Draft Environmental Scoping Report for the Proposed Groblersdal X 35

DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED GROBLERSDAL X 35

Part of Portion 1 of the farm Loskop Suid 53 JS.

REF: 12/1/9/2-GS38 DECEMBER 2014

B O K A M O S O

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANTS

Tel: (012) 346 3810 Fax: 086 570 5659 E-mail: [email protected] P O BOX 11375 MAROELANA 0161 Draft Environmental Scoping Report for the Proposed Groblersdal Ext 35 Ref: 12/1/9/2-GS38

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION 10 1.1 Background 10 1.2 Activities Applied For In Terms of NEMA 14 1.3 The Town Planning Process 17 1.4 Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP) 17

2. TERMS OF REFERENCE 18

3. SCOPE OF WORK AND APPROACH TO THE STUDY 18 3.1 Scope of Work 18 3.2 Approach to the Study 19

4. LOCALITY 19

5 REGISTERED OWNERS AND TITLE DEEDS 19

6 ALTERNATIVES IDENTIFIED 20 6.1 No – Go Alternative 20 6.2 Locality Alternatives 25 6.3 Land use Alternatives 26 6.4 Layout Alternatives 33 6.5 Technology Alternatives 35

7. PLANNING APPROACH 37

8. EXISTING ZONING AND LAND USE AND PROPOSED ZONING AND LAND USE 37 8.1 Existing zoning and land use 37 8.2 Proposed zoning and land use 37

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9 THE DESCRIPTION OF THE BIOPHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT 38 9.1 THE PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT 38 9.1.1 Geology and Soils 38 9.1.2 Hydrology 39 9.1.3 Topography 42 9.1.4 Climate 42

9.2 THE BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT 44

9.3 DESCRIPTION OF THE EXISTING SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT 45 9.3.1 Existing Land Use 45 9.3.2 The Proposed Land Use 46 9.3.3 Visual Environment 49 9.3.4 Sense of Place 51 9.3.5 Demography 53 9.3.6 Services 54 9.3.7 Traffic 56 9.3.8 Archaeology/Cultural Historical 57 9.3.9 Institutional 58 9.3.10 Public Participation 66

10 ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES AND POTENTIAL IMPACT IDENTIFICATION 69 10.1 Preliminary Environmental Issues and Sensitivity Map 69 10.2 Anticipated impacts, including cumulative impacts 70 10.3 Comparative Assessment between Alternative 1 and Alternative 2 82 10.4 Methodology of assessing impacts that have been identified 88 10.4.1 Specialized processes and specialist studies 88 10.4.2 Significance Description Methodology 89

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11 PLAN OF STUDY FOR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT 92

12 CONCLUSION 92

13 RECOMMENDATIONS 94

LIST OF FIGURES

FIGURE 1 : LOCALITY MAP FIGURE 2 : AERIAL MAP FIGURE 3 : ILLUSTRATES OF THE TWO APPLICATIONS ON THE FARM LOSKOP SUID 53JS FIGURE 4 : SURROUNDING LAND USES FIGURE 5 : AGRICULTURAL POTENTIAL MAP FIGURE 6 : AGRICULTURAL PROVINCIAL LAND CAPABILITY FIGURE 7 : URBAN DEVELOPMENTS MAP FIGURE 8 : CONSERVANCY MAP FIGURE 9 : LAYOUT PLAN FIGURE 10 : WETLAND AND RIVER MAP FIGURE 11 : INLAND WATER> DAM FIGURE 12 : AQUATIC BIODIVERSITY MAP FIGURE 13 : CRITICAL BIODIVERSITY MAP FIGURE 14 : TERRESTRIAL BIODIVERSITY MAP

LIST OF TABLES

TABLE 1 : LISTED ACTIVITIES IN TERMS OF NOTICE NO. R544 TABLE 2 : LISTED ACTIVITIES IN TERMS OF NOTICE NO. R545 TABLE 3 : REGISTERED LAND OWNER TABLE 4 : PROPOSED LAND USES

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TABLE 5 : VISUAL IMPACT TABLE 6 : PRELIMINARY ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT MATRIX OF PROPOSED GROBERSDAL EXTENSION 35 DEVELOPMENT TABLE 7 : COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT BETWEEN IMPACTS OF ALTERNATIVE 1 AND ALTERNATIVE 2 BEFORE MITIGATION TABLE 8 : COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT BETWEEN IMPACTS OF ALTERNATIVE 1 AND ALTERNATIVE 2 AFTER MITIGATION TABLE 9 : SEVERITY RATINGS

LIST OF DIAGRAMS

DIAGRAM 1 : ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES: NO-GO OPTION DIAGRAM 2 : ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES: PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT

LIST OF ANNEXURES

ANNEXURE A : ENLARGEMENTS OF FIGURES ANNEXURE B : LIZELLE GREGORY’S CV AND COMPANY PROFILE ANNEXURE C : PLAN OF STUDY FOR EIA ANNEXURE D : PRECINCT PLAN ANNEXURE E : PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS ANNEXURE E (i) : SITE NOTICE ANNEXURE E (ii) : FLYERS – DISTRIBUTION OF PUBLIC NOTICE ANNEXURE E (ii) : PROOF OF NEWSPAPER ADVERTISEMENT ANNEXURE E (iv) : REGISTERED PARTY LIST ANNEXURE E (v) : COMMENTS AND ISSUES REGISTER ANNEXURE F : COMMENTS RECEIVED FROM SHARA

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LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS

CBD: Central Business District DEA: Department of Environmental Affairs EAP: Environmental Assessment Practitioner ECA: Environmental Conservation Act EIA: Environmental Impact Assessment IEMA: Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment EIAR: Environmental Impacts Assessment Report DWA: Department of Water Affairs EMP: Environmental Management Plan I&AP: Interested and affected party IDP : Integrated Development Plan NSBA: National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment NEMA : National Environmental Management Act POS: Plan of Study SACLAP: The South African Council of the Landscape Architects Profession SAHRA: South African Heritage Resources Agency SR: Scoping Report SDF: Spatial Development framework TIA: Traffic Impact Assessment UNCED : United Nations Conference on Environment and Development

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GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Alien Species: A plant or animal species introduced from elsewhere: neither endemic nor indigenous.

Applicant: Any person who applies for an authorisation to undertake an activity or to cause such activity to be undertaken as contemplated in the National Environmental Management Act (Act No. 107 of 1998), as amended and the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2010.

Biodiversity: The variability among living organisms from all sources including, terrestrial, marine and other aquatic ecosystems and the ecological complexes of which they are apart.

Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act, 1983 (Act No. 43 of 1983): This Act provides for control over the utilization of the natural agricultural resources of the Republic in order to promote the conservation of the soil, the water sources and the vegetation and the combating of weeds and invader plants; and for matters connected therewith.

Development Facilitation Act (DFA), 1995 (Act No. 67 of 1995): This Act formulates a set of general principles to serve as guidelines for land development.

Ecology: The study of the inter relationships between organisms and their environments.

Environment: All physical, chemical and biological factors and conditions that influence an object and/or organism. Also defined as the surroundings within which humans exist and are made up of the land, water, atmosphere, plant and animal life (micro and macro), interrelationship between the factors and the physical or chemical conditions that influence human health and well-being.

Environmental Impact Assessment: Assessment of the effects of a development on the

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environment.

Environmental Management Plan: A legally binding working document, which stipulates environmental and socio-economic mitigation measures which must be implemented by several responsible parties throughout the duration of the proposed project.

National Environmental Management Act (NEMA), 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998): NEMA provides for co-operative, environmental governance by establishing principles for decision-making on matters affecting the environment, institutions that will promote co- operative governance and procedures for co-ordinating environmental functions exercised by organs of state; and to provide for matters connected therewith.

National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act, 2004 (Act No. 39 of 2004): The purpose of the Act is “To reform the law regulating air quality in order to protect the environment by providing reasonable measures for the prevention of pollution and ecological degradation and for securing ecologically sustainable development while promoting justifiable economic and social development; to provide for national norms and standards regulating air quality monitoring, management and control by all spheres of government; for specific air quality measures; and for matters incident thereto”.

National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004): The purpose of the Biodiversity Act is to provide for the management and conservation of South Africa’s biodiversity within the framework of the NEMA and the protection of species and ecosystems that warrant national protection. As part of its implementation strategy, the National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment was developed.

National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, 2003 (Act No. 57 of 2003): The purpose of this Act is to provide the protection, conservation and management of ecologically viable areas representative of South Africa’s biological diversity and its natural landscapes.

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National Heritage Resource Act, 1999 (Act No. 25 of 1999): The National Heritage Resources Act legislates the necessity for cultural and heritage impact assessment in areas earmarked for development, which exceed 0.5 ha. The Act makes provision for the potential destruction to existing sites, pending the archaeologist’s recommendations through permitting procedures. Permits are administered by the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA).

National Veld and Forest Fire Act, 1998 (Act No. 101 of 1998): The purpose of this Act is to prevent and combat veld, forest and mountain fires throughout the Republic. Furthermore the Act provides for a variety of institutions, methods and practices for achieving the prevention of fires.

National Road Traffic Act, 1996 (Act No. 93 of 1996): This Act provides for all road traffic matters which shall apply uniformly throughout the Republic and for matters connected therewith.

National Water Act, 1998 (Act No. 36 of 1998): The purpose of this Act is to ensure that the nation’s water resources are protected, used, developed, conserved, managed and controlled.

Open Space: Areas free of building that provide ecological, socio-economic and place- making functions at all scales of the metropolitan area.

Study Area: Refers to the entire study area compassing the total area of the land parcels as indicated on the study area map.

Sustainable Development: Development that has integrated social, economic and environmental factors into planning, implementation and decision making, so as to ensure that it serves present and future generations.

Water Services Act, 1997 (Act No. 108 of 1997): The purpose of this Act is to ensure the

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regulation of national standards and measures to conserve water.

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1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

Hansie Graham Trust is planning a proposed mixed use development to be known as the Groblersdal Extension 35 Mixed Use Development on part of Portion 1 of the farm Loskop Suid 53 JS. (Refer to Annexure A: Figure 1 - Locality Map and Figure 2 - Aerial Map). The property earmarked for the mixed-use development is just larger than 20ha and it forms the eastern and southern boundaries of the study area for a proposed new shopping centre development, to be named the Groblersdal Regional Shopping Mall.

The proposed Groblersdal Regional Mall will also be developed on Portion 1 of the Farm Loskop Suid 53JS. The combined size of the shopping centre and the mixed-use development study areas is approximately 39,7ha, but due to the fact that the proposed shopping Centre will be developed by another developer, namely Twin City Developments (Pty) Ltd, two separate EIA Applications were submitted for the two developments (the shopping centre development and the proposed mixed-use development).

The Groblersdal Regional Shopping Mall qualified for a Basic Assessment process, because the study area for the mall is just smaller than 20. The Draft Basic Assessment Report (DBAR) for the shopping mall was already made available to the public for comment and the LDEDET reference number of the Groblersdal Regional Mall application is 12/1/9/1-GS103. Refer to Figure 3 below and Annexure A for detail regarding the two applications submitted to LDEDET.

The study area for the proposed mixed-use development/ the area to be transformed is just larger than 20ha and therefore the proposed mixed-use development qualified for a Full EIA in terms of the amended 2010 NEMA EIA Regulations. This report represents the Draft Scoping Report for the proposed mixed-use development and the LDEDET reference number for this application is 12/1/9/2-GS38.

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The study area falls within the area of jurisdiction of the Greater Sekhukhune District Municipality. The primary goal of the application is to establish a mixed-use township that will compliment the proposed new Groblersdal Regional Mall, which will be developed in the north-eastern corner of the larger study area (the approximately 40ha site, which will accommodate both the proposed regional mall and the mixed-use development).

The land-uses for the proposed mixed-use development will comprise of an automotive centre, offices, hospital and a hotel. It will also incorporate an on-site sewer treatment facility, which will be installed in modules and which will eventually have the capacity to cater in the sewage requirements for the proposed regional mall and the mixed-use development.

In terms of the Greater Groblersdal Town Planning Scheme, 2006 the property is presently zoned Agricultural. With the establishment of the township the zoning will change accordingly and the township will be incorporated into the town planning scheme in terms of Section 15 of the Ordinance on Town Planning and Townships No. 15 of 1986.

The application is for the establishment of a mixed-use township with the following proposed land uses:

 Automotive and commercial,  Hotel,  Offices, and  A Hospital.

Please refer to Annexure A for enlargements of the figures.

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Figure 1: Locality Map

Figure 2: Aerial Map

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The study area for this application (the proposed mixed-use development)

Figure 3: Figure that Illustrates the Two Applications on the Farm Loskop Suid 53JS

As mentioned this report represents the Draft Scoping Report that is prepared for the proposed development and all registered interested and affected parties are invited to peruse the report and to supply comments regarding the report and the proposed mixed- use development.

Although no specialist reports were included as part of this scoping report, the information contained in some specialist reports that were compiled during the scoping process, were used to identify the issues and additional specialist studies required to address/mitigate issues identified during the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) phase.

This document serves to:

 Provide a description of the proposed activity.  Provide possible alternatives to the proposed activity.

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 Provide a background study into the environmental setting of the proposed activity.

 Identify possible impacts of the proposed activity – positive and/or negative – upon: - The natural environment, and - The social environment.

 Identify issues/concerns/alternatives through a Public Participation Process.  Provide a Plan of Study for EIA.

1.2 Activities Applied for in Term of NEMA

In terms of Government Notices no. R.544 and Notice R.545 published in the Government Gazette no. 35769 of 10 October 2010 of the National Environment Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998) an Environmental Impact Assessment Process is required for the above-mentioned project, due to the fact that the following listed activities will be triggered/could be triggered.

The applicability of the activities as listed below will however be confirmed during the EIA Process of this application (after the specialist studies have been completed and after all the services and road upgradings were determined by the appointed civil and traffic engineers). If it is eventually confirmed that some of the activities will not be triggered, the original application forms will also be amended accordingly and the amended application forms will then be attached to the Final EIA to be submitted to LDEDET.

For purpose of the Scoping Phase of the development we decided to rather include the entire list of possible activities that could be triggered.

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Table 1: Listed activities in term of Notice No. R544. Indicate the Activity No (s) (in Describe each listed activity: number and terms of the relevant date of the notice) : relevant Government Notice:

GNR. 544, 18 June Activity 9 Reason for Inclusion: 2010 Listing Notice 1 There is a possibility that it will be necessary to install stormwater and other services pipelines (sewer and water) exceeding 1000m in length with a maximum internal diameter of 1,2m.

GNR. 544, 18 June Activity 11 Reason for Inclusion: 2010 Listing Notice 1 The study area is bordered by a concrete irrigation canal on the western side and can possibly be regarded as a watercourse. It was also necessary to determine the origin of the canal (i.e. whether it was a natural or artificial watercourse/ whether the Minister declared the irrigation canal as a watercourse.

A man-made dam is also situated in the western section of the study area. According to the definitions as supplied as part of the relevant listing notices, “a wetland, lake or dam into which, or from which water flows” is regarded as a watercourse. The proposed mixed-use development will thus take place within 32m from the edge of the watercourse. and therefore the dam could not

Furthermore, the geotechnical report indicated the possibility of perched water conditions on the study area and this triggered the possibility of wetland conditions on the study area.

GNR. 544, 18 June Activity 18 The infilling of any material of more than 5 cubic metres 2010 into or the excavation of more than 5 cubic metres from Listing Notice 1 a watercourse.

Three manmade structures occur on or adjacent to the study area i.e. irrigation dam, stormwater canal and irrigation canal. In addition, more specialist studies will be conducted to confirm the presence of wetlands on the study area. After the specialist studies had been conducted the applicability of activity 18 will be confirmed. Activity 18 will be removed from the application if not applicable. 15 Bokamoso Landscape Architects & Environmental Consultants December 2014 Copyright in the format of this report vests in L.Gregory Draft Environmental Scoping Report for the Proposed Groblersdal Ext 35 Ref: 12/1/9/2-GS38

Table 2: Listed activities in term of Notice No. R R545. Indicate the Activity No (s) (in Describe each listed activity: number and terms of the relevant date of the notice) : relevant Government Notice:

GNR. 545, 18 June Activity 15 The physical alteration of vacant land just larger than 2010 20ha for the purposes of a mixed use development. The Listing Notice 2 entire study area will be transformed by means of the construction of buildings, roads, formal landscaping, parking etc.

Hansie Graham Trust therefore appointed Bokamoso Landscape Architects and Environmental Consultants, to compile the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the proposed township development. This report represents the Draft Scoping Report (DSR) for the application.

After we received the public and organs of states’ comments regarding the DSR, Bokamoso will proceed with the compilation of the Final Scoping Report (FSR) and the Plan of Study for EIA. The FSR will be made available to the public and relevant organs of state for a period of 21 days. The comments regarding the FSR must be submitted to LDEDET for consideration when they evaluate the FSR.

LDEDET will approve the FSR and Plan of Study for EIA if they are satisfied with the contents therefore and in the approval LDEDET will allow Bokamoso to proceed with the EIA process. The EIA reports to be compiled will also consist of draft and final reports that will be made available for public and government comments.

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1.3 The Town Planning Process

The Town Planning application was made in terms of Section 125 of the Ordinance on Town Planning and Townships No. 15 of 1986 and the township will be known as Groblersdal Extension 35.

1.4 Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP)

The Environmental Regulations require that relevant details of the Environmental Assessment Practitioner as well as the expertise of the EAP to compile a scoping report must be included as part of the scoping report. Attached as Annexure B, is a copy of the CV of Lizelle Gregory from Bokamoso Landscape Architects and Environmental Consultants. In summary details of the EAP are indicated here under:

o Name: Lizelle Gregory o Company: Bokamoso Landscape Architects and Environmental Consultants. o Qualifications: Registered Landscape Architect and Environmental Consultant (degree obtained at the University of Pretoria) with more than 25 years’ experience in the following fields:

 Environmental Planning and Management;  Compilation of Environmental Impact Assessment;  Landscape Architecture; and  Landscape Contracting L. Gregory also lectured at the Technicon of South Africa and the University of Pretoria. She is a registered member at the Board of Control of Landscape Architects (BOCLASA) and at SACLAP (The South African Council of the Landscape Architects Profession).

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2. TERMS OF REFERENCE

The following terms of reference have been set:

 Determine if the proposed site is a suitable site for the proposed development from and environmental point of view.

 Prepare such an Environmental Scoping Report, taking into consideration the biophysical and socio-economic environment.

 Assess the attitude of the surrounding landowners to such a development.

3. SCOPE OF WORK AND APPROACH TO THE STUDY

3.1 Scope of work

The scope of work will include the necessary investigations, to assess the suitability of the study area for the proposed activities and alternatives. The scoping exercise will consider the environmental aspects, in keeping with the terms of reference, and identify the possible negative and positive impacts including cumulative impacts of the proposed development and alternatives on the study area and its surroundings.

Reference will be made to specialist studies that may be necessary to investigate the environmental issues and sensitivities on site, identified during the scoping process in order to identify specific impacts and to facilitate the design and construction of an environmentally acceptable facility in the Plan of Study for EIA in Annexure C of this report.

Mitigation measures to minimize the negative impacts and maximize the positive impacts will be fully discussed in the Environmental Impact Assessment Report and the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) that will be included in the EIA.

An application form for environmental authorization was submitted to LEDET and a receipt of acknowledgement was received in May 2014. 18 Bokamoso Landscape Architects & Environmental Consultants December 2014 Copyright in the format of this report vests in L.Gregory Draft Environmental Scoping Report for the Proposed Groblersdal Ext 35 Ref: 12/1/9/2-GS38

3.2 Approach to the study

An investigative approach was followed and the relevant biophysical and socio-economic environmental aspects were assessed.

Legislation and guidelines applicable to the application were considered in the preparation of the report.

All available material and literature were collected and used for the purpose of this study and it was further supplemented with discussion with provincial authorities, local authorities, other interested and affected parties, as well as by site surveys and photographic recording.

4. LOCALITY

The study area is situated along the eastern boundary of the town of Groblersdal and the very busy Jan van Riebeeck Street (the R33), which stretches in a west-east direction, runs along the site’s Northern boundary. The N11, which stretches in a south-north direction, through Groblersdal’s CBD, is situated approximately 100m to the west of the study area and runs almost parallel to the western boundary of the development site.

An industrial area and the offices of the Department of Water Affairs, which includes the town’s water purification plant, is situated to the north of Van Riebeeck Street. Refer to Figure 1, Locality Map and Figure 2, Aerial Map.

5. REGISTERED OWNER AND TITLE DEEDS

The properties are registered as follows:

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Table 3: Registered Land Owner Ownership Property Description Size (ha) Title Deed Nr. Hansie Graham Trust Part of Portion 1 of the farm T98513/2003 Loskop Suid 53 JS 39,7 ha

6. ALTERNATIVES IDENTIFIED

6.1 The “No-Go” Option

The developer owns the study area and the owner’s family utilised the study area for agricultural purposes for many years. There is one pivot point on the eastern portion of the study area and the western section of the study area accommodates a man-made, lined irrigation dam, which is fed by the irrigation canal to the west of the study area.

The “no-go” option/ the continuation with farming activities on the study area were not regarded as a future land-use option, because:

- The study area is ideally situated, in terms of accessibility, locality, visibility and land-use compatibility and the economic and social value of the study area, when developed are regarded as higher than the site’s ecological or agricultural potential; - All the natural vegetation have been removed from the study area many years ago. The study area is furthermore isolated from other open spaces/ agricultural areas by means of a road (to the north), and concrete canals to the south, east and west of the study area. A dirt road and agricultural activities to the east of the concrete storm water canal causes even more isolation and fragmentation and there can be no talk of any open space linkage between the riparian zone of the Olifants River and the study area. Edge effects also have a major impact on the ecological value and potential of the study area.

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The study area will thus not add significant value to the larger continuous open space systems in the surrounding area if the “no-go” option is followed. If open space linkages were possible, the ecological potential of the study area would have been regarded as higher; - The surrounding urban developments and human activities threaten the agricultural potential of the site and leads to a range of risks that are difficult to quantify; - The site is situated with an urban area that is expanding and as such it can be incorporated in order to minimise urban sprawl outside of the current urban edge in other areas; - Due to the disturbed nature of the study area, it will be difficult to rehabilitate the study area; - The agricultural potential of the site is already compromised by the existing urban fibre that surrounds the study area. The agricultural activities often caused complaints by the community, because they were concerned about the odors and health risks associated with the spraying of crops; - The proposed new mixed-use development will be more compatible with the surrounding land-uses than the existing agricultural activities; and - The proposed Regional Mall to the north-west of the study area (if approved) will attract people to the node and this will automatically create an opportunity to implement complimentary land-uses such as the land-uses proposed for this mixed-use development.

Also take note that the Groblersdal local authority earmarked the study area for development their precinct plan. The local authority also regarded the study area as suitable for the expansion of the town, because it is situated immediately adjacent to the CBD and it is already almost completely surrounded by urban development.

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CBD and the N11 Freeway enters the town in this area

Taxi Rank Industrial Area

The study area – take note of the urban Figure 4: Surrounding land-uses development to the north and west of the study area. A school is situated to the south.

To follow now are tables that represent a preliminary comparison between the “No-Go” alternative and the development alternative.

Diagram 1: Environmental Issues - “No-Go” Option

Issue Short term Medium term Long Term

Geology and soils Positive

Neutral

Negative

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No development will not have a significant impact on the geology or hydrology of the study area, especially in the short term. Indirect impacts created by the edge effects of the surrounding developments could however, in the long term, lead to a decrease in vegetative coverage and even to exposed areas. Erosion, siltation and water pollution problems could then be caused. Changes in the surface drainage patterns could also occur. Hydrology Positive

Neutral

Negative

Neutral

Negative

If no development takes place in the area surrounding the study area, the impacts on the fauna and flora and bio-diversity will not be significant. If development takes place adjacent to the study area the edge effect could, in the long term, have an impact on the ecological potential and bio-diversity of the vegetation of the study area. Fauna Positive

Neutral

Negative

Neutral

Negative

In the short term the no-go option will have no effect on the social of the study are and the surrounding areas, but in the long terms the no-go option will have a negative impact on the social of the study area. No development on the site can lead to informal settlements which could have a major impact of the safety and security of the surrounding land owners. Economic Positive

Neutral

Negative

With no development on the study area there will be no economic growth which leads to a negative impact on the site from short term to long terms. With no development there will be no job opportunities.

Note: The “no-go” option is predominantly neutral in the short and medium term, and turns negative in the long term

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Diagram 2: Environmental Issues of the proposed development

Issue Short term Medium term Long Term

Geology and soils Positive

Neutral

Negative

In the short term (the construction phase), the proposed development will have a negative impact on the geology and hydrology of the study area. It is, however possible to mitigate the impacts to acceptable levels. If well planned, the long term impacts on the geology will be neutral or even positive. Hydrology Positive

Neutral

Negative

Some siltation and water pollution problems could occur during the construction phase, but such impact will be short term of nature. At this stage the developer relies on ground water as water source for the development and therefore the short and medium impacts on the hydrology is negative. In the longer term (if municipal water becomes available, the development will be connected to the municipal water network and the impact on the hydrology will then become positive. No more water will be abstracted from the irrigation channel and therefore some agricultural water will be made available to other farms in the area. If the “no-go”/farming option is to be followed, the owner will continue with the usage of ground water and water from the irrigation channel for domestic and irrigation purposes.

Vegetation Positive

Neutral

Negative

The natural vegetation of the study area has already been removed to make way for crops. Furthermore, the study area is already surrounded and isolated from other open spaces by man-made features such as the irrigation channel, the storm water canal and Van Riebeeck Street. Edge effects are already playing a role and the study area currently plays no role in the improvement of the ecological integrity of nearby watercourses or ecologically sensitive areas. After the development took place, some areas will be covered with formal landscaping, which will also include some trees and shrubs that can attract birds and insects. In our opinion the impact will remain neutral throughout all the development phases. Fauna Positive

Neutral

Negative

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Social Positive

Neutral

Negative

From a social, institutional and economical point of view, the proposed development will have significant positive impacts. The construction phase could cause some minimal social impacts, but in the long term the surrounding community and the larger region will benefit from the proposed development. The construction and operational phase will also create a significant amount of temporary and permanent job opportunities. Economic Positive

Neutral

Negative

Note: From the preliminary investigations that were done, it is anticipated that the proposed development option is predominantly negative in the short term, turns neutral in the medium term and then positive in the long term.

6.2 Locality Alternatives:

The locality of the study area is desirable for the proposed development due to the following:

 The site is well located form a connectivity, visibility and accessibility point of view;  The development will promote optimum utilisation of services, because the site and its surroundings already accommodate municipal and other services;

 The proposed mixed-use development will be situated immediately adjacent to a new regional mall (if the mall is approved). The developer (Twin City Developments (Pty) Ltd) of the mall is a reputable shopping centre development company and the vacant areas around the mall site create the ideal opportunity to establish land-uses around the facility that will complement and supplement the tenant compilation of the proposed mall.

As mentioned Twin City Investment (Pty) Ltd specializes in the development of shopping centres on strategically located land in smaller towns and in rural areas. The site to the north-

25 Bokamoso Landscape Architects & Environmental Consultants December 2014 Copyright in the format of this report vests in L.Gregory Draft Environmental Scoping Report for the Proposed Groblersdal Ext 35 Ref: 12/1/9/2-GS38

west (immediately adjacent to the study area) has been earmarked by Twin City for a Shopping due to its location, accessibility and high visibility and the market research study compiled by Demacon, after the site was identified, confirmed the site’s excellent suitability for a regional shopping centre. Twin City therefore purchased the Regional Mall site from the owner (the applicant for this mixed-use application).

Twin City already identified the need for a Regional Shopping Centre in and around Groblersdal some time ago and they considered various sites (in close proximity of Groblersdal and in Groblersdal) before they eventually decided to purchase the study area.

According to Twin City the study area is regarded as the most feasible alternative and they are therefore did not even consider any other sites for this development.

The mixed-use development will be situated immediately adjacent to the study area and the proposed land-uses will supplement the shops, facilities and activities to be offered by the mixed-use development. Therefore, no other locality activities were considered for the proposed mixed-use development.

6.3 Land-Use Alternatives:

6.3.1 Agricultural:

The site is located at the edge of the development node adjacent to the R33, enjoys high visibility and is highly accessible. Although currently used for agricultural activities, it is the opinion of the applicant/ owner that better returns can be realised if it is converted into a business precinct.

The study area is situated to the immediate east of the Groblersdal CBD. An industrial area is developed along the entire northern boundary of the study area. The very busy Van Riebeeck Street separates the study area from the

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industrial area. A school is developed to the south of the study area. The proposed development will thus be a mere extension of the existing fibre. The local authority earmarked the study area for development in their planning frameworks.

According to the LDEDET data base, the agricultural potential of the study area, when compared to other agricultural land in the area, is regarded as low. Refer to Addendum A/ Figures 5 and 6 below

The statement must however be considered in the context of Groblersdal, which is surrounded with soils with high agricultural potential. The irrigation channels under the jurisdiction of the Loskop and Hereford Irrigation Boards also contributes significantly to the high agricultural potential.

Figure 5: Provincial Agricultural Potential Map

27 Bokamoso Landscape Architects & Environmental Consultants December 2014 Copyright in the format of this report vests in L.Gregory Draft Environmental Scoping Report for the Proposed Groblersdal Ext 35 Ref: 12/1/9/2-GS38

Figure 6: Provincial Land Capability Map

The entire Groblersdal is most probably situated on high agricultural potential soils and it only makes sense to expand the town into open areas that are already disturbed and that are situated immediately adjacent to the town. This will promote economical growth, it will prevent urban sprawl, it will promote the optimum utilisation of services and it will also prevent new developments in undisturbed “greenfields” areas.

The surrounding urban developments and human activities threaten the agricultural potential of the site and leads to a range of risks that are difficult to quantify. The site is situated with an urban area that is expanding and as such it can be incorporated in order to minimise urban sprawl outside of the current urban edge in other areas.

The agricultural potential of the site is already compromised by the existing urban fibre that surrounds the study area. The agricultural activities cause complaints by the community, because they are concerned about the odors and health risks associated with the spraying of crops.

28 Bokamoso Landscape Architects & Environmental Consultants December 2014 Copyright in the format of this report vests in L.Gregory Draft Environmental Scoping Report for the Proposed Groblersdal Ext 35 Ref: 12/1/9/2-GS38

Theft is also a problem. The owner had to fence-off the table grapes that were previously on the site to protect it from theft and the table grapes that were cultivated on the study area were removed, because the vines reached the end of their life-span. The owner regarded this as the appropriate time to end the agricultural activities on the study area.

The Limpopo Department of Agriculture was also notified of the proposed development and we are currently awaiting their valuable inputs. LDEDET mentioned that they will require the comments of Agriculture before they can make any decision.

Due to the reasons as set out above, the continuation with agricultural activities was not regarded as the most suitable land-use for the study area.

6.3.2 Conservation

From site visits and the available data, it is evident that the application site is not located within any conservancy or protected area. The provincial data does not regard the study area as a sensitive area and the Limpopo SDF describes the study area as a site with low ecological sensitivity/value. In fact, the Groblersdal Precinct Plan earmarked the study area for development. Refer to Annexure D for Precinct Plan, which indicates areas around Groblersdal, which have been earmarked for development.

All the natural vegetation have been removed from the study area. The study area is furthermore isolated from other open spaces/ agricultural areas by means of a road (to the north), and concrete canals to the south, east and west of the study area. A dirt road and agricultural activities to the east of the concrete storm water canal causes even more isolation and fragmentation and there can be no talk of any open space linkage between the riparian zone of the Olifants River and the study area. Edge effects also have a major impact on the ecological value and potential of the study area. Refer to Annexure A: Figures 7 and 8 for Provincial Data Maps.

29 Bokamoso Landscape Architects & Environmental Consultants December 2014 Copyright in the format of this report vests in L.Gregory Draft Environmental Scoping Report for the Proposed Groblersdal Ext 35 Ref: 12/1/9/2-GS38

Conservation is not regarded as viable land-use for the study area, because the ecological value and potential of the study area is very low.

Figure 7: Provincial Map: Indication of Disturbed Areas and Areas Covered With

Natural Vegetation

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Figure 8: Provincial Map: Conservation Plan

6.3.3. Mixed Use (Alternative 1/ the Preferred Alternative)

Refer to Annexure A: Figure 9 for proposed Township Layout1

The proposed mixed-use township will consist of 5 erven. The two erven in the western portion of the study area (adjacent to the man-made irrigation dam) are earmarked for a hospital. The hospital site is approximately 7,24 ha in extent. This section of the study area is situated to the south of the proposed new mall and away from the busy Van Riebeeck Street. The sport fields of the school to the south of the study area is located to the south of the proposed new hospital. The hospital was specifically placed in this portion of the study area, because a hospital requires a tranquil atmosphere and it does not require maximum visibility/

1 The development layout must still be finalised. The layout of the development will be determined by the tenants/ investors that will become part of the proposed development. The applicant is planning to establish joint ventures for the proposed mixed-use development (i.e. establish a joint venture with a hospital group

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exposure. The proposed mall to the north of the site will act as a noise barrier and visitors to the hospital will have easy access to the mall. The new access road planned from the west/ the CBD area will improve the accessibility of the hospital from the N11 and from the town.

Figure 9: Proposed Mixed Use Groblersdal Ext 35

The proposed office erf is approximately 3, 71 ha in extent and it is situated to the south of the proposed automotive and business erven. Offices also require a more tranquil atmosphere and it was therefore also located away from the busy van Riebeeck Street. The new access road planned from the west/ the CBD area will also improve the accessibility of the offices from the N11 and from the town.

The proposed automotive and business erven, which will be approximately 5ha in extent was placed to the immediate east of the proposed new mall and adjacent to the busy Van Riebeeck Road, because the proposed land-use will require maximum exposure and easy for hospital development/ with a hotel group for the hotel development). The development partners will depict the building sizes, the architectural styles and the development footprints.

32 Bokamoso Landscape Architects & Environmental Consultants December 2014 Copyright in the format of this report vests in L.Gregory Draft Environmental Scoping Report for the Proposed Groblersdal Ext 35 Ref: 12/1/9/2-GS38

access. The layout planning of the proposed development on this erf will focus on the establishment of a link between the mall and automotive related land-uses. When fully developed the mall and the facilities/ businesses earmarked for the automotive and business erven must function as a business/ retail unit. The plan is to also link this unit with the taxi rank to the west of the mall site. Only one access from Van Riebeeck Street will be provided to the integrated business unit. The proposed access point will line-up with Nywerheid Street, which currently provides access from Van Riebeeck Street to the industrial area to the north of the study area.

The proposed hotel will be developed to the east of the automotive and business erven. The hotel requires some exposure, but it was decided to separate the hotel from the integrated mall and automotive unit. The hotel will enjoy access from the proposed new access/link road (Kort Street) that will enter the study area in the south-west and which will exit the study area on Van Riebeeck Road. The proposed hotel will also act as attractive access feature/landmark at the eastern access point into the town.

The internal road system, with its strategically placed access points have been planned in consultation with the traffic engineer and will link up adjacent development and street patterns.

6.4 Layout Alternatives

Many alternative layouts for the development will be considered during the EIA phase of the development before the layout will be finalised.

The final layout will also be tested against an environmental sensitivity map that will be compiled for the study area. The final layout will be product of a multi-disciplinary workshop (during the EIA phase) between the appointed professionals. At the workshop each discipline (including the environmental consultant) will be afforded the opportunity to share

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his/her findings with the other members of the project team. The environmental consultants will also present the environmental sensitivity map to the project team during the workshop.

The following disciplines will most probably take part in the workshop: - The civil engineers; - The electrical engineers, - The geotechnical engineers; - Town and Regional Planners; - The Architects and Landscape Architects; - The Environmental Consultants (Bokamoso); and - The Applicant.

The comments and issues raised by the interested and affected parties will also be taken into consideration during the workshops. The proposed Groblersdal Extension 35 development forms part of the Sekhukhune Spatial Development Framework. In terms of the Sekhukhune SDF Groblersdal (together with Burgerfort) should be the focal point for development and the provision of services. The application is therefore in line with the Sekhukhune SDF.

6.4.1 Commercial/Automotive

A one stop automotive centre consisting of dealerships, fitment centres, workshops, speciality shop etc. is envisaged on this site of 4,8 ha in extent. The development on this erf will be restricted to 8 400m2 in line with the market study

6.4.2 Hospital

A hospital facility of 115 beds is planned on a ±7,2 ha site. The development is envisaged in the south western quadrant of the application site. The site proposed for the hospital is adjacent to the existing high school, south of the application site. The proposed land use of this site is compatible with surrounding land uses and will have little or no impact thereon. No private hospital exists in Groblersdal at present and the proposed health facility will be a welcome addition to the town. 34 Bokamoso Landscape Architects & Environmental Consultants December 2014 Copyright in the format of this report vests in L.Gregory Draft Environmental Scoping Report for the Proposed Groblersdal Ext 35 Ref: 12/1/9/2-GS38

6.4.3 Offices

The proposed office erf is adjacent to vacant/agricultural land to the south and will eventually be surrounded by business and commercial land uses envisaged by the application under consideration. The proposed offices are compatible with the area and will have no impact on surrounding land uses.

6.4.4 Hotel

The proposed hotel erf is located in the extreme eastern corner of the township layout. The hotel erf is surrounded by commercial, industrial and agricultural land uses and is consistent with the environment. At present there is no hotel facility in Groblersdal and the

6.5 Technology Alternatives

6.5.1 Municipality Services (Alternative 1)

The proposed development has a defined concrete storm water canal along the length of the south eastern boundary into which storm water can be released with energy dissipaters if required. Water for the town of Groblersdal is supplied from an existing water purification plant. There is an uncertainty of the capacity of the services and therefore upgrading of the Municipality Services may be needed when the development takes place.

The District Municipality is presently in the process to upgrade the plant including the pipeline and there are indications that municipal water will be available for the development. The town’s existing sewage treatment plant was upgraded approximately two years ago and has the capacity to accommodate the additional sewage flow generated by the proposed Development. The sewage from the Development will flow to the existing pump chamber and then pumped to the treatment plant. The availability of municipal water and sewage must still be confirmed.

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6.5.2 On-Site Services (Alternative 2- Proposed Alternative)

Due to the uncertainty on the capacity of the sewage treatment works at this stage, it was decided by the Developer to make provision for a sewage treatment system on site as the first option. The sewer treatment facility will be planned to also receive the sewer generated by the proposed regional shopping mall. The sewage treatment system on site proposed is a Zoeller Fusion Serie Waste Water Treatment plant developed in Japan, marketed by Clarus Environmental and distributed by Maskam Water.

The system will be installed underground with access lids the only visible part. The plant will have a capacity of 300 kℓ/day. A SAME automatic screen will be installed and sewage will be split to the units thereafter. The system has four chambers, Sedimentation Chamber, Anaerobic Chamber, Aeration Chamber and Storage Chamber. This proposed system complies with the requirements of DWAF for the discharge of water into a natural stream and for irrigation usage. The outflow will be piped to the existing storm water canal on the south eastern boundary, the same structure that will receive the storm water from the site. Irrigation of the site will also be done with water from this outflow. Storm water from rainfall would mainly be generated on the site itself. The rainfall average for this area is 650 mm/year and rain fall occurs mainly during the summer.

It is the intension of the Developer to retain the existing irrigation dam in the southern corner of the property and it will still be used as irrigation dam. The lined irrigation dam will no longer be filled-up with the clean water from the irrigation channel. Purified water from the sewage treatment facility will be pumped to the irrigation dam and the purified water will then be used for the irrigation of the landscaped gardens. This concept will be discussed with the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) and if required, the necessary Section 21 Water- Use License application will be submitted to the Department for consideration. This action will promote the re-use and recycling of water and it will reduce the amount of water required for the development.

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7. PLANNING APPROACH

Based on the above, the planning approach to the proposed layout will be done by a complete professional team consisting of Land Surveyors, Town Planners, Urban Planners, Traffic Engineers, Environmental Consultants, Civil Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Geotechnical Engineers and the developer.

From the specialist and other environmental information available, the project team already compiled a preliminary layout for the development. The proposed land-uses for the preliminary layout are as follows: Business 4 and special for a hospital, commercial, hotel and street.

8. EXISTING ZONING AND LAND USE AND THE PROPOSED LAND-USE

8.1 Existing zoning and land use

In terms of the Greater Groblersdal Town Planning Scheme, 2006 the property is presently zoned “Agricultural”. The study area is mostly vacant and undeveloped. One pivot point is present in the eastern section of the study area.

8.2 Proposed Zoning and Land Use

The proposed land uses rights and relevant town planning controls are indicated in Table 3.

TABLE 4: PROPOSED LAND USES Use Zone Erf numbers Area Ha %

Special (Hospital) 3 & 4 7,240 ha 18

Business 4 (Offices) 5 3,7100 ha 9 Special (Commercial) 6 & 7 4,800 ha 8

Special (Hotel) 8 3,3400 ha 14

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Street 5,4426 ha 15 Total 24,532 ha 64

9. DESCRIPTION OF THE BIOPHYSICAL AND SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT

This section briefly describes the environment directly and indirectly associated with the study area. All the environmental (social, ecological, economical and institutional) will be taken into considerations and the potential implications for the development will be listed for each aspect.

9.1 THE PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

9.1.1 Geology and Soils

According to the Geotechnical Report (Report No 1304-G-01) the entire site is covered by silty sand and sand overburden, on average approximately 0.25 m thick, the overburden is situated over sandy clay and in places over clayey/silty sand. Sparse quantities of gravel, often ferruginised, were found in this layer in all test pits. The characteristics of the material on the site are such that the retrieval of undisturbed samples for the purpose of consolidation test could not be carried out or was deemed unnecessary.

– Preliminary Issues Identified

- Collapsible materials and expansive materials; - Excavatability; - Comprehensive blasting will be required; - Perched water table (a perched water table can develop and slight seepage may be present during the wet seasons); 38 Bokamoso Landscape Architects & Environmental Consultants December 2014 Copyright in the format of this report vests in L.Gregory Draft Environmental Scoping Report for the Proposed Groblersdal Ext 35 Ref: 12/1/9/2-GS38

- Loss of topsoil.

Additional Information or Studies Required For the EIA Phase

 The detailed geotechnical report and development guidelines will be included as part of the EIA.

9.1.2 Hydrology

9.1.2.1 Surface Water

A river with its associated riparian zone is situated to the east of the study area (more than 900m from the study area). The study area is not linked to the river or its associated open spaces. It is completely isolated from the river area by means of a concrete canal, a dirt road and farms that are currently covered with cultivated lands. Soil and wetland Figure 10 – Wetland and River Map specialist,

Dr. J.H. van der Waals, was on the site and conducted an agricultural potential study, which did not indicate any wetlands on the sites. No further recommendations for studies were made in the report. Storm water from rainfall would mainly be generated on the site itself.

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Figure 11 – Inland Water/ Dams

9.1.2.2 Sub-surface Water

The site slopes towards the east at an average of approximately 1, 5%. No problems with surface drainage are not expected, especially if a well-planned storm water management system is implemented. Some perched water conditions, saturated and seepage conditions are however expected, especially in the eastern section of the study area.

Agricultural drains to control groundwater are likely to be required for basements or sub- surface structures and it will form an essential part of the structural and civil design process.

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9.1.2.3 Flood Lines

In terms of Section 144 of the National Water Act (Act 36) of 1998 the proposed township is not affected by any 1: 50 and 1:100 year flood lines. The so called concrete storm water canal was originally constructed to accommodate water from the irrigation canals during maintenance etc. and does not follow a natural waterway.

Preliminary Issues Identified

- Ground water pollution, siltation and erosion problems; - Pollution and siltation of water bodies lower down the catchment; - More impermeable surfaces will lead to an increase in the speed, quantity and quality of the storm water; - Erosion caused at discharge points of storm water (especially if less and larger storm water pipes are uses); and - Lowering of groundwater levels.

Additional Information or Studies required for the EIA Phase

 A detailed storm water management plan will be required for assessment and inclusion during the EIA phase. The storm water design for the proposed development must be designed to: - Reduce and/or prevent siltation, erosion and water pollution. If erosion, siltation and water pollution is not addressed, the sustainability if the drainage and the open space systems lower down in the catchment area can be negatively impacted by the development. - Storm water runoff should not be concentrated as far as possible and sheet flow should be implemented.

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9.1.3 Topography

The site is mostly disturbed with agricultural activities. No natural vegetation exists on site. The natural ground slope of the site is a constant 1, 5%, sloping downhill in an eastern direction.

Preliminary Issues Identified

- According to the consulting engineers the slope is sufficient to allow for natural storm water drainage as well as for the cost-effective installation of essential engineering services. - The topographical characteristics will have no detrimental effect on the development potential of the site.

Additional Information or Studies required for the EIA Phase

A detailed storm water management plan will be required for assessment and inclusion during the EIA phase.

9.1.4 Climate

Hot, humid conditions are usually encountered in the Tuli region. Heavy summer thunderstorms of short duration in the late afternoon and evening may be experienced. Rainfall occurs mostly during the summer months (December - March).

Wind

Summer prevailing winds is in a north-western direction and winter winds in a south-eastern direction.

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Temperature °C

Average temperatures reach around 21–22 °C in January and fall to 11 °C in July.

Rain

Average annual rainfall is 495 millimetres (19.5 in), with December or (less often) January the wettest month and July the driest.

Preliminary Issues Identified

- Should the construction phase be scheduled for the summer months, frequent rain could cause very wet conditions, which makes construction and environmental rehabilitation works extremely difficult; - Such wet condition often cause delays to building projects and the drainage of water away from the construction works (in the case of high water tables) into the nearby water bodies, could (if not planned and managed correctly) have an impact on the water quality of these water bodies; - If dry and windy conditions occur during the construction phase, dust pollution could become a problem. During the summer months dust pollution could be carried over to the surrounding areas.

Additional Information or Studies required for the EIA Phase

 Recommendations to mitigate dust pollution will be included in the Environment Management Plan.

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9.2 THE BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT

The sites of the Groblersdal Mixed Use Development were studied and it was regarded not necessary to conduct an ecological assessment. All the natural vegetation on the study area (and on the study area for the Regional Shopping Mall) have been removed for purpose of the erection of structures and for agricultural activities (cultivated lands) The study area is furthermore totally isolated from surrounding open spaces by man-made features (i.e. irrigation channel, storm water canal Van Riebeeck Street etc.).

The only natural vegetation occurs along the Olifants River (riparian zone of the river), which flows in a south-north direction, approximately 400m to the east of the study area. As mentioned the study area is not connected to the riparian zone. It is isolated from this natural area by the storm water canal, which forms the south-eastern boundary of the site, a gravel road to the east of the storm water canal and cultivated lands (to the east of the gravel road).

Soil and wetland specialist, Dr. J.H. van der Waals, conducted an agricultural potential and a wetland survey of the study area and confirmed that there are no natural wetlands present on the study area.

Based on the above, the ecological potential and value of the study area is regarded as low. The study area is already affected by edge effects and therefore it will not be possible to implement rehabilitation measures that will promote an increase in bio-diversity.

Preliminary Issues Identified

- There will be no negative impacts on the natural vegetation, because all the natural vegetation has been removed from the study area.

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9.3 DESCRIPTION OF THE EXISTING SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT

9.3.1 Existing Land Use

9.3.1.1 The Surrounding Area

(Refer to Figure 12, 13 and 14 for the Biodiversity areas)

A busy road namely Van Riebeeck Street/ Road R33, runs in a west-east direction along the northern boundary of the study area. An existing industrial area is situated to the north of Van Riebeeck Street and eastern boundary of the proposed mixed-use development will line up with the eastern boundary of the industrial area. The water purification plant of the Department of Water and Sanitation is situated to the north-east of the study area.

The Groblersdal CBD and the proposed regional shopping mall site is situated to the west of the study area and a high school is located to the south of the proposed hospital site. An irrigation channel runs along the western boundary of the study area and a storm water canal runs along the southern and south-eastern boundary of the study area.

The study area is completely surrounded by man-made structures and features and is completely isolated from the Figure 12: Aquatic Biodiversity Map surrounding open spaces.

9.3.1.2 The Study Area

In terms of the Greater Groblersdal Town Planning Scheme, 2006, the study area is zoned “Agricultural”. With the establishment of the township the zoning will change accordingly and the 45 Bokamoso Landscape Architects & Environmental Consultants December 2014 Copyright in the format of this report vests in L.Gregory Draft Environmental Scoping Report for the Proposed Groblersdal Ext 35 Ref: 12/1/9/2-GS38

township will be incorporated into the town planning scheme in terms of Section 125 of the Ordinance on Town Planning and Townships No. 15 of 1986.

Figure 13: Critical Biodiversity Map

Figure 14: Terrestrial Biodiversity Map

9.3.2 Proposed Land Use

The proposed Groblersdal x35 mixed use development will consist of the following land uses:

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 5 erven zoned for “Special”  1 erf zoned for “Business 4”

Need and Desirability for the Proposed Land Use:

Note: The information below was supplied by Van Zyl & Benade Town and Regional Planners and the Market Researchers:

Need

Recent market studies have shown that mixed-use developments are in increasing demand especially in close proximity to mobility spines. Groblersdal derives support from a primary as well as regional, secondary market area. In this context, the Groblersdal Town serves as a regional service centre – presently as well as historically this role and function is entrenched in the town’s urban fabric. Over the past 10 to 15 years, notable commercial / retail development in the surrounding secondary market took place with comparatively little development in Groblersdal.

As indicated by the Limpopo Spatial Rationale, Groblersdal is identified as a Provincial Growth Point due to its strategic location. In order for Groblersdal to reaffirm its regional role and function, it would have to significantly strengthen its critical mass through a combined commercial & service product offering. In this context, Groblersdal would require a regional anchor development in the order of at least 40,000m2 to attract firm support from the secondary market area. Currently, shopping centres in nearby rural areas offer in the order of 10,000m2 – 15,000m2 GLA only, even Bareki Mall has a limited destination product offering at 11,335m2 GLA. No single settlement in the secondary market has the capacity to sustain a critical mass that would be able to compete with that of Groblersdal – existing plus proposed GLA. In short, this development will strengthen and benefit the critical mass and town function.

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Desirability

During the evaluation of the site (after Twin City Developments (Pty) Ltd identified that study area is ideal for a regional mall), the excellent location of the study area and many other factors earmarked the study area as ideal for a mixed-use development. These factors included inter alia the following:

 A suitable land parcel is available to provide for a mixed use development together with ample parking, movement, landscaping and associated facilities;

 Geographically the site is well located with regards to the existing CBD, the N11, public transport facilities and the trade area;

 Topographically the site is ideal for development and the provision of services. The site has and even slope of ±1:65 from west to east;

 The site is well located with regards to main roads, accesses and public transport;  High traffic volumes are experienced around the site, especially on Van Riebeeck Street;

 The proposed development on the site will contribute to the integration of the public transport node as part of the development;

 The site enjoys a high level of exposure and visibility;  The site is accessible with regards to its trade area;  Subject to the required mitigation measures no geo-technical problems exist that could hamper development; and

 The proposed land uses are compatible with the existing surrounding land uses and will not impact negatively on the immediate surroundings.

The proposed mixed-use development could easily be integrated with the existing CBD and associated land uses as well as the public transport hub.

48 Bokamoso Landscape Architects & Environmental Consultants December 2014 Copyright in the format of this report vests in L.Gregory Draft Environmental Scoping Report for the Proposed Groblersdal Ext 35 Ref: 12/1/9/2-GS38

Preliminary Issues Identified

- Impacts of the proposed development of the infrastructure of the area; - Rates and taxes payable to the authorities; - Upgrading of the existing public transport facility; - The establishment of high standard medical facilities; - The provision of a hotel in the area; - Impacts on the values of the surrounding properties; - Impacts of the proposed new mixed-use node on the other businesses in Groblersdal; - Job creation; - Compatibility of the proposed land-use with the surrounding land-uses; - Geotechnical conditions; - Need and desirability of the proposed land-use; and - Economic viability of the proposed land-use.

Additional Information or Studies required for the EIA Phase

 Identified impacts to be discussed in detail as part of the EIA; and  A market research study must be conducted and included as part of the EIA.

9.3.3 Visual Environment

The following preliminary visual assessment criteria been used to determine the impact of the proposed Groblersdal x35 development on the state of the environment- the significance is indicated by the respective colour coding for each of the impacts, being high, medium and low;

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TABLE 5: VISUAL IMPACT IMPACT

CRITERIA HIGH MEDIUM LOW

Visibility A prominent place with A place with a loosely A place having little or an almost tangible defined theme or no ambience with theme or ambience ambience which it can be associated Visual quality A very attractive setting A setting with some A setting with no or with great variation and visual and aesthetic little aesthetic value interest – no clutter merit

Compatibility with Cannot accommodate Can accommodate The surrounding the surrounding proposed development the proposed environment will landscape without the development ideally suit or match development without it looking the proposed appearing totally out of completely out of development place – not compatible place with the existing theme Character The site or surrounding The site or surrounding The site or surrounding area has a definite environment has some environment exhibits character/ sense of character little or no character/ place sense of place Visual Absorption The ability of the The ability of the The ability of the Capacity landscape not to landscape to less easily landscape to easily accept a proposed accept visually a accept visually a development because particular type of particular type of of a uniform texture, flat development because development slope and limited of less diverse landform, because of its diverse vegetation cover vegetation and texture landform, vegetation and texture View distance If uninterrupted view If uninterrupted view If uninterrupted view distances to the site are distances to the site are distances to the site > 5Km < 5Km but > 1Km are > 500m and < 1000m

Critical Views Views of the site seen by Some views of the site Limited or partial people from sensitive from sensitive view views of the site from view sheds i.e. farms, sheds sensitive view sheds nature areas, hiking trails etc. Scale A landscape with A landscape with some Where vertical horizontal and vertical horizontal and vertical variation is limited and elements in high elements in some most elements are contrast to human scale contrast to human related to the human scale and horizontal scale

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The study area is situated immediately adjacent to the town of Groblersdal and a development on the study area will be regarded as a mere extension of the existing urban fibre.

Preliminary Issues Identified

The proposed development will blend in with the land-uses of the surrounding area. It could however also a positive impact have if the development is well planned. An attractive development on the study area will create an eastern “entrance gate” into the town of Groblersdal.

Additional Information or Studies required for the EIA Phase

 Mitigation measures must be supplied for the visual impacts during the EIA Process; and

 Architectural guidelines must be based on the mitigation measures supplied in the EIA Report.

The method of integration of the proposed development into the existing surrounding will determine the grade of visual impact. The proposed architecture should blend in with the existing character of the area and that of the surrounding developments.

9.3.4 “Sense of Place”

The concept of “a Sense of Place” does not equate simply to the creation of picturesque landscapes or pretty buildings, but to recognize the importance of a sense of belonging. Embracing uniqueness as opposed to standardization attains quality of place. In terms of the natural environment it requires the identification, a response to and the emphasis of the distinguishing features and characteristics of landscapes. Different natural landscapes suggest different responses. Accordingly, settlement design should respond to nature. 51 Bokamoso Landscape Architects & Environmental Consultants December 2014 Copyright in the format of this report vests in L.Gregory Draft Environmental Scoping Report for the Proposed Groblersdal Ext 35 Ref: 12/1/9/2-GS38

In terms of the human made environment, quality of place recognizes that there are points where elements of settlement structure, particularly the movement system, come together to create places of high accessibility and these places are recognized in that they become the focus of the public investment, aimed at making them attractive, user-friendly and comfortable to experience. The landscape is usually experienced in a sensory, psychological and sequential sense, in order to provide a feel and image of place (genius loci).

A landscape is an integrated set of expressions, which responds to different influences. Each has its unique spirit of place, or “genius loci”. Each landscape has a distinct character, which makes an impression in the mind, an image that endures long after the eye has moved to other settings.

If planned correctly the proposed development could enhance the genius loci of the broader area by establishing a residential township and open spaces.

Sense of Place is the subjective feeling a person gets about a place, by experiencing the place, visually, physically, socially and emotionally. The Sense of Place of a property/ area within the boundaries of a city is one of the major contributors to the Image of a City /City Image.

City Image consists of two main components, namely place structure and sense of place. Place structure refers to the arrangement of physical place making elements within a space, whereas sense place refers to the spirit of a place. It could be defined as follows:

 Place Structure refers to the arrangement of physical place making elements within a unique structure that can be easily legible and remembered.

 The Sense of place is the subjective meanings attached to a certain area by individuals or groups and is closely linked to its history, culture, activities, ambience and emotions the place creates.

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Implications for the Proposed Development

If planned correctly the proposed development could enhance the sense of place of the study area.

Additional Information or Studies required for the EIA Phase

 Mitigation measures must be supplied for the visual impacts during the EIA Process; and

 Architectural guidelines must be based on the mitigation measures supplied in the EIA Report.

9.3.5 Demography

Groblersdal derives support from a primary as well as regional secondary market area. Over the past 10 to 15 years, notable commercial / retail development in the surrounding secondary market took place with comparatively little development in Groblersdal. As indicated by the Limpopo Spatial Rationale, Groblersdal is identified as a Provincial Growth Point due to its strategic location. In order for Groblersdal to reaffirm its regional role and function, it would have to significantly strengthen its critical mass through a combined commercial & service product offering.

Implications for the Proposed Development

Not significant. The study area is located within an area that is well facilitated with social facilities and is highly accessible.

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9.3.6 Services

KBK Engineers have been appointed to compile the services report and services master plans for the proposed development. The plan is to integrate the services of the proposed development with the services of the proposed new Regional Mall. Bulk service pipelines for water and sewage are already installed across the study area and adjacent to the study area and therefore it will not be difficult to connect the proposed development to

9.3.6.1 Water Supply

According to the KBK Engineers, water for the town of Groblersdal is supplied from the existing water purification plant. The District Municipality is presently in the process to upgrade the plant including the pipeline. Officials from Sekhukhune District Municipality indicated that water will be available for the proposed development.

It was however not yet possible for the local authority or the district municipality to confirm the availability of municipal water. The Developer therefore decided to investigate the alternative of the utilisation of ground water and other available water resources that could become the preferred alternative if no municipal water can be supplied.

A suitably qualified geo-hydrologist is currently finalising the necessary studies and surveys required to apply for/ confirm the existing lawful water-uses allocated to the study area. If ground water/ other water resources are utilised, the applicant will most probably require a Section 21 water-use license/ permission from the delegated authority (i.e. the Hereford Irrigation Board and the National Department of Water and Sanitation). The negotiations with Water Affairs already commenced and all the detail of the S21WULA will be supplied during the EIA phase.

9.3.6.2 Sewage

The existing sewage treatment plant was upgraded ±2 years ago and apparently it has the capacity to accommodate the additional sewage flow generated by the proposed 54 Bokamoso Landscape Architects & Environmental Consultants December 2014 Copyright in the format of this report vests in L.Gregory Draft Environmental Scoping Report for the Proposed Groblersdal Ext 35 Ref: 12/1/9/2-GS38

Development. The sewage from the Development will flow to the existing pump chamber and then pumped to the treatment plant. A Detail Design will be required during the EIA phase, to determine the capacity of the existing pump system and upgraded if necessary. This cost may be recovered from bulk services contributions as the greater community will benefit from such an upgrade. The local authority must however still confirm the availability of sewer in writing.

The Developer therefore decided to also investigate other viable sewer alternatives for the development. The sewer alternative will be to establish an on-site sewer treatment facility in the north-eastern corner (the lowest point) of the study area. The sewer plant will be implemented in modules and if required, it can easily be upgraded to also accommodate the sewer generated by the proposed new regional mall.

9.3.6.3 Storm water

In terms of Section 144 of the National Water Act (Act 36) of 1998 the proposed township is not affected by any 1: 50 and 1: 100 flood lines. The so called concrete storm water canal was originally constructed to accommodate water from the irrigation canals during maintenance etc. and does not follow a natural waterway. Details of the storm water management plan to be supplied during the EIA process as indicated in the Plan of Study for EIA. All external storm water pipes and channels must be indicated on plans for purpose of the EIA process. Details regarding properties that will be affected by the storm water management measures must be implemented to be supplied during the EIA process.

9.3.6.4 Solid Waste and Gaseous Emissions

The solid waste generated by the proposed development will probably be removed by the local authority. More details regarding this will be supplied during the EIA phase. No gaseous emissions will be generated by the development. 55 Bokamoso Landscape Architects & Environmental Consultants December 2014 Copyright in the format of this report vests in L.Gregory Draft Environmental Scoping Report for the Proposed Groblersdal Ext 35 Ref: 12/1/9/2-GS38

9.3.6.5 Electrical Services

There is an Eskom connection point at the irrigation dam. Eskom Power Lines run to the south of the study area and there is an Eskom servitude on the study area. Eskom confirmed that they will be able to supply the development with electricity. All the electrical reports and inputs will be attached as part of the EIA Report.

Additional Information or Studies required for the EIA Phase:

 A detailed plan for water and sewerage reticulation will be included in the EIA report;  A storm water management plan must be compiled and submitted to the local authority for approval and to DWA to obtain their comments on the plan and will be included in the EIA report as indicated in the Plan of Study for EIA; and

 Detailed services reports and services alternatives (including electrical reports) must be included as part of the EIA Report.

9.3.7 Traffic

In order to accommodate the additional traffic generated by the proposed mixed-use development, it will be necessary to appoint a traffic engineer to conduct a traffic impact assessment. Techworld Consulting Engineers have been appointed by the applicant to identify the road upgradings required to accommodate the traffic of the development and to identify the access points to the development.

Some of the roads to be upgraded will be provincial roads and some roads will be local roads. It will be necessary for the traffic engineers and the applicant to negotiate with all the relevant authorities regarding the access points and the required traffic upgrades.

It is also the developer’s intention (in collaboration with Twin City Developers (Pty) Ltd to upgrade the existing dilapidated taxi rank, which is situated to the west of the shopping

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centre study area. The proposed upgrading of the taxi rank must be discussed with the local authority and the relevant taxi association.

Preliminary Issues Identified

- It will be necessary to construct new roads and to upgrade some of the surrounding roads and intersections; - Additional traffic and traffic congestion; - The standard of the upgraded roads; and - Access

Additional Information or Studies required for the EIA Phase

 The Traffic Impact Study to be included as part of the EIA document;  Details drawings of all required road upgradings to be supplied for the EIA process; and

 Details regarding properties that will be affected by the proposed road upgradings measures must be implemented to be supplied during the EIA process.

9.3.8 Archaeological/Cultural Historical

No historically significant features, sites or artefacts of cultural significance were observed on site, but it is recommended that a specialist conduct a survey during the Environmental Impact Assessment Phase to confirm this.

Bokamoso already received comments from SAHRA and SAHRA indicated that the study area has low cultural and historical value. They however recommended that a Phase 1 Heritage Impact Study be conducted for the study area.

As mentioned, some farm structures are erected in the western section of the study area. We are of the opinion that some of the structures and the irrigation channel are older than 60 57 Bokamoso Landscape Architects & Environmental Consultants December 2014 Copyright in the format of this report vests in L.Gregory Draft Environmental Scoping Report for the Proposed Groblersdal Ext 35 Ref: 12/1/9/2-GS38

years. The specialist will supply feedback in the Cultural and Heritage Report to be conducted for the study area.

Preliminary Issues Identified

- Not significant. SAHRA however requested that a Phase 1 Cultural and Historical Impacts Study be conducted of the study area. Some structures and features in the western section of the study area are most probably older than 60 years.

Additional Information or Studies required for the EIA Phase

 Phase 1 Cultural and Historical survey.

9.3.9 Institutional

The proposed Groblersdal x35 can be motivated in terms of the institutional framework documents relevant to the study area.

9.3.9.1 On An international Level

Relevant International Conventions to which South Africa is party

 Convention relative to the Preservation of Fauna and Flora in their natural state, 8 November 1993 (London);

 Convention on Biological Diversity, 1995 (provided and added stimulus for a re- examining and harmonization of its activities relating to biodiversity conservation. This convention also allows for the in-situ and ex-situ propagation of gene material);

 Agenda 21 adopted at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) in 1992.

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9.3.9.2 On a National Level

The Development Facilitation Act, 1995 (Act 67 of 1995)

The proposed development will ensure a coordinated development of the larger area by creating a mixed use enclave in harmony with the surrounding area. The density for the development will ensure that as many industrial and business erven can be accommodated on this are being developed, without compromising the surrounding environment. Therefore existing resources will be optimally utilised for this development.

The proposed development will therefore comply in broad terms with the principles of the Development Facilitation Act, 1995 in that it will balance the economic and social needs of the developer with that of surrounding property owners and developments to create a development which will benefit the larger area.

The development will optimise the utilisation of existing resources, including resources relating to agriculture, land, minerals, bulk infrastructure, roads, transportation, and social facilities. This development was planned taking full cognisance of the physical aspects of the property and all aspects relating to existing resources of bulk infrastructure, roads, and transportation were investigated in detail. All existing resources will be fully optimised and the provision of additional service infrastructure will be to the benefit of the larger area.

From the above mentioned it is evident that this proposed development takes cognisance of the development principals as set out in the Development Facilitation Act and will aim at compliance with the principles in broad terms.

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Principles contained in NEMA and the DFA

Principles of NEMA and the DFA, which give effect to sustainable development, were followed:

- development must be socially, environmentally and economically sustainable;

- promotion of integrated land development in rural and urban areas in support of each other;

The National Environmental Management Act; 1998 (Act 107 of 1998)

In terms of Government Notices no. R544, no. R545 and no. R546 published in the Government Gazette no. 33306 of 18 June 2010 of the National Environment Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998) an Environmental Impact Assessment Process is required for the proposed development. This act addresses issues relating to environmental administration and it promotes sustainable development.

If the involved authorities do not take the principles of NEMA into consideration when evaluating an environmental report/ document, the involved authority can be held responsible for any damage to the environmental (social, ecological and economical).

The National Water Act, 1998 (Act No: 36 of 1998)

The purpose of this Act is to ensure that the nation’s water resources are protected, used, developed, conserved, managed and controlled in ways that take into account, amongst other factors, the following:

 Meeting the basic human needs of present and future generations;

 Promoting equitable access to water;

 Promoting the efficient, sustainable and beneficial use of water in the public interest;

 Reducing and preventing pollution and degradation of water resources;

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 Facilitating social and economic development; and

 Providing for the growing demand for water use.

Water use licenses in terms of the Section 21 of the National Water Act are required for any activity within floodlines.

Water Services Act, 1997 (Act No 108 of 1997)

The purpose of this Act is to ensure the regulation of national standards and measures to conserve water taking into account, amongst other factors, the following:

 Basic sanitation;

 Basic Water supply;

 Interruption in provision of water services;

 Quality of potable water;

 Control of objectionable substances;

 Disposal of grey water;

 Use of effluent; and

 Quantity and quality of industrial effluent discharged into a sewerage system.

Basic sanitation and water supply for the proposed development must be according to national standards.

National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No 10 of 2004)

The purpose of the Biodiversity Act is to provide for the management and conservation of South Africa’s biodiversity within the framework of the NEMA and the protection of species and ecosystems that warrant national protection. As part of its implementation strategy, the National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment was developed.

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National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment

The National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment (NSBA) classifies areas worthy of protection based on its biophysical characteristics, which are ranked according to priority levels.

National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, 2003 (Act No 57 of 2003)

The purpose of this Act is to provide the protection, conservation and management of ecologically viable areas representative of South Africa’s biological diversity and its natural landscapes.

National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act (Act No. 39 of 2004)

This act replaced the Atmospheric Pollution Prevention Act (Act No. 45 of 1965), however Part 2 of the act is still applicable. Part 2 deals with the control of noxious or offensive gases and has relevance to the proposed development.

The purpose of the Act is “To reform the law regulating air quality in order to protect the environment by providing reasonable measures for the prevention of pollution and ecological degradation and for securing ecologically sustainable development while promoting justifiable economic and social development; to provide for national norms and standards regulating air quality monitoring, management and control by all spheres of government; for specific air quality measures; and for matters incident thereto”.

It is not foreseen that the proposed development would contribute significantly in terms of pollution by smoke as it is a mixed use development consisting of residential, commercial, light industry and business uses. Dust pollution could be a concern primarily during the construction phase of the proposed project. Dust control would be adequately minimised during this phase by way of water spraying and possible dust-nets, when working close to existing residential dwellings.

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National Heritages Resources Act, 1999 (Act No 25 of 1999)

The National Heritage Resources Act legislates the necessity for cultural and heritage impact assessment in areas earmarked for development which exceed 0.5 ha. The Act makes provision for potential destruction to existing sites, pending the archaeologist’s recommendations through permitting procedures. Permits are administered by the SAHRA.

National Environmental Management: Waste Act, 2008 (Act No. 59 of 2008)

The purpose of the act is to reform the law regulating waste management in order to protect health and the environment by providing reasonable measures for the prevention of pollution and ecological degradation and for securing ecologically sustainable development; to provide for institutional arrangements and planning matters; to provide for national norms and standards for regulating the management of waste by all spheres of government; to provide for specific waste management measures; to provide for the licensing and control of waste management activities; to provide for the remediation of contaminated land; to provide for the national waste information system; to provide for compliance and enforcement; and to provide for matters connected therewith. The proposed development does not trigger any listed activities in terms of the Waste Act.

Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (Act No. 43 of 1983)

This Act provides for control over the utilization of the natural agricultural resources of the Republic in order to promote the conservation of the soil, the water sources and the vegetation and the combating of weeds and invader plants; and for matters connected therewith.

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9.3.9.3 Provincial Level

Municipal Systems Act, 2000 (Act No. 32 of 2000)

In order to address the spatial-related challenges, Section 26 (c) of the Municipal System Act (32 of 2000) prescribes that every municipality should formulate a Spatial Development Framework (SDF) as an integral part of their Integrated Development Plan. This awards the municipal SDF legal status as part of the in IDP process. The SDF is a base plan that indicates the desired patterns of land use, directions of growth, urban edges, special development areas and areas that need conservation. The SDF also gives land development guidelines in relation to:

 Provision for development of rural and urban areas;  Recognition of existing informal land developments;  Discouragement of urban sprawl and land invasions;  Equitable access to land; and  Tenure security

The current Spatial Development Framework, which is the revision of the previous one, completed in 1995 has to be approved by Council in order to achieve its legal status. Its contents must also cover all the issues as set out in the Municipal Structures Act.

Limpopo Spatial Rationale

Limpopo Spatial Rationale (2003) proposed a hierarchy of settlements for the province by identifying different levels and scales of growth points and population concentration points. This strategy identifies criteria that should be used to identify the category of any settlements within the pre-determined hierarchy. From the criteria it is therefore possible to assign any settlement found in GTM to its rightful spot hierarchy. The strategy further specifies the hierarchal level of selected settlements in the GLTM. Naturally the Spatial Development

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Framework should use this as a frame of reference unless there are good reasons to deviate from this.

Limpopo Growth and Development Strategy

The Provincial Growth and Development Strategy (PGDS) were developed due to the need to put in place a development framework that should guide growth and development in Limpopo. With its strong emphasis on improving the quality of life and sustainable development, the PGDS aims to create a conductive environment for the people of the province to participate in the provincial economy. It is informed by the mainly by the National Spatial Development Plan (NSDP), and all provincial documents that have a bearing on growth and development in Limpopo.

9.3.9.3 Local

Development Strategy (District Municipality’s Long-term Strategy), 2025

The Sekhukhune 2025 Development Strategy is an articulation of the longer term strategic direction to be pursued by the district as well as social partners in order to accelerate economic growth and enhance development in the district. The 2025 Development Strategy is aligned and harmonized with various mandatory plans prescribed in various pieces of legislations.

Local Economic Development and Job Creation

 Local Economic Development Strategy  Marketing Strategy  Tourism Development Strategy  Human Resource Development Strategy  Formalisation of Cultural & Historical Heritage Sites

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Integrated Environmental Management Plan

 Environmental Report  Disaster Management Plan  Spatial Development Framework  Land Use Management Systems

Infrastructure Provision and Service Delivery

 Water Master Plan  Infrastructure Maintenance Plan  Integrated Waste Management Plan  Integrated Transport Plan

Community Participation and IGR

 Community Participation Policy  SDM Communication Strategy

9.3.4 Public Participation Refer to Annexure E

Public Participation is a cornerstone of any environmental impact assessment. The principles of the National Environment Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998) govern many aspects of environmental impact assessments, including public participation. These include provision of sufficient and transparent information on an on-going basis to the stakeholders to allow them to comment and ensuring the participation of previously disadvantaged people, women and youth.

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Effective public involvement is an essential component of many decision–making structures, and effective community involvement is the only way in which the power given to communities can be used efficiently. The public participation process is designed to provide sufficient and accessible information to interested and affected parties (I&AP’s) in an objective manner to assist them to:

o Raise issues of concern and suggestions for enhanced benefits. o Verify that their issues have been captured. o Verify that their issues have been considered by the technical investigations. o Comment on the findings of the EIA.

Key Stakeholders and affected parties

Interested and affected parties (I & AP’s) representing the following sectors of the society were identified during the first public participation process (refer to Annexure E(ii) for a complete I & AP distribution list):

 National, provincial and local government  Local landowners  DWA  SANRAL  SAHRA  Eskom  Ward Councillor  Greater Sekhukhune District Municipality  Limpopo Department of Agriculture  Limpopo Department of Roads and Transport  Department of Education

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In terms of the National Environment Management Act, 1998 (Act no. 107 of 1998) stakeholders (I&AP’s) were notified of the Environmental Evaluation Process through:

1) A site notice that was erected (at a prominent point on the study area) on 6 August 2014 (Refer to Annexure E i for proof of notice).

2) Notices were distributed to the surrounding land-owners and interested and affected parties by means of faxes, hand delivery and e-mail (Refer to Annexure E ii for proof of public notice);

3) An advertisement was placed in the Daller newspaper on 15 August 2014 (Refer to Annexure E iii for proof of advertisement);

4) Only one person requested to be registered as I&AP. (Refer to Annexure E iv)

5) Comments were received by SAHRA (refer to Annexure F)

Photograph of Site Notice 68 Bokamoso Landscape Architects & Environmental Consultants December 2014 Copyright in the format of this report vests in L.Gregory Draft Environmental Scoping Report for the Proposed Groblersdal Ext 35 Ref: 12/1/9/2-GS38

10. ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES AND POTENTIAL IMPACT IDENTIFICATION

The overall aim of ecologically sound urban development is to minimize the negative impact of development on the environment, thus limiting the ecological footprint of development while moving towards greater sustainability over the longer term.

10.1 Preliminary Environmental Issues and Sensitivity Map

The following preliminary environmental issues were identified: (Refer to Figure 15: Preliminary Sensitive Issues Map)

 Geology and hydrology: Some perched water conditions could occur during the construction and operational phases of the development, especially in the north-eastern section of the study area; If no municipal services are available, the developer will rely on ground water and other water resources on and adjacent to the study area for water supply;

 Soils: Agricultural Potential of the study area.

 Services: The availability of municipal services must still be confirmed; The applicant must investigate viable services alternatives; Confirmation of Eskom power supply and upgradings required; Storm water management must be designed to prevent erosion, siltation and water pollution.

 Socio-Economic: Feasibility and sustainability of the proposed development; Impacts on surrounding businesses; 69 Bokamoso Landscape Architects & Environmental Consultants December 2014 Copyright in the format of this report vests in L.Gregory Draft Environmental Scoping Report for the Proposed Groblersdal Ext 35 Ref: 12/1/9/2-GS38

Major services upgradings required; and Some structures and features on and around the site are older than 60 years.

10.2 Anticipated impacts, including cumulative impacts

The preliminary impacts/ aspects (beneficial and adverse) of the proposed township development (“Business 4”, “Special” for the purpose of commercial uses) on the receiving environment were identified.

Most development activities have environmental impacts during the construction and operational phases. Construction phase impacts are similar in nature for most development activities, because most development activities create temporary jobs, because temporary security problems include the removal of topsoil, excavations, the removal of vegetation, temporary/ permanent gradient changes, siltation, erosion and water pollution risks etc. In most cases construction phase impacts are predominantly negative, shorter term in nature and mitigation possibilities are usually higher than mitigation possibilities of operational phase related impacts that are generally more medium and long term in nature. If no “fatal flaws” are identified during the construction phase/ if it is possible to mitigate the construction related impacts to more acceptable levels, the long term impacts of the operational phases of different development alternatives will eventually identify the preferred development alternative for the application.

The above impacts, as well as the affected environmental characteristics associated with the proposed development are indicated in Table 6 below. In order to identify “fatal flaws” at in early stage, the mitigation possibilities are also indicated in this table.

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TABLE 6: PRELIMINARY ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT MATRIX OF PROPOSED GROBLERSDAL EXTENSION 35 DEVELOPMENT: MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT WITH MUNICIPALITY SERVICES (LISTED AS (I) IN TABLE BELOW) AND MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT WITH IN-SITE SERVICES (LISTED

AS (2) IN TABLE BELOW) ■ ADVERSE IMPACTS  BENEFICIAL IMPACTS

Environmental Soil and Soil Topography Water Flora & Fauna Existing Land- Visual Quality Qualitative Socio- Mitigation Aspects Stability Quality use of Study & Sense of Environment Economic Possibilities and area and its Place (Pollution - air, (I.e. Services, High Quantity surroundings noise, water) Economical Impacts, Medium Cultural & Low ○ Historical) Positive Impact not necessary to mitigate

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Erosion may take  1&2  1&2  1&2  1&2  1&2 1&2 place on site if storm water is not managed sufficiently during the construction phase.

Erosion, siltation  1&2  1&2  1&2  1&2  1&2 1&2 and pollution of the water bodies/ watercourses if storm water is not

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If not planned  1&2 1&2 and managed correctly, topsoil will be lost due to construction activities.

Surface water  1&2  1&2 1&2 flows will be altered during the construction phase.

Construction  1&2  1&2  1&2  1&2 1&2 during the dry and windy season 72 Bokamoso Landscape Architects & Environmental Consultants December 2014 Copyright in the format of this report vests in L.Gregory Draft Environmental Scoping Report for the Proposed Groblersdal Ext 35 Ref: 12/1/9/2-GS38

Traffic congestion  1&2  1&2  1&2 1&2 caused by heavy slow construction vehicles on the local roads.

Localized  1&2 1&2 vibration

Construction  1&2  1&2  1&2  1&2 1&2 during the rainy season can cause unnecessary delays and damage to the

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During the  1&2 1&2 construction phase some safety and security problems (especially for the surrounding residents) are likely to occur.

Creation of Job  1&2 1&2 opportunities

Soil might be lost  1&2  1&2  1&2 1&2 from the site due to heavy vehicles tracking the soils from the site onto adjacent areas 74 Bokamoso Landscape Architects & Environmental Consultants December 2014 Copyright in the format of this report vests in L.Gregory Draft Environmental Scoping Report for the Proposed Groblersdal Ext 35 Ref: 12/1/9/2-GS38

Site office and  1&2  1&2  1&2  1&2  1&2  1&2  1&2 1&2 camp, and associated waste.

Vehicle  1&2  1&2  1&2  1&2 1&2 maintenance may cause pollution.

Disposal of  1&2  1&2  1&2  1&2  1&2 1&2 building waste & liquids.

The construction  1&2  1&2 1&2 vehicles and facilities will have a negative impact on the study area and

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No temporary  1&2  1&2  1&2  1&2  1&2 1&2 erosion protection at release points of water (especially during the rainy season)

Dumping of  1&2  1&2  1&2  1&2  1&2  1&2 1&2 rubble in sensitive areas and on the surrounding properties.

Construction  1&2  1&2  1&2  1&2 1&2 activities could disturb neighbours in terms of noise, visual and dust

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Eradication of  1&2  1&2  1&2 1&2 invasive and exotic species from the site.

Temporary  1&2  1&2 1&2 disruption of services due to relocation and installation of services

The visual impact  1&2 1&2 of the construction works on the surrounding communities.

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Heavy buildings  1& 2  1& 2 1 &2 are erected without detailed Geotechnical investigation to determine the underlying geological conditions and foundation requirements

OPERATIONAL PHASE

Eradication of  1&2  1&2  1&2  1&2  1&2 1&2 invasive species

Increased surface  1&2 1&2 water runoff to storm water 78 Bokamoso Landscape Architects & Environmental Consultants December 2014 Copyright in the format of this report vests in L.Gregory Draft Environmental Scoping Report for the Proposed Groblersdal Ext 35 Ref: 12/1/9/2-GS38

Erosion, siltation  1&2  1&2  1&2  1&2  1&2 1&2 and pollution of the water bodies if storm water is not managed sufficiently during the operational phase.

Possible soil and  2  2  2 2 water pollution caused by leaking on-site

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Compatibility with  1&2  1&2  1&2 1&2 surrounding land uses

Exploitation of  2  2  2 2 ground water and other water resources of

Increased security  1&2  1&2  1&2  1&2 1&2 in the area and on the study area

Optimal use of  1&2 1&2 infrastructure

Contribution to  2  2  2 2 the upgrading of infrastructure and

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Creation of  1&2  1&2 1&2 temporary and permanent jobs

Creating a major  1 1 contribution to rates and taxes to the local municipality.

Impact of  1&2  1&2  1&2 1&2 additional vehicle traffic on already busy roads due to traffic associated with development

Light pollution  1&2  1&2 1&2 during the night

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10.3 Comparative Assessment between Alternative 1 and Alternative 2

Tables 7 and 8 below are preliminary comparative assessments based on the issues identified in table 6 above. The issues identified in Table 6 are based on the status quo information that was available for the Scoping Phase and the scoping report already identified the aspects that must be investigated in more detail during the EIA phase.

The purpose of the preliminary issues identification and comparative assessment process is 1) to identify “fatal flaws” that could prevent the project from happening at an early stage, 2) to identify specialist studies and plans to be done for the EIA phase of the application, 3) to identify the mitigation possibilities of the preliminary issues identified and 4) to compare (already at an early stage) the workable alternatives identified with each other before and after mitigation. The comparative assessment will assist the EAP with the identification of the preferred alternative. The environmental issues and the results of the comparative assessment are however only preliminary results that must be still confirmed during the EIA phase. Some of the specialist studies done during the EIA phase could identify additional issues to be addressed and it could even identify “Fatal Flaws” that could prevent the project from happening/ place restrictions (i.e. buffers around red data species identified) that could have a significant impact on the preliminary layout and alternatives identified.

Due to the fact that many of the high impact issues identified in the above mentioned tables can be mitigated to more acceptable levels, the issues ratings before and after mitigation could differ considerably. In many cases, high impact issues (mostly related to the construction phase of a development) can be mitigated completely. The comparative assessment after mitigation (Refer to table 8 below) will therefore give a more accurate indication of the preliminary preferred alternative for the project.

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Table 7: Comparative Assessment between impacts of Alternative 1 and 2 before Mitigation Environmental Physical Biological Socio-Economical Institutional Total of Impacts Aspects Key to impacts:

 l– Lower positive  m– Medium positive

 h– Higher positive Ps  l– Lower negative  m–Medium negative  h– Higher negative  - Neutral

Geology and Soils Soils and Geology Hydrology Topography Climate Fauna Flora Environment Qualitative Security Pollution, Noise, Visual, of Land-Use Compatibility services municipal of Availability Services Municipal of Upgrading Authority Local Impact Economical I&A Impact Economical Sector Private Impact Economical Historical and Cultural land potential agricultural high on Impact IDP with In line frameworks other or SDF with In line plans space open And guidelines and policies with In line legislation other and Act Water with In line CONSTRUCTION PHASE Preliminary Issues and Impacts

 h x 6 Alternative 1                     x 6 Mixed Use Development h m l m m h m h h h h h h  l x 1 with Municipality Services  m x 4  h x 2

 Alternative 2                    h x 3 m Mixed Use Development h m l m m h h h m h h h h  x 5 With On-Site Services  l x 1

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 m x 5  h x 3 OPERATIONAL PHASE Preliminary Issues and Impacts

Sector Priv Impact n Geology/ soils soils Geology/ Hydrology Topography Climate Fauna Flora Env Qualitative Land-Use Serv Municipal Serv of Mun Upgrading LA Impact Econ A & I Impact Econ Eco Hist &Cult Potential Agric IDP Plan Space SDF, Open Guidelines Policies/ legislation Acts other

                    h x 7 Alternative 1 m m l m m h h h h h h h m m  m x 4 Mixed Use Development  l x 0 with Municipality Services  x 5  l x 1  m x 2  h x 0

                    h x 5 Alternative 2 m m l m m h m m h h h h h m  m x 2 Mixed Use Development  l x 0 with Self Services  x 5  l x 1

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 m x 5

Table 8: Comparative Assessment between impacts of Alternative 1 and 2 after Mitigation Environmental Physical Biological Socio-Economical Institutional Total of Impacts Aspects Key to impacts:

 l– Lower positive or  m– Medium positive

 h– Higher positive  l– Lower negative  m–Medium negative  h– Higher negative  - Neutral

una Geology and Soils Soils and Geology Hydrology Topography Climate Fa Flora Environment Qualitative Security Pollution, Noise, Visual, of Land-Use Compatibility services municipal of Availability Services Municipal of Upgrading Authority Local Impact Economical I&AP’s Impact Economical Sect Private Impact Economical Historical and Cultural land potential agricultural high on Impact IDP with In line frameworks other or SDF with In line plans space open And guidelines and policies with In line legislation other and Act Water with In line CONSTRUCTION PHASE Preliminary Issues and Impacts

                    h x 5 m l l l l l m h h h h h  m x 1 Alternative 1  l x 0 Mixed Use Development  x 7 with Municipality Services  l x 5  m x 1  h x 0

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                    h x 5 Alternative 2 m l l l l l l l h h h h h  x 6 Mixed Use Development  l x 7 with Self Services  m x 1 OPERATIONAL PHASE Preliminary Issues and Impacts

on Impact Priv Sector Sector Priv Impact on Geology/ soils soils Geology/ Hydrology Topography Climate Fauna Flora Env Qualitative Land-Use Serv Municipal Serv of Mun Upgrading LA Impact Econ APs & I Impact Econ Ec Hist &Cult Potential Agric IDP Plan Space SDF, Open Guidelines Policies/ legislation Acts other

                    h x 10 Alternative 1 h l l h h h h h h h h h h  m x 0 Mixed Use Development  l x 2 with Municipality Services  x 6

 l x 0  m x 0

Alternative 2                     h x 7 Mixed Use Development l l h h m m m l h h h h h  l x 3 with Self Services  x 6

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 m x 3  l x 0

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Summary

Form table 7 and 8 above it can be concluded that Alternative 1 (the development proposal with municipal services) is the preferred alternative. The only difference between the two alternatives is the fact that Alternative 1 will be connected to municipal services and alternative 2 will be dependent on on-site water and sewer systems.

Alternative 1 will be more advantageous, because of the following reasons:

 There will not be any on-site sewage treatment system with water and soil pollution risks;

 Alternative 1 will receive municipal water. This will prevent possible impacts on the ground water resources and it will also prevent the abstraction of water from the irrigation channel. Even though the applicant has water abstraction rights from the irrigation channel, the water will be available for agricultural activities on other farms if the mixed-use development on the study area is provided with a municipal water connection;

 If the local authority agree to supply municipal services, the applicant will assist with the upgrading of existing services and the installation of new services; and

 During the operational phase a significant amount of rates and taxes will be paid to the local authority and the funds received can be utilised for the maintenance, expansion and upgrading of the town’s services and infrastructure.

10.4 Methodology of Assessing Impact That Have Been Identified

10.4.1 Specialized Processes and Specialist Studies

Please refer to the Plan of Study for EIA (Annexure D) for specialized processes and specialist studies needed to further investigate the environmental issues.

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10.4.2 Significance Description Methodology

The significance of Environmental Impacts will be assessed in the EIA process in accordance with the following method:

Significance is the product of probability and severity. Probability describes the likelihood of the impact actually occurring, and is rated as follows:

 Improbable - Low possibility of impact to occur either because of design or historic experience. Rating = 2

 Probable - Distinct possibility that impact will occur. Rating = 3

 Highly probable - Most likely that impact will occur. Rating = 4

 Definite - Impact will occur, in the case of adverse impacts regardless of any prevention measures. Rating = 5

The severity factor is calculated from the factors given to “intensity” and “duration”. Intensity and duration factors are awarded to each impact, as described below.

The Intensity factor is awarded to each impact according to the following method: o Low intensity - natural and manmade functions not affected – Factor 1

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o Medium intensity - environment affected but natural and manmade functions and processes continue -Factor 2

o High intensity - environment affected to the extent that natural or man made functions are altered to the extent that it will temporarily or permanently cease or become dysfunctional - Factor 4

Duration is assessed and a factor awarded in accordance with the following:

o Short term - <1 to 5 years - Factor 2

o Medium term - 5 to 15 years - Factor 3

o Long term - impact will only cease after the operational life of the activity, either because of natural process or by human intervention - Factor 4.

o Permanent - mitigation, either by natural process or by human intervention, will not occur in such a way or in such a time span that the impact can be considered transient - Factor 4.

The severity rating is obtained from calculating a severity factor, and comparing the severity factor to the rating in the table below. For example: The Severity factor = Intensity factor X Duration factor = 2 x 3 = 6 A Severity factors of six (6) equals a Severity Rating of Medium severity (Rating 3) as per table below:

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TABLE 9 SEVERITY RATINGS RATING FACTOR Low Severity (Rating 2) Calculated values 2 to 4 Medium Severity (Rating 3) Calculated values 5 to 8 High Severity (Rating 4) Calculated values 9 to 12 Very High severity (Rating 5) Calculated values 13 to 16 Severity factors below 3 indicate no impact

A Significance Rating is calculated by multiplying the Severity Rating with the Probability Rating.

The significance rating should influence the development project as described below:

 Low significance (calculated Significance Rating 4 to 6) - Positive impact and negative impacts of low significance should have no influence on the proposed development project.

 Medium significance (calculated Significance Rating >6 to 15) - Positive impact: Should weigh towards a decision to continue - Negative impact: Should be mitigated to a level where the impact would be of medium significance before project can be approved.

 High significance (calculated Significance Rating 16 and more) - Positive impact: Should weigh towards a decision to continue, should be enhanced in final design.

- Negative impact: Should weigh towards a decision to terminate proposal, or mitigation should be performed to reduce significance to at least medium significance rating.

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11. PLAN OF STUDY FOR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

Refer to Annexure C for the plan of study for Environmental Impact Assessment which sets out the proposed approach to the environment impact assessment of the application that includes:

o A description of the tasks that will be undertaken as part of the environmental impact assessment process, including any specialized processes, and the manner in which such tasks will be undertaken;

o An indication of the stages at which the competent authority will be consulted ;

o A description of the proposed method of assessing the environmental issues and alternatives, including the option of not proceeding with the activity;

o Particulars of the public participation process.

12. CONCLUSION

The purpose of the scoping process was to do a status quo analysis of the study area, to investigate the alternatives considered for the project, to identify the most significant environmental issues associated with the proposed project, to determine the impact of the proposed development on the social environment and to identify (already at an early stage) possible “fatal flaws” that could prevent the project from happening.

The results of the preliminary investigation of possible issues that might affect the proposed development and alternatives were used in producing a preliminary conceptual layout for the proposed mixed use establishment. This concept layout will be assessed (mainly through the overlay method) during the EIA process.

It is also important to note that the scoping process identified other crucial issues that must be addressed in more detail during the EIA process.

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However, the issues listed will be assessed in more detail during the EIA phase and detailed mitigation measures to reduce or prevent the issues/impacts will be supplied and incorporated as part of an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for the preconstruction, construction and/or operational phases of the project.

From the findings of this Environmental Scoping the following can be concluded:

. No “fatal flaws” or adverse impacts that cannot be mitigated are anticipated to be associated with the proposed development;

. The natural vegetation of the study area has been removed by former agricultural activities and the study area cannot be connected to any natural open space systems in the surrounding area;

. The ecological potential and value of the study area is low; . The proposed development will promote sustainable development; . The proposed development will complement the proposed regional mall to the north-west of the study area and it will fit in with the surrounding land-uses;

. The proposed development cannot be regarded as urban sprawl; . Most of the required municipal services and infrastructure have already been installed across the study area and adjacent to the study area and the applicant indicated that they are more than willing to assist with the upgrading of the existing municipal services and surrounding road infrastructure;

. If well planned and managed, the proposed development will act as attractive “eastern gateway” into Groblersdal; . Alternative 1, which allows for municipal services will be the most advantageous, because the local authority will receive rates and taxes, the developer will assist with the much needed upgrading of services and infrastructure and pollution risks associated with an on-site sewer treatment facility will be eliminated;

. Even though Alternative 1 is regarded as the preferred alternative, Alternative 2 is regarded as viable alternative. Preliminary investigations conducted by geo- hydrologists and the appointed civil engineers indicated that there are sufficient on- site water resources to supply the development with water and the engineers also identified a suitable and environmental friendly on-site sewer treatment facility that

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will be able to accommodate the sewer generated by the mixed-use development and the proposed regional mall.

13. RECOMMENDATION

It is believed that the both beneficial and adverse impacts were thoroughly assessed, the needs and the benefits for this project has been assessed so as to give it a go ahead. Further negotiations with the local and district municipalities with regards to services provision are recommended and the local and district municipalities must confirm (during the EIA phase) whether they are in a position to supply municipal services, even if the services can only be supplied in phases.

Based on the above-mentioned information supplied and the conclusions that were made, it is suggested that the Scoping Report be accepted, that the Plan of Study for EIA be approved and that the applicant be allowed to commence with the EIA for the project.

The completed EIA must, amongst others, include the following information/comply with the following documents:

o The approved Plan of Study for EIA

o The specialist reports listed by Bokamoso in this Scoping Report

o The specialist inputs as listed in the Plan of Study for EIA; and

o Additional specialist inputs and other relevant information listed by the relevant authorities.

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Annexure A ENLARGEMENTS OF FIGURES FIGURE 1 LOCALITY MAP R25 FIGURE 2 AERIAL MAP Van Riebeeck Street FIGURE 3 STUDY AREA FOR THE TWO APPLICATIONS

FIGURE 4 SURROUNDING LAND USES MAP CBD and the N11 Freeway enters the town in this area

Taxi Rank Industrial Area

The study area – take note of the urban development to Figure 4: Surrounding land-uses the north and west of the study area. A school is situated to the south. FIGURE 5 AGRICULTURAL POTENTIAL MAP

FIGURE 6 AGRICULTURAL LAND CAPABILITY

FIGURE 7 URBAN DEVELOPMENT MAP

FIGURE 8 CONSERVANCY MAP

FIGURE 9 LAYOUT MAP

FIGURE 10 WETLAND AND RIVER MAP

FIGURE 11 INLAND WATER -> DAM

FIGURE 12 AQUATIC BIODIVERSITY MAP

FIGURE 13 CRITICAL BIODIVERSITY MAP

FIGURE 14 TERRESTRIAL BIODIVERSITY MAP

Annexure B LIZELLE GREGORY’S CV AND COMPANY PROFILE Qualifications And Experience In The Field Of Environmental Planning And Management (Lizelle Gregory (Member Bokamoso)):

Qualifications:

-Qualified as Landscape Architect at UP 1991; -Qualified as Professional Landscape Architect in 1997; -A Registered Member at The South African Council for the Landscape Architect Profession (SACLAP) with Practise Number: PrLArch97078; - A Registered Member at the International Association for Impact Assessment Practitioners (IAIA); - Qualified as an Environmental Auditor in July 2008 and also became a Member of the International Environmental Management Association (IEMAS) in 2008.

Working Experience:

-Worked part time at Eco-Consult – 1988-1990; -Worked part time at Plan Associates as Landscape Architect in training – 1990-1991; -Worked as Landscape Architect at Environmental Design Partnership (EDP) from 1992 - 1994 -Practised under Lizelle Gregory Landscape Architects from 1994 until 1999; -Lectured at Part-Time at UP (1999) – Landscape Architecture and TUT (1998- 1999)- Environmental Planning and Plant Material Studies; -Worked as part time Landscape Architect and Environmental Consultant at Plan Associates and managed their environmental division for more that 10 years – 1993 – 2008 (assisted the PWV Consortium with various road planning matters which amongst others included environmental Scans, EIA’s, Scoping reports etc.) -Renamed business as Bokamoso in 2000 and is the only member of Bokamoso Landscape Architects and Environmental Consultants CC; -More than 20 years experience in the compilation of Environmental Reports, which amongst others included the compilation of various DFA Regulation 31 Scoping Reports, EIA’s for EIA applications in terms of the applicable environmental legislation, Environmental Management Plans, Inputs for Spatial Development Frameworks, DP’s, EMF’s etc. Also included EIA Application on and adjacent to mining land and slimes dams (i.e. Brahm Fisherville, Doornkop)

Qualifications And Experience In The Field Of Landscape Architecture (Lizelle Gregory (Member Bokamoso)):

Landscape Architecture:

-Compiled landscape and rehabilitation plans for more than 22 years.

The most significant landscaping projects are as follows: -Designed the Gardens of the Witbank Technicon (a branch of TUT). Also supervised the implementation of the campus gardens (2004); -Lizelle Gregory was the Landscape Architect responsible for the paving and landscape design at the UNISA Sunnyside Campus and received a Corobrick Golden Award for the paving design at the campus (1998-2004); -Bokamoso assisted with the design and implementation of a park for the City of Johannesburg in Tembisa (2010); -The design and implementation of the landscape gardens (indigenous garden) at the new Coca-Cola Valpre Plant (2012- 2013); -Responsible for the rehabilitation and landscaping of Juksei River area at the Norwood Shopping Mall (johannesburg) (2012- 2013); -Designed and implemented a garden of more than 3,5ha in Randburg (Mc Arthurpark). Bokamoso also seeded the lawn for the project (more than 2,5 ha of lawn successfully seeded) (1999); -Bokamoso designed and implemented more than 800 townhouse complex gardens and submitted more than 500 Landscape Development Plans to CTMM for approval (1995 – 2013); -Assisted with Landscape Designs and the Masterplan at Eco-Park (M&T Developments) (2005-2011); -Bokamoso designed and implemented an indigenous garden at an office park adjacent to the Bronberg. In this garden it was also necessary to establish a special garden for the Juliana Golden Mole. During a recent site visit it was established that the moles are thriving in this garden. Special sandy soils had to be imported and special indigenous plants had to be established in the natural section of the garden.

-Lizelle Gregory also owns her own landscape contracting business. For the past 20 years she trained more than 40 PDI jobless people (sourced from a church in Mamelodi) to become landscape contracting workers. All the workers are (on a continuous basis) placed out to work at nurserys and other associated industries; -Over the past 20 years the Bokamoso team compiled more than 800 landscape development plans and also implemented most of the gardens. Bokamoso also designed and implemented the irrigation for the gardens (in cases where irrigation was required). Lizelle regarded it as important to also obtain practical experience in the field of landscape implementation.

Landscape Architects & Environmental consultants

P.O.BOX 11375 Maroelana 0161

Tel: (012) 346 3810 Fax: (086) 570 5559

E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.bokamoso.net

01 Executive Summary 02 Vision, Mission & Values 03 Human Resources 04 Services 05 Landscape Projects 06 Corporate Highlights 07 Environmental Projects 08 Indicative Clients 09 Tools

Table of Contents

Bokamoso specialises in the fields of Landscape Architecture and all aspects of Environmental Management and Planning. Bokamoso was founded in 1992 and has shown growth by continually meeting the needs of our clients. Our area of expertise stretches throughout the whole of South Africa. Our projects reflect the competence of our well compiled team. The diversity of our members enables us to tend to a variety of needs. Our integrated approach establishes a basis for outstanding quality. We are well known to clients in the private, commercial as well as governmental sector. At Bokamoso we stand on a firm basis of environmental investigation in order to find unique solutions to the requirements of our clients and add value to their operations.

01 Executive Summary

011 Company Overview

Vision: At Bokamoso we strive to find the best planning solutions by taking into account the functions of a healthy ecosystem. Man and nature should be in balance with each other.

Mission: We design according to our ethical responsibility, take responsibility for successful completion of projects and constitute a landscape that contributes to a sustainable environment. We add value to the operations of our clients and build long term relationships that are mutually beneficial.

Values:

Integrity Respect

02 Vision, Mission & Values

Bokamoso stands on the basis of fairness. This include respect within our multicultural team and equal opportunities in terms of gender, nationality and race.

We have a wide variety of projects to tend to, from complicated reports to landscape installation. This wide range of projects enables us to combine a variety of professionals and skilled employees in our team.

Bokamoso further aids in the development of proficiency within the working environment. Each project, whether in need of skilled or unskilled tasks has its own variety of facets to bring to the table.

We are currently in the process of receiving our BEE scorecard. We support transformation in all areas of our company dynamics.

03 Human Resources

031 Employment Equity

Lizelle Gregory (100% interest)

Lizelle Gregory obtained a degree in Landscape Architecture from the University of Pretoria in 1992 and passed her board exam in 1995. Her professional practice number is PrLArch 97078.

Ms. Gregory has been a member of both the Institute for Landscape Architecture in South Africa (ILASA) and South African Council for the Landscape Architecture Profession (SACLAP), since 1995.

Although the existing Environmental Legislation doesn’t yet stipulate the academic requirements of an Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP), it is recommended that the Environmental Consultant be registered at the International Association of Impact Assessments (IAIA). Ms. Gregory has been registered as a member of IAIA in 2007.

Ms. Gregory attended and passed an International Environmental Auditing course in 2008. She is a registered member of the International Environmental Management and Assessment Council (IEMA).

She has lectured at the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) and the University of Pretoria (UP). The lecturing included fields of Landscape Architecture and Environmental Management.

Ms. Gregory has more than 20 years experience in the compilation of Environmental Evaluation Reports: Environmental Management Plans (EMP); Strategic Environmental Assessments; All stages of Environmental input ; EIA under ECA and the new and amended NEMA regulations and various other Environmental reports and documents.

Ms. Gregory has compiled and submitted more than 600 Impact Assessments within the last

5-6 years. Furthermore, Ms. L. Gregory is also familiar with all the GDARD/Provincial

Environmental policies and guidelines. She assisted and supplied GAUTRANS/former PWV 03 Human Resources Consortium with Environmental input and reports regarding road network plans, road determinations, preliminary and detailed designs for the past 12 years. 032 Members

Consulting Anè Agenbacht Introduction to Sustainable Environmental Management—An overview of Principles, Tools,& Issues (Potch 2006) Leadership Training School (Lewende Woord 2010) BA Environmental Management (UNISA 2011) PGCE Education (Unisa 2013) - CUM LAUDE Project Manager More than 10 years experience in the compilation of various environmental reports

Mary-Lee Van Zyl Msc. Plant Science (UP) BSc (Hons) Plant Science (UP) BSc Ecology (UP) 2years 7months working experience in the Environmental field

Specialises in ECO works, Basic Assessments, EIA’s, and Flora Reports Compilation of various Environmental Reports

Dashentha Naidoo BA Honours Degree in Environmental Management (UNISA) - CUM LAUDE

Bachelor Social Science in Geography & Environmental Management (UKZN) More tha 4 ears eperiece i WUL Applicaio& Itegrated Eiroetal Maageet ithi ater resource aageet. Senior Environmental Practitioner & Water Use Licences Consultant Specialises in Water Use License & Compilation of various Env. Reports

Ben Bhukwana BSc Landscape Architecture (UP) More than 5 years experience in the field of Landscape Architecture (Design, Construction, and Implementation).

Specialises in Landscape Design, ECO, Rehabilitation Plans and Compilation Basic Assessment Reports Compilation of Tender documents

03 Human Resources

033 Personnel Anton Nel B-Tech Landscape Technology (TUT) N Dip Landscape Technology (TUT) Hazardous Waste Management Short Course 2 years experience in ECO. Specialises in Basic Assessment Reports.

Juanita de Beer Diploma Events Management and Marketing (Damelin) Specializes in Public relations and Public Participation Processes (3 years experience)

Alfred Thomas CIW Foundation& Internet Marketing (IT Academy) 12 years experience in GIS and IT in general. GIS Operator and Multimedia Specialist.

Bianca Reyneke Applying SHE Principles and Procedures (NOSA) Intro to SAMTRAC Course (NOSA) SHEQ Coordinator and compilation of environmental reports Specialises in compiling various environmental reports

03 Human Resources

034 Personnel Elsa Viviers Interior Decorating (Centurion College) ( A ccounting/ Receptionist ) and Secretary to Lizelle Gregory

Loura du Toit N. Dip. Professional Teacher ( Heidelberg Teachers Training College ) Librarian and PA to Project Manager

Merriam Mogalaki Administration Assistant with in-house training in bookkeeping

Landscape Contracting Elias Maloka Site manager overseeing landscape installations. Irrigation design and implementation.

Landscape maintenance 18 years experience in landscape contracting works.

The contracting section compromises of six permanently employed black male workers. In many cases the team consists of up to 12 workers, depending on the quantity of work.

03 Human Resources

035 Personnel

01 Environmental Management Services

 Basic Assessment Reports

 EIA & Scoping Reports

 Environmental Management Plans

 Environmental Scans

 Strategic Environmental Assessments

 EMP for Mines  Environmental Input and Evaluation of Spatial Development Frameworks

 State of Environmental Reports

 Compilation of Environmental Legislation

and Policy Documents

 Environmental Auditing and Monitoring Environmental Control Officer (ECO)   Visual Impact assessments Specialist Assistance with Environmental  Legislation Issues and Appeals

 Development Process Management

 Water Use License applications to DWA 04 Services Waste License Application  041 Consulting Services

02 Landscape Architecture

 Master Planning

 Sketch Plans

 Planting Plans

 Working Drawings

 Furniture Design

 Detail Design  Landscape Development Frameworks  Landscape Development Plans (LDP)

 Contract and Tender Documentation

 Landscape Rehabilitation Works

03 Landscape Contracting Implementation of Plans for:

 Office Parks  Commercial/ Retail / Recreational

Development  Residential Complexes

Private Residential Gardens

 04 Services Implementation of irrigation systems  04 2 Contrac ting Services

Team Composition

Environmental

Landscape

04 Services

043 Orientation 01 Valpre Bottling Plant, Heidelberg

05 Landscape Projects– Current

051 Commercial

01 Valpre Bottling Plant, Heidelberg

05 Landscape Projects– Current

051 Commercial

01 Valpre Bottling Plant, Heidelberg

05 Landscape Projects– Current

051 Commercial

01 Valpre Bottling Plant, Heidelberg

05 Landscape Projects– Current

051 Commercial

02 Melodie Waters, Hartebeespoortdam

Streetscape Spatial Planning

Indigenous Planting

05 Landscape Projects – Current

052 Commercial/Recreational

02 Melodie waters, Hartebeestpoortdam

Development Framework

05 Landscape Projects– Current

Rehabilitation Area Layout 052 Commercial/Recreational

03 Grain Building, Pretoria

05 Landscape Projects– Completed

053 Offices

04 Ismail Dawson offices, Pretoria

05 Landscape Projects – Conceptual

053 Offices

05 Celtic Manor, Pretoria

05 Landscape Projects - Completed

054 Complex Development

06 The Wilds, Pretoria

05 Landscape Projects – Completed

054 Complex Development 0 7 The Wilds, Pretoria

05 Landscape Projects – Completed

055 Residential

08 The Wilds, Pretoria

05 Landscape Projects – Completed

055 Residential

09 The Wilds, Pretoria

05 L0a5n Ldasncdaspcea pPre oPrjeocjetcst –s –C Coommpplleetteedd

055 Residential 010 The Wilds, Pretoria

05 L0a5n Ldasncdaspcea pPre oPrjeocjetcst –s –C Coommpplleetteedd

055 Residential

011 Governor of Reserve Bank’s Residence, Pretoria

Plant Palette Option 1 Option 2

05 Landscape Projects – Conceptual

055 Residential

012 House Ismail, Pretoria

Front Garden

Back Garden

05 Landscape Projects - Conceptual

055 Residential

013 Forest Garden, Pretoria

05 Landscape Projects – Completed

055 Residential

015 Forest Garden, Pretoria

05 Landscape Projects - Completed

055 Residential

01 Safari Garden Expo Received a Silver Certificate at the Safari Garden Expo, 2010

06 Corporate Highlights

061 Awards

02 UNISA Sunnyside Campus, Pretoria Best Commercial Paving Plan in Gauteng, 1997

06 Corporate Highlights

061 Awards Project Name Status Project Environmental Impact Assessment(EIA) and Scoping Report Junction 21 ROD EIA 5 O'clock site access In Progress EIA Bokamoso X 1 In Progress Scoping & EIA Doornvallei Phase 6 & 7 In Progress EIA Engen Interchange In Progress Scoping & EIA Erasmia X15 In Progress EIA Franschkloof In Progress EIA K113 Amendment of ROD EIA K220 East ROD EIA K220 West ROD EIA K54 ROD conditions In Progress EIA Knopjeslaagte 95/Peachtree ROD EIA Knopjeslaagte portion 20 & 21 ROD EIA Lillieslief/Nooitgedacht In Progress EIA The adjacent list host the status Mooiplaats 70 (Sutherland) In Progress EIA of our current projects. Only a selected amount of projects Naauwpoort 1 - 12/Valley View In Progress EIA are displayed. PeachTree X5 In Progress EIA Strydfontein 60 In Progress EIA Thabe Motswere In Progress Scoping & EIA Vlakplaats In Progress EIA Waterval Valley In Progress EIA Environmental Opinion

Doornkloof 68 (Ross) In Progress Opinion Monavoni X 53 In Progress BA & Opinion Mooikloof (USN) In Progress Opinion

Norwood Mall/Sandspruit In Progress Opinion

07 Current Environmental Projects Riversong X 9 In Progress Opinion Sud Chemie In Progress Opinion 0 71 EIA, Scoping& Opinion USN Benjoh Fishing Resort In Progress Opinion

Project Name Status Project Basic Assessment(BA) Annlin X 138 In Progress BA Clubview X 29 ROD BA Darrenwood Dam In Progress BA Durley Holding 90 & 91 In Progress BA Elim In Progress BA Fochville X 3 In Progress BA Hartebeeshoek 251 In Progress BA Klerksdorp (Matlosana Mall) In Progress BA Monavoni External Services ROD BA Monavoni X 45 Amendment of ROD BA Montana X 146 In Progress BA Rooihuiskraal X29 In Progress BA Thorntree Mall In Progress BA Environmental control officer (ECO) Grace Point Church In Progress ECO R 81 In Progress ECO Highveld X 61 In Progress ECO Mall of the North In Progress ECO Olievenhoutbosch Road In Progress ECO Orchards 39 In Progress ECO Pierre van Ryneveld Reservoir In Progress ECO Project Shelter In Progress ECO

S24 G

Wonderboom In Progress S24 G 07 Current Environmental Projects Mogwasi Guest houses Completed S24 G 072 BA, ECO & S24 G

Project Name Status Project Objection Colesberg WWTW In Progress Objection Nigel Steelmill Completed Objection Chantilly Waters Completed Objection Development facilitation Act- Input (DFA) Burgersfort In Progress DFA & BA Doornpoort Filling Station In Progress DFA & EIA & Scoping Eastwood Junction In Progress DFA Ingersol Road (Erf 78, 81 - 83) In Progress DFA

Roos Senekal In Progress DFA & EIA & Scoping Thaba Meetse 1 In Progress DFA & EIA & Scoping Water Use License Act (WULA) Britstown Bulk Water Supply In Progress WULA

Celery Road / Green Channel In Progress WULA Clayville X 46 In Progress WULA Dindingwe Lodge In Progress WULA Doornpoort Filling Station In Progress WULA+DFA+EIA+SC Eco Park Dam In Progress WULA Groote Drift Potch In Progress WULA Jozini Shopping Centre In Progress WULA+BA K60 Completed WULA

Maloto Roads In Progress WULA Kwazele Sewage Works In Progress WULA Monavoni External Services In Progress WULA+BA

Nyathi Eco Estate In Progress WULA

Prairie Giants X 3 In Progress WULA 07 Current Environmental Projects

Waveside Water Bottling Plant Completed WULA 073 Objection, DFA & WULA

Project Name Status Project Environmental Management Plan(EMP) Heidelberg X 12 ROD EMP Monavoni Shopping Centre Completed EMP Forest Hill Development Completed EMP Weltevreden Farm 105KQ Completed EMP+EIA Raslouw Holding 93 Completed EMP+BA Durley Development Completed EMP+BA Rooihuiskraal North X 28 Completed EMP

Rehabilitation Plan

Norwood Mall/Sandspruit In Progress Rehabilitation Project Shelter Heidelberg In Progress Rehabilitation Sagewood Attenuation Pond ROD Rehabilitation Velmore Hotel Completed Rehabilitation Grace Point Church Completed Rehabilitation Mmamelodi Pipeline Completed Rehabilitation

Visual Impact Assessment Swatzkop Industrial DevelopmeCompleted Assessment +DFA Erasmia Completed Assessment

Signage Application Menlyn Advertising Completed Signage The Villa Mall Completed Signage+EMP+BA

07 Current Environmental Projects

074 EMP, Rehabilitation , Waste Management & Signage Application

- Billion Property Group - Moolman Group - Cavaleros Developments - MTN - Centro Developers - M&T Development - Chaimberlains - Old Mutual - Chieftain - Property Investment Company - Century Property Group - Petroland Developments - Coca Cola - RSD Construction - Elmado Property Development - SAND - Flanagan & Gerard - Stephan Parsons - Gautrans - Twin City Developments - Hartland Property Group - Urban Construction - USN

08 Indicative Clients

- Adobe Illustrator CS3 - Adobe Photoshop CS3 - Adobe InDesign CS3 - AutoCAD - Google SketchUP - GIS - Microsoft Office Word - Microsoft Office Excel

- Microsoft Office Publisher - Microsoft Office Power Point

09 Tools

Annexure C PLAN OF STUDY FOR EIA

Annexure D PRECINCT PLAN

Annexure E (i) SITE NOTICE

Annexure E (ii) FLYERS- DISTRIBUTION OF PUBLIC NOTICE

Annexure E (iii) PROOF OF NEWSPAPER ADVERTISMENT

Annexure E (iv) REGISTERED PARTY LIST

Annexure E (v) COMMENTS AND ISSUES REGISTER COMMENT AND RESPONSE REPORT- BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED GROBLERSDAL REGIONAL SHOPPING CENTRE ON PART OF PORTION 1 OF THE FARM LOSKOP SOUTH 53 JS REF NO: 12/1/9/2-GS38 NEAS REF NO: LIM/EIA/0000855/2014

Issue Commentator Response

Thank you for notifying SAHRA on the proposed development of Nokhukhanya Khumalo Noted. Groblersdal X35 Mixed Use Development, part of Portion 1 of the [email protected] Farm Loskop South 53 JS, in the town of Groblersdal, Limpopo Sahra Province.

It has been noticed that this development Case ID 6144 is adjacent to and should not be confused with Case ID 6198, the Groblersdal Regional Shopping Centre. Also that both these cases lie in the footprint of proposed development Case ID 862 that was created on SAHRIS in 2012, and that a Heritage Impact Assessment was requested for this case.

In terms of the National Heritage Resources Act (NHRA), no 25 of 1999, heritage resources, including archaeological or palaeontological sites over 100 years old, graves older than 60 years, structures older than 60 years are protected. They may not be disturbed without a permit from the relevant heritage resources authority. This means that before such sites are disturbed by development it is incumbent on the developer (or mine) to ensure that a Heritage Impact Assessment is done. This must include the archaeological component (Phase 1) and any other applicable heritage components. Appropriate (Phase 2) mitigation, which involves recording, sampling and dating sites are to be destroyed, must be done as required.

Any other heritage resources that may be impacted such as built structures over 60 years old, sites of cultural significance associated with oral histories, burial grounds and graves, graves of victims of conflict, and cultural landscapes or viewscapes must also be assessed.

According to the SAHRA fossil sensitivity map, (http://www.sahra.org.za/map/palaeo) the development is situated in an of low/insignificant palaeontological sensitivity. No palaeontological assessment is required for this project.

Decision:

A Phase 1 Archaeological Impact Assessment will be required for this development. This must be undertaken by a professional archaeologist. Other categories of heritage resources, listed above, should also be assessed. This heritage report must comply with SAHRA minimum standards for Heritage Impact Assessments (http://www.sahra.org.za/about/legislation). Please visit http://asapa.org.za/index.php/heritage for a list of CRM archaeologists.

SAHRA will provide further comments upon receipt of the specialist report.

We refer to the above matter as well as your “Notice of Basic Ivan Pauw Thank you for your response, I have Assessment Process”, copy of which we annex hereto for your east [email protected] registered Ivan Pauw & Partners as reference. Ivan Pauw and Partners Interested and/or Affected Party Member for the proposed Groblersdal Extension As you know, we act as attorneys Patricio & Sons Properties (Pty) 35 Project. Ltd, the registered owners of a number of properties within the Groblersdal area. I have noted your comments on our Issues and Comments Register. Will you kindly register this office as well as our client as interested and affected parties in the abovementioned environmental process. We will keep you updated regarding the process in the future. We record that the notice as published by you does not comply with the NEMA Regulations and is, to our minds, invalid. In the aforesaid Thank you for your response regarding regard, the heading to the notice refers to a “Basic Assessment the newspaper article. Process” whilst, from the first paragraph of the notice, it appears as if you, as EAP, have benn directed by LEDET to embark on a full It was noticed that there was an error on Scoping and EIA process. Clarity in the aforementioned regard will the advertisement that was placed in the be appreciated. Daller Newspaper. It was concluded that it was a technical error from the newspaper side. This was however rectified and the correct notice will be re- advertised in the Daller Newspaper.

We apologize for the inconvenience in this regard.

Hope this finds you well.

We refer to our letter of 22 August 2014 addressed for your attention and which letter is attached hereto for your ease of reference. Thank you for your response, please refer to the attached re-advertisement Kindly be advised that we have, to date, not received a response to that was placed in the Daller Newspaper. the abovementioned letter and/or he documents as requested therein. Accordingly, your response to our said letter and the documents requested, are still awaited.

Annexure F COMMENTS RECEIVED FROM SHARA Groblersdal X35 Mixed Use Development

Our Ref: 6144

Enquiries: Nokukhanya Khumalo Date: Thursday August 14, 2014 Tel: 021 462 4502 Email: [email protected] Page No: 1 CaseID: 6144

Letter In terms of Section 38(8) of the National Heritage Resources Act (Act 25 of 1999) Attention: Hansie Graham Trust

The proposed establishment of a mixed use development consisting of an automotive centre, offices, hospital and hotel. The following zonings are proposed: Special (hospital), Business 4 (offices), Special (commercial) and Special (hotel). Thank you for notifying SAHRA on the proposed development of Grobersdal X35 Mixed Use Development, part of Portion 1 of the farm Loskop South 53 JS, in the town of Groblersdal, Limpopo Province.

It has been noticed that this development Case ID 6144 is adjacent to and should not be confused with Case ID 6198, the Groberlersdal Regional Shopping Centre. Also that both these cases lie in the footprint of proposed development Case ID 862 that was created on SAHRIS in 2012, and that a Heritage Impact Assessment was requested for this case.

In terms of the National Heritage Resources Act (NHRA), no 25 of 1999, heritage resources,including archaeological or palaeontological sites over 100 years old, graves older than 60 years, structures older than 60 years are protected. They may not be disturbed without a permit from the relevant heritage resources authority. This means that before such sites are disturbed by development it is incumbent on the developer (or mine) to ensure that a Heritage Impact Assessment is done. This must include the archaeological component (Phase 1) and any other applicable heritage components. Appropriate (Phase 2) mitigation, which involves recording, sampling and dating sites that are to be destroyed, must be done as required.

Any other heritage resources that may be impacted such as built structures over 60 years old, sites of cultural significance associated with oral histories, burial grounds and graves, graves of victims of conflict,and cultural landscapes or viewscapes must also be assessed.

According to the SAHRA fossil sensitivity map, (http://www.sahra.org.za/map/palaeo) the development is situated in an of low/insignificant palaeontological sensitivity. No paleontological assessment is required for this project. Decision:

Groblersdal X35 Mixed Use Development

Our Ref: 6144

Enquiries: Nokukhanya Khumalo Date: Thursday August 14, 2014 Tel: 021 462 4502 Email: [email protected] Page No: 2 CaseID: 6144 SAHRA will provide further comments upon receipt of the specialist report.

Should you have any further queries, please contact the designated official using the case number quoted above in the case header.

Yours faithfully

______Nokukhanya Khumalo Heritage Officer South African Heritage Resources Agency

______Colette Scheermeyer SAHRA Head Archaeologist South African Heritage Resources Agency

ADMIN: Direct URL to case: http://www.sahra.org.za/node/170620 (LDEDET, Ref: 12/1/9/2-GS38)