environmental aspects is the first step to ensure a correct understanding of the development. Only once a development and the way in which it may
Page 52 interact with the environment is correctly understood, can its actual and potential environmental consequences be correctly identified and evaluated.
2.1.6.1 Typical Environmental Aspects Associated With Township Development
A. Construction Phase
Construction camp o Site offices o Accommodation for construction workforce o Temporary sanitation facilities o Cooking facilities o Power supply (electricity / gas / biomass burning / other) o Potable water supply for drinking, personal hygiene and cooking o Access routes o Fencing
Equipment yards and laydown areas o Material and equipment stockpiles o Storage and handling of hazardous substances (petrochemicals and other hazardous substances) o Vehicle and equipment maintenance workshops o Vehicle and equipment wash bays
Access and hauling routes o Scraping / grading o Storm water diversion ditches or berms o Erosion control o Maintenance and repair of damage throughout construction phase o Closure and rehabilitation of temporary routes after construction
Clearance of site to facilitate access o Vegetation clearance and construction o Demolition of buildings and other obstructions
Topsoil management o Stripping o Stockpiling o Importation to areas prior to revegetation
Installation of services o Roads o Power supply and reticulation o Water supply and reticulation o Storm water management system o Waste transfer station / disposal o Sewage system / sewage treatment o Telecommunications
Construction of top structures / houses o Excavation for foundations o Drilling o Blasting o Earthworks to establish a level footprint area o Importation of fill material o Disposal of spoil material
Page 53 o Casting of foundations o Construction of aboveground structure o Construction of fences / boundary walls
Landscaping Stabilisation of slopes and erosion o Application of mulch or fabric prevention o Stormwater ditches or berms and dissipation structures o Engineering solutions (i.e. gabions, gunite, etc.)
Movement of construction workforce, equipment and materials Vehicle and equipment refuelling, maintenance, and repairs during breakdowns Dust suppression Borrow pits and quarries Temporary storage and disposal of general waste Temporary storage and disposal of waste concrete and other construction rubble Temporary storage and disposal of hazardous waste Remediation or disposal of soils contaminated with lubricants, fuel or other chemicals
Concrete batching / mixing o Cement silos / store for cement bags o Aggregate stockpiles o Water supply point o Mixing areas o Chemicals added to concrete (i.e. retardes) o Temporary storage of waste concrete
Refuelling depot (consumer o Bunding (structures for containment of spills) installation of petroleum tank/s) Chemicals / lubricants / paints storage areas Veld and forest fire risk o Fires for heating and cooking at construction camp o Burning of waste o Burning of vegetation
B. Operation and Maintenance Phase
Top Structures / Housing Units o Free standing units o Townhouses o Cluster houses o Duets o Flats / Apartments
Sewage System o Waterborne sewage system (flushing toilets) o Linked to municipal sewer o Linked to own sewage treatment plant o Linked to septic tank system o Linked to french drain / soak-away o Ventilation improved pit (VIP) toilets o Chemical toilets o Bucket system o Other (provide details)
Page 54 Water Supply and Reticulation o Source: o Local authority / municipality system o Borehole o Rainwater o River o Dam o Point of Supply: o Individual house connections o Individual yard tap connections o Street standpipes o Hand pumps o Diesel pumps o Gravity-reticulated taps (i.e. from reservoir) o Tanker o Water kiosk o Vendor o Collection from river / dam o Other (provide details)
Energy Supply o Source o Local authority electrical reticulation network o ESKOM (or alternative bulk supplier) reticulation network o Alternative sources: o Solar power o Generator (generally diesel) o Biomass burning (i.e. fuel wood, charcoal, gas, kerosene / paraffin)
Lighting o Individual houses o Street lighting o Hi-mast floodlights
Waste Management o Collection / Removal: o Collection from individual housing units o Collection from street collection points o Collection from waste transfer station o Destination: o Licensed landfill site o Incineration o Recycling facility
Transportation / Road Network o Internal Roads o Tar Road / Asphalt Roads o Gravel Roads o Dirt Road or Track o Walkways o Cycling Routes
Open Areas / Greenbelts o Parks o Playgrounds
Page 55 o Rivers and floodplains / Wetlands o Ridges / koppies / mountainous areas
Sport / Recreation Facilities Public / Social services o Security checkpoints o Perimeter Fencing / Wall o Markets and shops o Information Centre o Cemetery o Library o Health care o Hospital o Clinic o Other (provide details) o Educational Institutions o Day care centre o Nursery school o Primary school o Secondary school o Tertiary institution o Commercial and Business Activities o Shops o Restaurants o Offices o Filling station o Old age home / care centre o Fire station o Police station o Post office o Municipal office / pay point o Banking o Magistrate court o Religious centres
2.2 ASSESSMENT OF IMPACTS
2.2.1 Definition of terms
All construction or related activities, from occupation by the contractor, until the contractor leaves Construction Phase the site. Operational Phase All activities related to and including the operation and maintenance of the proposed development. Nature The type of effect the specific activity will have on the environment. Extent Spatial scale of the impact. Duration Lifetime of the impact. Magnitude/ Intensity Degree/severity of impact. Probability Degree of certainty of impacts.
Page 56 2.2.2 Methodology
The significance of the identified impacts will be determined using the approach outlined below. The impact assessment methodology is guided by the requirements of the NEMA EIA Regulations (2014).
A. Definition of Terms
Construction Phase All construction or related activities, from occupation by the contractor, until the contractor leaves the site. Operational Phase All activities related to and including the operation and maintenance of the proposed development. Nature The type of effect the specific activity will have on the environment. Extent Spatial scale of the impact. Duration Lifetime of the impact. Magnitude/ Intensity Degree/severity of impact. Probability Degree of certainty of impacts.
B. Methodology
The significance of the identified impacts will be determined using the approach outlined below. The impact assessment methodology is guided by the requirements of the NEMA EIA Regulations (2014).
Parameters Description
Likely to result in a negative/ detrimental impact (-) Nature Likely to result in a positive/ beneficial impact (+)
Significance Ranking Matrix To determine the significance of each impact identified, the following ranking criteria were applied to each impact identified:
Ranking Magnitude Reversibility Extent Duration Probability Very high / 5 Irreversible International Permanent Certain/Inevitable don’t know Low potential for Long term (impact ceases after 4 High National Almost certain reversibility operational life of asset Moderate potential for 3 Moderate Provincial Medium term Can occur reversibility High potential for Unusual but 2 Low Local Short term reversibility possible 1 Minor Completely reversible Site bound Immediate Extremely remote
0 None None None
Significance = Consequence (Magnitude + Duration + Extent + Reversibility) X Probability wherein the following applies:
The Magnitude of the impact. This will be quantified as either: o Minor: will cause a minor impact on the environment. o Low: will cause a low impact on the environment. o Moderate: will result in the process continuing but in a controllable manner. o High: will alter processes to the extent that they temporarily cease. o Very High: will result in complete destruction and permanent cessation of process.
Page 57 The Probability: which shall describe the likelihood of impact occurring and will be rated as follows: o Extremely remote: which indicates that the impact will probably not happen. o Unusual but Possible: distinct possibility occurrence. o Can Occur: there is a possibility of occurrence. o Almost Certain: Most likely to occur. o Certain/ Inevitable: impact will occur despite any measures put in place.
The Duration (Exposure): wherein it will be indicated whether: o The impact will be immediate. o The impact will be a short term (between 0-5 years). o The impact will be medium term (between 5-15 years). o The impact will be long term (15 years and more years). o The impact will be permanent. o Certain/ Inevitable: impact will occur despite any measures put in place.
The Reversibility/ Replaceability: degree to which the impact can be reversed or the lost resource replaced: o Irreversible: impact cannot be reversed. o Low potential for reversibility: low potential that impact might be reversed. o Moderate potential for reversibility: moderate potential that impact might be reversed. o High potential for reversibility: high potential that impact might be reversed. o Completely reversible: impact will be reversible.
The significance is described as:
The impact is non-existent or unsubstantial and is of no or little importance to any stakeholder and can Negligible < 20 be ignored. Impact is of a low order and therefore likely to have little real effect. In the case of adverse impacts: mitigation and/or remedial activity is either easily achieved or little will be required, or both. In the case Low < 40 of beneficial impacts, alternative means for achieving this benefit are likely to be easier, cheaper, more effective, less time consuming, or some combination of these. The impact is of importance to one or more stakeholders, and its intensity will be medium or high; Moderate < 60 therefore, the impact may materially affect the decision, and management intervention will be required. An impact which could influence the decision about whether or not to proceed with the project regardless of any possible mitigation. In the case of adverse impacts: mitigation and/or remedial activity High is feasible but difficult, expensive, time-consuming or some combination of these. In the case of > 60 beneficial impacts, other means of achieving this benefit are feasible but they are more difficult, expensive, time-consuming or some combination of these.
Considering the potential incremental, interactive, sequential, and synergistic cumulative Low impacts, it is unlikely that the impact will result in spatial and temporal cumulative change. Considering the potential incremental, interactive, sequential, and synergistic cumulative Medium Cumulative Impact impacts, it is probable that the impact will result in spatial and temporal cumulative change. Considering the potential incremental, interactive, sequential, and synergistic cumulative High impacts, it is highly probable/definite that the impact will result in spatial and temporal cumulative change.
Low Where the impact is unlikely to result in irreplaceable loss of resources. Where the impact may result in the irreplaceable loss (cannot be replaced or substituted) Irreplaceable loss of Medium of resources but the value (services and/or functions) of these resources is limited. resources Where the impact may result in the irreplaceable loss of resources of high value (services High and/or functions).
Page 58 Briefly describe and compare the potential impacts (as appropriate), significance rating of impacts, proposed mitigation and significance rating of impacts after mitigation that are likely to occur as a result of the construction phase for the various alternatives of the proposed development. This must include an assessment of the significance of all impacts.
Page 59 2.3 IMPACTS THAT MAY RESULT FROM THE CONSTRUCTION PHASE
2.3.1. Air Quality Impact - Generation of dust as a result of vegetation clearing and earthworks.
Table 1. Summary of impact assessment showing the air quality impacts associated with vegetation clearance in the presence and absence of mitigation measures. Ranking Without Mitigation With Mitigation Magnitude Moderate (3) Low (2) Reversibility High potential for reversibility (2) High potential for reversibility (2) Extent Local (2) Local (2) Duration Short term (2) Immediate (1) Probability Almost certain (4) Can occur (3) Significance 36 (Low) 21 (Low)
2.3.1.1. Recommendations for Mitigation a) During construction, efforts should be made to retain as much natural vegetation as possible on the site to reduce disturbed areas and maintain plant cover, thus reducing dust and erosion risks. b) The ambient air quality standard of the National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act must be complied with (GNR 1210 of December 2009), specifically pertaining to particulate matter (PM10). c) Dust suppression methods, such as wetting, must be applied. Water for dust control shall only be taken from approved sources. d) Material in transit should be loaded and contained within the load bin of the vehicle in such a way as to prevent any spillage onto the roads and the creation of dust clouds. The bin of the vehicle shall be covered with a tarpaulin to prevent dust. e) Sand, stone and cement are to be stored in demarcated areas, and covered or sealed to prevent wind erosion and resultant deposition of dust on surrounding environment. f) Some dust control measures which are normally applied during construction are presented in this section for inclusion by the Contractor in his Dust Control Method Statement: Operate vehicles within speed limits, where no speed limit has been specified the limit shall be 20 km/h. Wash paved surfaces within the construction area twice a week. Minimise haulage distances. Apply water to gravel roads with a spraying truck when required. Environmentally friendly soil stabilisers may be used as additional measures to control duct on gravel roads and construction areas. Dust suppression measures will also apply to inactive construction areas. (An inactive construction site is one on which construction will not occur for a month or more). Construction material being transported by trucks must be suitably moistened or covered to prevent dust generation. Minimise disturbance of natural vegetation during right-of-way construction (e.g. transmission lines and erection of fences) to reduce potential erosion, runoff, and air-borne dust.
2.3.2. Topography - Impact on prominent physical or landscape features with conservation potential due to the necessity for extensive earth works and civil requirements.
Table 2. Summary of impact assessment showing impacts associated with extensive earth works and civil requirements in the presence and absence of mitigation measures. Ranking Without Mitigation With Mitigation Magnitude Very High (5) Moderate (3) Reversibility Low potential for reversibility (4) Moderate (3)
Page 60 Ranking Without Mitigation With Mitigation Extent Local (2) Local (2) Duration Long Term (4) Short term (2) Probability Almost Certain (4) Unusual but possible (2) Significance 64 (High) 20 (Low)
2.3.2.1. Recommendations for Mitigation a) The site is characterised by relatively steep topography sloping generally eastwards towards the Zandspruit stream with an altitude range of 1471m to 1591m. The Zandspruit stream forms the eastern boundary of the study area and drains in a northward direction and flows into the Jukskei River. Adjacent to the south east boundary of the site, a wetland, or an area characterised by groundwater seeping from the ground, was identified. b) No ridges were identified in the study area. c) The Zandspruit stream and associated floodplains will be protected by means of a 30 meter conservation buffer where no development is allowed. d) An Environmental Control Officer must monitor construction activities to ensure that damage to the physical aspects of the site is restricted to the development footprint / demarcated area only. Demarcation of no-go areas is of importance.
2.3.3. Increased Erosion Risk – During the vegetation clearance and excavation process for the construction of the project and associated infrastructure soil will be exposed which could lead to erosion. Sedimentation of the adjacent water course must be avoided as it will have adverse impacts on aquatic biota and the habitat.
Table 3. Summary of ecological assessment showing the impacts associated with erosion and sedimentation risks in the presence and absence of mitigation measures. Ranking Without Mitigation With Mitigation Magnitude High (4) Low (2) Reversibility Low (4) High (2) Extent Local (2) Site bound (1) Duration Short term (2) Short term (2) Probability Almost certain (4) Can Occur (3) Significance 48 (Moderate) 21 (Low)
2.3.3.1. Recommendations for Mitigation a) No construction activities may occur within the water course or within 30 meters from the edge of the water course. b) During construction, areas susceptible to erosion must be protected by installing temporary or permanent drainage works and energy dispersion mechanisms and could include: vegetation, mitre drains, drainage pipes, reno mattresses, benches consisting of sandbags, gabions, gabion mattresses, scarifying (ripping) area along the natural contours, and packing branches and rocks in small gullies and disturbed areas. c) Post-construction run-off should not exceed pre-construction run-off. d) All construction vehicles to remain within the construction site and avoid off road driving in order to minimise any impact on vegetation and soil. e) Construction activities must preferably take place during the dry winter months to reduce the potential for erosion. f) Vegetation clearance must be kept to a minimum and stockpiles must be covered in excess windy conditions. g) No stockpiles or construction materials may be stored or placed within any drainage lines on site.
2.3.4. Soil – The proposed development will not be located on a geological unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the project. During the vegetation clearance and excavation process for the construction of the project and associated infrastructure soil will be exposed which could lead to the following potential impacts:
Page 61 Loss of soil integrity as a result of soil disturbance (e.g. topsoil stripping and trenching). Compaction of soil as a result of movement of people and vehicles over exposed soils. Contamination of soil resources through spills or leaks of asphalt, sewage, cement/concrete and other potential contaminants, including possible indiscriminate disposal of solid waste and wastewater. There may be some erosion risk as a result of soil disturbance associated with the development during the construction phase.
Table 4. Summary of ecological assessment showing the impacts associated with soil disturbance, compaction and contamination in the presence and absence of mitigation measures.
Ranking Without Mitigation With Mitigation Magnitude Very High (5) Low (2) Reversibility Low (4) High potential for reversibility (2) Extent Local (2) Site bound (1) Duration Medium term (3) Short term (2) Probability Almost certain (4) Can occur (3) Significance Moderate ( Low) 18 21 (Low)
2.3.4.1. Recommendations for Mitigation
Soil Management and Stockpiling a) All site construction activities / components, including access, site clearing, lay down areas, site camp and excavation activities, shall be accommodated within the perimeter of the area earmarked for development. The area to be transformed shall be clearly demarcated and the size of the construction phase footprint shall be limited to the areas required for actual works. b) The detail of vegetation clearing shall be subject to the Construction Manager`s approval and shall occur in consultation with the Environmental Control Officer. c) Clearance of vegetation shall be restricted to that which is required to facilitate the execution of the works. d) No vegetation located outside the construction site shall be destroyed or damaged. e) Topsoil shall be stripped from all areas that are to be utilized during the construction period and where permanent structures and access is required. These areas will include permanent works, pipeline trenches, stockpiles, access roads, construction camps and laydown areas. Topsoil shall be stripped after clearing of woody vegetation and before excavation or construction commences. f) Topsoil must be stripped to a minimum depth of 150 mm and stockpiled on the demarcated topsoil stockpile areas. g) Herbaceous vegetation, overlying grass and other fine organic matter shall not be removed from the stripped soil. h) Any area to be used for stockpiling or material laydown shall be stripped of all topsoil. i) Stockpiling may only take place in designated areas indicated on the approved site layout plan. Sensitive areas shall be avoided in this regard. Soil stockpiles shall be located away from drainage lines, watercourses and areas of temporary inundation. j) Stockpiles should not be higher than 1.5m. k) Temporary soil stockpiles must not be higher than 1,5 m (to avoid compaction) and the slopes of soil stockpiles shall not be steeper than 1 vertical to 1,5 m horizontal. Stockpiles are to be turned monthly to ensure the seed bank is retained. l) No vehicles shall be allowed access onto the stockpiles after the topsoil has been placed. m) Stockpiled soil shall be protected by adequate erosion-control measures. n) Excavated subsoil, where not contaminated, must be used for backfilling and topsoil for landscaping and rehabilitation of disturbed areas. o) Where topsoil has become mixed with subsoil or is not up to the original standard, new topsoil shall be provided by the Contractor. p) As far as is reasonably practicable, existing roads must be used for access to the site.
Page 62 Soil Contamination Mitigation Measures: a) Cement, fuels, oil and lubricants must be stored in a safe, clearly designated area of the construction terrain. Storage areas should be bunded with a storage capacity of 110% of the maximum volume they will store and have a sump to collect any spilled liquid. b) Any spillage must be cleared immediately, by removing contaminated soil and dispose of at a licensed hazardous waste disposal site. Waste manifests will be kept on record to prove legal disposal.
Handling and Batching of Concrete and Cement: a) Concrete batching shall only be conducted in demarcated areas which have been approved by the Project / Construction Manager. b) Such areas shall be fitted with a containment facility for the collection of cement-laden water. This facility shall be bunded and have an impermeable surface protection so as to prevent soil and groundwater contamination. Drainage of the collection facility will be separated from any infrastructure that contains clean surface runoff. c) The batching facility will not be placed in areas prone to floods or the generation of stagnant water. d) Hand mixing of cement and concrete shall be done on mortarboards and/or within the bunded area with impermeable surface or concrete slab. e) Bulk and bagged cement and concrete additives will be stored in an appropriate facility at least 100m away from any watercourse, gullies and drains. Empty cement bags should also be stored in this water tight facility until they can be disposed of. f) Waste water collected in the containment facility shall be left to evaporate. The Contractor shall monitor water levels to prevent overflows from the facility. Water can be pumped into sealed drums for temporary storage and must be disposed of as liquid hazardous waste. A certificate of disposal must be obtained to prove legal disposal. g) All concrete washing equipment, such shovels, mixer drums, concrete chutes, etc. shall be done within the washout facility. Water used for washing shall be restricted as afar as practically possible. h) Ready-mix concrete trucks are not allowed to wash out anywhere on site, only at the premises of the service provider. i) The Contractor shall periodically clean out hardened concrete from the wash-out facility or concrete mixer, which can either be reused or disposed of as per accepted waste management procedures. j) Empty cement and bags, if temporarily stored on site, must be collected and stored in weatherproof containers. Used cement bags may not be used for any other purpose and must be disposed of on a regular basis in accordance with the Contractor`s solid waste management system. They may not be burnt or buried. k) Sand and aggregates containing cement will be kept damp to prevent the generation of dust. l) Concrete and cement or any solid waste materials containing concrete and cement will be disposed of at a registered disposal facility. Where disposal facilities for general waste are utilised, written consent from the relevant municipality must be obtained.
Handling, Storage and Management of Hazardous Substances a) All hazardous materials/substances shall be stored in a secured, designated area that is fenced and has restricted entry. b) All storage shall take place using suitable containers to the approval of the Construction Manager. c) All hazardous liquids shall be located in a secure, demarcated area and an adequate bund wall (110% of the total volume stored) shall be provided. The floor and wall of the bund area shall be impervious to prevent infiltration of any spilled/leaked liquids into the soil. d) No possible spillages or accumulated storm water within this bunded area will be allowed to be flushed from the bund into the surrounding area. All fluids accumulated within the bunded area shall be removed and disposed of. e) Hazard signs indicating the nature of the stored materials shall be displayed on the storage facility or containment structure. F) Weigh bills of hazardous substances shall be sourced from suppliers and kept on site for inspection by the ECO. g) The Contractor must provide a method statement detailing the hazardous substances that are to be used during construction, as well as the storage, handling and disposal procedures for each substance. Emergency procedures in the event of misuse or spillage that might negatively affect the environment must be specified.
Page 63 2.3.5. Loss of Flora – Clearing of vegetation for construction – Specialist confirmed that the areas earmarked for construction do not accommodate any rare, threatened or endangered species, or sensitive habitats or any other specific features of special conservation value.
Therefore, there is no risk of loss, destruction and/or disturbance of rare, threatened or endangered plant species or communities as a result of vegetation clearance.
Table 5. Summary of ecological assessment showing the impacts associated with potential loss of vegetation in the presence and absence of mitigation measures. Ranking Without Mitigation With Mitigation Magnitude Low (2) Minor (1) Reversibility Moderate (3) High (2) Extent Site bound (1) Site bound (1) Duration Permanent (5) Long term (4) Probability Certain (5) Unusual but possible (2) Significance 55 (Moderate) 16 (Negligible)
2.3.5.1. Recommendations for Mitigation a) Environmental management plan and adequate site controls and mitigation measures to be implemented by ECO and adhered to by contractors during the construction phase. b) Development should be restricted to the transformed secondary grasslands or degraded habitats with medium-low sensitivity. c) Impacts to surrounding sensitive sites (water course) to be avoided. d) No construction activities may occur within the water course or within 30 meters from the edge of the water course. e) The Orange listed geophyte Hypoxis hemerocallidea must first be removed under the supervision of a qualified plant ecologist before construction commences and then replanted in suitable natural areas elsewhere. f) All construction vehicles to remain within the construction site and avoid off road driving in order to minimise any impact on vegetation and soil. g) Consider the selective trimming of branches to allow for free vehicle and pedestrian movement before opting to remove any trees. h) Access to vegetated areas outside of the development footprint must be minimised by marking areas with orange plastic mesh or hazard tape from the development. i) The Contractor shall identify and eradicate all declared alien and invasive plant species occurring on site. j) The detail of vegetation clearing shall be subject to the Construction Manager`s approval and shall occur in consultation with the ECO. k) Clearance of vegetation shall be restricted to that which is required to facilitate the execution of the works. l) No vegetation located outside the construction site shall be destroyed or damaged. m) Before construction commences, all sensitive habitats, such as water courses and associated buffer areas must be clearly demarcated with fencing or orange mesh netting. Barricading measures to be utilised should not restrict the movement of the fauna in the area. n) Large trees to be retained or transplanted must be marked and protected against damage by construction activities. o) No fires may be ignited with the intent to destroy the flora on site and surrounding properties.
2.3.6. Habitat Loss (sensitive environments: Zandspruit stream and seepage area) – there will be no direct impact in terms of habitat loss on sensitive areas. Indirect impact on the surrounding natural environment, particularly the water course and conservation buffer, may result if development activities are conducted without mitigation measures and adequate environmental controls in place.
Page 64 The Seep area is totally transformed due to the area being used for crop planting. A large number of alien invasive species are present within this unit which poses a huge threat to other natural ecosystems. In some areas houses have been built in this area and are located on the clay soil. The croplands has disturbed the soil layer and the flow of subsurface water onto the crops and towards the stream in the east is slowly drying out the area. That is also why a number of other terrestrial species were found to be present within this area. From a plant ecological point of view this area has no conservation value, but due to the area being a seep its water storing function (although degraded) it is regarded as having a medium conservation and ecosystem functioning value.
Table 6. Summary of ecological assessment showing the impacts associated with potential loss of sensitive habitat in the presence and absence of mitigation measures.
Ranking Without Mitigation With Mitigation Magnitude High (4) Low (2) Reversibility Low potential (4) Moderate potential (3) Extent Local (1) Local (1) Duration Permanent (5) Short term (2) Probability Certain (5) Unusual but possible (2) Significance 70 (High) 16 (Negligible)
2.3.6.1. Recommendations for Mitigation a) Environmental management plan and adequate site controls and mitigation measures to be implemented by ECO and adhered to by contractors during the construction phase. b) Development should be restricted to the transformed secondary grasslands or degraded habitats with medium-low sensitivity. c) No construction activities may occur within the water course or within 30 meters from the edge of the water course. a) Before construction commences, all sensitive habitats, such as water courses and associated buffer areas must be clearly demarcated with fencing or orange mesh netting. Barricading measures to be utilised should not restrict the movement of the fauna in the area. b) All alien vegetation should be eradicated within the study site over a five-year period.
2.3.6.2 Alteration of Water Course / Seepage area - Impact on drainage patterns due to road and pipeline crossings (Excavations / Trenching/ Road Construction.
Changes to natural drainage patterns and/or stream flow through impoundments, blockages, narrowing, widening, diversion or channeling of flow channel/s. Earthworks in the vicinity of watercourse and seepage areas leading to increased runoff and altered runoff patterns.
The movement of water across the site within the seepage area will be modified during infrastructure development activities. Currently, sub-surface water flow towards the low-lying Zandspruit.
According to the specialist wetland report, the Seep area is totally transformed due to the area being used for crop planting. A large number of alien invasive species are present within this unit which poses a huge threat to other natural ecosystems. In some areas houses have been built in this area and are located on the clay soil. The croplands has disturbed the soil layer and the flow of subsurface water onto the crops and towards the stream in the east is slowly drying out the area. That is also why a number of other terrestrial species were found to be present within this area. From a plant ecological point of view this area has no conservation value, but due to the area being a seep its water storing function (although degraded) it is regarded as having a medium conservation and ecosystem functioning value.
Page 65 Table 6.1 Summary of ecological assessment showing the impacts associated with alteration of water course / seepage area in the presence and absence of mitigation measures.
Ranking Without Mitigation With Mitigation Magnitude Moderate (3) Moderate (3) Reversibility Low potential (4) Moderate potential (3) Extent Local (1) Local (1) Duration Permanent (5) Medium term (3) Probability Certain (5) Can Occur (3) Significance 65 (Moderate - High) 30 (Low)
2.3.6.3. Recommendations for Mitigation
The constructions of pipelines in or adjacent to the water course buffer zone should be aligned and managed so as to minimise disturbance of the riparian zone and instream habitats. For natural watercourses, the original geometry, topography and geomorphology in both cross-sectional and longitudinal profile should be reinstated. Where crossings are unavoidable, areas must be suitably rehabilitated and it must be ensured that flow connectivity along the drainage features is maintained. Soils removed in the seepage area must be excavated and stored as close as possible to the excavation area but outside of the 1:100 year flood line area of the watercourse. After construction has been completed these areas must be rehabilitated. Specifically the soils in the area must be replaced in the same order than in which it was excavated. For controlling sediment input into the watercourse the use of hay bales packed in rows across diversions and active flow areas could limit sedimentation inputs and buffer the pH. Such bales will need to be removed and disposed of after construction. All construction materials should be removed from the watercourse and riparian zone immediately after construction at the site is completed. Disturbed areas of the riparian zone should be re-vegetated using either a specified seed mix and/or appropriate indigenous trees where necessary. Ripping of temporary access and construction roads in the riparian zone should be undertaken in order to assist with natural vegetation re-establishment and the control of bank erosion. All coffer dams, causeway and construction materials should be removed from the non-perennial drainage lines immediately after construction at the site is completed. All development footprint areas should remain as small as possible and should not encroach onto surrounding more sensitive riparian areas.
2.3.7. Direct Faunal Impacts – there will be no direct impact on fauna on the development footprint, as the area is already disturbed and largely transformed. Indirect impact on the surrounding natural environment and its fauna may result if development activities are conducted without mitigation measures and adequate environmental controls in place.
At a local (Zandspruit) scale the study area comprises limited suitable habitat for remaining animal species especially within the transformed and degraded grasslands and seasonally inundated seepage wetlands. The old agricultural lands or secondary succession grasslands and sand mining areas on the northern, central, southern and south-eastern portions of the site are dominated by transformed habitats that no longer comprise the natural vegetation, and have limited conservation value. This is due to extensive habitat transformation and degradation as well as fragmentation due to existing roads. These areas are ideally suitable for the proposed development. Development should ideally be situated adjacent to existing roads, electricity, and bulk water and sewerage infrastructure.
Page 66 Table 7. Summary of ecological assessment showing the impacts associated with potential loss of fauna in the presence and absence of mitigation measures. Ranking Without Mitigation With Mitigation Magnitude Low (2) Minor (1) Reversibility Irreversible (5) Moderate (3) Extent Site bound (1) Site bound (1) Duration Short (2) Short term (2) Probability Certain (5) Unusual but possible (2) Significance 50 (Moderate) 14 (Negligible)
2.3.7.1. Recommendations for Mitigation a) Destruction of the transformed habitats on the site will have an impact of medium-low; short-long term impact on remaining animal species on the site (associated fauna) if environmentally sensitive practices are implemented throughout all stages of the proposed development. During construction activities, wherever possible, work should be restricted to one area at a time. This will give smaller birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians an opportunity to move into undisturbed areas close to their natural habitat. b) Palisade fencing with adequate gaps is recommended for the conserved open space around the seasonally inundated seepage wetlands and valley bottom wetlands on the site. A migratory palisade fence with a minimum of 15cm gaps should be erected adjacent to the Zandspruit and Egoli Granite Grassland allowing for the movements of animals. c) In case of observation of any species during construction phase, an experienced person should be consulted to deal with translocation of such species. No killing or attempt to translocate species should be undertaken by contractors. An expert who holds a Competency Certificate to handle Dangerous and Venomous Reptiles should be contracted to remove any snakes. d) The collection, hunting or harvesting of animals is strictly forbidden. e) Impacts to surrounding sensitive sites (water course) to be avoided. f) The Contractor or Contractor’s Environmental Officer should monitor trenches/excavations at the start and end of each working day to check if any small animals are trapped. g) On no account shall any hunting or fishing activity of any kind be allowed. This includes the setting of traps, or the killing of any animal caught in construction works.
2.3.8. Stormwater Runoff - Impact of uncontrolled storm water on the surrounding environment.
Table 8. Summary of assessment showing the impacts associated with storm water runoff in the presence and absence of mitigation measures. Ranking Without Mitigation With Mitigation Magnitude High (4) Minor (1) Reversibility Moderate potential for reversibility (3) High potential for reversibility (2) Extent Local (2) Site bound (1) Duration Short term (2) Short term (2) Probability Almost certain (4) Unusual but possible (2) Significance 44 (Moderate) 12 (Negligible)
2.3.8.1. Recommendations for Mitigation
Stormwater Management The Contractor shall be aware that, apart from runoff from overburden emplacements and stock piles, storm water can also be contaminated from batch plants, workshops, vehicle wash-down pads, etc., and that contaminants during construction may include hydrocarbons from fuels and lubricants, sewerage from employee ablutions and excess fertiliser from rehabilitated
Page 67 areas, etc. The Contractor shall take note that discharges to controlled waters such as watercourses and groundwater or to sewerage systems are controlled under South African Water Legislation. The following specific measures are required: a) Temporary drainage must be established on site during the construction period until permanent drainage is in place. Contractors are responsible for maintaining the temporary drainage in their areas. Contractors must provide secondary drainage that prevents erosion. b) Post-construction run-off should not exceed pre-construction run-off. c) Storm water leaving the site downstream must be clean and of the same quality as in situ before it enters the construction site (upstream). Preconstruction measures must be in place to ensure sediments are trapped. d) Contractors must employ good housekeeping in their areas to prevent contamination of drainage water. e) The Contractor shall clear stagnant water. f) The Contractor shall ensure that no contaminated surface water flows off-site as a result of Contractor operations. Silt traps shall be constructed to ensure retention of silt on site and cut-off ditches shall be constructed to ensure no runoff from the site except at points where slit traps are provided. The Contractor shall be responsible for checking and marinating all silt traps for the duration of the project. g) If applicable, the Contractor shall be responsible for collection, management, and containment within the site boundaries of all dewatering from all general site preparation activities. The dewatering water shall be contained within the site boundaries by sequentially pumping or routing water to and from sub-area within the site as the construction activities precede. No discharge/dewatering to off-site land or surface water bodies will be allowed. h) On-site drainage shall be accomplished through gravity flow. The surface drainage system shall consist of mild overland slopes, ditches, and culverts. The graded areas adjacent to buildings shall be sloped away with a 5 %. Other areas shall have a minimum slope of 0.2% or as otherwise indicated. i) Ditches shall be designed to carry a 25-year storm event with velocities in accordance to minimise erosion. Erosion protection shall consist of suitable stabilising surfaces in all ditches. j) Culverts shall be designed to ensure passage of the 50-year storm peak runoff flow.
2.3.9. Surface and Groundwater: Contamination - Impact of contaminated storm water discharge into the environment. Ground water contamination may occur during the construction phase as a result of negligence, inappropriate planning, lack of supervision and general handling errors. Pollutants include hydrocarbons i.e. diesel or hydraulic oils from construction machinery, stored fuels and cement in solution and leaching of pollutants. Contaminated discharges may reach sensitive ecosystems. If the accumulation of pollutants is significant, certain flora and fauna species may be impacted upon.
Table 9. Summary of assessment showing the impacts associated with storm water runoff in the presence and absence of mitigation measures. Ranking Without Mitigation With Mitigation Magnitude Moderate (3) Minor (1) Reversibility Moderate potential for reversibility (3) High potential for reversibility (2) Extent Local (2) Site bound (1) Duration Short term (2) Short term (2) Probability Almost certain (4) Unusual but possible (2) Significance 40 (Moderate - Low) 12 (Negligible)
2.3.9.1. Recommendations for Mitigation a) No construction activities may occur within the water course or within 30 meters from the edge of the drainage course. b) Fuels and chemicals used during the construction phase must be stored safely on site and in bunded areas. Fuel and chemical storage containers must be inspected to ensure that any leaks are detected early. c) Erosion and sedimentation into water bodies must be minimised through effective stabilisation (such as silt traps, gabions and Reno mattresses).
Page 68 d) Reinforce soil slopes to minimise erosion during rehabilitation (as needed, and once construction in a specific area has ceased). e) Perform periodic inspections and maintenance of soil erosion measures and stormwater control structures. f) Monitor construction equipment and machinery daily to ensure that no fuel spillage takes place. g) Spilled fuel, oil or grease must be retrieved where possible, and the contaminated soil removed, cleaned and replaced. h) Contaminated soil must be collected by the Contractor and disposed of at a registered waste facility designated for this purpose. i) The contractor shall be responsible for providing all sanitary arrangements for his labour force. A minimum of one chemical toilet shall be provided per 10 persons. Waste resulting from the use of chemical toilets shall be disposed of at a licensed WWTW. The construction site is to be maintained in a sanitary condition and all toilet facilities shall be maintained in good order. Abluting anywhere other than in the toilets shall not be permitted. j) Waste manifests will be kept on record to prove legal disposal. k) Use of chemicals - The mixing of any herbicides, solvents, asphalt, sealants, adhesives, paints, chemicals or other noxious materials shall only be undertaken in designated areas on aprons that have spillage control channels and separate storage areas. The mixing of materials will not be permitted in the general areas of the site. All surplus or waste materials are to be removed from the site. l) Mixing of cement - Where cement/concrete, etc. is mixed on site, this shall be done in specified areas on aprons or on protective plastic linings and provision shall be made to contain spillage or overflows onto soils. Residue shall be regarded as waste and be handled accordingly.
2.3.10. Noise - Excessive noise levels as a result of construction activities.
Table 10. Summary of noise assessment showing the impacts associated with construction activities in the presence and absence of mitigation measures. Ranking Without Mitigation With Mitigation Magnitude Moderate (3) Low (2) Reversibility Moderate potential for reversibility (3) Moderate potential for reversibility (3) Extent Local (2) Local (2) Duration Short term (2) Short term (2) Probability Almost certain (4) Can occur (3) Significance 40 (Moderate) 27 (Low)
2.3.10.1. Recommendations for Mitigation a) The contractor shall take into consideration that the project area are located within a residential environment and that noise could be a major disturbance/nuisance for residents. b) Construction activities to take place within the prescribed working hours. Construction activities must be limited to the daylight hours between 7:00am and 5:30pm weekdays; 7:00am and 1:30pm on Saturdays. No construction activities must take place on Sunday or Public Holidays. c) Noise preventative measures (e.g. screening, muffling, timing, pre-notification of affected parties) to be employed. d) All construction vehicles must be serviced on a frequent basis as a means of limiting excessive noise levels. e) The contractor must ensure the silencers of all construction vehicles and machinery is working. f) A grievance procedure will be established whereby noise complaints can be received, recorded and responded to appropriately.
2.3.11. Construction Traffic
Table 11. Summary of assessment showing the impacts associated with construction traffic in the presence and absence of mitigation measures.
Page 69 Ranking Without Mitigation With Mitigation Magnitude High (4) Low (2) Reversibility Moderate potential for reversibility (3) High potential for reversibility (2) Extent Local (2) Local (2) Duration Short term (2) Short term (2) Probability Almost certain (4) Unusual but possible (2) Significance 44 (Moderate) 16 (Negligible)
2.3.11.1. Recommendations for Mitigation a) Vehicles are not permitted to leave access roads. b) Turning of vehicles should only take place within a clearly demarcated "turn area" located within the approved construction footprint. c) The Contractor must co-ordinate the loading and offloading of material during the construction phase so as to ensure that vehicular movement is in one direction only at any on time and that side-tracks are not created on the site. d) Vehicles should only be parked within designated parking areas as demarcated on the site layout plan. e) Construction activities to take place within the prescribed working hours. Construction activities must be limited to the daylight hours between 7:00am and 5:30pm weekdays; 7:00am and 1:30pm on Saturdays. No construction activities must take place on Sunday or Public Holidays. f) The construction site must be fenced off to prohibit unauthorized access. g) All access to site must be strictly controlled. h) All deliveries to the site should occur as far as possible out of peak traffic times. i) All road safety precautions must be complied with. j) If any work is required that would cause disruption to the road traffic this must be carried out outside of peak traffic times and the roads must be clearly marked so that motorists are aware of any lane closures.
2.3.12. Aesthetics - Reduction in visual quality due to construction activities.
Table 12. Summary of assessment showing the impacts associated with construction traffic in the presence and absence of mitigation measures.
Ranking Without Mitigation With Mitigation Magnitude Moderate (3) Minor (1) Reversibility Low potential for reversibility (4) Moderate potential for reversibility (3) Extent Site bound (1) Site bound (1) Duration Short term (2) Short term (2) Probability Certain (5) Can occur (3) Significance 50 (Moderate) 21 (Low)
2.3.12.1. Recommendations for Mitigation a) The Contractor shall not establish any activities which, in the opinion of the ECO, are likely to adversely affect the scenic quality of the area. The ECO May direct the Contractor to refrain from such activities or to take ameliorative actions to reduce the adverse effects of such activities. b) No painting or marking of natural features shall take place. Marking for surveying and other purposes shall only be done with pegs and beacons. c) The contractor shall ensure that all temporary structures, equipment, materials, waste and facilities used for construction activities are removed upon completion of the project. d) On-going housekeeping to maintain a tidy construction area.
Page 70 e) The site will be shielded / screened to minimise the visual impact, where practicable. f) Construction camp to be positioned so as to minimize its visual impacts. g) After the construction phase, the areas disturbed must be rehabilitated by appropriate landscaping, levelling, topsoil dressing, land preparation, alien plant eradication and vegetation establishment. h) Monitor the re-growth of invasive vegetative material. i) Vegetation should be cut only if absolutely necessary. j) The clearing of all sites should be kept to a minimum and surrounding vegetation should be left intact. k) Trees and all woody shrubs should be protected from damage to provide a natural visual shield. Excavated material should not be placed on such plants and movement across them should not be allowed as far as practical. l) No construction rubble, construction material, refuse, litter or any other material not found naturally in the surroundings should be allowed at any time to be lying around on the construction site. Store all construction rubble, refuse and litter in a skip prior to disposal. Store building material in a container.
2.3.13. Impacts on Heritage Resources - This impact relates to potential effects construction activities may have on existing archaeological artefacts (if any). Impact on structures and sites of architectural heritage and value (buildings, bridges etc.). Impact on structures and sites of cultural heritage (stonewalls, kraals etc.). Impact on structures and sites of historic heritage (battlefields etc.). Impact on sites of archaeological or palaeontological importance (prehistoric, Iron-age etc.). Impact on sites used in traditional rituals or events. Impact on sites or areas of religious or spiritual significance (holy places, graveyards etc.). Impact on integrity of cultural resources. Impact on level of disturbance due to improved access (destruction, vandalism, collectors etc.).
Table 13. Summary of HIA showing impacts associated with development in the presence and absence of mitigation measures. Ranking Without Mitigation With Mitigation Magnitude Very High (5) Low (2) Reversibility Low (4) High (2) Extent Site Bound (1) Site Bound (1) Duration Permanent (5) Immediate (1) Probability Almost Certain (4) Unusual Bout Possible (2) Significance 60 (Moderate-High) 12( Negligible)
2.3.13.1. Recommendations for Mitigation a) Historical Period Structures Avoidance, conservation buffer, site monitoring. Phase 2 documentation & destruction permitting if impacted on.General site monitoring by informed ECO. b) Cemeteries Avoidance & redesign layout to avoid the heritage resource, 20m conservation buffer, fence all burial places and apply access control, site monitoring, and site management plan implementation. Grave Relocation Alternative: Relocation of burials and documentation of site, full social consultation with affected parties, possible conservation management and protection measures. Subject to authorizations and relevant permitting from heritage authorities and affected parties. c) Contemporary Period Features. No further heritage action required. General site monitoring by informed ECO. d) Religious meeting place. No further heritage action required. It is suggested that local communities be consulted with regards to religious meeting places in the project area and their possible social meanings.
Page 71 e) If an artefact on site is uncovered, work in the immediate vicinity shall be stopped immediately. The Contractor shall take reasonable precautions to prevent any person from removing or damaging any such article and shall immediately upon discovery inform the engineer of such a discovery. The South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) are to be contacted and will appoint an archaeological consultant. Work may only resume once clearance is given in writing by the archaeologist. f) Graves and middens: If a grave or midden is uncovered on site, or discovered before the commencement of work, all work in the immediate vicinity of the graves/middens shall be stopped and the ECO informed of the discovery. The National Monuments Council should be contacted and in the case of graves, arrangements made for an undertaker to carry out exhumation and reburial. The undertaker will, together with the National Monuments Council, be responsible for attempts to contact family of the deceased and for the site where the exhumed remains can be re-interred. g) No person may, without a permit issued by SAHRA or a provincial heritage resources authority – h) Destroy, damage, alter, exhume or remove from its original position or otherwise disturb the grave of a victim of conflict, or any burial ground or part thereof which contains such graves; i) Destroy, damage, alter, exhume, remove from its original position or otherwise disturb any grave or burial ground older than 60 years which is situated outside a formal cemetery administered by a local authority.
2.3.14. Waste - Land, air and water pollution through poor waste management practices. Use of veld for ablution purposes.
Table 14. Summary of assessment showing impacts associated with waste in the presence and absence of mitigation measures. Ranking Without Mitigation With Mitigation Magnitude High (4) Minor (1) Reversibility High potential for reversibility (2) High potential for reversibility (2) Extent Site bound (1) Site bound (1) Duration Short term (2) Short term (2) Probability Certain (5) Can Occur (3) Significance 45 (Moderate) 18 (Negligible)
2.3.14.1. Recommendations for Mitigation a) No ablution facilities to be positioned within identified sensitive areas. b) Sufficient ablution facilities to be provided at the Construction Camp and along construction servitude. c) Suitable litter receptacles to be positioned strategically across the site at all working areas. d) Waste must be separated at source (e.g. containers for glass, paper, metals, plastics, organic waste and hazardous wastes). e) The Contractor shall dispose of all refuse generated on site or from the activities of construction or its related activities. The contractor shall on a weekly basis dispose of all refuse at an approved refuse disposal site. Proof of disposal must be kept on record. f) Littering by the workers is prohibited. Clearly marked litterbins must be provided on site. g) The entire site will be cleared of construction material, metal, tins, glass bottles, and food packaging or any other type of empty container or waste material or waste equipment used by the construction team on a daily basis. h) Waste material that may harm man or animals should be removed immediately. i) No hazardous materials, e.g. oil, diesel and fuel should be disposed of in the veld. Any diesel, oil or petrol spillages are to be collected and stored in specially marked containers and disposed of at a permitted waste disposal site and must be treated as hazardous waste. j) No refuse or litter is allowed to be burnt or buried on site. k) The recycling of all waste is to be encouraged of both the contractor and staff. l) All vehicle parking areas and vehicle servicing areas are to be inspected carefully for diesel, oil and other spillages weekly. All vehicles to be parked over trip trays.
Page 72 m) Excess spoil material should be disposed of at a location identified by the Contractor and approved by the Engineer and ECO. Where possible spoil should be used to fill, shape and rehabilitate borrow pits.
2.4 IMPACTS THAT MAY RESULT FROM THE OPERATIONAL PHASE
2.4.1. Impact of stormwater runoff.
Increase in stormwater run-off due to increase in built-up areas (buildings, roads etc.). Negative effects associated with impervious surface runoff include:
Increased stormwater velocities Higher water volumes Transportation of pollutants Erosion and sedimentation of streams Lack of ground infiltration Increased stormwater temperatures
Zandspruit Phase II, in general, has no formal stormwater system as majority of the site is undeveloped. “Rivulets” of domestic waste water and possibly sewage water occur across the southern informal settlement area. This water may in part represent groundwater emanating from springs, but based on satellite imagery, generally appears to be associated with runoff from taps.
Table 15. Summary of assessment showing impacts associated with storm water runoff in the presence and absence of mitigation measures.
Ranking Without Mitigation With Mitigation Magnitude Very High (5) Moderate (3) Reversibility Low (4) High potential for reversibility (2) Extent Local (2) Local (2) Duration Permanent (5) Permanent (5) Probability Certain (5) Can occur (3) Significance 80 (High) 36 (Low)
2.4.1.1. Recommendations for Mitigation o Site Attenuation o The runoff associated with the development is to be attenuated such that the predevelopment flows for the 1 in 5 year as well as the 1 in 25 year storm events are not exceeded. The attenuation structure must be capable of withstanding the 1 in 50 year storm event. Therefore, attenuation ponds may be required for each of the catchment areas and shall be located outside of the 100 year flood lines. o In order to size the attenuation structure, the principle of continuity is applied. This means the difference between the sum of the inflows and the sum of the outflows that enter and leave a defined spaces should be equal to the rate of change in the volume of the fluid contained within the space. This was done by producing hydrographs for pre-development and post-development flows for a return period of 1:50 using the Rational Method. The attenuation volume was calculated in order to ensure the change in volume from the pre-development flow to the post development flow was contained. o Alternatively if the required space for the attenuation pond cannot be obtained on site, provision will have to be made through energy dissipation methods to reduce the peak flow of stormwater on the site to the pre development flows. o The proposed stormwater system consists of numerous kerb inlets and underground stormwater pipes. These pipe networks shall be connect to the attenuation pond and discharge into the river at the same rate as the pre-development flows.
Page 73 o Stormwater Management Conditions for Discharge into a Stream - Discharge of stormwater into a stream shall be at the discretion of the Johannesburg Parks Department (JPD) and shall be subject to at least the following conditions: The discharge water shall be routed through an energy dissipating structure or stilling basin such that the velocity of the discharge water is reduced to a value between 0,8 m/s and 1,0 m/s (or less) depending on the soil conditions at the point of discharge; it is up to the designer to substantiate the design parameters by submitting soil test results; The energy dissipating structure shall be constructed in such a way that it will accommodate flow conditions in the stream, depending on the level of discharge; The outlet structure shall be provided with an appropriate upstream apron dipped against the direction of flow as well as a key on the downstream side; The energy dissipating elements shall be positioned such that the anticipated flow for a 1 in 25 year event in the stream is not interfered with; Texturing of the outlet structure elements that extend beyond the 1 in 25 year event is to be provided such that nearest compatibility with the natural watercourse is achieved; The angle of discharge will not be greater than 30º relative to the average direction of flow established over a distance of 20 m upstream of the point of discharge; The resultant gradient between the point of discharge in the direction of flow and that of the bed of the stream shall such that it complies with the velocity restriction stated above; Segmented material used in the outlet structure shall be adequately anchored; Existing vegetation shall be reinstated where disturbed during construction; Surplus building and other foreign materials shall be removed at completion of the construction. o Install silt and litter traps as part of the Stormwater Management System, where required. The silt and litter traps must be monitored and well maintained (i.e. regularly cleaned etc.). Maintenance requirements should be included in the Stormwater Management Plan. Erosion and sedimentation into water bodies must be minimised through effective stabilisation (such as silt traps, gabions and Reno mattresses) and re-vegetation of any disturbed areas. o During operation, areas susceptible to erosion must be protected by installing permanent drainage works and energy dispersion mechanisms and could include: vegetation, mitre drains, drainage pipes, reno mattresses, benches consisting of sandbags, gabions, gabion mattresses, scarifying (ripping) area along the natural contours, and packing branches and rocks in small gullies and disturbed areas.
2.4.2. Waste - Impacts due to management of solid and liquid wastes disposed of on the site during operational phase.
Table 16. Summary of assessment showing impacts associated with waste in the presence and absence of mitigation measures. Ranking Without Mitigation With Mitigation Magnitude High (4) Low (2) Reversibility High potential for reversibility (2) High potential for reversibility (2) Extent Site bound (1) Site bound (1) Duration Permanent (5) Permanent (5) Probability Almost certain (4) Unusual but possible (2) Significance 48 (Medium) 20 (Low)
2.4.2.1. Recommendations for Mitigation a) The City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality will collect, transport and dispose waste materials. The CoJMM will provide containers / black refuse bins for general waste and will be lifted once a week. Compaction vehicles or rear-end loaders will collect and dispose of at appropriately registered and licensed waste disposal facilities. b) Promote waste reduction, re-use, and recycling opportunities on site during the operation phase. c) No burying or burning of waste will be allowed.
Page 74 2.4.3. Increased Access and Human Presence - Direct and indirect impacts of the development include increased access and human presence into the area as well as neighboring properties. Increased human pressure and activities in these degraded habitats could result in further environmental degradation if environmentally sensitive practices are not followed and maintained throughout all stages of the development.
Table 17. Summary of assessment showing impacts associated with increased access and human presence. Ranking Without Mitigation With Mitigation Magnitude High (4) Low (2) Reversibility Low (4) Moderate (3) Extent Local (2) Local (2) Duration Permanent (5) Permanent (5) Probability Almost certain (4) Can occur (3) Significance 60 (Moderate High) 36 (Low)
2.4.3.1. Recommendations for Mitigation a) Unit 9 (Natural grassland) is typical Egoli Granite Grassland (EGG) and comprises an area of 7 ha. The vegetation shows signs of previous and current disturbance by humans with various footpaths and some smaller buildings found in some places. This unit has, as it typical of EGG, a very high species richness with 76 different plant species (excluding the alien invaders) identified. Most of these species are climax species indicative of the stable condition the vegetation is in. The unit has no linkage with any natural vegetation in the west, north or south, however it is directly linked to the stream (unit 7) and the Hyparrhenia hirta-Themeda triandra grassland (unit 10) in the east. This unit has from a plant ecological and ecosystem functioning point of view a high conservation value and supports a high number of plant and animal species. b) The conservation and correct management of any remaining primary Egoli Granite grasslands as well as the Zandspruit and a 32m grassland buffer zone should ensure the conservation of this sensitive areas. The formation of a private open space (including the Zandspruit and adjacent seepage wetland and a 32m rehabilitated grassland buffer zone) interconnected with a biological corridor stretching to the north and south could result in a positive impact for remaining mammal populations, if adequate conservation measures are implemented. The fencing off of the entire conserved private open space, prevention of increased human presence and disturbances including illegal dumping, hunting and poaching activities as well as the implementation of a natural fire regime programme could result in increased smaller mammal, reptile and amphibian populations. c) Palisade fencing with adequate gaps is recommended for the conserved open space around the seasonally inundated seepage wetlands and valley bottom wetlands on the site. A migratory palisade fence with a minimum of 15cm gaps should be erected adjacent to the Zandspruit and Egoli Granite Grassland allowing for the movements of animals. d) Remaining indigenous trees (naturally occurring in the area) should be retained wherever possible. Gardens or landscaped areas around the proposed development should be planted with indigenous (preferably using endemic or local species from the area) grasses, forbs, shrubs and trees, which are water wise and require minimal horticultural practices. e) Individual property owners should be encouraged to plant indigenous non-invasive plants. The attention of property owners must be drawn to the most recent Declared Weeds List (2001) in the Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act 43 of 1983 and the associated penalties and prohibitions. Horticultural activities such as fertilisers, herbicide and pesticide runoff, increase in alien vegetation and weedy species, dumping of refuge and building material must be strictly managed and be environmentally sensitive and should meet the following requirements: Limited to building environs and limited areas of proposed development. Limited irrigation by water-wise gardening (use local plants adapted to local conditions). Strict fertiliser, pesticide and herbicide control (limited usage) Invertebrate pests on the site should be controlled in the following manner: No insecticides or pesticides should be used and rather controlled by natural predators. Reduction of weed and erosion by minimum tillage gardening practices (groundcovers and mulching better in all respects).
Page 75 No dumping of any materials in undeveloped open areas and neighboring properties especially the water course and associated conservation buffer.
2.5 NO GO
2.5.1. No-Go Alternative - The No - Go alternative is the option of not implementing the activities. This implies that the site be left as is and that no development be done
This option has the following potential negative impacts:
The proposed project objectives will not materialise; which implies a significant loss of opportunity for the development of the site and creation of a safe living environment for the community who will be living in the township development. No tenure and asset security. No access to essential infrastructural services such as energy, potable water, sanitation, communications and access. No enhanced social services access. No human and social capital development. The potential to provide housing, which appears to be in accord with the prevailing land use regime in the area and the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality’s desired urban form and patterns for the region, will be lost. Many direct and indirect spin-off benefits, such as job creation, capacity building, rates for the municipality and the upgrading of supply of services will not be realised. Invasive vegetation would probably continue to spread in areas where land is vacant and not actively used in its entirety. If not developed, the site will derive no income and will not contribute to the services and total income of the area. Illegal squatters are becoming increasingly interested in using this site and are posing more of a threat to local inhabitants. They are setting up temporary structures on unsupervised areas of the site that are well hidden. If this continues unchecked, it may spread and the land may become unmanageable.
Table 18. Summary of assessment showing impacts associated with the no-go alternative.
Ranking Without Mitigation With Mitigation Magnitude Very High (5) Very High (5) Reversibility Moderate (3) Irreversible (5) Extent Local (2) Local (2) Duration Medium (3) Permanent (5) Probability Certain (5) Certain (5) Significance 65 (High) Negative 85 (High) positive/beneficial impact
2.5.1.1. Recommendations for Mitigation
Development as proposed - The activity is the formalisation and expanding of the Zandspruit informal settlement and integrate the settlement with existing and envisaged developments neighbouring the settlement. The project is in line with the basic urban development principles of the Spatial Development Framework and Growth Management Strategy for the Zandspruit Region located in Administrative Region C of Johannesburg. The current proposal with residential, community facilities, businesses, education, public open space and municipal services components is considered to be the most appropriate, both in terms of land use planning, the needs of the applicant and the community.
Page 76 List any specialist reports that were used to fill in the above tables. Such reports are to be attached in the appropriate Appendix. Enviroguard Ecological Services CC. (2016). An Ecological Report on the Fauna, Flora and Wetlands/Streams: Proposed Zandspruit Township Development on Portions 16, 22, 23,26, 42,51,55,56,59,67,68,72, 73, 76, 104, 105,144,160 & Holding 43 of the farm Zandspruit 191-IQ. Heidelberg.
o The study was undertaken by Prof. LR Brown (PhD UP) and Mr. CL Cook (MSc UP) Prof. They are registered as Professional Natural Scientists with the following details: o Prof LR Brown: Reg. No. 400075/98 (Botanical Science and Ecological Science). o Mr C Cook: Reg. No. 400084/08 (Zoological Science).
Exigo Sustainability (Pty) Ltd. (2016). Archaeological Impact Assessment (AIA) of Areas Demarcated for the Proposed Zandspruit Township Establishment on Portions 16, 22, 23, 26, 42, 51, 55, 56, 59, 67, 68, 72, 73, 76, 104, 105, 144 and 160 of The Farm Zandspruit 191-IQ and Holding 43 Sonendal A.H, City of Johannesburg, Gauteng Province. Pretoria.
Aurecon South Africa (Pty) Ltd. (2016). Zandspruit Phase II - Services Report. Sandton Aurecon South Africa (Pty) Ltd. (2016). Zandspruit II Geotechnical Investigation. Pretoria Aurecon South Africa (Pty) Ltd. (2016). Socio-Economic – Macro-Economic Feasibility Study. Pretoria
Refer to Appendix G.
Describe any gaps in knowledge or assumptions made in the assessment of the environment and the impacts associated with the proposed development.
Assumptions
In undertaking this BAR, it has been assumed that:
o All requirements from the local authority will be met by the proponent as a separate undertaking to the EIA process; o The information provided by the proponent and the project planning team / specialists is accurate and discloses all information relevant to EIA, proposed project and possible impacts. o Where supporting or baseline information was unavailable, a precautionary approach is adopted.
Gaps in Knowledge
All specialist studies are conducted to certain levels of confidence, but in all instances known methodologies have been used and confidence levels are generally high. This means that in most cases the situation described in the pre-construction environment is accurate at high certainty levels, but there exists a low probability that some issues have not been identified during the studies. Furthermore, statistical analyses and mathematical models are merely tools which assist the researcher in assessing field observations and have innate assumptions which can reduce objectivity of the results obtained. This is not seen as a major flaw but should always be considered when assessing results.
Gaps in knowledge known to Delron at this time, includes:
o Predicting the impact to the socio-economic and bio-physical environment for the life-cycle of the proposed project (i.e. 25-50 years).
Page 77 3. IMPACTS THAT MAY RESULT FROM THE DECOMMISSIONING & CLOSURE PHASE
Briefly describe and compare the potential impacts (as appropriate), significance rating of impacts, proposed mitigation and significance rating of impacts after mitigation that are likely to occur as a result of the decommissioning and closure phase for the various alternatives of the proposed development. This must include an assessment of the significance of all impacts.
The development represents the establishment of residential township and associated infrastructure, as such no decommissioning phase is envisaged with the foreseeable future.
Since no decommissioning phase is envisaged, the impacts of such a phase is not assessed in this Basic Assessment Report. Should certain of the project components be decommissioned in future, the environmental and other relevant legislation applicable to those activities at that time will need to be complied with.
However, given the nature of the proposed development, decommissioning or closure of the proposed development:
Would produce benign solid waste from structures and services infrastructure that could potentially be re-used or be disposed of at a licensed landfill site; Would not produce toxic or hazardous waste for disposal, or leave any such waste on site; Would not sterilise the site for future use after decommissioning; and Would not result in irreversible or irreplaceable loss of natural resources.
Therefore, no high significant negative impacts associated with decommissioning of the proposed development are anticipated.
List any specialist reports that were used to fill in the above tables. Such reports are to be attached in the appropriate Appendix. Not Applicable
Where applicable indicate the detailed financial provisions for rehabilitation, closure and ongoing post decommissioning management for the negative environmental impacts. Not Applicable
4. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS
Describe potential impacts that, on their own may not be significant, but is significant when added to the impact of other activities or existing impacts in the environment. Substantiate response:
Cumulative impacts are assessed with the combination effects of the project with current and future development in the immediate area of the project site. The cumulative impacts assessed depend on the status of other projects and the level of data available to characterise the magnitude of the impacts.
The majority of surrounding land is or has been utilised for residential developments and as such it would make sense for these properties to be used for this purpose.
Cumulative Impacts
Litter and Waste
Page 78 Activities associated with use of the site results in littering. Similarly the building process generates wastes that could pollute the site and its surrounds. For this reason it is important that a waste management plan must be developed. The waste and litter will reduce as the construction phase ends. This will not result in a cumulative impact.
Fauna, Flora and Sensitive Environments
The proposed development will totally transform the site and will lead to the complete loss of habitat for any potential plant of animal species. This is considered to be an impact of low significance as the site is currently transformed and limited opportunity exists to improve ecological function by not developing the site. The cumulative impact is non-existent.
Development should be restricted to the transformed secondary grasslands or degraded habitats with medium-low sensitivity. No construction activities may occur within the water course or within 30 meters from the edge of the water course.
The conservation and correct management of any remaining primary Egoli Granite grasslands as well as the Zandspruit and a 32m grassland buffer zone should ensure the conservation of this sensitive areas. The formation of an open space (including the Zandspruit and adjacent seepage wetland and a 32m rehabilitated grassland buffer zone) interconnected with a biological corridor stretching to the north and south could result in a positive impact for remaining mammal populations, if adequate conservation measures are implemented. The fencing off of the entire conserved open space, prevention of increased human presence and disturbances including illegal dumping, hunting and poaching activities as well as the implementation of a natural fire regime programme could result in increased smaller mammal, reptile and amphibian populations.
Stormwater Runoff
The development of hard surfaces will give rise to greater volumes and velocity of runoff waters during high peak flows. This water will drain into the roads and stormwater management system. Localised flooding may result on negative impacts on bed and banks of the water course due to the cumulative effects.
5. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT
Taking the assessment of potential impacts into account, please provide an environmental impact statement that sums up the impact that the proposal 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.
Proposal A review of the information contained herein shows that the proposed development does not have a significantly detrimental impact on the environment. The development is located within the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality’s Urban Development Boundary, which is earmarked for densification and development into a residential area.
The development is similar in character to what is currently occurring in the surrounding area. There is no fatal flaw associated with this development, especially when making use of the mitigation measures proposed. It is therefore necessary to ensure that an Environmental Management Plan, along with proactive planning is used to minimise the potential impacts of the proposed impacts of the proposed development. The accuracy of this document is based on information that was available at the time of writing the report.
Page 79 As reflected in Section 2 and 3, there is a clear indication that the effects of the proposed development during construction and operation on the environment are of LOW – NEGLIGIBLE significance After Mitigation in terms of the following negative impacts:
Construction Phase: 1) Air Quality Impact - Generation of dust as a result of vegetation clearing and earthworks. 2) Topography - Impact on prominent physical or landscape features with conservation potential due to the necessity for extensive earth works and civil requirements. 3) Increased Erosion Risk 4) Soil – Loss of soil integrity as a result of soil disturbance, compaction and contamination. 5) Loss of Flora – Clearing of vegetation for construction 6) Habitat Loss (sensitive environments: Zandspruit stream and seepage area) 7) Alteration of Water Course / Seepage area - Impact on drainage patterns due to road and pipeline crossings (excavations / trenching/ road construction) 8) Direct Faunal Impacts 9) Stormwater Runoff - Impact of uncontrolled storm water on the surrounding environment. 10) Surface and Groundwater: Contamination 11) Noise - Excessive noise levels as a result of construction activities. 12) Construction Traffic 13) Aesthetics - Reduction in visual quality due to construction activities. 14) Impacts on Heritage Resources 15) Waste - Land, air and water pollution through poor waste management practices.
Operational Phase: 1) Increase in stormwater run-off due to increase in built-up areas (buildings, roads etc.) 2) Waste 3) Increased Access and Human Presence
The following positive implication of MODERATE - HIGH significance of the proposed development have been identified during this assessment:
Access to essential infrastructural services such as energy, potable water, sanitation, communications and access. Housing provision and creation of a safe living environment for the community. Enhanced social services access. Tenure and asset security. Human and social capital development. Many direct and indirect spin-off benefits, such as job creation, capacity building, rates for the municipality and the upgrading of supply of services. Illegal squatters are becoming increasingly interested in using this site and are posing more of a threat to local inhabitants. They are setting up temporary structures on unsupervised areas of the site that are well hidden. If this continues unchecked, it may spread and the land may become unmanageable. Eradication of alien and invasive plant species.
Alternative 1: Not Applicable
Alternative 2 Not Applicable
Page 80 No-go (compulsory)
The No- Go alternative is the option of not implementing the activities. This implies that the site be left as is and that no development be done.
This option has the following potential impacts:
The proposed project objectives will not materialise; which implies a significant loss of opportunity for the development of the site and creation of a safe living environment for the community who will be living in the township development. No tenure and asset security. No access to essential infrastructural services such as energy, potable water, sanitation, communications and access. No enhanced social services access. No human and social capital development. The potential to provide housing, which appears to be in accord with the prevailing land use regime in the area and the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality's desired urban form and patterns for the region, will be lost. Many direct and indirect spin-off benefits, such as job creation, capacity building, rates for the municipality and the upgrading of supply of services will not be realised. Invasive vegetation would probably continue to spread in areas where land is vacant and not actively used in its entirety. If not developed, the site will derive no income and will not contribute to the services and total income of the area. Illegal squatters are becoming increasingly interested in using this site and are posing more of a threat to local inhabitants. They are setting up temporary structures on unsupervised areas of the site that are well hidden. If this continues unchecked, it may spread and the land may become unmanageable.
Given the fact that the site will eventually degenerate if left unmanaged, and the fact that it is most likely unsuitable to be utilised for grazing or agricultural purposes due to its location, it is reasonable to state that the no-go option is less favourable than some of the other options presented. Furthermore, should this property not be developed it would be left as an isolated and disconnected land due to all the surrounding areas to be developed as residential townships.
6. IMPACT SUMMARY OF THE PROPOSAL OR PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE
For proposal:
Except for the Zandspruit stream, associated 30 meter conservation buffer and seepage area, the proposed development site is not considered to be environmentally sensitive and the proposed township establishment will therefore not adversely affect environmental processes provided the relevant Environmental Management Programme is implemented throughout the planning and construction phases. The significance of impacts during the construction and operation phases are summarised below:
Significance Rating Significance Rating Potential Impact of Impacts Before of Impacts Mitigation After Mitigation DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION & OPERATIONAL PHASE Air quality impact - generation of dust as a result of vegetation clearing 36 (Low) 21 (Low) and earthworks.
Page 81 Topography - Impact on prominent physical or landscape features with conservation potential due to the necessity for extensive earth works 64 (High) 20 (Low) and civil requirements. Increased erosion risk 48 (Moderate) 21 (Low) Soil – Loss of soil integrity as a result of soil disturbance, compaction 56 (Moderate) 19 21 (Low) and contamination. Loss of flora – clearing of vegetation for construction 55 (Moderate) 16 (Negligible)
Habitat loss (sensitive environments: ridge and drainage course) 70 (High) 16 (Negligible) Alteration of Water Course / Seepage area - Impact on drainage patterns due to road and pipeline crossings (excavations / trenching/ 65 (Moderate - High) 30 (Low) road construction) Direct faunal impacts 50 (Moderate) 14 (Negligible) Storm water runoff - Impact of uncontrolled storm water on the 44 (Moderate) 12 (Negligible) surrounding environment. Surface and groundwater: contamination 40 (Moderate - Low) 12 (Negligible)
Noise - excessive noise levels as a result of construction activities. 40 (Moderate) 27 (Low)
Construction traffic 44 (Moderate) 16 (Negligible)
Aesthetics - reduction in visual quality due to construction activities. 50 (Moderate) 21 (Low)
Impacts on heritage Resources 60 (Moderate-High) 12 (Negligible) Waste - Land, air and water pollution through poor waste management 45 (Moderate) 18 (Negligible) practices. OPERATIONAL
Impact of stormwater run-off. 80 (High) 36 (Low) Waste - Impacts due to management of solid and liquid wastes 48 (Medium) 20 (Low) disposed of on the site during operational phase. Increased Access and Human Presence 60 (Moderate High) 36 (Low)
NO-GO 85 (High) 65 (High) Land, air and water pollution through poor waste management practices Positive/beneficial Negative impact
For alternative: Not Applicable
Having assessed the significance of impacts of the proposal and alternative(s), please provide an overall summary and reasons for selecting the proposal or preferred alternative.
SUMMARY OF ECOLOGICAL SPECIALIST REPORT At a local (Zandspruit) scale the study area comprises limited suitable habitat for remaining animal species especially within the transformed and degraded grasslands and seasonally inundated seepage wetlands. The old agricultural lands or
Page 82 secondary succession grasslands and sand mining areas on the northern, central, southern and south-eastern portions of the site are dominated by transformed habitats that no longer comprise the natural vegetation, and have limited conservation value. This is due to extensive habitat transformation and degradation as well as fragmentation due to existing roads. These areas are ideally suitable for the proposed development. Destruction of the transformed habitats on the site will have an impact of Medium-Low; Short-Long term impact.
The proposed Zandspruit development should it be approved should be restricted to the transformed secondary grasslands or degraded habitats with medium-low sensitivity.
SUMMARY OF HERITAGE SPECIALIST REPORT
The study has not identified any archaeological which will be directly impacted by the proposed project. For the rest of the project area, the general landscape at Zandspruit has limited significance in terms of archaeological receptors as the landscape has generally been transformed by past and more recent urbanization. No impact on archaeological heritage is therefore anticipated. However, subsurface archaeological remains may occur in the area where the clearing of topsoil during development activities frequently exposes archaeological deposits.
Built Environment
Three buildings dating to the Historical Period occur in the project area footprint and these features are of medium heritage value. The potential impact on the resources is considered to be Moderate but this impact rating can be limited to a Negligible impact by the implementation of mitigation measures (site monitoring, Phase 2 Analysis, destruction permitting) for the sites, if / when required.
Graves / Human Burials Sites
At least 2 burial sites were located in the project area. These receptors are of high significance for their social and cultural value. The potential impact on the resources is High but this impact rating can be limited to a Negligible impact by the implementation of mitigation measures (avoidance, site management, site monitoring / grave relocation) for the sites, if / when required.
In the opinion of the author of this Archaeological Impact Assessment Report, the proposed Zandspruit Township Establishment Project may proceed from a culture resources management perspective, provided that mitigation measures, endorsed by the relevant Heritage Resources authority, are implemented where applicable, and provided that no subsurface heritage remains are encountered during construction.
Having assessed the significance of the potential impacts of the activities associated with the proposed township establishment, the explanations below provide the rationale for the EAP’s reasoning that the project should be granted Environmental Authorisation:
The development proposal is consistent with the development guidelines of the City of Johannesburg’s SDF and Urban Design Framework; The site is situated within the urban edge adjacent to existing and proposed urban infrastructure, service and amenities; According to the specialist study the site sensitivity is mainly low, transformed and degraded land; No sensitive habitat or plant and animal species were found to be present in the proposed development footprint; From a plant and animal ecological point of view the area has a low conservation and biodiversity value. No red listed species were found;
Page 83 There will be no direct impact on the water course and associated 32 meter conservation buffer.
There are no major impacts due to the proposed township establishment that cannot be mitigated and/or managed to within reasonable levels.
7. SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT TOOLS
Indicate the application of any spatial development tool protocols on the proposed development and the outcome thereof.
The study area in the context of the Spatial Development Framework The City of Johannesburg SDF classifies Zandspruit as a consolidation zone. This zone refers to areas neither outside the development boundary, nor within priority transformation areas or nodes. It focuses in urban consolidation and restructuring, controlled growth, urban management and addressing backlogs. The policy intent in these areas would be to ensure existing and future development proposals are aligned as far as possible with the broader intent of the SDF.
City of Johannesburg will allow these new developments that promote the goals and meet the requirements of the SDF. Formalisation of Zandspruit informal settlements will require the consolidation and diversification of land uses and the development public transport infrastructure.
The SDF indicates a drop in informal settlements in the City due to government housing and upgrading programmes, and also movement to backyard accommodation. However, there is also a need to balance new housing and related social infrastructure with the creation of economic opportunities. According to the SDF, the City’s Sustainable Human Settlements Urbanisation Plan (SHSUP) estimates housing demand for Johannesburg up to 2030 noting that the majority (62%) of housing demand will be for low income households (earning less than R3500 income per month).
8. RECOMMENDATION OF THE PRACTITIONER
Is the information contained in this report and the documentation attached hereto sufficient to make a decision in respect of the activity applied for (in the view of the Environmental Assessment Practitioner as YES X NO bound by professional ethical standards and the code of conduct of EAPASA).
If “NO”, indicate the aspects that require further assessment before a decision can be made (list the aspects that require further assessment):
Not Applicable
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:
It is recommended that, based on the findings of the EIR and supplemental specialist information that: Should the project applicant obtain the necessary environmental authorisation for the proposed activities, a Construction Environmental Management Programme (EMPr) must be implemented for the construction and operational phases of the development. The EMPr, as attached to this document, should be made part of the contractual documents of contractors.
Page 84 All mitigation measures as described in this report and specialist reports are adhered to by the developer (these measures will be made part of the EMPr).
The conditions of the Environmental Authorisation from GDARD be written into the EMPr and be implemented as such.
The design and implementation of the infrastructure and services provision are to be done in accordance with engineering specifications so as to comply with the regulations and standards of the local controlling authority.
The construction of all structures, roads and implementation of services must be in accordance with the specifications of the geotechnical engineering assessment. Such specification will be in response to site specific soil characteristics, gradient and anticipated runoff.
An integrated waste management approach must be used that is based on best practices and should incorporate reduction, recycling, re-use and disposal, where appropriate. Waste generated during the construction and operational phases must be removed from site and be disposed of safely and responsibly at a landfill licensed in terms of section 20 of the Environmental Conservation Act, 1989 (Act No. 73 of 1989).
Exotic plants present on the site, which are listed in CARA (Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act 43 of 1983) must be progressively removed from the site; and the site must be kept free of these plants by conducting regular follow-up clearing operations for the duration of the project lifetime.
Only indigenous plant species, preferably species that are indigenous to the natural vegetation of the area, should be used for landscaping in communal open space areas.
No construction activities, except for the construction of the following services at water course crossings may occur within the 1 in 100 year flood line and /or delineated riparian habitat and 30 meter conservation buffer: o collector roads in 20 m road reserve (local distributor), o Ø 110 - 355 uPVC water pipelines; o Ø 160 - 250 uPVC heavy duty class 34 sewer pipelines; and stormwater infrastructure.
The development footprint should be restricted to the transformed secondary grasslands or degraded habitats with medium-low sensitivity as per the sensitivity plan.
Before construction commences, all sensitive habitats, such as the water course and associated buffer must be clearly demarcated with fencing or orange mesh netting.
Avoidance and redesign layout to avoid cemeteries, 20m conservation buffer, fence all burial places and apply access control.
Site Attenuation
o The runoff associated with the development is to be attenuated such that the predevelopment flows for the 1 in 5 year as well as the 1 in 25 year storm events are not exceeded. The attenuation structure must be capable of withstanding the 1 in 50 year storm event. Therefore, attenuation ponds may be required for each of the catchment areas and shall be located outside of the 100 year flood lines. o In order to size the attenuation structure, the principle of continuity is applied. This means the difference between the sum of the inflows and the sum of the outflows that enter and leave a defined spaces should be equal to the rate of change in the volume of the fluid contained within the space. This was done by producing hydrographs for pre- development and post-development flows for a return period of 1:50 using the Rational Method. The attenuation
Page 85 volume was calculated in order to ensure the change in volume from the pre-development flow to the post development flow was contained. o Alternatively if the required space for the attenuation pond cannot be obtained on site, provision will have to be made through energy dissipation methods to reduce the peak flow of stormwater on the site to the pre development flows. o The proposed stormwater system consists of numerous kerb inlets and underground stormwater pipes. These pipe networks shall be connect to the attenuation pond and discharge into the river at the same rate as the pre- development flows. Stormwater Management Conditions for Discharge into a Stream - Discharge of stormwater into a stream shall be at the discretion of the Johannesburg Parks Department (JPD) and shall be subject to at least the following conditions: o The discharge water shall be routed through an energy dissipating structure or stilling basin such that the velocity of the discharge water is reduced to a value between 0,8 m/s and 1,0 m/s (or less) depending on the soil conditions at the point of discharge; it is up to the designer to substantiate the design parameters by submitting soil test results; o The energy dissipating structure shall be constructed in such a way that it will accommodate flow conditions in the stream, depending on the level of discharge; o The outlet structure shall be provided with an appropriate upstream apron dipped against the direction of flow as well as a key on the downstream side; o The energy dissipating elements shall be positioned such that the anticipated flow for a 1 in 25 year event in the stream is not interfered with; o Texturing of the outlet structure elements that extend beyond the 1 in 25 year event is to be provided such that nearest compatibility with the natural watercourse is achieved; o The angle of discharge will not be greater than 30º relative to the average direction of flow established over a distance of 20 m upstream of the point of discharge; o The resultant gradient between the point of discharge in the direction of flow and that of the bed of the stream shall such that it complies with the velocity restriction stated above; o Segmented material used in the outlet structure shall be adequately anchored; o Existing vegetation shall be reinstated where disturbed during construction; o Surplus building and other foreign materials shall be removed at completion of the construction.
Install silt and litter traps as part of the Stormwater Management System, where required. The silt and litter traps must be monitored and well maintained (i.e. regularly cleaned etc.). Maintenance requirements should be included in the Stormwater Management Plan. Erosion and sedimentation into water bodies must be minimised through effective stabilisation (such as silt traps, gabions and Reno mattresses) and re-vegetation of any disturbed areas.
9. THE NEEDS AND DESIRABILITY OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT (as per notice 792 of 2012, or the updated version of this guideline)
The right to adequate housing as one of the most important of all basic human rights is recognized in the constitution. Section 26(1) of the Constitution provides that everyone shall have the right of access to adequate housing. Accessibility means that the State must create conducive conditions for all its citizens, irrespective of their economic status, to access affordable housing. Housing entails more than bricks and mortar. It requires available land, appropriate services such as the provision of water, electricity and the removal of sewage. For a person to have access to adequate housing all of these conditions need to be met: there must be land, there must be services, and there must be a dwelling.
Furthermore, the following conditions, is necessary for a meaningful enjoyment of the right to housing:
Legal security of tenure Affordability Availability of services, materials, facilities and infrastructure
Page 86 Habitability Accessibility Location Cultural adequacy
The need for the formal establishment of the proposed township of Zandspruit stems from the growing size of the population, making the site an expanding informal settlement. The purpose of the project is to formalise Zandspruit by means of establishing a formal human settlement, through the formation of sustainable mixed use typologies, catering to mixed income groups as well as density groups by way of competent residential development supporting both commercial and community land uses.
10. THE PERIOD FOR WHICH THE ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION IS REQUIRED (CONSIDER WHEN THE ACTIVITY IS EXPECTED TO BE CONCLUDED)
10 years
11. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME (EMPR) (must include post construction monitoring requirements and when these will be concluded.)
If the EAP answers “Yes” to Point 7 above then an EMP is to be attached to this report as an Appendix
EMPr attached YES
Page 87 SECTION F: APPENDIXES
The following appendixes must be attached as appropriate (this list is inclusive, but not exhaustive):
It is required that if more than one item is enclosed that a table of contents is included in the appendix
A LOCALITY MAP B SITE PHOTOGRAPHS C LAYOUT PLAN D FACILITY ILLUSTRATION E PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
E.1 PROOF OF SITE NOTICE
E.2 WRITTEN NOTICES ISSUED
E.3 PROOF OF NEWSPAPER ADVERTISEMENTS
E.4 COMMUNICATIONS TO AND FROM I&APS
E.5 MINUTES OF ANY PUBLIC AND/OR STAKEHOLDER MEETINGS
E.6 COMMENTS AND RESPONSES REPORT
E.7 COMMENTS FROM I&APS ON BASIC ASSESSMENT (BA) REPORT
E.8 COMMENTS FROM I&APS ON AMENDMENTS TO THE BA REPORT
E.9 COPY OF THE REGISTER OF I&APS
E.10 LIST OF STATE DEPARTMENTS WATER USE LICENSE(S) AUTHORISATION, SAHRA INFORMATION, SERVICE LETTERS FROM F MUNICIPALITIES, WATER SUPPLY INFORMATION G SPECIALIST REPORTS H EMPR I OTHER INFORMATION
CHECKLIST
To ensure that all information that the Department needs to be able to process this application, please check that:
Where requested, supporting documentation has been attached; All relevant sections of the form have been completed.
Page 88 APPENDIX A1: LOCALITY MAP 1: AERIAL PHOTO
Page 89 APPENDIX A2: LOCALITY MAP: 1: 50 000 2627BB
The Site Portions 16, 23, 42, 47, 55, 56, 59, 60, 67, 68, 69, 72, 73, 76, 104, 160 & 175 of the Farm Zandspruit 191-IQ & Agricultural Holding 43 Sonnedal A.H
Page 90 APPENDIX A3: GDARD C-PLAN 3 SITE CHARACTERISTICS
Page 91 APPENDIX B: SITE PHOTOGRAPHS
Page 92 APPENDIX C: SITE LAYOUT PLAN
Page 93 APPENDIX D: FACILITY ILLUSTRATION: NOT APPLICABLE
APPENDIX E: PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
APPENDIX E.1: PROOF OF SITE NOTICE
Latitude Longitude Site Notice Position To be included in the FBAR
Date Published / Placed To be included in the FBAR
To be included in the FBAR
To be included in the FBAR
APPENDIX E.2: WRITTEN NOTICES ISSUED
To be included in the FBAR
APPENDIX E.3: PROOF OF NEWSPAPER ADVERTISEMENTS
Publication Name Sowetan
Date Published To be included in the FBAR
Date Published To be included in the FBAR
To be included in the FBAR
APPENDIX E.4: COMMUNICATIONS TO AND FROM I&APS
To be included in the FBAR
APPENDIX E.5: MINUTES OF ANY PUBLIC AND/OR STAKEHOLDER MEETINGS
Focus Group meetings with key I&APs, to be held upon request. No public meeting or focus group meeting were conducted at this stage.
APPENDIX E.6: COMMENTS AND RESPONSES REPORT
As this is the first announcement of the project, no comments have been received to date. Any comments received from I&APs on the DBAR will be included in the Final Basic Assessment Report.
Page 94 APPENDIX E.7: COMMENTS FROM I&APS ON BASIC ASSESSMENT (BA) REPORT
As this is the first announcement of the project, no comments have been received to date. Any comments received from I&APs on the DBAR will be included in the Final Basic Assessment Report.
APPENDIX E.8: COMMENTS FROM I&APS ON AMENDMENTS TO THE BA REPORT
As this is the first announcement of the project, no comments have been received to date. Any comments received from I&APs on the DBAR will be included in the Final Basic Assessment Report.
Page 95 APPENDIX E.9: REGISTER OF I&APS
AFFILIATION / KEY TELEPHONE/ CELL NAME PHYSICAL ADDRESS POSTAL ADDRESS EMAIL ADDRESS STAKEHOLDER STATUS PHONE
National Authorities
South Africa Heritage Resource Agency Heritage Officer Archaeology 111 Harrington Street P.O. Box 4637 Tel: 021 462 4502 [email protected] Attention: The Chief Executive Officer Cape Town Cape Town Fax: 021 462 4509 Mr. Andrew Solomon 8001 8000 Department of Water Affairs Institutional 185 Francis Baard Street Ms. Anna Malemela Establishment: Water Bothongo Pleza East Private Bag X313 Tel: 012 392 1470 Resource Management 15th Floor Pretoria [email protected] Fax: 012 392 1486 Pretoria 0001 0001
Provincial Authorities
Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Rural Department Director: P. O. Box 8769 11 Diagonal Street, Newtown Tel: 011 240 3053 Develop Strategic Administration Johannesburg [email protected] Johannesburg Fax: 011 240 2700 Ms. Boniswa Belot Support 2000
Local Authority
City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Impact Management and Traduna House Tel: 011 587 4225 [email protected]. Municipality Compliance, Environmental, 6th Floor Fax: 086 627 7516 Attention: Ms. Nozipho Maduse Infrastructure and Service 118 Jorissen Street Department Braamfontein
Ward Councilor
Ms. Maureen Schneemann Ward Councillor 114 Cell: 083 297 1128 [email protected]
Land Owner
City of Johannesburg Metropolitan 100 Christiaan De Wet PO Box 1451 Head of Department Tel: 011 761 0207 Municipality Florida Park Pretoria [email protected] Region C Cell : 082 554 9796 Attention: Mr Sello Mothotoana 0001
Adjacent Land Owners
Page 96 AFFILIATION / KEY TELEPHONE/ CELL NAME PHYSICAL ADDRESS POSTAL ADDRESS EMAIL ADDRESS STAKEHOLDER STATUS PHONE
Other
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APPENDIX E.10: LIST OF STATE DEPARTMENTS
AFFILIATION / KEY TELEPHONE/ CELL NAME PHYSICAL ADDRESS POSTAL ADDRESS EMAIL ADDRESS STAKEHOLDER STATUS PHONE
National Authorities
South Africa Heritage Resource Agency Heritage Officer Archaeology 111 Harrington Street P.O. Box 4637 Tel: 021 462 4502 [email protected] Attention: The Chief Executive Officer Cape Town Cape Town Fax: 021 462 4509 Mr. Andrew Solomon 8001 8000 Department of Water Affairs Institutional 185 Francis Baard Street Ms. Anna Malemela Establishment: Water Bothongo Pleza East Private Bag X313 Tel: 012 392 1470 Resource Management 15th Floor Pretoria [email protected] Fax: 012 392 1486 Pretoria 0001 0001
Provincial Authorities
Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Rural Department Director: P. O. Box 8769 11 Diagonal Street, Newtown Tel: 011 240 3053 Develop Strategic Administration Johannesburg [email protected] Johannesburg Fax: 011 240 2700 Ms. Boniswa Belot Support 2000
Local Authority
City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Impact Management and Traduna House Tel: 011 587 4225 [email protected]. Municipality Compliance, Environmental, 6th Floor Fax: 086 627 7516 Attention: Ms. Nozipho Maduse Infrastructure and Service 118 Jorissen Street Department Braamfontein
Page 97 AFFILIATION / KEY TELEPHONE/ CELL NAME PHYSICAL ADDRESS POSTAL ADDRESS EMAIL ADDRESS STAKEHOLDER STATUS PHONE
Ward Councilor
Ms. Maureen Schneemann Ward Councillor 114 Cell: 083 297 1128 [email protected]
Land Owner
City of Johannesburg Metropolitan 100 Christiaan De Wet PO Box 1451 Head of Department Tel: 011 761 0207 Municipality Florida Park Pretoria [email protected] Region C Cell : 082 554 9796 Attention: Mr Sello Mothotoana 0001
Page 98 APPENDIX F: WATER USE LICENSE(S) AUTHORISATION, SAHRA INFORMATION, SERVICE LETTERS FROM MUNICIPALITIES, WATER SUPPLY INFORMATION
To be included in the FBAR
Page 99 APPENDIX G: TECHNICAL AND SPECIALIST REPORTS
APPENDIX G.1: Enviroguard Ecological Services CC. (2016). An Ecological Report on the Fauna, Flora and Wetlands/Streams: Proposed Zandspruit Township Development on Portions 16, 22, 23,26,42,47,51,55,56,59,60,67,68,69,72, 73, 76, 104, 105,144,160, 175 of the Farm Zandspruit 191-IQ & Holding 43 Sonnedal A.H.
Page 100 APPENDIX G.2: Exigo Sustainability (Pty) Ltd. (2016). Archaeological Impact Assessment (AIA) of Areas Demarcated for the Proposed Zandspruit Township Establishment on Portions 16, 22, 23, 26, 42, 51, 55, 56, 59, 67, 68, 72, 73, 76, 104, 105, 144 and 160 of The Farm Zandspruit 191-IQ and Holding 43 Sonendal A.H
Page 101 APPENDIX G.3: Aurecon South Africa (Pty) Ltd. (2016) Zandspruit II Geotechnical Investigation
Page 102 APPENDIX G.4: Aurecon South Africa (Pty) Ltd. (2016) Zandspruit Phase II - Services Report
Page 103 APPENDIX G.5: Aurecon South Africa (Pty) Ltd. (2016) Socio-Economic – Macro-Economic Feasibility Study
Page 104 APPENDIX H: EMPR
Page 105