DRAFT BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT DEDEAT REF: PROPOSED … Local Municipality... · 2017-06-13 · Email: [email protected] or [email protected] A full Curriculum Vitae is provided

DRAFT

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

DEDEAT REF:

PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF PEDESTRIAN BRIDGES AT WARD 5 OF SENQU LOCAL MUNICIPALITY

Prepared for:

Senqu Local Municipality

19 Murray Street

P.O. Box 18 LADY GREY

9755

Prepared by:

EOH Coastal & Environmental Services

EAST LONDON 25 Tecoma Street, Berea

East London, 5214 043 726 7809

Also in Grahamstown, Port Elizabeth, Cape Town, JHB & Maputo www.cesnet.co.za

NOVEMBER 2016

http://www.cesnet.co.za/

EOH Coastal and Environmental Services

Report Title: PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF PEDESTRIAN BRIDGES IN WARD 5 OF SENQU LOCAL MUNICIPALITY

Report Version: Draft

Project Number: 170

Name Responsibility Signature Date

Alan Carter Project Leader

November

2016

Nande Suka Project Management &

Report Review

November

2016

Roberto Almanza Report Writing and

Mapping

November

2016

Copyright

This document contains intellectual property and propriety information that are protected by

copyright in favour of EOH Coastal & Environmental Services (EOH CES) and the specialist

consultants. The document may therefore not be reproduced, used or distributed to any third

party without the prior written consent of EOH CES. The document is prepared exclusively for

submission to Senqu Local Municipality and is subject to all confidentiality, copyright and trade

secrets, rules intellectual property law and practices of South Africa.

This Report should be cited as follows: Draft Basic Assessment Report for the Proposed Construction of Pedestrian Bridges in Ward 5 of Senqu Local Municipality. EOH Coastal & Environmental Services. November 2016. East London.

INTRODUCTION

EOH Coastal & Environmental Services (EOH CES) was appointed by the Senqu Local Municipality to conduct a Basic Assessment Process for the proposed construction of two pedestrian bridges within Ward 5 of the municipality.

DETAILS OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT PRACTITIONER According to Appendix 1 Section 3(1)(a) of the EIA Regulations (2014), “A basic assessment report must include- a) details of –

i. The EAP who prepared the report; and

ii. The expertise of the EAP, including a curriculum vitae” In fulfilment of the above-mentioned legislative requirement, as well as Section 13 of the EIA

Regulations (2014), which states that, “an EAP…. must- have expertise in conducting

environmental impact assessments or undertaking specialist work as required, including

knowledge of the Act, these Regulations and any guidelines that have relevance to the

proposed activity”, provided below are the details of the Environmental Assessment Practitioner

(EAP) who prepared this Basic Assessment Report, as well as the expertise of the individual

members of the study team.

DETAILS OF THE EAP

EAP: Dr Alan Carter

Contact Person: Nande Suka

Company: EOH Coastal & Environmental Services

Physical Address: 25 Tecoma Street, Berea, East London, 5214

Postal Address: P O Box 8145, Nahoon, East London, 5214

Telephone: +27 43 726 7809

Website: www.cesnet.co.za

Email: [email protected] or [email protected]

A full Curriculum Vitae is provided in Appendix G3 of this report.

EXPERTISE OF THE EAP AND THE STUDY TEAM

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

http://www.cesnet.co.za/

mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

Nande Suka (Project Management and Report Review) Senior Environmental Consultant, holds a B.Sc. degree with majors in Botany and Zoology (2010) and B.Sc. Honours in Terrestrial Botany (2011), both obtained at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in Port Elizabeth. Her academic focus was in the broad field of Environmental Management and with great interest on impact assessments, environmental planning and conservation. Roberto Almanza (Report Writing & Mapping) Environmental Consultant. Roberto obtained his BSc (Environmental Sciences) majoring in Geology and Geography from Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University and went on to complete his BSc Honours in Geology. He has worked as a geology consultant on a number of exploration projects across South Africa. Roberto joined the Port Elizabeth branch of EOH CES in 2015 and has been involved in several projects such as Environmental Impact Assessments, Environmental Auditing, Water Use Licence Applications and Geographic Information Systems.

ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT PRACTITIONER DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE

Draft Basic Assessment Report for the Proposed Construction of pedestrian bridges in Ward 5 of Senqu Local Municipality Pedestrian Bridges

Role on Study Team Declaration of independence

Project Leader

I, ALAN CARTER, declare that I am an independent consultant and have no business, financial, personal or other interest in the proposed development, application or appeal in respect of which I was appointed other than fair remuneration for work performed in connection with the activity, application or appeal. There are no circumstances that compromise the objectivity of my performing such work.

Project Management and Report Review

I, NANDE SUKA, declare that I am an independent consultant and have no business, financial, personal or other interest in the proposed development, application or appeal in respect of which I was appointed other than fair remuneration for work performed in connection with the activity, application or appeal. There are no circumstances that compromise the objectivity of my performing such work.

Report Writing and Mapping

I, ROBERTO ALMANZA, declare that I am an independent consultant and have no business, financial, personal or other interest in the proposed development, application or appeal in respect of which I was appointed other than fair remuneration for work performed in connection with the activity, application or appeal. There are no circumstances that compromise the objectivity of my performing such work.

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“Innovation for Sustainable Development”

t Floor Room 274 • Beacon Hill • Hockley Close • Kind William’s Town • 5600 | Private Bag X0054 • 5605 • Republic of South Africa TeL; 043 605 7099• Fax: 043 605 7300 | Email: • Web: www.dedeat.gov.za

VERSION 1 dated 8 December 2014

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

(For official use only)

File Reference Number:

Application Number:

Date Received:

Basic assessment report in terms of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2014, promulgated

in terms of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998(Act No. 107 of 1998), as amended.

Kindly note that:

1. This basic assessment report is a standard report that may be required by a competent authority in terms of the EIA Regulations, 2014 and is meant to streamline applications. Please make sure that it is the report used by the particular competent authority for the activity that is being applied for.

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

3. Where applicable tick the boxes that are applicable or black out the boxes that are not applicable in the report. 4. An incomplete report may be returned to the applicant for revision. 5. The use of “not applicable” in the report must be done with circumspection because if it is used in respect of material

information that is required by the competent authority for assessing the application, it may result in the rejection of the application as provided for in the regulations.

6. This report must be handed in at offices of the relevant competent authority as determined by each authority. 7. No faxed or e-mailed reports will be accepted. 8. The report must be compiled by an independent environmental assessment practitioner (EAP).

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

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

be completed.

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SECTION A: ACTIVITY INFORMATION

Has a specialist been consulted to assist with the completion of this section?

NO

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

Any specialist reports must be contained in Appendix D.

1. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION

Describe the activity, which is being applied for, in detail

1. Introduction The Senqu Local Municipality is proposing to construct two pedestrian bridges over the Nduma River and the Mabele River which are located between the Blom and Nothanda rural settlements in the Eastern Cape Province (Figure 1.1). EOH Coastal & Environmental Services (EOH CES) has been appointed to conduct the Environmental Impact Assessment for this proposed project. 1.1. Project Location and Description The proposed pedestrian bridges will be constructed over the Nduma and the Mabele rivers which are non-perennial tributaries of the Tele River. Bridge 1 will be constructed approximately 180m from the informal houses situated within the Blom rural village and Bridge 2 will be constructed approximately 150m from the rural village of Nothanda. The villages are located within the Senqu Local Municipality (Joe Gqabi District Municipality) within the Eastern Cape and are approximately 200m from the South Africa-Lesotho border. The construction of the proposed pedestrian bridges will take place next to the current untarred road which connects the two rural settlements. Flooding experienced in the areas has resulted in the damage of the existing low-level causeways. The pedestrian bridges are intended to provide a safe river crossing for the residents of the villages who would otherwise be cut-off from each other during heavy rainfall events. The preliminary designs for the pedestrian bridges are provided in Appendix C.

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Figure 1.1: Location of the proposed pedestrian bridges adjacent to the Nothanda and Blom rural settlements within the Senqu Local Municipality. 1.2. Site Access The proposed project site can be accessed via the untarred road which connects Nothanda and Blom rural settlements. Approximately 550m north-east of Bridge 2, the untarred road intersects the R393 regional route. This route connects these rural villages to the town of Barkly East in the Eastern Cape (Figure 1.2). The proposed project site is located approximately 290km from Bloemfontein and 370km from East London.

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Figure 1.2: Location of the proposed pedestrian bridges adjacent to the Nothanda and Blom rural settlements within the Senqu Local Municipality.

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2. Biophysical Environment 2.1. Climate The rural location of the proposed project means that climate data for the study area must be sourced from relevant nearby weather stations. Data has been obtained from the Mabele settlement located approximately 5km south west of the project area. Additional climate data from Barkly East has been included as this is the nearest town located approximately 45km to the southwest of the project location. The climate of the study area is classified as ‘Cfb’ according to the Köppen climate classification. This is a temperate climate considered to have no significant dry season and a warm summer (Peel et al, 2007). The study area receives relatively high levels of precipitation throughout the year especially during the summer months. The average precipitation for Barkly East is 646mm per annum – an average of 14mm during July which is the driest month, and 92mm during February, which is the wettest month (Figure 2.1). The temperature data for the Mabele settlement shows that the area experiences average maximum temperatures of 26°C during January and December which are the hottest months, and average minimum temperatures of 0°C during July which is the coldest month (Figure 2.2).

Figure 2.1: Graph showing the average rainfall for Barkly East (Climate-Data.org, 2012).

Figure 2.2: Graph showing the average maximum and minimum temperatures for Mabele which is located approximately 5km from the study area (World Weather Online, 2012).

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2.2. Topography The topography of the immediate study area consists of gentle slopes separated by small open valleys created by the Nduma and the Mabele Rivers. The wider topography consists of high undulating hills common to the Drakensberg mountain range. The Tele River is situated at approximately 1580m above sea-level and is flanked by a steep gradient to the north-east. Bridge 1 is located at approximately 1599m above sea-level and Bridge 2 is located at 1593m above sea level (Figure 2.3).

Figure 2.3: Map showing the topography of the study area.

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2.3. Geology The study area is underlain by alternating mudrock and sandstone of the Late Triassic Elliot Formation. The thickness of these 200 million year old sedimentary rocks is approximately 500m and is commonly associated with vertebrate fossils such as dinosaur bones and trace fossils such as footprint impressions. The Elliot Formation is overlain by the sandstone and siltstone horizons of the Clarens Formation which outcrop approximately 1.5km to the east and to the south of the study area (Figure 2.4). Outcrops of the Drakensberg Group are located approximately 1km to the west of the study area and consist of basalt resulting from 150 million year old lava flows (Johnson et al., 2006).

Figure 2.4: Map showing the geology of the study area.

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2.4. Vegetation and Floristics

Figure 2.5: SANBI Vegetation map (Mucina and Rutherford, 2012) showing the vegetation type of the study area to be that of Senqu Montane Shrubland (Gm2). The vegetation of the study area is described by the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) National Vegetation Map as Senqu Montane Shrubland (Gm2) which consists of evergreen shrubs such as Rhus erosa, Olea europaea and Diospyros austo-africana. This vegetation type is bordered by the Lesotho Highland Basalt Grassland (Gd8) which is located approximately 1.5km to the east and 2.5km to the south of the study area (Figure 2.5). The shrubs of the Senqu Montane Shrubland vegetation type are generally found in deep gulleys or on steep, boulder-strewn valley slopes. The diversity of the shrub species decreases in the low-

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lying south-western regions. This vegetation type is considered to be “least threatened” with a conservation target of 28% (Figure 2.6). None of the Senqu Montane Shrubland is conserved in statutory conservation areas and 14% has been transformed for cultivation purposes (Mucina and Rutherford, 2012).

Figure 2.6: SANBI Conservation Status map (Mucina and Rutherford, 2009) showing the conservation status of the vegetation surrounding the study area.

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2.5. Surface Water Features The Tele River, which is located approximately 120m from Bridge 1 and 25m from Bridge 2 is defined as a National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Area as per the NFEPA database (Figure 2.7). Bridge 1 will be constructed over the Mabele River and Bridge 2 constructed over the Nduma River. Neither of these rivers is defined by the NFEPA database, but are classified as non-perennial tributaries to the Tele River. According to the NFEPA database, there are no wetlands located within 500m of the proposed pedestrian bridges.

Figure 2.7: Map showing the NFEPA-defined Tele River and the associated tributaries (Mabele River and Nduma River) in relation to the proposed bridges.

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2.6. Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (ECBCP) The main outputs of the ECBCP are “critical biodiversity areas” or CBAs which are divided into terrestrial CBAs and aquatic CBAs. According to the ECBCP terrestrial CBA map (Figure 2.8), Bridge 1 will be located within a CBA2 area which is defined as “endangered vegetation types identified through the ECBCP systematic conservation assessment.” Bridge 2 will be located within a CBA1 area defined as “critically endangered vegetation types (ecosystems) identified through the ECBCP systematic conservation assessment.”

Figure 2.8: ECBCP Terrestrial CBA map.

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Bridge 1 is also located within an aquatic CBA2 area, while Bridge 2 is located within an aquatic CBA1 area (Figure 2.9). Aquatic CBA1 areas consist of “critically important river sub-catchments, and all wetlands” and CBA2 areas are defined as “Important sub-catchments, free-flowing rivers important for fish migration and important estuaries” (Berliner et al, 2007).

Figure 2.9: ECBCP Aquatic CBA map.

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2.7. National and Provincial Protected Areas The proposed project area is located approximately 800m from the ‘North East Cape Priority Area’ as defined by the Eastern Cape Protected Areas Expansion Strategy (ECPAES). The ‘Southern Berg Griqualand Focus Area’, as defined by the National Protected Areas Expansion Strategy (NPAES) is located 600m south-east of the study area (Figure 2.10). The proposed project area is not located within any protected areas as defined by the most recent spatial tools.

Figure 2.10: Map showing the location of the study area in relation to the National and Provincial Priority Areas.

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3. Socio-economic profile The proposed bridges are located within Ward 5 of the Senqu Local Municipality, Joe Gqabi District Municipality, in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. 3.1. Population According to Statistics South Africa (2011 Census Data), the Senqu Local Municipality has a total population of 134 150, a population density of 18 people per square kilometre and a gender ratio (males to females) of 1:1.13 (Figure 3.1). Children aged 0 to 14 years old make up 34% of the population and the elderly (65 years or older) make up 7.7%. The remaining 58.3% of the population are aged between 15 and 64 years old. 97.3% of the population are Black African, 1.2% are coloureds 1.1% are whites. 7.2% of the people aged 20 years and older have completed primary school, 34.4% have some secondary education, 13.2% have completed matric and 5.4% have some form of higher education. 14.5% of people aged 20 years and older have no form of schooling.

Figure 3.1: Sex and age distribution graph for the Senqu Local Municipality (Stats SA, 2011)

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3.2. Living Conditions

There are 38 046 households which equates to between 3 and 4 people per household of which 70.2% are formal dwellings and 50.5% headed by females. In terms of services, 81.1% of households have access to electricity for lighting (Figure 3.2). Only 8.7% of households have access to piped water which is accessible from within the dwelling, 11.9% have a flush toilet connected to the sewerage line and 12.5% obtain weekly refuse removal (Stats SA, 2011 Census Data).

Figure 3.2: Energy sources used for cooking, heating and lighting within the Senqu Local Municipality (Stats SA, 2011) 3.3. Economic Profile Within the Senqu Local Municipality, there are 28 289 people who can be considered ‘economically active’ (64.5% are employed and 35.5% are unemployed but looking for work). Of the 14 464 economically active youth (15–34 years) living in the area, 43.6% are unemployed (Stats SA, 2011 Census Data). Approximately 83% of the households earn less than R 1 000 per month, which is below the R 1500 per month provincial Household Subsistence (Figure 3.3). The Social and Community Sector contributes to 38% of the employment opportunities while the growing Agricultural Sector currently contributes 28% (Senqu Municipality, 2015).

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Figure 3.3: Average household income for households located within the Senqu Local Municipality (Stats SA, 2011)

4. Land Use The National Land Cover database (NLC, 2009) classifies the study area as temporary cultivated dry land used for semi-commercial or subsistence purposes (Figure 4.1). The surrounding land uses include degraded grassland, unimproved grassland and thicket bushland. The 2013-14 South African National Land-Cover Dataset classifies the study area as ‘grassland’ and defines this as “natural/semi-natural grass dominated areas, where the tree and/or bush canopy densities are typically < ± 20 %, but may include localised denser areas up to ± 40 %, (regardless of canopy heights)” (Geoterraimage, 2014).

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Figure 4.1: Land cover map for the study area (NLC, 2009)

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2. FEASIBLE AND REASONABLE ALTERNATIVES

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

Describe alternatives that are considered in this application. Alternatives should include a consideration of all

possible means by which the purpose and need of the proposed activity could be accomplished in the specific

instance taking account of the interest of the applicant in the activity. The no-go alternative must in all cases be

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

The determination of whether site or activity (including different processes etc.) or both is appropriate needs to be

informed by the specific circumstances of the activity and its environment. After receipt of this report the competent

authority may also request the applicant to assess additional alternatives that could possibly accomplish the purpose

and need of the proposed activity if it is clear that realistic alternatives have not been considered to a reasonable

extent.

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

Location Alternatives The construction of the proposed pedestrian bridges intends to provide safe crossing over the Nduma and Mabele Rivers for residents of Nothanda and Blom during periods of high river levels. Currently there are two existing low-level causeways which cross the rivers and it has been proposed that the construction of the pedestrian bridges be adjacent (within 40m) of these causeways. This will be done in order to avoid the need for additional access roads and to limit the operational impacts to one area per river. As such, no location alternatives have been considered for this application.

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Activity Alternatives The proposed activity is for the construction of two pedestrian bridges and thus no activity alternatives have been considered for this application. Design or Layout Alternatives The specific design specifications of the proposed bridges are available in Appendix C of this report. This report assessed two layout alternatives for each bridge namely the construction of the pedestrian bridges upstream of the existing low-level causeways (preferred alternative) or, the construction of the bridges downstream of the causeways. The proposed layout alternatives for each bridge are shown below:

In general, the preferred alternative would be to position the bridges upstream of the existing low-level crossing. This will provide additional safety for residents, especially children, as they will not be required to cross the untarred road in order to access the pedestrian bridges from the location of their houses. In addition, there is less erosion of the river banks occurring upstream

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of the existing causeway and therefore the bridge foundations would be less susceptible to erosion in the future. However, it will not be possible to position Bridge 1 (Mabele River) upstream of the existing low-level crossing due to position of the existing untarred road located directly adjacent to the eastern bank of the river. For this reason, the following preferred alternative is suggested:

Bridge 1 – Mabele River – downstream of existing low-level crossing

Bridge 2 – Nduma River – upstream of existing low-level crossing Technology Alternatives The most appropriate construction methods and technology will be used based on what is available in terms of equipment as well as materials. Construction technology will also be chosen in terms of what would be least harmful to the environment. Conditions relating to the construction methodology are included in the Environmental Management Programme (Appendix F). For this reason, technology alternatives will not be assessed in this report. Operational Alternatives The operational phase pertains to the use of the proposed pedestrian bridges by residents of the rural settlements. There are therefore no operational alternatives considered for this project. No-Go Alternative This alternative assumes that the current status quo will remain unchanged. The river banks have been eroded by flooding events, but are vegetated in most areas. The existing low-level causeways, although usable to some extent, pose safety risks to pedestrians during flooding and high water levels. Currently, the only alternatives for residents to access either side of the rivers is to wade through the water or make stepping-stones with the boulders within the river bed. Crossing the rivers during periods of heavy rain or flooding becomes a major safety risk, especially to children who need to access the Mabele JS School. Should the no-go alternative be the preferred option, the safety risks will remain and there will continue to be instances where residents cannot attend schools or reach their place of employment as a result of the inaccessibility over the rivers.

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3. ACTIVITY POSITION

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

Latitude (S):

Longitude (E):

Alternative S1 1 (preferred or only site alternative)

Bridge 1 30o 36.198 ‘ 27o 44.427 ‘

Not feasible

Alternative S2 (if any) Bridge 1 30o 36.205 ‘ 27o 44.419 ‘

Bridge 2 30o 36.073 ‘ 27° 44.370 ‘

Alternative S3 (if any)

In the case of linear activities:

Alternative: Latitude (S): Longitude (E): Alternative S1 (preferred or only route alternative)

Starting point of the activity

Middle point of the activity

End point of the activity









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

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For route alternatives that are longer than 500m, please provide an addendum with co-ordinates taken every 250 meters along the route for each alternative alignment. 4. PHYSICAL SIZE OF THE ACTIVITY

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

Alternative A12 (preferred activity alternative) Bridge 1 20.25 m2

Bridge 2 20.25 m2

Alternative A2 (if any) As per the above

Alternative A3 (if any)

or, for linear activities: Alternative:

Length of the activity:

Alternative A1 (preferred activity alternative)

Bridge 1 20.857 m

Bridge 2 20.857 m

Alternative A2 (if any) As per the above


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

site/servitude:

Alternative A1 (preferred activity alternative)



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

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5. SITE ACCESS

Does ready access to the site exist? YES X

If NO, what is the distance over which a new access road will be built

Describe the type of access road planned:

There is no access road planned for the proposed project. Please refer to Section A, 1 – Activity Description for details regarding site access.

Include the position of the access road on the site plan and required map, as well as an indication of the road in relation to the site. 6. SITE OR ROUTE PLAN

A detailed site or route plan(s) must be prepared for each alternative site or alternative activity. It must be attached as Appendix A to this document. The site or route plans must indicate the following: 6.1 the scale of the plan which must be at least a scale of 1:500;

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

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

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

6.5 the position of services, including electricity supply cables (indicate above or underground), water supply

pipelines, boreholes, street lights, sewage pipelines, storm water infrastructure and telecommunication

infrastructure;

6.6 all trees and shrubs taller than 1.8 metres;

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

6.8 servitudes indicating the purpose of the servitude;

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

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

6.9 for gentle slopes the 1 metre contour intervals must be indicated on the plan and whenever the slope of the

site exceeds 1:10, the 500mm contours must be indicated on the plan; and

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

Please refer to Appendix A – Site Plan.

7. SITE PHOTOGRAPHS

Colour photographs from the centre of the site must be taken in at least the eight major compass directions with a

description of each photograph. Photographs must be attached under Appendix B to this form. It must be

supplemented with additional photographs of relevant features on the site, if applicable.

Please refer to Appendix B – Photographs. 8. FACILITY ILLUSTRATION

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

Please refer to Appendix C – Facility Illustrations.

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9. ACTIVITY MOTIVATION

9(a) Socio-economic value of the activity

What is the expected capital value of the activity on completion? Unknown

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

activity?

Not

Applicable

Will the activity contribute to service infrastructure? YES X

Is the activity a public amenity? YES X

How many new employment opportunities will be created in the development phase of

the activity?

Unknown

What is the expected value of the employment opportunities during the development

phase?

Unknown

What percentage of this will accrue to previously disadvantaged individuals? 100%

How many permanent new employment opportunities will be created during the

operational phase of the activity?

Not Applicable

What is the expected current value of the employment opportunities during the first 10

years?

Not Applicable

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

9(b) Need and desirability of the activity

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

The rural settlements of Nothanda and Blom are separated by the Nduma and Mabele rivers. Residents currently traverse the river by making use of the shallow sections or alternatively by using the low-level crossings which have been

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constructed along the unnamed farm road. During heavy rains and flooding of the rivers, the two settlements are cut-off from one another and the residents cannot safely cross the rivers until the water levels have receded. The absence of safe river crossings is especially significant to the children of the community who cross the rivers on a daily basis. The Mabele JS School, located on the Blom side of the rivers, cannot be accessed by pupils residing in Nothanda. Similarly, the police station and local shop located on the Nothanda side cannot be accessed by the residents of Blom during flooding conditions. The issues encountered by the residents have implications on their access to clinics, their access to employment as well as their safety as there are no alternative river crossings located along the course of these rivers.

The Senqu Municipality Integrated Development Plan 2011-2016 (Senqu IDP, 2015) has identified the issue encountered by the residents in these settlements: “Access roads and bridges in the rural area are generally of a poor standard due to lack of maintenance and staff. Rural people struggle to access services due to this especially during the rainy period when the roads become impassable and flooded. Access to clinics and schools remains a challenge as people still have to walk long distances and the quality of the service is limited.” The proposed construction of the two pedestrian bridges will allow residents to safely cross the rivers during periods of heavy rainfall and provide access to the school, police station, shop and other important locations within the community. This is expected to have positive implications for employment and safety within the community. It is also expected to be a significantly positive development for children who attend the local school as the provision of the proposed pedestrian bridges will allow the pupils to safely attend school during periods of high river levels. The proposed development is in line with the local and district municipal planning tools. The Senqu Municipality IDP (2015) makes reference to budget provisions for these construction activities: “There will also be an increase in the maintenance budget for roads, bridges and storm drainage.” The reduction of unemployment is listed as one of the strategic objectives of the IDP and the construction of the bridges will provide a limited number of employment opportunities to local residents. The Senqu Municipality Municipal Spatial Development Framework (Senqu MSDF, 2005) identifies the project area as a ‘Level 1 Node’ as per the settlement framework: “These areas require the development of basic infrastructure such as access roads...”

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Indicate any benefits that the activity will have for society in general:

Employment opportunities and skills development during the construction phase;

Improved safety;

Improved basic infrastructure;

Improved access to the local villages and farm lands.

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

Improved safety of local residents especially children;

Improved attendance at Mabele JS School during periods of flooding or high river water levels;

Improved access to schools, shops, clinics, places of employment and other services.

10. APPLICABLE LEGISLATION, POLICIES AND/OR GUIDELINES List all legislation, policies and/or guidelines of any sphere of government that are applicable to the application as contemplated in the EIA regulations, if applicable: Title of legislation, policy or guideline:

Administering authority:

Date:

The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (Act No. 108 of 1996)

Constitution Assembly 1996

National Environmental Management Act (Act No. 107 of 1998)

Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA)

1998

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


2004

National Heritage Resources Act (Act No. 25 of 1999)

South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA)

1999

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

1998

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


2008

National Environmental Management Act (Act No. 107 of 1998), Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations

Department of Environmental Affairs

2014

National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004) Alien and Invasive Species regulations

Department of Environmental Affairs

2014

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Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act No. 85 of 1993)

Department of Labour (DoL) 1993

Municipal By-Laws Senqu Local Municipality

Senqu Municipality Integrated Development Plan 2011-2016

Senqu Local Municipality 2015

Senqu Municipality Municipal Spatial Development Framework

Senqu Local Municipality 2005

The South African Vegetation Map (Mucina and Rutherford)

South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI)

2006

The Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation plan


2007

The National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas (NFEPA) project


2011 / 2014

National Land Cover Database South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI)

2009

11. WASTE, EFFLUENT, EMISSION AND NOISE MANAGEMENT

11(a) Solid waste management

Will the activity produce solid construction waste during the construction/initiation

phase?

YES

X

If yes, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? 10 m3

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

All solid waste will be collected in weather and scavenger-proof bins and will be stored temporarily until it is removed to a permitted landfill site closest to the construction site.

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

At present, the nearest registered landfill site is in Barkly East which is located 70km from the study area (Senqu IDP, 2015). An alternative disposal site would be the Sterkspruit waste site located 65km from the study area however, according the Senqu Local Municipality IDP 2011 to 2016, this waste site is not registered.

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

If yes, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? Not Applicable

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

Not applicable – no operational waste.

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

Not applicable – no operational waste.

If the solid waste (construction or operational phases) will not be disposed of in a registered landfill site

or be taken up in a municipal waste stream, then the applicant should consult with the competent

authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA.

Can any part of the solid waste be classified as hazardous in terms of the relevant legislation?

NO X

If yes, inform the competent authority and request a change to an application for scoping and EIA.

Is the activity that is being applied for a solid waste handling or treatment facility?

NO X

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

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11(b) Liquid effluent

Will the activity produce effluent, other than normal sewage, that will be disposed of in

a municipal sewage system?

NO X

If yes, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? Not Applicable

Will the activity produce any effluent that will be treated and/or disposed of on site? NO X

If yes, the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to

change to an application for scoping and EIA.

Will the activity produce effluent that will be treated and/or disposed of at another facility?

NO X

If yes, provide the particulars of the facility:

Facility name:

Contact person:

Postal address:

Postal code:

Telephone: Cell:

E-mail: Fax:

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

11(c) Emissions into the atmosphere

Will the activity release emissions into the atmosphere? YES X

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

If yes, the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether

it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA.

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

Dust may be generated during the construction and operational phases of the activity, especially during high wind conditions, as a result of construction material on site as well as movement of vehicles to or from the site. The dust can, however, be controlled by regular watering, temporary pauses in work during high wind conditions, vehicle speed restrictions and also by covering the building materials on site as well as during transportation. Construction vehicle emissions may exist. Exhaust emissions from construction vehicles can be minimised by ensuring that all vehicles are properly equipped and serviced.

11(d) Generation of noise

Will the activity generate noise? YES X

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

If yes, the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether

it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA.

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

Noise generated will be from construction activities. The following mitigation measures will ensure that noise created during construction is managed adequately:

Ensure that vehicles and equipment utilised on site are in good working order and are serviced properly,

Limit construction activities to daylight hours i.e. 7am to 5pm,

Apply applicable municipal by-laws with regards to noise control,

The staff involved in the construction will not be housed on site and will also be informed as to how they could avoid any unnecessary noise pollution during working hours.

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12. WATER USE

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

municipal X

water board groundwater river, stream, dam

or lake

other the activity will not use

water

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

natural feature, please indicate the volume that will be extracted per month:

Not Applicable

Does the activity require a water use permit from the Department of Water Affairs? YES X

If yes, please submit the necessary application to the Department of Water Affairs and attach proof thereof to this

application if it has been submitted.

13. ENERGY EFFICIENCY

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

efficient:

The activity will not require any power from the national grid and engineers will consider the energy efficiency (fuel usage) of the equipment that is used on site.

Describe how alternative energy sources have been taken into account or been built into the design of

the activity, if any:

Not applicable

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SECTION B: SITE/AREA/PROPERTY DESCRIPTION

Important notes:

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

Section C Copy No. (e.g.

A):

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

3. Has a specialist been consulted to assist with the completion of this section?

NO X

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

All specialist reports must be contained in Appendix D.

Please refer to Appendix D – Specialist reports.

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Please note: The descriptions provided below are applicable to both bridge locations.

1. GRADIENT OF THE SITE Indicate the general gradient of the site. Alternative S1:

Flat 1:50 – 1:20 X

1:20 – 1:15 1:15 – 1:10 1:10 – 1:7,5 1:7,5 – 1:5 Steeper than 1:5

Alternative S2 (if any):

Flat 1:50 – 1:20 X

1:20 – 1:15 1:15 – 1:10 1:10 – 1:7,5 1:7,5 – 1:5 Steeper than 1:5

Alternative S3 (if any):

2. LOCATION IN LANDSCAPE

Indicate the landform(s) that best describes the site: 2.1 Ridgeline 2.2 Plateau

2.3 Side slope of hill/mountain

2.4 Closed valley

2.5 Open valley

2.6 Plain

2.7 Undulating plain / low hills

2.8 Dune 2.9 Seafront

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3. GROUNDWATER, SOIL AND GEOLOGICAL STABILITY OF THE SITE

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

any):

Alternative S3 (if

any):

Shallow water table (less than

1.5m deep)

YES X

YES X

Dolomite, sinkhole or doline

areas

NO X

NO X

Seasonally wet soils (often

close to water bodies)

YES X

YES X

Unstable rocky slopes or steep

slopes with loose soil

NO X

NO X

Dispersive soils (soils that

dissolve in water)

NO X

NO X

Soils with high clay content

(clay fraction more than 40%)

NO X

NO X

Any other unstable soil or

geological feature

NO X

NO X

An area sensitive to erosion YES X

YES X

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

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4. GROUNDCOVER

Indicate the types of groundcover present on the site: 4.1 Natural veld – good condition E

4.2 Natural veld – scattered aliens E

4.3 Natural veld with heavy alien infestation E 4.4 Veld dominated by alien species E 4.5 Gardens 4.6 Sport field 4.7 Cultivated land 4.8 Paved surface 4.9 Building or other structure

4.10 Bare soil

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

Natural veld - good conditionE

Natural veld with scattered

aliensE

X

Natural veld with heavy alien infestationE

Veld dominated by alien speciesE

Gardens

Sport field Cultivated land Paved surface Building or other

structure Bare soil

X

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

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5. LAND USE CHARACTER OF SURROUNDING AREA

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

5.1 Natural area

5.2 Low density residential 5.3 Medium density residential 5.4 High density residential

5.5 Informal residential

5.6 Retail commercial & warehousing 5.7 Light industrial 5.8 Medium industrial AN 5.9 Heavy industrial AN 5.10 Power station 5.11 Office/consulting room 5.12 Military or police base/station/compound 5.13 Spoil heap or slimes damA 5.14 Quarry, sand or borrow pit 5.15 Dam or reservoir 5.16 Hospital/medical centre

5.17 School

5.18 Tertiary education facility 5.19 Church 5.20 Old age home 5.21 Sewage treatment plantA 5.22 Train station or shunting yard N 5.23 Railway line N 5.24 Major road (4 lanes or more) N 5.25 Airport N 5.26 Harbour 5.27 Sport facilities 5.28 Golf course 5.29 Polo fields 5.30 Filling station H

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5.31 Landfill or waste treatment site 5.32 Plantation

5.33 Agriculture

5.34 River, stream or wetland

5.35 Nature conservation area

5.36 Mountain, koppie or ridge

5.37 Museum 5.38 Historical building 5.39 Protected Area 5.40 Graveyard 5.41 Archaeological site 5.42 Other land uses (describe) If any of the boxes marked with an “N “are ticked, how will this impact / be impacted upon by the proposed activity. Not applicable.

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

If YES, specify:

Not applicable.

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

If YES, specify:

Not applicable.

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6. CULTURAL/HISTORICAL FEATURES

Are there any signs of culturally or historically significant elements, as defined in section 2 of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999, (Act No. 25 of 1999), including Archaeological or palaeontological sites, on or close (within 20m) to the site?

NO X

If YES, explain:

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

Briefly explain the findings of the specialist:

Archaeological & Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment – ArcaeoMaps, 2016: No archaeological or cultural heritage resources, as defined and protected by the NHRA 1999, were identified on the surface or within exposed sub-surface sections at either of the study sites. Development by implication poses no ‘fatal flaws’ with reference to impact on archaeological or cultural heritage resources. Consideration of a ‘No-Go’ option is irrelevant. Palaeontological Impact Assessment – Elize Butler, 2016: Although the palaeontological sensitivity is rated high, the development area is largely an area with and no sharp outcrops. The lack of appropriate exposure at the proposed site indicates that the impact on palaeontological material is negligible and regarded as insignificant. It is therefore recommended that no further palaeontological heritage studies, ground truthing and/or specialist mitigation are required for the commencement of this development, pending the discovery or exposure of any fossil remains during the construction phase.

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Will any building or structure older than 60 years be affected in any way? NO X

Is it necessary to apply for a permit in terms of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act 25 of 1999)?

NO X

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

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SECTION C: PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

Please refer to Appendix G1 for full details on the Public Participation Process which has been followed.

1. ADVERTISEMENT The person conducting a public participation process must take into account any guidelines applicable to public participation as contemplated in section 24J of the Act and must give notice to all potential interested and affected parties of the application which is subjected to public participation by— (a) fixing a notice board (of a size at least 60cm by 42cm; and must display the required information

in lettering and in a format as may be determined by the competent authority) at a place conspicuous to the public at the boundary or on the fence of— (i) the site where the activity to which the application relates is or is to be undertaken; and

(ii) any alternative site mentioned in the application; (b) giving written notice to—

(i) the owner or person in control of that land if the applicant is not the owner or person in control of the land;

(ii) the occupiers of the site where the activity is or is to be undertaken or to any alternative site where the activity is to be undertaken;

(iii) owners and occupiers of land adjacent to the site where the activity is or is to be undertaken or to any alternative site where the activity is to be undertaken;

(iv) the municipal councillor of the ward in which the site or alternative site is situated and any organisation of ratepayers that represent the community in the area;

(v) the municipality which has jurisdiction in the area; (vi) any organ of state having jurisdiction in respect of any aspect of the activity; and (vii) any other party as required by the competent authority;

(c) placing an advertisement in— (i) one local newspaper; or

(ii) any official Gazette that is published specifically for the purpose of providing public notice of applications or other submissions made in terms of these Regulations;

(d) placing an advertisement in at least one provincial newspaper or national newspaper, if the activity has or may have an impact that extends beyond the boundaries of the metropolitan or local municipality in which it is or will be undertaken: Provided that this paragraph need not be complied

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with if an advertisement has been placed in an official Gazette referred to in subregulation 54(c)(ii); and

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

2. CONTENT OF ADVERTISEMENTS AND NOTICES A notice board, advertisement or notices must:

(a) indicate the details of the application which is subjected to public participation; and (b) state—

(i) that the application has been submitted to the competent authority in terms of these Regulations, as the case may be; (ii) whether basic assessment or scoping procedures are beingapplied to the

application, in the case of an application for environmental authorisation;

(iii) the nature and location of the activity to which the application relates; (iv) where further information on the application or activity can be obtained; and (iv) the manner in which and the person to whom representations in respect of the application

may be made. 3. PLACEMENT OF ADVERTISEMENTS AND NOTICES Where the proposed activity may have impacts that extend beyond the municipal area where it is located, a notice must be placed in at least one provincial newspaper or national newspaper, indicating that an application will be submitted to the competent authority in terms of these regulations, the nature and location of the activity, where further information on the proposed activity can be obtained and the manner in which representations in respect of the application can be made, unless a notice has been placed in any Gazette that is published specifically for the purpose of providing notice to the public of applications made in terms of the EIA regulations. Advertisements and notices must make provision for all alternatives.

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4. DETERMINATION OF APPROPRIATE MEASURES The practitioner must ensure that the public participation is adequate and must determine whether a public meeting or any other additional measure is appropriate or not based on the particular nature of each case. Special attention should be given to the involvement of local community structures such as Ward Committees, ratepayers associations and traditional authorities where appropriate. Please note that public concerns that emerge at a later stage that should have been addressed may cause the competent authority to withdraw any authorisation it may have issued if it becomes apparent that the public participation process was inadequate. 5. COMMENTS AND RESPONSE REPORT The practitioner must record all comments and respond to each comment of the public before the application is submitted. The comments and responses must be captured in a comments and response report as prescribed in the EIA regulations and be attached to this application. The comments and response report must be attached under Appendix E. 6. AUTHORITY PARTICIPATION Authorities are key interested and affected parties in each application and no decision on any application will be made before the relevant local authority is provided with the opportunity to give input. The planning and the environmental sections of the local authority must be informed of the application at least 30 (thirty) calendar days before the submission of the application. List of authorities informed:

Joe Gqabi District Municipality

Senqu Local Municipality

Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT – Joe Gqabi Region)

Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS)

South African Heritage and Resources Agency (SAHRA)

Eastern Cape Provincial Heritage Resources Agency (ECPRHA) List of authorities from whom comments have been received:

No comments have been received at the time of this publication.

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7. CONSULTATION WITH OTHER STAKEHOLDERS

Note that, for linear activities, or where deviation from the public participation requirements may be

appropriate, the person conducting the public participation process may deviate from the requirements of

that subregulation to the extent and in the manner as may be agreed to by the competent authority.

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

Has any comment been received from stakeholders? NO X

If “YES”, briefly describe the feedback below (also attach copies of any correspondence to and from the stakeholders to this application): No comments have been received at the time of this publication.

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SECTION D: IMPACT ASSESSMENT The assessment of impacts must adhere to the minimum requirements in the EIA Regulations, 2010, and should take

applicable official guidelines into account. The issues raised by interested and affected parties should also be

addressed in the assessment of impacts.

1. ISSUES RAISED BY INTERESTED AND AFFECTED PARTIES

List the main issues raised by interested and affected parties.

No issues have been raised at the time of this publication.

Response from the practitioner to the issues raised by the interested and affected parties (A full response must be given in the Comments and Response Report that must be attached to this report): None

2. IMPACTS THAT MAY RESULT FROM THE PLANNING AND DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION,

OPERATIONAL, DECOMMISSIONING AND CLOSURE PHASES AS WELL AS PROPOSED MANAGEMENT OF IDENTIFIED IMPACTS AND PROPOSED MITIGATION MEASURES

List the potential direct, indirect and cumulative property/activity/design/technology/operational alternative related impacts (as appropriate) that are likely to occur as a result of the planning and design phase, construction phase, operational phase, decommissioning and closure phase, including impacts relating to the choice of site/activity/technology alternatives as well as the mitigation measures that may eliminate or reduce the potential impacts listed. Please note that the impacts assessed below are applicable to Bridge 1 and Bridge 2 unless otherwise indicated. The methodology used to rate the impact significance is provided in Appendix G2.

Table 1: Issues identified and assessed for the proposed pedestrian bridges.

Theme APPLICABILITY TO PHASE

PLANNING & DESIGN

CONSTRUCTION OPERATION

GENERAL IMPACTS

COMPLIANCE WITH RELEVANT YES YES YES

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ENVIRONMENTAL LEGISLATION AND POLICY

Failure to adhere to existing policies and obligations.

Failure of the contractor to implement mitigation measures stated in EA and EMPr.

Implementation of operational requirements stated in the EA and any other permits/licenses.

EMPLOYMENT CREATION, SKILLS DEVELOPMENT AND SOCIAL WELL-BEING

YES Provision must be made for members of the local communities to have access to temporary and permanent job opportunities

YES Temporary employment for the local community for construction activities

YES Communities will benefit from the pedestrian bridge access

DUST POLLUTION N/A YES Dust (air) pollution caused by grading and levelling exposed land

N/A

NOISE POLLUTION N/A YES Noise pollution caused by construction activities

N/A

HEALTH & SAFETY N/A N/A YES Inadequate attention to road safety awareness

HERITAGE N/A YES Failure to protect any heritage resources

N/A

GENERAL WASTE MANAGEMENT N/A YES Construction rubble and litter left onsite

N/A

VISUAL IMPACTS YES Inappropriate design of pedestrian

YES Construction plant, rubble and litter left onsite

YES Distinct change to landscape due to bridges

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bridges.

EROSION & SEDIMENTATION N/A YES Erosion and sedi-mentation caused by construction activities

YES Erosion and sedimentation as a result of bridge use.

ECOLOGICAL IMPACTS

MATERIAL STOCKPILING N/A YES Stockpiling of construction material within 32 m of a watercourse or within any identified sensitive environment

N/A

STORMWATER MANAGEMENT AND EROSION

YES Inappropriate design of stormwater structures.

YES Inappropriate routing of stormwater.

N/A

RIPARIAN VEGETATION N/A YES Inappropriate removal of riparian vegetation.

N/A

LOSS OF NATURAL VEGETATION & LOSS OF SCC

YES The inappropriate design of project infrastructure.

YES Clearing of natural vegetation for site camps and infrastructure will lead to the loss of natural vegetation.

N/A

INVASION OF ALIEN SPECIES YES Failure to plan for the removal and management of alien vegetation

YES Removal of existing natural vegetation resulting in invasion by alien species.

N/A

AQUATIC IMPACTS

CHANGES TO FLUVIAL GEOMORPHOLOGY

YES Incorrect design of bridge pilings

N/A

N/A

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or culverts; Insufficient planning for erosion prevention along the banks of the rivers

STORMWATER MANAGEMENT YES Inappropriate stormwater design

N/A N/A

WATER QUALITY N/A

YES Accidental contamination of wet concrete; Accidental chemical spills in the vicinity of the rivers

N/A

RIPARIAN VEGETATION N/A N/A N/A

HYDROLOGY N/A YES Coffer dams may permanently change the flow dynamics in the rivers

N/A

INVASION OF ALIEN SPECIES N/A N/A N/A

Table 2: Summary of impacts and associated significance and proposed mitigation measures for the proposed pedestrian bridges.

PLANNING AND DESIGN PHASE

IMPACTS SIGNIFICANCE

– PRE MITIGATION

MITIGATION MEASURES SIGNIFICANCE

– POST MITIGATION

GENERAL IMPACTS

During the Planning and Design Phase, failure to comply with existing policies and legal obligations could lead to the project conflicting with local, provincial and national policies, legislation etc. This could result in legal non-compliance, fines, overall project failure or

HIGH NEGATIVE

All relevant legislation and policy must be consulted and the proponent must ensure that the project is compliant with such legislation and policy. These should include (but are not restricted to): NEMA, NWA, Local and District Spatial

LOW NEGATIVE

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delays in mining activity and undue disturbance to the natural environment.

Development Frameworks, Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (ECBCP), Local Municipal bylaws.

During the Planning and Design Phase, provision must be made for employment opportunities for the duration of the project for the local community where possible.

LOW POSITIVE

Employment opportunities for the local community must be planned for the duration of the project.

MODERATE POSITIVE

During the planning and Design Phase, the proposed pedestrian bridges will become a permanent fixture within the area and will change the appearance of the otherwise natural landscape. The bridges will be located in a relatively low-lying area which will be visible from either side of the surrounding valley slopes.

MODERATE NEGATIVE

Bridges should be designed in such a way that they fit into the surrounding environment.

MODERATE POSITIVE

ECOLOGICAL IMPACTS

During the planning and design phase the inappropriate design of stormwater structures may result in increased levels of erosion, sedimentation and pollution of surrounding environments.

HIGH NEGATIVE

- Appropriate stormwater structures must be designed to minimise erosion and sedimentation of watercourses and surrounding environments.

- All infrastructure situated on slopes must incorporate stormwater diversions.

- Flood attenuation and stormwater management plans must be drawn up by a qualified engineer and approved by DEDEAT, the ECO and DWS.

- Stormwater designs must be in line with DWS requirements.

MODERATE NEGATIVE

During the planning and design phase the inappropriate design of the project infrastructure will lead to the unnecessary loss of natural vegetation and loss of Species of Conservation Concern.

MODERATE NEGATIVE

The layout of the bridge infrastructure must minimize the impact on the natural vegetation.

LOW NEGATIVE

During the planning and design phase the failure to plan for the removal of alien vegetation could result in the invasion of alien vegetation during the construction and operation phase.

MODERATE NEGATIVE

A Rehabilitation and Alien Vegetation Management Plan must be designed to reduce the establishment and spread of undesirable alien plant species.

LOW NEGATIVE

AQUATIC IMPACTS

During the planning and design phase incorrect design of bridge pilings or culverts may result in scouring of the river bed in areas immediately

MODERATE NEGATIVE

Scour countermeasures must be incorporated into the design of the bridges.

LOW NEGATIVE

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surrounding the pilings or culverts.

During the planning and design phase insufficient planning for erosion prevention along the banks of the rivers alongside the bridge structures will result in erosion that may eventually impair the safety of the structures.

MODERATE NEGATIVE

Adequate bank stabilisation measures must be incorporated into the design of the bridges.

LOW NEGATIVE

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

IMPACTS SIGNIFICANCE

– PRE MITIGATION


– POST MITIGATION

GENERAL IMPACTS

During the Construction Phase, failure to comply with existing policies and legal obligations could lead to the project conflicting with local, provincial and national policies, legislation etc. This could result in legal non-compliance, fines, overall project failure or delays in mining activity and undue disturbance to the natural environment.

HIGH NEGATIVE

- All relevant legislation and policy must be consulted and the proponent must ensure that the project is compliant with such legislation and policy.

- These should include (but are not

restricted to): NEMA, NWA, Local and

District Spatial Development

Frameworks, Eastern Cape

Biodiversity Conservation Plan

(ECBCP), Local Municipal bylaws.

LOW NEGATIVE

During the construction phase, the project will create a number or temporary jobs.

LOW POSITIVE

- People from the surrounding communities must be employed to undertake construction activities where possible

- Where possible, local construction materials must be purchased and utilized.

MODERATE POSITIVE

During the construction phase, the employment of members of the local community will provide skills development which will improve the employability of these community members.

LOW POSITIVE

- All local people employed from the surrounding communities must receive adequate training.

- Reference letters for employees must be provided at the completion of construction.

MODERATE POSITIVE

During the construction phase, Dust pollution resulting from excavations, stockpiled soil and movement of construction vehicle can become a nuisance factor to the construction workers as well as the residents of the surrounding informal settlement.

MODERATE NEGATIVE

- Dust masks must be provided to the workers;

- The area watered downs to stabilise the dust emissions;

- covers must be used where possible during transportation and storage of construction material;

- the number, as well as the speed, of

LOW NEGATIVE

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the vehicles travelling to and from the site must be limited;

- Where possible, removal of any discarded or unused material must be done so immediately;

- If possible, construction work must be paused during periods of strong winds.

During construction, noise will be created by the construction equipment, the workers as well as the construction vehicles both on site as well as during travel to and from the site. While the ambient noise level of the study area is likely to increase, the increase is unlikely to have any significant impact on the local community.

MODERATE NEGATIVE

- All construction vehicles and equipment must be properly serviced in order to meet the necessary noise level requirements;

- Work must be restricted to daylight hours (7am to 5pm);

- Any unnecessary noise must be restricted e.g. portable radios, vehicle radios, whistles etc.;

- Construction employees must be housed away from site;

- Senqu Local Municipality and/or the Joe Gqabi District Municipality by-laws regarding noise must be adhered to.

LOW NEGATIVE

In the unlikely event that fossils or cultural remains occur during the construction phase, they are likely to be damaged during excavation and their heritage value lost in the process.

MODERATE NEGATIVE

- In the event of any incidental archaeological or cultural heritage resources being encountered during the course of construction, the ‘Heritage Protocol for Incidental Finds during the Construction Phase’ should be followed (please refer to Appendix D);

- Should fossil remains be discovered during any phase of construction, either on the surface or exposed by fresh excavations, the ECO responsible for these developments should be alerted;

- Such discoveries ought to be protected (preferably in situ) and the ECO should alert SAHRA (South African Heritage Research Agency) so that appropriate mitigation (e.g. recording, sampling or collection) can be taken by a professional palaeontologist.

LOW NEGATIVE

The construction phase will result in the generation of construction waste such as building rubble, excess concrete and general waste created by workers. The inappropriate disposal of construction waste can result in the pollution of sensitive environments.

MODERATE NEGATIVE

- Concrete and rubble must be reused and/or recycled where possible;

- Waste that cannot be reused or recycled must be disposed of in the correct manner at the nearest registered waste disposal site in Barkly East;

LOW NEGATIVE

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- Litter must be discarded into scavenger proof bins and removed from site on a weekly basis;

- Any hazardous materials (e.g. fuel or oil) must be disposed of immediately and in the correct manner;

- General good house-keeping must be practiced on site.

- An environmental management programme incorporating waste management issues during the construction phase of the project has been developed and must be implemented;

- A post-construction audit conducted by an independent ECO must ensure compliance with this mitigation.

The general aesthetics of the landscape will be impacted by construction vehicles and construction equipment for the duration of the construction phase.

MODERATE NEGATIVE

- The construction site must be kept as neat as possible;

- Equipment not being used must be removed from site;

- Waste must be disposed of appropriately;

- Erosion mitigation measures outlined in this report must be implemented to minimize the aesthetic impact on the site

LOW NEGATIVE

During the construction phase, soil compaction inhibits water absorption as well as plant growth. Vegetation clearing on site may also expose soils which are then easily susceptible to wind and/or water erosion. Increased erosion may result in excess sedimentation within the rivers.

MODERATE NEGATIVE

- Clearing or disturbance of vegetation should be kept to a minimum;

- Any cleared or exposed areas must be rehabilitated with indigenous vegetation at the earliest possible stage;

- Remediation action must be taken at the first sign of any erosion;

- Temporary stabilization measures may need to be enforced to prevent exposed soils from undergoing erosion e.g. silt traps;

- After construction, all slopes must be stabilised (e.g. with stone gabions, netting, re-vegetation etc.) to reduce the risk of erosion;

- Where possible, stockpiled topsoil must be used in rehabilitation.

LOW NEGATIVE

ECOLOGICAL IMPACTS

During the construction phase the stockpiling of materials within 50 m of sensitive environments

MODERATE - No construction material must be

stored within 50 m of a watercourse. LOW

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(watercourses) could result in erosion and mobilisation into nearby watercourses, resulting in sedimentation and a decrease in quality of the aquatic habitat.

NEGATIVE

- Stockpiles within 100 m of a watercourse must be monitored for erosion and mobilisation of materials towards watercourses. If this is noted by an ECO, suitable cut-off drains or berms must be placed between the stockpile area and the nearest watercourse.

NEGATIVE

During the construction phase the inappropriate routing of stormwater will lead to stream sedimentation and erosion of the surrounding environment.

MODERATE NEGATIVE

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

- An Erosion and Sediment Management Plan must be developed to minimise the ingress of sediment-laden stormwater into rivers and minimise erosion of the surrounding environment.

LOW NEGATIVE

During the construction phase the inappropriate removal of sensitive riparian vegetation will adversely affect identified sensitive environments.

MODERATE NEGATIVE

- The construction footprint must be surveyed and demarcated prior to construction commencing.

- Where vegetation has been cleared, site rehabilitation in terms of soil stabilisation and revegetation must be undertaken.

LOW NEGATIVE

During the construction phase the clearing of vegetation outside the approved footprint (site camp, bridge layout) will lead to the unnecessary loss of natural vegetation.

MODERATE NEGATIVE


- Where vegetation has been cleared, site rehabilitation in terms of soil stabilisation and revegetation must be undertaken

LOW NEGATIVE

During the construction phase the clearing of natural vegetation may lead to the destruction of habitats and the loss of identified and unidentified plant SCC.

MODERATE NEGATIVE

- All areas that will be impacted must be surveyed prior to topsoil removal in order to locate and rescue any SCC within the area and relocate them.

- No SCC must be removed from site. All SCC must be relocated immediately outside the construction and operational footprint.

- Search and rescue must be undertaken by a professional and qualified botanist.

- The contractor’s staff must not poach or trap wild animals.

- The contractor’s staff must not harvest any natural vegetation.

LOW NEGATIVE

During the construction phase the clearing of natural vegetation creates ‘open’ habitats that will favour the establishment of undesirable alien plant species in areas that are typically very difficult to eradicate and may pose a threat to neighbouring natural ecosystems.

MODERATE NEGATIVE

- An Alien Management Plan must be developed and implemented during the construction phase to reduce the establishment and spread of undesirable alien plant species.

- Alien plants must be removed from the

LOW NEGATIVE

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site through appropriate methods such as hand pulling, application of chemicals, cutting, etc.

During the construction phase poor continuous rehabilitation of disturbed areas may lead to the permanent degradation of ecosystems as well as allow alien plant species to expand.

MODERATE NEGATIVE

- All impacted areas must be rehabilitated back to their original condition.

- Only topsoil from the immediate area must be used for rehabilitation.

- All impacted areas must be restored as per the Rehabilitation Management Plan.

LOW NEGATIVE

AQUATIC IMPACTS

During the construction phase, accidental contamination of wet concrete (highly alkaline) in the river could result in flash kills of macro-invertebrates and fish species in the vicinity.

MODERATE NEGATIVE

- During the construction phase no concrete mixing must take place within 32 m of the river banks.

- A serviced fire extinguisher (to neutralise pH levels if a spill occurs) must be available on site in the event that wet concrete is accidentally spilled into the rivers.

LOW NEGATIVE

During the construction phase, accidental chemical spills in the vicinity of the rivers will result in water pollution, adversely affecting the aquatic ecosystem.

MODERATE NEGATIVE

- During the construction phase no machinery must be parked overnight within 50 m of the rivers.

- All stationary machinery must be equipped with a drip tray to retain any oil leaks.

LOW NEGATIVE

During the construction phase coffer dams left in place for too long may permanently change the flow dynamics in the river, exacerbating scour and enhancing sedimentation. Both of these changes can impact negatively on the health of the aquatic ecosystem.

HIGH NEGATIVE

- During the construction phase coffer dams must not be left in place for longer than 30 days.

- All work within the river should be completed during the dry season, when flows are at their lowest.

- Water in the rivers must be allowed to pass downstream of the construction activity. If necessary this should be achieved via a temporary diversion – this should not be in place for more than 30 days.

MODERATE NEGATIVE

OPERATIONAL PHASE

GENERAL AND SPECIALIST STUDY IMPACTS SIGNIFICANCE

– PRE MITIGATION


– POST MITIGATION

GENERAL IMPACTS

During the Operational Phase, failure to implement the operational requirements as

HIGH NEGATIVE

- All relevant legislation and policy must be consulted and the proponent must ensure that the project is compliant

LOW NEGATIVE

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stated in the EA and any other permits/licenses that may be issued could result in the failure of the project and could negatively impact the surrounding environment.

with such legislation and policy. These should include (but are not restricted to): NEMA, NWA, Local and District Spatial Development Frameworks, Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (ECBCP), Local Municipal bylaws.

During the operational phase, the provision of the proposed pedestrian bridges will enable pupils of the informal settlement to attend school during flooding or periods of high river levels. The bridges will also provide access for residents who are required to undertake work on opposite sides of the river during periods of high river levels.

MODERATE POSITIVE

- There are no mitigation measures applicable to this impact MODERATE

POSITIVE

During the operational phase, the bridges will provide a much safer access route for residents, especially children, who wish to cross the Nduma or Mabele rivers during periods of high water levels.

HIGH POSITIVE

- Barriers must be placed along the sides of the bridges;

- Continued maintenance of pedestrian bridges especially following a flooding event must take place;

HIGH POSITIVE

During the operational phase, the proposed pedestrian bridges will become a permanent fixture within the area and will change the appearance of the otherwise natural landscape. The bridges will be located in a relatively low-lying area which will be visible from either side of the surrounding valley slopes.

MODERATE NEGATIVE

- Regular maintenance and upkeep (e.g. painting) must be conducted in order to ensure that the bridge does not become an eyesore.

MODERATE POSITIVE

During the operational phase, increased erosion and sedimentation into the river may occur if poor rehabilitation / re-vegetation are undertaken post construction. Erosion and sedimentation may also occur as a result of poor slope stabilisation.

MODERATE NEGATIVE

- Banks must be rehabilitated, including re-establishment of vegetation cover;


- Residents must be encouraged to use the pedestrian bridges in favour of crossing the rivers via the river banks;

- Areas along the river bank which were previously affected by erosion should be rehabilitated with indigenous vegetation where possible.

MODERATE POSITIVE

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3. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT

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

Summary of the Proposed Development The subject of this Basic Assessment Report (BAR) is the proposed construction of two (2) pedestrian bridges over the Nduma and Mabele rivers within the Senqu Local Municipality, in the Eastern Cape Province. The proposed bridges will enable residents of the informal settlements of Nothanda and Blom to safely cross the rivers during periods of flooding or high river levels. A. Alternatives The only alternatives which have been considered for this development are two layout alternatives as well as the No-go alternative: Alternative 1 (Preferred Alternative): The proposed pedestrian bridge over the Nduma River (Bridge 2) will be constructed upstream of the existing low-level causeway. This will provide additional safety for residents, especially children, as they will not be required to cross the untarred road in order to access the pedestrian bridges from the location of their houses. In addition, there is less erosion of the river banks occurring upstream of the existing causeway and therefore the bridge foundations would be less susceptible to erosion in the future. In the case of Bridge 1 (over the Mabele River), it will not be possible to position the bridge upstream of the existing low-level crossing due to position of the existing untarred road located directly adjacent to the eastern bank of the river. For this reason, the following preferred alternative is suggested: • Bridge 1 – Mabele River – downstream of existing low-level crossing • Bridge 2 – Nduma River – upstream of existing low-level crossing Alternative 2: The proposed pedestrian bridges will be constructed downstream of the existing low-

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level causeway. This alternative will have no additional environmental impacts in comparison with the preferred alternative however the significance of certain impacts makes this alternative less favourable. Residents will be required to cross the untarred road in order to access the pedestrian bridges from the location of their houses. This is especially significant to children during the mornings and afternoon when they are walking to and from the school. In addition, there is increased erosion of the river banks occurring downstream of the existing causeway and therefore the bridge foundations would be more susceptible to erosion in the future. No-go Alternative: If the status quo remains unchanged, residents will continue to cross the rivers by making use of the existing low-level causeway or by entering and exiting the rivers via the river banks. During periods of flooding or high river levels, the rivers cannot be crossed and this results in people being unable to attend work and children missing school. Residents may attempt to wade through the rivers but this is unsafe and may result in fatalities. The vegetation on site is considered mostly degraded due to the dominance of the grasses and the presence of alien vegetation (e.g. Datura stramonium and Xanthium spinosum). B. Biological Environment Vegetation The entire study area is located on Senqu Montane Shrubland which is classified as “least threatened” by NEMBA. ECBCP has classified the site as both CBA 1 and CBA 2. ECBCP states that CBA 1 areas must be maintained in a natural state, while CBA 2 areas should be maintained in a near-natural state with minimal loss of ecosystem integrity. The site observations showed that these areas were in fact not intact and have therefore been allocated a moderate sensitivity. All riparian vegetation identified onsite is classified as high sensitivity. All watercourses (with a 32 metre buffer) have been given high sensitivity. The vegetation type considered transformed has been allocated low sensitivity. Please refer to the Ecological specialist’s report in Appendix D1. Aquatic Environment An aquatic impact assessment was commissioned in order to assess the ecological importance of the aquatic environment through which the proposed bridges will be constructed. This report is included in Appendix D2. A water use licence application is required for crossing the rivers in terms of the following triggers from the National

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Water Act (No. 36 of 1998):

Section 21 (c) - impeding or diverting the flow of water in a watercourse, and

Section 21 (i) - altering the bed, banks, course or characteristics of a watercourse.

C. Conservation Status Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (ECBCP): Both bridges are located within areas defined as terrestrial and aquatic Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBA). Bridge 1 will be located within a terrestrial and aquatic CBA2 area, while Bridge 2 will be located within a terrestrial and aquatic CBA1 area. National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas: Bridge 1 will cross the Mabele River and Bridge 2 will cross the Nduma River. Both bridges will be located less than 150m from the Tele River which is a river defined by the NFEPA database. There are no NFEPA-defined wetlands within 500m of the study area. Environmental Impact Statement In terms of the environmental assessment, no impacts were identified that could not be adequately mitigated to a low significance rating. With mitigation measures in place, there are a number of significantly positive impacts which would result from the proposed development. The preferred layout alternative (Alternative 1), where the proposed bridges will be constructed upstream of the existing low-level causeways, would have slightly more significant positive impacts during the operational phase. The No-Go option (status quo remaining unchanged) would have several highly significant negative impacts. Opinion of the EAP EOH Coastal & Environmental Services hereby provides the following opinion concerning the proposed construction of pedestrian bridges over the Nduma and Mabele rivers in the Senqu Local Municipality: It is the opinion of EOH Coastal & Environmental Services (EOH CES) that NO FATAL FLAWS are associated with the proposed construction and that all impacts can be adequately mitigated to reduce the risk or significance of impacts to an acceptable level.

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

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SECTION E. RECOMMENDATIONS OF PRACTITIONER

Is the information contained in this report and the documentation attached hereto

sufficient to make a decision in respect of the activity applied for (in the view of the

environmental assessment practitioner)?

YES X

Is an EMPr attached? YES X

The EMPr must be attached as Appendix F.

If “NO”, indicate the aspects that should be assessed further as part of a Scoping and EIA process before a decision

can be made (list the aspects that require further assessment):

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

RECOMMENDATIONS TO BE CONSIDERED DURING PLANNING AND DESIGN PHASE COMPLIANCE WITH RELEVANT ENVIRONMENTAL LEGISLATION AND POLICY - All relevant legislation and policy must be consulted and the proponent must

ensure that the project is compliant with such legislation and policy. These should include (but are not restricted to): NEMA, NWA, Local and District Spatial Development Frameworks, Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (ECBCP), Local Municipal bylaws.

EMPLOYMENT CREATION AND SKILLS DEVELOPMENT - Employment opportunities for the local community must be planned for the

duration of the project. VISUAL IMPACTS - Bridges should be designed in such a way that they fit into the surrounding

environment; STORMWATER MANAGEMENT AND EROSION

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- All infrastructure situated on slopes must incorporate stormwater diversions. - Flood attenuation and stormwater management plans must be drawn up by a

qualified engineer and approved by DEDEAT, the ECO and DWS. - Stormwater designs must be in line with DWS requirements. LOSS OF NATURAL VEGETATION & LOSS OF SCC - The layout of the bridge infrastructure must minimize the impact on the natural

vegetation. INVASION OF ALIEN SPECIES - A Rehabilitation and Alien Vegetation Management Plan must be designed to

reduce the establishment and spread of undesirable alien plant species. CHANGES TO FLUVIAL GEOMORPHOLOGY - Scour countermeasures must be incorporated into the design of the bridges. STORMWATER MANAGEMENT - Adequate bank stabilisation measures must be incorporated into the design of

the bridges. RECOMMENDATIONS TO BE CONSIDERED DURING PLANNING AND DESIGN PHASE COMPLIANCE WITH RELEVANT ENVIRONMENTAL LEGISLATION AND POLICY - All relevant legislation and policy must be consulted and the proponent must

ensure that the project is compliant with such legislation and policy. - These should include (but are not restricted to): NEMA, NWA, Local and District

Spatial Development Frameworks, Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (ECBCP), Local Municipal bylaws.

EMPLOYMENT CREATION, SKILLS DEVELOPMENT AND SOCIAL WELL-BEING - People from the surrounding communities must be employed to undertake

construction activities where possible - Where possible, local construction materials must be purchased and utilized. - All local people employed from the surrounding communities must receive

adequate training. - Reference letters for employees must be provided at the completion of

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construction DUST POLLUTION - Dust masks must be provided to the workers; - The area watered downs to stabilise the dust emissions; - Covers must be used where possible during transportation and storage of

construction material; - The number, as well as the speed, of the vehicles travelling to and from the site

must be limited; - Where possible, removal of any discarded or unused material must be done so

immediately; - If possible, construction work must be paused during periods of strong winds. NOISE POLLUTION - All construction vehicles and equipment must be properly serviced in order to

meet the necessary noise level requirements; - Work must be restricted to daylight hours (7am to 5pm); - Any unnecessary noise must be restricted e.g. portable radios, vehicle radios,

whistles etc.; - Construction employees must be housed away from site; - Senqu Local Municipality and/or the Joe Gqabi District Municipality by-laws

regarding noise must be adhered to. HERITAGE - In the event of any incidental archaeological or cultural heritage resources being

encountered during the course of construction, the ‘Heritage Protocol for Incidental Finds during the Construction Phase’ should be followed (please refer to Appendix D); Should fossil remains be discovered during any phase of construction, either on the surface or exposed by fresh excavations, the ECO responsible for these developments should be alerted;


GENERAL WASTE MANAGEMENT - Concrete and rubble must be reused and/or recycled where possible; - Waste that cannot be reused or recycled must be disposed of in the correct

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manner at the nearest registered waste disposal site in Barkly East; - Litter must be discarded into scavenger proof bins and removed from site on a

weekly basis; - Any hazardous materials (e.g. fuel or oil) must be disposed of immediately and in

the correct manner; - General good house-keeping must be practiced on site. - An environmental management programme incorporating waste management

issues during the construction phase of the project has been developed and must be implemented;

- A post-construction audit conducted by an independent ECO must ensure compliance with this mitigation.

VISUAL IMPACTS - The construction site must be kept as neat as possible; - Equipment not being used must be removed from site; - Waste must be disposed of appropriately; - Erosion mitigation measures outlined in this report must be implemented to

minimize the aesthetic impact on the site EROSION & SEDIMENTATION - Clearing or disturbance of vegetation should be kept to a minimum; - Any cleared or exposed areas must be rehabilitated with indigenous vegetation at

the earliest possible stage; - Remediation action must be taken at the first sign of any erosion; - Temporary stabilization measures may need to be enforced to prevent exposed

soils from undergoing erosion e.g. silt traps; - After construction, all slopes must be stabilised (e.g. with stone gabions, netting,

re-vegetation etc.) to reduce the risk of erosion; - Where possible, stockpiled topsoil must be used in rehabilitation. MATERIAL STOCKPILING - No construction material must be stored within 50 m of a watercourse. - Stockpiles within 100 m of a watercourse must be monitored for erosion and

mobilisation of materials towards watercourses. If this is noted by an ECO, suitable cut-off drains or berms must be placed between the stockpile area and the nearest watercourse.

STORMWATER MANAGEMENT AND EROSION - Flood attenuation and stormwater management plans must be drawn up by a

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qualified engineer and approved by DWS. - An Erosion and Sediment Management Plan must be developed to minimise the

ingress of sediment-laden stormwater into rivers and minimise erosion of the surrounding environment.

RIPARIAN VEGETATION - The construction footprint must be surveyed and demarcated prior to construction

commencing. - Where vegetation has been cleared, site rehabilitation in terms of soil stabilisation

and revegetation must be undertaken. LOSS OF NATURAL VEGETATION & LOSS OF SCC - The construction footprint must be surveyed and demarcated prior to construction

commencing. - Where vegetation has been cleared, site rehabilitation in terms of soil stabilisation

and revegetation must be undertaken. - All areas that will be impacted must be surveyed prior to topsoil removal in order

to locate and rescue any SCC within the area and relocate them. - No SCC must be removed from site. All SCC must be relocated immediately

outside the construction and operational footprint. - Search and rescue must be undertaken by a professional and qualified botanist. - The contractor’s staff must not poach or trap wild animals. - The contractor’s staff must not harvest any natural vegetation. INVASION OF ALIEN SPECIES - An Alien Management Plan must be developed and implemented during the

construction phase to reduce the establishment and spread of undesirable alien plant species.

- Alien plants must be removed from the site through appropriate methods such as hand pulling, application of chemicals, cutting, etc.

- All impacted areas must be rehabilitated back to their original condition. - Only topsoil from the immediate area must be used for rehabilitation. - All impacted areas must be restored as per the Rehabilitation Management Plan. WATER QUALITY - During the construction phase no concrete mixing must take place within 32 m of

the river banks. - A serviced fire extinguisher (to neutralise pH levels if a spill occurs) must be

available on site in the event that wet concrete is accidentally spilled into the

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rivers. RIPARIAN VEGETATION - During the construction phase no machinery must be parked overnight within 50

m of the rivers. - All stationary machinery must be equipped with a drip tray to retain any oil leaks. HYDROLOGY - During the construction phase coffer dams must not be left in place for longer

than 30 days. - All work within the river should be completed during the dry season, when flows

are at their lowest. - Water in the rivers must be allowed to pass downstream of the construction

activity. If necessary this should be achieved via a temporary diversion – this should not be in place for more than 30 days.

RECOMMENDATIONS TO BE CONSIDERED DURING OPERATIONAL PHASE COMPLIANCE WITH RELEVANT ENVIRONMENTAL LEGISLATION AND POLICY - All relevant legislation and policy must be consulted and the proponent must

ensure that the project is compliant with such legislation and policy. These should include (but are not restricted to): NEMA, NWA, Local and District Spatial Development Frameworks, Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (ECBCP), Local Municipal bylaws.

HEALTH & SAFETY - Barriers must be placed along the sides of the bridges; - Continued maintenance of pedestrian bridges especially following a flooding

event must take place; VISUAL IMPACTS - Regular maintenance and upkeep (e.g. painting) must be conducted in order to

ensure that the bridge does not become an eyesore. STORMWATER MANAGEMENT AND EROSION - Flood attenuation and stormwater management plans must be drawn up by a

qualified engineer and approved by DWS. - An Erosion and Sediment Management Plan must be developed to minimise the

ingress of sediment-laden stormwater into rivers and minimise the erosion of the

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surrounding environment. - Banks must be rehabilitated, including re-establishment of vegetation cover; - Continued maintenance of pedestrian bridges especially following a flooding

event must take place; - Residents must be encouraged to use the pedestrian bridges in favour of

crossing the rivers via the river banks; - Areas along the river bank which were previously affected by erosion should be

rehabilitated with indigenous vegetation where possible. - Adequate bank stabilisation measures must be incorporated into the design of

the bridges and implemented. INVASION OF ALIEN SPECIES - An Alien Plant Management Plan must be implemented during the operational

phase to reduce the establishment and spread of undesirable alien plant species. - Alien plants must be removed through appropriate methods such as hand pulling,

application of chemicals, cutting, etc. as in accordance to the NEMBA: Alien Invasive Species Regulations.

WATER QUALITY - Scour countermeasures must be incorporated into the design of the bridges and

implemented.

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SECTION F: APPENDICES

The following appendixes must be attached as appropriate:

Appendix A: Site plan(s)

Appendix B: Photographs

Appendix C: Facility illustration(s)

Appendix D: Specialist reports

Appendix E: Comments and responses report

Appendix F: Environmental Management Programme (EMPr)

Appendix G: Other information




Appendix A: Site Plan




Appendix B: Photographs







Appendix C: Facility Illustrations










Appendix D: Specialist Reports

APPENDIX D1: Ecological Impact Assessment




APPENDIX D2: Aquatic Impact Assessment




APPENDIX D3: Archaeological & Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment




APPENDIX D4: Palaeontological Impact Assessment




Appendix E: Comments and Responses Report

No comments received to date.




Appendix F: Environmental Management Programme




Appendix G: Other Information

APPENDIX G1: Public Participation

Land Owner Notification




Stakeholder Notification




Letter of Notification







Background Information Document



















Stakeholder and I&AP database

Organisation Name Email Tel Cell Fax Postal Address

Joe Gqabi DM Municipal Manager Zolile Willams [email protected] 045 979 3006 043 742 0337

Joe Gqabi DM Comm Serv Director Fiona Sephton [email protected] 045 979 3143

Joe Gqabi DM Environmental Manager Malefu Saule [email protected] 045 979 3143

Joe Gqabi DM Technical Services Director Robert Fortuin [email protected] 045 979 3109

Joe Gqabi DM DEA Local Gvt Support Rose Jule [email protected]/[email protected] 979 3165 078 789 8686 Cnr Cole & Graham Street, Barkly East, 9786

Senqu LM Municipal Manager Mxolisi Yawa [email protected] 051 603 1309 082 856 6773

Senqu LM DTPS Director Palesa Bushula [email protected] 051 603 2310 073 295 4961

Senqu LM Ward 5 Councillor Cllr Lamani 078 579 2982

ECPHRA Sello Mokhanya [email protected]

ECPHRA Mzikayise L Zote [email protected] 043 642 2811 043 642 2812

ECPHRA Mzolisi Matutu [email protected] 043 604 4019/4020

DEDEAT (Joe Gqabi) Sandiso Mabhongo [email protected] 051 633 2901 27 Queens Terrace, Aliwal North

DWS (WMA 6) Bloemfontein Vernon Blair [email protected] 051 405 9000

DWS (WMA 6) Bloemfontein Carlo Schrader [email protected] 051 405 9247

DWS (WMA 6) Bloemfontein Klaas W Moos [email protected] 051 405 9162

Farm Number Farm Name/Nr Name Email Tel Cell Fax Postal Address

Landowners

Senqu LM All Erfs 043 705 1793

Farm Number Name Email Tel Cell Postal Address

Surrounding Landowners

I &APS

Stakeholders




Site Notices




APPENDIX G2: Impact Assessment – Detailed Summary of Impacts related to the Preferred Alternative

ISSUE OR ACTIVITY

DIRECT / INDIRECT /

CUMULATIVE

GENERAL AND SPECIALIST STUDY IMPACTS

SPATIAL SCALE

TEMPORAL SCALE /

DURATION

CERTAINTY SCALE /

LIKELIHOOD

SEVERITY / BENEFICIAL

SCALE

SIGNIFICANCE – PRE

MITIGATION MITIGATION MEASURES

SIGNIFICANCE – POST

MITIGATION


GENERAL IMPACTS

Compliance with

relevant environ-mental

legislation and policy

Direct Cumulative

During the Planning and Design Phase, failure to comply with existing policies and legal obligations could lead to the project conflicting with local, provincial and national policies, legislation etc. This could result in legal non-compliance, fines, overall project failure or delays in mining activity and undue disturbance to the natural environment.

Local-ised

Long-term Possible Severe HIGH NEGATIVE

All relevant legislation and policy must be consulted and the proponent must ensure that the project is compliant with such legislation and policy. These should include (but are not restricted to): NEMA, NWA, Local and District Spatial Development Frameworks, Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (ECBCP), Local Municipal bylaws.

LOW NEGATIVE

Job creation and skills develop-

ment.

Direct During the Planning and Design Phase, provision must be made for employment opportunities for the duration of the project for the local community where possible.

Local-ised

Permanent Definite Beneficial LOW POSITIVE

Employment opportunities for the local community must be planned for the duration of the project.

MODERATE POSITIVE

Visual Impacts

Direct During the operational phase, the proposed pedestrian bridges will become a permanent fixture within the area and will change the appearance of the otherwise natural landscape. The bridges will be located in a relatively

Study Area

Permanent May Occur Moderate MODERATE NEGATIVE

Bridges should be designed in such a way that they fit into the surrounding environment.

MODERATE POSITIVE




ISSUE OR ACTIVITY

DIRECT / INDIRECT /

CUMULATIVE


SPATIAL SCALE

TEMPORAL SCALE /

DURATION

CERTAINTY SCALE /

LIKELIHOOD


SCALE




MITIGATION


low-lying area which will be visible from either side of the surrounding valley slopes.

ECOLOGICAL IMPACTS

Stormwater manage-ment and erosion

Direct Cumulative

During the planning and design phase the inappropriate design of stormwater structures may result in increased levels of erosion, sedimentation and pollution of surrounding environments.

Local-ised



- All infrastructure situated on slopes must incorporate stormwater diversions.

- Flood attenuation and stormwater management plans must be drawn up by a qualified engineer and approved by DEDEAT, the ECO and DWS.

- Stormwater designs must be in line with DWS requirements.

MODERATE NEGATIVE

Loss of natural

vegetation &SCC

Direct Cumulative

During the planning and design phase the inappropriate design of the project infrastructure will lead to the unnecessary loss of natural vegetation and the loss of species of conservation concern.

Local-ised

Medium-term

Definite Moderately severe

MODERATE NEGATIVE

The layout of the bridge infrastructure must minimize the impact on the natural vegetation.

LOW NEGATIVE

Invasion of alien plant

species

Direct Cumulative

During the planning and design phase the failure to plan for the removal of alien vegetation could result in the invasion of alien vegetation

Local-ised

Permanent Definite Moderately Severe

MODERATE NEGATIVE

A Rehabilitation and Alien Vegetation Management Plan must be designed to reduce the establishment and spread of undesirable alien plant species.

LOW NEGATIVE




ISSUE OR ACTIVITY

DIRECT / INDIRECT /

CUMULATIVE


SPATIAL SCALE

TEMPORAL SCALE /

DURATION

CERTAINTY SCALE /

LIKELIHOOD


SCALE




MITIGATION


during the construction and operation phase.

AQUATIC IMPACTS

Changes to fluvial geomor-phology

Direct During the planning and design phase incorrect design of bridge pilings or culverts may result in scouring of the river bed in areas immediately surrounding the pilings or culverts.

Local-ised

Long term Possible Moderately severe

MODERATE NEGATIVE

Scour countermeasures must be incorporated into the design of the bridges.

LOW NEGATIVE

Direct During the planning and design phase insufficient planning for erosion prevention along the banks of the rivers alongside the bridge structures will result in erosion that may eventually impair the safety of the structures.

Local-ised and down-stream

Long term Possible Moderately severe

MODERATE NEGATIVE

Adequate bank stabilisation measures must be incorporated into the design of the bridges.

LOW NEGATIVE

ISSUE OR ACTIVITY

DIRECT / INDIRECT /

CUMULATIVE


SPATIAL SCALE

TEMPORAL SCALE /

DURATION

CERTAINTY SCALE /

LIKELIHOOD


SCALE




MITIGATION

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

GENERAL IMPACTS




ISSUE OR ACTIVITY

DIRECT / INDIRECT /

CUMULATIVE


SPATIAL SCALE

TEMPORAL SCALE /

DURATION

CERTAINTY SCALE /

LIKELIHOOD


SCALE




MITIGATION

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Compliance with relevant environmental legislation and policy

Direct Cumulative

During the Construction Phase, failure to comply with existing policies and legal obligations could lead to the project conflicting with local, provincial and national policies, legislation etc. This could result in legal non-compliance, fines, overall project failure or delays in mining activity and undue disturbance to the natural environment.

Local-ised


- All relevant legislation and policy must be consulted and the proponent must ensure that the project is compliant with such legislation and policy.

- These should include (but are not

restricted to): NEMA, NWA, Local

and District Spatial Development

Frameworks, Eastern Cape

Biodiversity Conservation Plan

(ECBCP), Local Municipal

bylaws.

LOW NEGATIVE

Employ-ment, Skills Develop-ment and Economic Gain

Direct During the construction phase, the project will create a number or temporary jobs.

Local-ised

Short-term Probable Slight Beneficial

LOW POSITIVE

- People from the surrounding communities must be employed to undertake construction activities where possible

- Where possible, local construction materials must be purchased and utilized.

MODERATE POSITIVE

Indirect During the construction phase, the employment of members of the local community will provide skills development which will improve the employability of these community members.

Local-ised

Short-term May Occur Slight Beneficial

LOW POSITIVE

- All local people employed from the surrounding communities must receive adequate training.

- Refernece letters for employees must be provided at the completion of construction.

MODERATE POSITIVE

Dust Direct During the construction phase, Dust pollution resulting from excavations, stockpiled soil and movement of construction vehicle can become a

Study Area

Short-term Definite Moderate MODERATE NEGATIVE

- Dust masks must be provided to the workers;

- The area watered downs to stabilise the dust emissions;

- covers must be used where possible during transportation and

LOW NEGATIVE




ISSUE OR ACTIVITY

DIRECT / INDIRECT /

CUMULATIVE


SPATIAL SCALE

TEMPORAL SCALE /

DURATION

CERTAINTY SCALE /

LIKELIHOOD


SCALE




MITIGATION

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

nuisance factor to the construction workers as well as the residents of the surrounding informal settlement.

storage of construction material; - the number, as well as the speed,

of the vehicles travelling to and from the site must be limited;

- Where possible, removal of any discarded or unused material must be done so immediately;

- If possible, construction work must be paused during periods of strong winds.

Noise Direct During construction, noise will be created by the construction equipment, the workers as well as the construction vehicles both on site as well as during travel to and from the site. While the ambient noise level of the study area is likely to increase, the increase is unlikely to have any significant impact on the local community.

Study Area


- All construction vehicles and equipment must be properly serviced in order to meet the necessary noise level requirements;

- Work must be restricted to daylight hours (7am to 5pm);

- Any unnecessary noise must be restricted e.g. portable radios, vehicle radios, whistles etc.;

- Construction employees must be housed away from site;

- Senqu Local Municipality and/or the Joe Gqabi District Municipality by-laws regarding noise must be adhered to.

LOW NEGATIVE

Heritage Direct In the unlikely event that fossils or cultural remains occur during the construction phase, they are likely to be damaged during excavation and their heritage value lost in the process.

Study Area

Permanent Unlikely Severe MODERATE NEGATIVE

- In the event of any incidental archaeological or cultural heritage resources being encountered during the course of construction, the ‘Heritage Protocol for Incidental Finds during the Construction Phase’ should be followed (please refer to Appendix D);

- Should fossil remains be

LOW NEGATIVE




ISSUE OR ACTIVITY

DIRECT / INDIRECT /

CUMULATIVE


SPATIAL SCALE

TEMPORAL SCALE /

DURATION

CERTAINTY SCALE /

LIKELIHOOD


SCALE




MITIGATION

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

discovered during any phase of construction, either on the surface or exposed by fresh excavations, the ECO responsible for these developments should be alerted;


General Waste Management

Direct The construction phase will result in the generation of construction waste such as building rubble, excess concrete and general waste created by workers. The inappropriate disposal of construction waste can result in the pollution of sensitive environments.

Study Area

Short-term Probable Moderate MODERATE NEGATIVE

- Concrete and rubble must be reused and/or recycled where possible;

- Waste that cannot be reused or recycled must be disposed of in the correct manner at the nearest registered waste disposal site in Barkly East;

- Litter must be discarded into scavenger proof bins and removed from site on a weekly basis;

- Any hazardous materials (e.g. fuel or oil) must be disposed of immediately and in the correct manner;

- General good house-keeping must be practiced on site.

- An environmental management programme incorporating waste management issues during the construction phase of the project has been developed and must be

LOW NEGATIVE




ISSUE OR ACTIVITY

DIRECT / INDIRECT /

CUMULATIVE


SPATIAL SCALE

TEMPORAL SCALE /

DURATION

CERTAINTY SCALE /

LIKELIHOOD


SCALE




MITIGATION

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

implemented; - A post-construction audit

conducted by an independent ECO must ensure compliance with this mitigation.

Visual Impacts

Direct The general aesthetics of the landscape will be impacted by construction vehicles and construction equipment for the duration of the construction phase.

Study Area


- The construction site must be kept as neat as possible;

- Equipment not being used must be removed from site;

- Waste must be disposed of appropriately;

- Erosion mitigation measures outlined in this report must be implemented to minimize the aesthetic impact on the site

LOW NEGATIVE

Vegetation Clearing

Direct During the construction phase, soil compaction inhibits water absorption as well as plant growth. Vegetation clearing on site may also expose soils which are then easily susceptible to wind and/or water erosion. Increased erosion may result in excess sedimentation within the rivers.

Study Area


- Clearing or disturbance of vegetation should be kept to a minimum;

- Any cleared or exposed areas must be rehabilitated with indigenous vegetation at the earliest possible stage;

- Remediation action must be taken at the first sign of any erosion;

- Temporary stabilization measures may need to be enforced to prevent exposed soils from undergoing erosion e.g. silt traps;

- After construction, all slopes must be stabilised (e.g. with stone gabions, netting, re-vegetation etc.) to reduce the risk of erosion;

- Where possible, stockpiled topsoil must be used in rehabilitation.

LOW NEGATIVE




ISSUE OR ACTIVITY

DIRECT / INDIRECT /

CUMULATIVE


SPATIAL SCALE

TEMPORAL SCALE /

DURATION

CERTAINTY SCALE /

LIKELIHOOD


SCALE




MITIGATION

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

ECOLOGICAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

Material Stockpiling

Direct During the construction phase the stockpiling of materials within 50 m of sensitive environments (watercourses) could result in erosion and mobilisation into nearby watercourses, resulting in sedimentation and a decrease in quality of the aquatic habitat.

Local-ised

Short-term Possible Moderate MODERATE NEGATIVE

- No construction material must be stored within 50 m of a watercourse.

- Stockpiles within 100 m of a watercourse must be monitored for erosion and mobilisation of materials towards watercourses. If this is noted by an ECO, suitable cut-off drains or berms must be placed between the stockpile area and the nearest watercourse.

LOW NEGATIVE

Stormwater management and erosion

Direct During the construction phase the inappropriate routing of stormwater will lead to stream sedimentation and erosion of the surrounding environment.

Local-ised


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

- An Erosion and Sediment Management Plan must be developed to minimise the ingress of sediment-laden stormwater into rivers and minimise erosion of the surrounding environment.

LOW NEGATIVE

Riparian vegetation

Direct During the construction phase the inappropriate removal of sensitive riparian vegetation will adversely affect identified sensitive environments.

Study Area

Medium-term

Possible Moderate MODERATE NEGATIVE


- Where vegetation has been cleared, site rehabilitation in terms of soil stabilisation and revegetation must be undertaken.

LOW NEGATIVE

Loss of natural vegetation

Direct During the construction phase the clearing of vegetation outside the approved footprint (site camp, bridge layout) will lead to the unnecessary loss

Local-ised

Medium-term



- Where vegetation has been cleared, site rehabilitation in terms of soil stabilisation and

LOW NEGATIVE




ISSUE OR ACTIVITY

DIRECT / INDIRECT /

CUMULATIVE


SPATIAL SCALE

TEMPORAL SCALE /

DURATION

CERTAINTY SCALE /

LIKELIHOOD


SCALE




MITIGATION

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

of natural vegetation. revegetation must be undertaken

Loss of SCC

Direct During the construction phase the clearing of natural vegetation may lead to the destruction of habitats and the loss of identified and unidentified plant SCC.

Study Area

Medium-term


- All areas that will be impacted must be surveyed prior to topsoil removal in order to locate and rescue any SCC within the area and relocate them.

- No SCC must be removed from site. All SCC must be relocated immediately outside the construction and operational footprint.

- Search and rescue must be undertaken by a professional and qualified botanist.

- The contractor’s staff must not poach or trap wild animals.

- The contractor’s staff must not harvest any natural vegetation.

LOW NEGATIVE

Invasion of alien plant species

Direct During the construction phase the clearing of natural vegetation creates ‘open’ habitats that will favour the establishment of undesirable alien plant species in areas that are typically very difficult to eradicate and may pose a threat to neighbouring natural ecosystems.

Local-ised

Long-term Probable Moderate MODERATE NEGATIVE

- An Alien Management Plan must be developed and implemented during the construction phase to reduce the establishment and spread of undesirable alien plant species.

- Alien plants must be removed from the site through appropriate methods such as hand pulling, application of chemicals, cutting, etc.

LOW NEGATIVE

AQUATIC IMPACTS

Water Quality

Direct During the construction phase, accidental contamination of wet concrete (highly alkaline) in the river could result in flash kills of macro-invertebrates

Local-ised


- During the construction phase no concrete mixing must take place within 32 m of the river banks.

- A serviced fire extinguisher (to neutralise pH levels if a spill occurs) must be available on site

LOW NEGATIVE




ISSUE OR ACTIVITY

DIRECT / INDIRECT /

CUMULATIVE


SPATIAL SCALE

TEMPORAL SCALE /

DURATION

CERTAINTY SCALE /

LIKELIHOOD


SCALE




MITIGATION

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

and fish species in the vicinity (see appendix A).

in the event that wet concrete is accidentally spilled into the rivers.

During the construction phase, accidental chemical spills in the vicinity of the rivers will result in water pollution, adversely affecting the aquatic ecosystem.

Local-ised


- During the construction phase no machinery must be parked overnight within 50 m of the rivers.

- All stationary machinery must be equipped with a drip tray to retain any oil leaks.

LOW NEGATIVE

Hydrology Direct During the construction phase coffer dams left in place for too long may permanently change the flow dynamics in the river, exacerbating scour and enhancing sedimentation. Both of these changes can impact negatively on the health of the aquatic ecosystem.

Local-ised

(Down-stream)

Medium-term

Possible Severe HIGH NEGATIVE

- During the construction phase coffer dams must not be left in place for longer than 30 days.

- All work within the river should be completed during the dry season, when flows are at their lowest.

- Water in the rivers must be allowed to pass downstream of the construction activity. If necessary this should be achieved via a temporary diversion – this should not be in place for more than 30 days.

MODERATE NEGATIVE




ISSUE OR ACTIVITY

DIRECT / INDIRECT / CUMULATIVE


SPATIAL SCALE

TEMPORAL SCALE /

DURATION

CERTAINTY SCALE /

LIKELIHOOD


SCALE


MITIGATION - MITIGATION MEASURES


MITIGATION

OPERATIONAL PHASE

GENERAL IMPACTS

Compliance with relevant environmental legislation and policy

Direct Cumulative

During the Operational Phase, failure to implement the operational requirements as stated in the EA and any other permits/licenses that may be issued could result in the failure of the project and could negatively impact the surrounding environment.

Local-ised


- All relevant legislation and policy must be consulted and the proponent must ensure that the project is compliant with such legislation and policy. These should include (but are not restricted to): NEMA, NWA, Local and District Spatial Development Frameworks, Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan (ECBCP), Local Municipal bylaws.

LOW NEGATIVE

Improved Education and Economic Benefits

Indirect During the operational phase, the provision of the proposed pedestrian bridges will enable pupils of the informal settlement to attend school during flooding or periods of high river levels. The bridges will also provide access for residents who are required to undertake work on opposite sides of the river during periods of high river levels.

Study Area

Permanent Probable Moderate Beneficial

MODERATE POSITIVE

- There are no mitigation measures applicable to this impact MODERATE

POSITIVE

Health and Safety

Direct During the operational phase, the bridges will provide a much safer access route for residents, especially children, who wish to cross the Nduma or Mabele rivers during periods

Study Area

Permanent Definite Beneficial HIGH POSITIVE

- Barriers must be placed along the sides of the bridges;


HIGH POSITIVE




ISSUE OR ACTIVITY

DIRECT / INDIRECT / CUMULATIVE


SPATIAL SCALE

TEMPORAL SCALE /

DURATION

CERTAINTY SCALE /

LIKELIHOOD


SCALE


MITIGATION - MITIGATION MEASURES


MITIGATION

OPERATIONAL PHASE

of high water levels.

Visual Impacts

Direct During the operational phase, the proposed pedestrian bridges will become a permanent fixture within the area and will change the appearance of the otherwise natural landscape. The bridges will be located in a relatively low-lying area which will be visible from either side of the surrounding valley slopes.

Study Area


- Regular maintenance and upkeep (e.g. painting) must be conducted in order to ensure that the bridge does not become an eyesore.

MODERATE POSITIVE

Erosion and Sedimentation

Direct During the operational phase, increased erosion and sedimentation into the river may occur if poor rehabilitation / re-vegetation are undertaken post construction. Erosion and sedimentation may also occur as a result of poor slope stabilisation.

Study Area


- Banks must be rehabilitated, including re-establishment of vegetation cover;


- Residents must be encouraged to use the pedestrian bridges in favour of crossing the rivers via the river banks;

- Areas along the river bank which were previously affected by erosion should be rehabilitated with indigenous vegetation where possible.

MODERATE POSITIVE

DECOMMISIONING PHASE

There are no impacts related to the decommissioning phase of the proposed project. This is due to the fact that the pedestrian bridges are intended to be permanent fixtures allowing pedestrians to cross the Nduma and Mabele Rivers.




Documents

DRAFT BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT DEDEAT REF: PROPOSED … Local Municipality... · 2017-06-13 · Email: [email protected] or [email protected] A full Curriculum Vitae is provided