BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT- DRAFT 1 - IDM Consultants

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT- DRAFT 1 For the proposed Sterkspruit Industrial Park, located on Portion 4 of Lot A Sterkspruit no.2627, situated

within the Outer Western Region of the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality.

Prepared for Prepared by

Catchway Properties (Pty) Ltd

73 Villiers Drive Clarendon Pietermaritzburg 087 802 1191

[email protected]

1 Flamboyant Cl, Glen Anil, Durban North,

KwaZulu-Natal

031 566 2856

[email protected]

EDTEA Reference Number: DM/0005/2018

NEAS: KZN/EIA/0000812/2018

March 2018

mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

Draft Basic Assessment Report: Proposed Sterkspruit Industrial Park: Outer Western Region: eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality

2

DETAILS OF THE INDEPENDENT ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT PRACTITIONER (EAP) FOR

THE BASIC ASSESSMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

Compiled by:

EAP: Justin Ellero

Qualifications: MSc (Geography) (UKZN) • BSSH (Environmental Science – Cum Laude) (UKZN) • BSoc

(Geography and Environmental Management) (UKZN) • Advanced Course

(Environmental Law) (UNISA)

Work Experience: Justin Ellero is an Environmental Assessment Practitioner with experience in conducting

Environmental Impact Assessments, Water Use License Applications, Mining applications

and Waste Management Licensing. His project experience list includes municipal pipelines,

Eskom powerlines, Eco-Lodge developments, residential estates, mining permits and

development at the King Shaka International Airport.

I, Justin Pietro Ellero confirm:

The correctness of all information within the BAR and EMP;

All I&AP comments and inputs will be included into this Report;

The inclusion of inputs and recommendations from the specialist reports where relevant; and

I do not have and will not have any vested interest (either business, financial, personal or other)

in the proposed activity proceeding other than remuneration for work performed in terms of

the Regulations.

An undertaking of oath was provided in the Application for Environmental Authorisation form.


3

Project Team for the proposed Sterkspruit Industrial Development:

Name Role Company Qualifications

Mr. Justin Ellero Environmental

Assessment

Practitioner

IDM Environmental MSc Geography (UKZN)

Mr. Karl Wiggishoff Internal Reviewer of

Reports

Director of IDM

Consultants

Masters Environmental,

Planning and Development

Law (SUN)

Ms. Louise Zdanow Botanical and

Freshwater

Specialist

Director of

EnviroSwift

BSc Honours Botany

(UCT)

Pr.Sci.Nat

Mr. Karl Ribbink Geotechnical

Assessment

Drennan Maud (Pty)

Ltd

MSAIEG

Pri. Sci. Nat.

Mr. Neeraj Sunker Traffic Assessment NSA Consulting

Engineers

M Tech Civil Engineering


4

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 BACKGROUND INFORMATION ........................................................................................... 10

1.1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................ 10

1.2 LOCATION OF PROJECT ......................................................................................... 10

1.3 LISTED AND SPECIFIED ACTIVITIES ...................................................................... 13

1.4 TERMS OF REFERENCE .......................................................................................... 13

1.5 APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY ......................................................................... 14

1.6 REPORT STRUCTURE .............................................................................................. 14

1.7 APPLICABLE LEGISLATION, POLICIES AND GUIDELINES .................................. 14

2 DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED ACTIVITY ........................................................................... 16

2.1 ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION .......................................................................................... 16

2.1.1 Extent of development ................................................................................................ 16

2.1.2 Site Planning and Design............................................................................................ 16

2.1.3 Site preparation/Establishment ................................................................................... 16

2.1.4 Construction ............................................................................................................... 17

2.1.5 Operation .................................................................................................................... 19

2.1.6 Access to the site........................................................................................................ 22

2.1.7 Rehabilitation .............................................................................................................. 22

2.2 SERVICE PROVISION ............................................................................................... 24

2.2.1 Water Provision .......................................................................................................... 24

2.2.2 Sewage disposal ........................................................................................................ 24

2.2.3 Roads ......................................................................................................................... 24

2.2.4 Stormwater Drainage .................................................................................................. 25

2.2.5 Electricity .................................................................................................................... 25

2.2.6 Solid waste removal .................................................................................................... 25


5

2.3 NEED AND DESIRABILITY OF PROPOSED ACTIVITY ........................................... 25

2.4 CONSIDERATION OF ALTERNATIVES .................................................................... 26

2.4.1 Description of preferred alternative ............................................................................. 26

2.4.2 Details of alternatives considered ............................................................................... 26

2.4.2.1 Activity alternatives ..................................................................................................... 26

2.4.2.2 Location alternatives ................................................................................................... 27

2.4.2.3 Layout Alternatives ..................................................................................................... 27

2.4.2.4 Scheduling alternatives ............................................................................................... 29

2.4.2.5 Infrastructure alternatives ........................................................................................... 29

2.4.2.6 “No-go” alternative ...................................................................................................... 29

3 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ..................................................................................................... 31

3.1 REQUIREMENTS OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

REGULATIONS OF 2014 (AS AMENDED) ................................................................ 31

3.1.1 Public Participation for the Basic Assessment Report (BAR) ...................................... 33

3.1.2 Register of interested and affected parties .................................................................. 33

3.1.3 Public Meetings .......................................................................................................... 33

3.1.4 Comments received from the Departments and Stakeholders .................................... 33

4 SITUATION ASSESSMENT OF PROJECT AREA AND AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT ........ 37

4.1 CLIMATE ................................................................................................................... 37

4.2 DESCRIPTION OF SURROUNDING ENVIRONMENT............................................... 37

4.3 DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC ENVIRONMENTAL FEATURES AND

INFRASTRUCTURE ON THE SITE PROPERTY ....................................................... 37

4.4 TOPOGRAPHY AND GEOLOGY ............................................................................... 38

4.5 FLORA AND FAUNA ................................................................................................. 39

4.6 WATER MANAGEMENT AREAS .............................................................................. 41

4.7 SITES WITH ARCHAEOLOGICAL INTEREST .......................................................... 44


6

4.8 SOCIAL - ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT .................................................................... 44

4.9 PHOTOGRAPHIC EVIDENCE OF PROPERTY ......................................................... 45

5 IMPACT ASSESSMENT ........................................................................................................ 47

5.1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................ 47

5.2 IMPACT ASSESSMENT CRITERIA ........................................................................... 47

5.2.1 Nature of impact ......................................................................................................... 47

5.2.2 Extent/scale ................................................................................................................ 47

5.2.3 Duration ...................................................................................................................... 47

5.2.4 Intensity ...................................................................................................................... 47

5.2.5 Probability ................................................................................................................... 48

5.2.6 Assessment of Potential Impacts ................................................................................ 50

5.3 SUMMARY OF SPECIALIST STUDIES ..................................................................... 61

5.4 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT ............................................................... 61

5.4.1 Environmental Impact Statement ................................................................................ 61

5.4.2 Proposed impact management objectives and the impact management outcomes for

inclusion in the EMPr .................................................................................................. 62

5.4.3 Buffers ........................................................................................................................ 62

5.4.4 Aspects for inclusion as conditions of Authorisation .................................................... 66

5.4.5 Description of any assumptions, uncertainties and gaps in knowledge ....................... 66

5.4.6 Period for which the Environmental Authorisation is required ..................................... 66

6 SUMMARY ............................................................................................................................ 67

ANNEXURE A: LOCALITY MAP ...................................................................................................... 68

ANNEXURE B: LAYOUT/SKETCH PLAN ........................................................................................ 69

L IST OF TABLES Table 1: Summary of property details for the Sterkspruit Industrial Park .............................................................. 10


7

Table 2: Triggered Activities for the proposed Sterkspruit Industrial Park ............................................................. 13

Table 3: Additional applicable legislation for the proposed Sterkspruit Industrial Park ......................................... 15

Table 4: Activity Alternatives ................................................................................................................................... 27

Table 5: Layout Alternatives .................................................................................................................................... 28

Table 6: Public Participation Process to be followed .............................................................................................. 31

Table 7: Proposed Comments and Responses Summary ........................................................................................ 34

Table 8: Surrounding land uses ............................................................................................................................... 37

Table 9: Advantages and Disadvantages of the proposed development ................................................................ 61

L IST OF FIGURES Figure 1: Location of the proposed Sterkspruit Industrial Park .............................................................................. 11

Figure 2: Regional view of the proposed Sterkspruit industrial Park ...................................................................... 12

Figure 3: Expansion of development into DMOSS layer (Yellow highlighted areas) ............................................... 18

Figure 4: Proposed Sterkspruit Industrial Park Layout ............................................................................................ 21

Figure 5: Proposed existing access road to the proposed Sterkspruit Industrial Park ............................................ 23

Figure 6: Initial proposed expansion into DMOSS ................................................................................................... 29

Figure 7: Initial proposed expansion of project layout into DMOSS ...................................................................... 30

Figure 8: Existing features on the Sterkspruit property ......................................................................................... 38

Figure 9: Critical Biodiversity Areas and Biodiversity Areas indicated by the KZN TSCP and the KZN BSP ............. 39

Figure 10: Developed areas indicated as an irreplaceable CBA .............................................................................. 40

Figure 11: Surrounding watercourses adjacent to the Sterkspruit property ......................................................... 43

Figure 12: The Sterkspruit Industrial Park Buffer Map ............................................................................................ 64

Figure 13: Existing development within the buffer zone ....................................................................................... 65

L IST OF IMAGES Image 1: Building regulations for Light Industrial 3 ................................................................................................ 20

Image 2: Car park and existing buildings facing East ............................................................................................... 45

Image 3: Existing buildings to the South of the property ........................................................................................ 45

Image 4: Derelict buildings to the North of the property ....................................................................................... 46

Image 5: Surrounding communities adjacent to the proposed development ........................................................ 46


8

L IST OF APPENDICES Appendix 1: Environmental Management Plan

Appendix 2: Public Participation Process Report (To be provided with Final Report)

Appendix 3: Botanical Screening Assessment

Appendix 4: Freshwater Specialist Assessment

Appendix 5: Geotechnical Investigation

Appendix 6: Traffic Impact Assessment

Appendix 7: Engineering Report

ABBREVIATIONS

BA Basic Assessment

BSP Biodiversity Stewardship Programme

C Construction

CBA Critical Biodiversity Area

CFA Continuous Flight Auger

DMOSS Durban Metropolitan Open Space System

DWS Department of Water and Sanitation

EA Environmental Authorisation

EAP Environmental Assessment Practitioner

EDTEA Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs

EIA Environmental Impact Assessment

EIS Ecological Importance and Sensitivity

EMP Environmental Management Plan

ETo Potential Evaporation

ESA Ecological Support Areas

FAR Floor Area Ratio

FEPA Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Area

GA General Authorisation

HA Hectare


9

HTWP Hammarsdale Treatment Works Plant

IDME Integrated Development Management Environmental

IHAI Index of Habitat Integrity Assessment

KZN KwaZulu-Natal

M Metres

MM Millimetres

NBA National Biodiversity Assessment

NPAES National Protected Areas Expansion Strategy

NFEPA National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Area

NWA National Water Act

O Operational

PES Present Ecological State

REC Recommended Ecological Category

SCC Species of Conservation Concern

TSCP Terrestrial Systematic Conservation Plan

WM With Mitigation

WMA Water Management Area

WOM Without Mitigation

WULA Water Use License Application


10

1 BACKGROUND INFORMATION

1.1 INTRODUCTION An application has been submitted to the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and

Environmental Affairs (KZN EDTEA) by Catchway Properties (Pty) Ltd (The Applicant) for the proposed Sterkspruit

Industrial Park located within the Outer Western region of the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality. IDM

Environmental (IDME) has been appointed as the independent Environmental Consultant by the Applicant to

conduct the Basic Assessment (BA) process for the development.

The proposed development is for a Mini Sub Industrial Park (light-industrial) comprising of single and multi-story

structures developed on 30 platforms on the property and the connection of certain municipal services to each of

these individual platforms. The total platform area to be developed on is 149 457m2 and currently consists of

derelict buildings, foundations and lawns from former poultry operations. Minor encroachment into the

surrounding DMOSS layer will occur, with the greater portion of DMOSS surrounding the site on the property

being rehabilitated and converted to a non-useable conservation zone. The property currently falls outside of the

town planning scheme, and is to be zoned as Light Industrial 3 in order to accommodate the development

objectives. The Industrial Park’s target market will be for small/medium light industries, warehousing and logistics

companies seeking more affordable development space along the N3 corridor.

1.2 LOCATION OF PROJECT The proposed Sterkspruit Industrial Park is situated south of the Hammarsdale industrial area (Figure 1 and 2) in

the Outer Western region of the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality. A more in-depth locality map is located in

Annexure A, while Annexure B contains a detailed sketch plan of the proposed industrial site. Table 1, below

contains a summary of the property details.

Table 1: Summary of property details for the Sterkspruit Industrial Park

Farm Name Portion 4 of Lot A Sterkspruit no.2627

Application Area Total Development area = 33ha

Magisterial District eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality

Direction to nearest town 1,1km South from the Hammarsdale Industrial Area

SG 21 Code N0FT00000000262700004


11

Figure 1: Location of the proposed Sterkspruit Industrial Park


12

Figure 2: Regional view of the proposed Sterkspruit industrial Park


13

1.3 L ISTED AND SPECIFIED ACTIVITIES The Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations of 2014 (as amended) requires Environmental Authorisation

from the competent authority (KZN EDTEA) for activities listed in Government Notice Regulations 324, 325 & 327.

Table 2 below identifies the activities in the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations of 2014 (as amended)

that has been triggered for the proposed development.

Table 2: Triggered Activities for the proposed Sterkspruit Industrial Park

Activity Number

Description Reasoning

Activity 28

Listing Notice 1

Residential, mixed, retail, commercial, industrial or institutional

developments where such land was used for agriculture, game

farming, equestrian purposes or afforestation on or after 01 April

1998 and where such development:

(i) will occur inside an urban area, where the total land to be

developed is bigger than 5 hectares

The proposed

development occurs on

land previously utilised as a

poultry farm in an urban

area where the total land to

be developed is greater

than 5ha.

Activity 12

Listing Notice 3 The clearance of an area of 300 square metres or more of indigenous

vegetation.

d. In KwaZulu-Natal

Vii. On land, where, at the time of the coming into effect of this Notice

or thereafter such land was zoned open space, conservation or had

an equivalent zoning.

The clearance of

indigenous vegetation

within the DMOSS layer

greater than 300 square

metres in order to

accommodate the

Sterkspruit Industrial Park.

Activity 18

Listing Notice 3

The widening of a road by more than 4 metres, or the lengthening of

a road by more than 1 kilometre.

d. In KwaZulu-Natal

Xiii. Inside urban areas

(aa) Areas zoned for use as public open space.

The widening of the

existing internal road

running through the

property by more than 4m

in the DMOSS layer.

1.4 TERMS OF REFERENCE Regulation 19 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations of 2014 (as amended) determines that a Basic

Assessment Procedure must be followed for all activities listed in Government Notice R 324 and 327. IDM


14

Environmental has been appointed as the independent Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP) by the

Applicant and will therefore be responsible for the Basic Assessment procedures concerned with the proposed

development, as specified in Sections 19 and 20 of the Regulations promulgated in terms of Section 24(5) of the

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

1.5 APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY The overall approach to this assessment included the following activities:

• Apply for Environmental Authorisation from KZN EDTEA regarding the proposed Sterkspruit Industrial

Park.

• A detailed analysis of the proposed development, the area where it will take place, and the identification

of potential impacts and associated mitigation measures to be implemented.

• Conduct a detailed 30 day Public Participation process.

• Comply with all legislative requirements in terms of the EIA Regulations and to provide the KZN EDTEA

with sufficient information to take a decision regarding the development.

1.6 REPORT STRUCTURE The report is structured as follows:

Section 2 consists of a summary description of the proposed activity.

Section 3 provides describes the public participation process to be conducted.

Section 4 provides a description of the environment that may be affected by the proposed activity.

Section 5 consists of a summary of the potential impacts of the proposed activity on the environment.

Section 6 provides a summary of the recommendations.

Supporting documents, reports, correspondence and other relevant information are contained in various

Appendixes and Annexures, as set out in the introductory Contents Page of this Report.

1.7 APPLICABLE LEGISLATION, POLICIES AND GUIDELINES In addition to the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations of 2014 (as amended), Table 3 below indicates

other applicable legislation that has been considered in the preparation of this Basic Assessment Report.


15

Table 3: Additional applicable legislation for the proposed Sterkspruit Industrial Park

Legislation Relevance to the development

The Constitution of the Republic of

South Africa, Section 24

(Environmental Right)

The Constitution stipulates that everyone has the right to an

environment that is not harmful to their health or well-being; and the

right to have the environment protected, for the benefit of the

present and future generations, through reasonable legislative and

other measures. The Constitution paved the way for environmental

legislation (NEMA) in South Africa.

National Water Act (No. 36 of 1998) A Water Use License Application (WULA) or alternatively a General

Authorisation (GA) will need to be applied for from the Department of

Water and Sanitation (DWS), as the proposed Sterkspruit Industrial

Park will take place within a small portion of the 1:100 year floodline

of the Sterkspruit River and within 500m of a Channelled Valley

Bottom wetland.

National Environmental Management:

Biodiversity Act (No. 10 of 2004)

And

KwaZulu-Natal Nature Conservation

Ordinance

Protected Aloe species (Aloe maculata and Aloe marlothii) were

identified within the two small sections of the DMOSS layer that

development will encroach upon. These species must be rescued and

removed. A permit will need to be applied for from Ezemvelo

KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife. Alien species will also be required to be

removed as recommended in the specialist report and EMP.


Waste Act, 2008 (Act no. 59 of 2008)

All waste generated on site will need to be dealt with according the

EMP. A recycling system must be implemented and waste that cannot

be recycled disposed of at a registered landfill site.


Air Quality Act, 2004 (Act no.39 of

2004)

Mitigation measures to control air pollution and dust must be

implemented to ensure compliance with this Act.

Occupational Health and Safety Act

(No. 85 of 1993)

The employer needs to manage his/her staff and crew in strict

accordance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act in order to

prevent injuries to the staff and the surrounding community.

National Heritage Resources Act (Act

25 of 1999)

This Act has been put into place to protect and conserve heritage

resources. If anything of heritage importance is found on the

proposed site, the mining process will be halted and a suitably

qualified specialist will be contacted.

KwaZulu-Natal Heritage Act (No. 4 of

1998)

This Act has been put into place to conserve, protect and conserve

provincial heritage resources.


16

2 DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED ACTIVITY

2.1 ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION

2.1.1 EXTE NT OF DEVE LO PME NT

The total extent of the project area is approximately 33ha. This includes platforms, road networks and the

provision of services. The total platform (development) area is 149 457m2.

2.1.2 S ITE PLA NNING A ND DE SIG N

Before site establishment, construction and operations can commence, careful planning and design must take

place which will lay the foundations for the abovementioned phases. This will ensure that impacts can be

identified at the earliest possible stage and appropriate mitigation measures employed. This in order to prevent/

minimise impacts to acceptable/low levels. The Basic Assessment Report and associated Appendices, forms one

part of this planning and design process. Before site establishment, construction and operations can occur, it is of

the upmost importance that the Applicant and Construction Manager ensure plans are in place to implement

mitigation measures in accordance with the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and that rehabilitation is

conducted as an on-going process, which is not solely restricted to the Closure phase. An important part of the

planning phase for the proposed Sterkspruit Industrial Park is ensuring that the surrounding watercourses, DMOSS

vegetation and communities are protected in every manner possible and are disturbed as minimally as possible.

2.1.3 S ITE PRE PARA TIO N/ES TA BL ISH MENT

Before construction can commence, the site must be prepared/established for the construction phase. This

includes:

Ensuring all necessary permits, approvals and authorisations have been received;

Environmental training and awareness for all managers, workers, contractors or sub-contractors;

The demarcating of the construction boundary and strict no go areas (DMOSS/watercourses);

Determining the location of the construction offices/camp;

The erecting of Construction signage and fences. The existing fence must be extended to include the two

DMOSS areas to be incorporated into the development;

The placement of a portable toilets, bins, spill kits and first aid kits (where necessary);

Determining the need and location for temporary services such as electricity and water;

Implementing of security and safety measures;

The removal and storage of topsoil that will be kept for the rehabilitation phase;


17

Preparing all the internal roads;

Preparing equipment and vehicles for operation;

Ensuring that there are no protected trees or fauna on site. The protected aloes must be clearly marked

and be rescued and relocated; and

Implementing of erosion and stormwater control on site.

2.1.4 CONS TRUCTIO N

The construction phase involves the decommissioning of existing buildings, parking lots, lawns and foundations

from the former poultry farm and the development of a series of platforms for businesses to develop upon.

Platforms are to be cut/filled with a minimum of 95% Mod AASHTO. Cut embankments are to be terraced in 1: 1.5

and fill embankments are to be terraced in 1:75. A balanced cut to fill platform model will be achieved to eliminate

haulage costs. The structure types are anticipated to vary from lightly loaded to heavily loaded warehouse /

industrial type structures. In light of the sloping ground requiring a cut to fill platform, and the presence of

potentially collapsible and compressible soil types, the foundation type will vary from:

Cut portions - structures founded on deep pad footings or deep reinforced strip footings in soils (taken

down to bedrock for heavier structures), to

Fill portions - structures founded on rafts or reinforced ground beams supported on Continuous Flight

Auger (CFA) end bearing piles socketed into competent sandstone bedrock, especially for heavier

structures.

Development will extend into two small sections (7715m2 in total) of DMOSS to the Western and North Western

sections of the property (Figure 3). The proposed expansion into the DMOSS areas are located directly adjacent

to the abandoned and derelict poultry farm infrastructure and as a result has been significantly impacted on from

the ‘edge effect’. This has resulted in the significant encroachment of alien and invasive species into these DMOSS

sections at the expense of indigenous vegetation.

In order to compensate for the small loss of DMOSS, the Applicant has proposed converting the greater portion

of the property that contains a higher quality DMOSS to a non-useable conservation zone. This will further entail

rehabilitation of this proposed conservation area and removing rubble and invasive alien species. Lastly, two

platforms containing derelict buildings and lawn will be rehabilitated and indigenous vegetation planted in order

to return these areas to a natural state. This to further compensate for the loss of DMOSS vegetation.


18

Figure 3: Expansion of development into the DMOSS layer (Yellow highlighted areas). The red line represents the boundary of the former

poultry farm that the proposed Sterkspruit Industrial Park will be built in


19

2.1.5 OPE RATIO N

The proposed development is for a Mini Sub Industrial Park comprising of single and multi-story structures

developed on 30 platforms on the property and the connection of certain municipal services to each of these

individual platforms (Figure 4). The property currently falls outside of the town planning scheme and is to be

zoned as Light Industrial 3 in order to accommodate the development. The Light Industrial 3 zoning classification

will enable owners to build up to 6 stories high (if required) with a 70% coverage and a Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of

1.4. The Industrial Park’s target market will be for small/medium light industries, warehousing and Logistics

companies seeking more affordable development space than those provided in Durban/Pinetown. A summary of

potential types of businesses that may develop upon the platforms as well as building regulations are provided in

Image 1 below.

The proposed development of the Sterkspruit Industrial Park will consist of two phases. The first phase will offer

149 457m2 of fully serviced, un-platformed freehold subdivisions for sale, with investors needing to enter into a

construction contract with the Applicant for the subdivision platform, with commencement of construction within

12 months of taking transfer of the property.

The Applicant has further committed to ensuring that the proposed Sterkspruit Industrial Park embodies

sustainable development principals due to the sensitive environment surrounding the proposed site.

Businesses/tenants will be encouraged to adopt an eco-approach to not only the development of their new

facilities, but also in terms of the broader Park commitments. This will manifest itself through:

providing ongoing preservation contributions to the upkeep of the surrounding conservancy;

Internal green areas and verges per indigenous planting protocol;

Energy efficient building designs;

Storm water storage and recycling;

Solar power and hot water;

Efficient, recycling orientated waste management protocols and systems; and

Eco friendly building designs and material usage where practical.


20

Image 1: Building regulations for Light Industrial 3


21

Figure 4: Proposed Sterkspruit Industrial Park Layout


22

2.1.6 ACCESS TO THE S ITE

Both internal and external roads will be built/ upgraded to accommodate the Industrial Park development. The

internal roads will as far as possible follow existing roads already in use on the proposed property. These roads

will however require upgrading in order to accommodate the development.

Access to site is off the existing Kelly Road which joins the MR385 Street further north. The MR385 is the main

road running through the Mpumalanga and Hammarsdale Townships, connecting the townships to the N3

Corridor between the metropolitans of Durban and Johannesburg. Upgrading of these external roads will further

be required. This is elaborated on in Section 2.2.3 of this Report. The existing access road to the proposed site is

contained in Figure 5.

2.1.7 REHA BIL ITA TIO N

Rehabilitation must be viewed as an on-going process and must not be confined to one specific phase of the

project life cycle. Rehabilitation will include the re-vegetation of any disturbed area and the creation of a stable

land surface that is not subject to erosion or inundation of water. Re-vegetation should aim to accelerate the

natural succession processes so that a healthy plant/riparian community develops. Rehabilitation measures have

been proposed in the EMP and must be strictly adhered to. Rehabilitation of the surrounding DMOSS layer will

occur and this area will be converted into a non-useable conservation zone. Two platform areas will be

revegetated and returned to its natural state in order to compensate for the DMOSS loss.


23

Figure 5: Proposed existing access road to the proposed Sterkspruit Industrial Park (In highlighted white)


24

2.2 SERVICE PROVISION

2.2.1 WATER PRO VIS IO N

Bulk water will be supplied by the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality. An existing 100mmØ watermain is

located to the north of the development along Kelly Road. According to the Engineering Report, the Hammarsdale

Reservoir has sufficient capacity to support the proposed development. Initial calculations estimate that the

operation of the Industrial Park will require 247 053 litres per day.

Rainwater harvesting will be recommended to the different platform owners to ensure that the Industry Park

embodies sustainable principals. This will help to decrease the demand of water from the Reservoir and aid in

stormwater management originating from building roofs.

2.2.2 SEWAGE D IS POSAL

Currently, there is no bulk sewer reticulation on site, however plans are for the development to tie into an existing

Hammarsdale treatment works to the north of the site. The eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality has confirmed

that there is adequate capacity at the works. The construction of a pumpstation is proposed for the southern side

of the development and will be designed in accordance to municipality guidelines as provided in the Engineering

Report. It is proposed that a flow of 20000 litres per hectare per day for Light Industry would need to be supported.

2.2.3 ROADS

According to the Traffic Impact Assessment in Appendix 6, the access roads to the property (all urban) will require

upgrading in order to accommodate the new development. The upgrades include an additional 50m right turning

bay along Mthoko Mkhize Drive (P385) north bound carriageway and the localised widening of Kelly Road to a

minimum 7m in certain areas, where the widths are substandard. The road reserve of Kelly Road, from the

intersection with Anderson Road until the boundary of the proposed development, will be formalised. The

minimum road reserve boundary will be 21m. The localised widening along Kelly road will be designed in

accordance with eThekwini Municipality’s minimum standards. The development will contain a public transport

infrastructure such as lay-byes and drop off areas at the entrance.

Internal Roads on the property will be upgraded, including lengthening and widening. The internal access roads

have been designed in accordance to the “Guidelines for Human Settlement Planning and Design”.


25

2.2.4 STO RMWA TER DRA INAGE

On site attenuation will be used to attenuate the post-development runoff to predevelopment. Where

stormwater is collected from the roadways and piped to the valleys attenuation chambers will be constructed.

Erosion protection will be provided at all discharge points. The development has proposed adequate stormwater

drainage infrastructure to each site and is based on the Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) approach to reduce

the rate and volume of surface water runoff, to restrict surface water runoff from development lands to pre-

development rates, to manage surface water and minimise flood risk and to integrate with open space and

recreation provision.

2.2.5 ELECTRIC ITY

The electrical bulk supply will be designed and installed by Eskom. All duct requirements will be met under the

construction of the civil works. The elemental electrical power loading calculation for the development is

approximately 2300 kVA. Based on the current on site electrical supply of 500 kVA the development will require

an additional 1800 kVA for the entire development power loading requirement.

2.2.6 SOLID WASTE REMO VAL

The eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality will supply the service of removing refuse from the project area. The

Hammarsdale Transfer Station has sufficient bulk solid waste disposal capacity to service the development.

Platform owners will be encouraged to implement a basic recycling system.

2.3 NEED AND DESIRABILITY OF PROPOSED ACTIVITY The proposed Sterkspruit Industrial Park will have numerous positive impacts on the surrounding communities in

terms of employment, skills training and local economic development. This will help to address the high levels of

poverty, unemployment and inequality facing the Hammarsdale community which have been amplified in recent

times due to the closure of numerous poultry farms in the region which provided substantial employment. Recent

research into economic trends of the Hammarsdale region has further indicated that there is a high demand for

small industry, logistics and warehousing space. These industries prefer the Light Industry zoning as opposed to

the General Industry as the latter allows for bigger industries which will have greater impact on smaller operations

and warehousing. The Sterkspruit Industrial Park will further offer Durban and Pinetown based manufacturing,

warehousing and logistics businesses a more affordable and attractive location to consider expanding into or

relocating to. The proposed Industrial Park is located on the N3 Corridor which is fast becoming the location of

choice for businesses needing to be close to the N3 “corridor to Africa”. Major upgrading of services to meet this

growing demand have been taking place including the upgrading of the Hammarsdale interchange and further

road and bulk infrastructure upgrades planned for the foreseeable future.


26

The property itself is highly desirable as the majority of the site is disturbed consisting of old and derelict buildings

and foundations, infested with invasive alien plants. Thus the development site itself contains little conservation

value. Municipal services are readily available to the property and one has easy access to the N3 highway and a

large employment pool. The light industry zoning will also have less of an impact on the surrounding DMOSS which

will be rehabilitated and converted into a non-useable conservation zone.

2.4 CONSIDERATION OF ALTERNATIVES

2.4.1 DESCRIPT IO N O F PRE FE R RED A LTE RNATIVE

The preferred alternative is outlined in Sections 2.1.3 to 2.1.6 and involves zoning of the property to Light Industry

3 and developing a series of platforms that will be sold to businesses to develop upon. This includes development

into two small sections of DMOSS.

2.4.2 DETAILS O F A LTE RNATIV E S CO NS IDE RED

‘Alternatives’ are regarded as considerations for different possible means of meeting the general purpose and

need of a proposed activity. Alternatives could include, amongst others, the following:

Activity Alternatives: This requires a change in the nature of the proposed activity. This alternative is most

appropriate at a strategic decision making level.

Location Alternatives: Alternative locations for the entire project proposal, or for components of the

project proposal.

Layout Alternatives: This alternative allows different spatial configurations of an activity on a specific site.

Scheduling/Operational Alternatives: Also refers to alternative phasing options for the development. This

alternative considers different phasing options during the implementation of the development.

Infrastructure/ Input Alternatives: Also referred to as technological or equipment alternatives. This option

considers various alternatives that will have the same outcome.

No-Go Alternative: The impact if the proposed activity is not followed.

Layout and Infrastructure (technology) alternatives are the most pertinent to this EIA process, however all the

above mentioned alternatives are briefly explored in the subsections below, as well as the alternative of

maintaining the status quo, commonly referred to as the “no-go” option.

2.4.2.1 ACTIV ITY ALTERNA TIVES

Two Industry zoning options were considered by the Applicant during the application process. Initially General

Industry 1 was the preferred option due to the greater scope in options available for potential clients. However,

after consultation with the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality and the registered Town Planner, it was


27

determined that Light Industry 3 would be the preferred option. This as the General Industry 1 zoning would have

greater impacts on the adjacent DMOSS layer and surrounding settlements. Furthermore, the demand in the

region is for smaller light industrial and warehousing options. Warehousing and service / small industries are

reluctant to locate businesses in General Industry 1 zones as they fear they might be impacted on negatively by

the activities and pollution of the larger heavy industries.

Table 4: Activity Alternatives

Industry Type Advantages Disadvantages

Option 1: General

Industry 1

Allows for greater development

options for potential clients.

Will have greater impact on surrounding

DMOSS vegetation.

Will have a greater impact on adjacent

settlements in terms of air and noise

pollution.

Not attractive to warehousing and small

industries which are the main target

market for the Industrial Park.

Option 2 (preferred):

Light Industry 3

Will have fewer impacts on

surrounding communities,

DMOSS vegetation and will

release less air pollution.

More attractive to warehousing

and small industries which is the

main market in the region.

Fewer development options available.

2.4.2.2 LOCA TIO N ALTERNATIVE S

No Locational alternatives were considered during the basic assessment process. The location of the development

was confined to the property owned by the Applicant. The proposed development will occur within the boundaries

of the former poultry farm, outside of the DMOSS layer except for two small sections to the West and North West.

2.4.2.3 LAYOUT ALTE RNA TIVES

Initially the proposed development included development of eight platforms (Figure 6 and 7) into a large 3,3ha

section of DMOSS in the Western section of the property on the hilltop in the outer bend of the Sterkspruit River.


28

Although not listed as a Critical Biodiversity Area (CBA) or an Ecological Support Areas (ESA), the project footprint

covers a vulnerable vegetation type, the Dry Coast Hinterland Grassland, and its inclusion within a DMOSS area

increases its importance in terms of biodiversity conservation. After a Botanical Investigation was undertaken, it

was noted that the development of platforms will result in the loss of 3.3ha of largely intact Dry Coast Hinterland

Grassland which is associated with individuals of protected species including Aloe marlothii subsp. marlothii, Aloe

maculata Tritonia cf gladiolaris and Freesia laxa subsp. laxa. There is also the possibility that additional protected

species and Species of Conservation Concern (SCC) which were not present at the time of the assessment due to

seasonal constraints may be lost as a result of the proposed development. The vegetation associated with the

project footprint is considered to be of an overall medium conservation importance due to the presence of this

vulnerable vegetation type and these associated protected species. It was therefore the opinion of the specialist

that development should be excluded from this section.

A second layout option was developed which includes the development into two small sections of DMOSS to the

North West and West of the development (less than 1ha). The Botanical Report indicated that these two sections

were degraded due to anthropogenic activities and were infested with invasive alien species. Development within

these two smaller areas was thus deemed as feasible.

Table 5: Layout Alternatives

Option Advantages Disadvantages

Alternative 1 Develop more platforms for industries. Develop into largely intact DMOSS

vegetation containing protected

species.

Alternative 2 Develop into two small sections of

DMOSS.

Develop fewer platforms for industries

to develop upon.


29

Figure 6: Initial proposed expansion into DMOSS

2.4.2.4 SCHED ULING ALTE RNA TIV ES

No scheduling alternatives were considered.

2.4.2.5 INFRAS TRUCTURE A LTE RN ATIVE S

No further infrastructure alternative were considered.

2.4.2.6 “NO-GO” A LTE RNATIVE

The “no-go” alternative should, in all instances, be considered as part of the EIA process. This scenario assumes

that the activity does not proceed, implying a continuation of the current situation. Should Environmental

Authorisation not be granted, there will be no socio-economic benefits i.e. no job creation and no local economic

development. The site will continue to remain unutilized and therefore no rehabilitation of the surrounding

DMOSS vegetation or the creation of a conservation area will occur.


30

Figure 7: Initial proposed Expansion of project layout into DMOSS


31

3 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

3.1 REQUIREMENTS OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT REG ULATIONS OF

2014 (AS AMENDED)

Table 6 below outlines the requirements for the Public Participation Process (PPP) set out in Section 41 of the

Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations (as amended) as well as the actions that will be undertaken by the

Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP) during this process. The PPP will commence once the pre-

application form has been submitted to EDTEA and a reference number received. Once the EDTEA Reference

number has been received the EAP will conduct a 30 day public participation process. A Public Participation Report

will be provided in the Final BAR and contain all the necessary information regarding the process followed. A

summary of the process that will be followed by the EAP is detailed out below:

Table 6: Public Participation Process to be followed

2014 EIA requirements Action to be taken by EAP

a. Fixing a notice board at a place conspicuous to the public at

the boundary or on the fence or along the corridor of

i. the site where the activity to which the application

relates is or is to be undertaken; and

ii. any alternative site;

A3 Notice boards will be placed

Along the access road to site;

At the entrance gate to the property;

Along the site boundary fence; and

Municipal offices in the area.

b. Giving written notice, in any of the manners provided for in

Section 47D of the Act, to –

i. the occupiers of the site and, if the proponent or

applicant is not the owner or person in control of the

site on which the activity is to be undertaken, the

owner or person in control of the site where the

A Background Information Document for the proposed

Sterkspruit Industrial Park will be distributed via registered

post and/or email to:

Adjacent property owners;

All relevant Governmental Departments and State

Enterprises;

The Local Councilor;

Any Rate Payers Association; and


32

activity is or is to be undertaken or to any alternative

site where the activity is to be undertaken;

ii. owners, persons in control of, 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;

iii. the municipal councilor of the ward in which the site

or alternative site is situated and any organization of

ratepayers that represents the community in the

area;

iv. the municipality which has jurisdiction in the area;

v. any organ of state having jurisdiction in respect of

any aspect of the activity; and

vi. any other party as required by the competent

authority.

Any other interested or affected party.

The BID will include information on:

Background Information;

Location of the proposed Industrial Park;

EIA Environmental Triggers;

The BA process to be followed;

Motivation for the proposed Industrial Park;

Impacts of the proposed Industrial Park;

Mitigation measures for the Industrial Park; and

How to get involved in the public participation

process.

An invitation to become involved in the project and to

register as a stakeholder will also be included in the BID.

In addition a copy of the Draft Basic Assessment Report and

all specialist studies will be made available at the Cato

Ridge library. The Draft Basic Assessment Report and all

specialist studies will be available on the EAPs website for

download or will be dropboxed/emailed where requested.

c. Placing an advertisement in –

i. one local newspaper; or

ii. 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;

An advert will be placed in one local newspaper distributed

in the region.


33

3.1.1 PUBL IC PARTIC IPA T IO N FOR THE BAS IC AS SESSME NT RE PORT (BAR)

Copies of the PPP and meeting notice, draft BAR; BID and Specialist Report will be made available to the following

Departments for comment:

Department of Water and Sanitation (National – KZN Region);

Department of Rural Development and Land reform (National);

Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (National);

KZN Department of Economic Development, Tourism & Environmental Affairs;

KZN Department of Agriculture and Rural Development;

KZN Department of Transport;

KZN Department of Co-Operative Governance and Traditional Affairs;

KZN Department of Health;

eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality;

The Local councillor;

South African National Roads Agency;

Transnet;

Eskom; and

Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife.

3.1.2 REGIS TE R O F INTE RESTE D AND AFFE CTE D PARTIE S

According to the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations of 2014 (as amended), a register of interested

and affected parties must be kept during the EIA process.

3.1.3 PUBL IC MEE T INGS

IDM Environmental will host one public open day meeting at the Cato Ridge Library. The meeting will be advertised

in a local paper and on the site notices.

3.1.4 COMMENTS RE CEIVE D FRO M THE DEPA RTME NTS AND STAKEHO LDE RS

The comments received from the various Departments and stakeholders regarding the BID and draft BAR will be

included in the Comments and Response Report in Table 7 below.


34

Table 7: Proposed Comments and Responses Summary

Interested and Affected Parties

List the names of persons

consulted in this column,

Mark with an X where those who

must be consulted were in fact

consulted.

Date

Comments

Received

Comments Received EAPs Response Section and paragraph

reference in this report

where the issues and

or response were

incorporated.

Affected Parties

Land Owner/s N/a –

Applicant is

the land

owner

Land owner/s or

lawful occupiers on

adjacent properties

X

Municipal Councillor X

Municipality/ies X

eThekwini

Metropolitan

Municiplaity

X

Departments and

Organ of states

X

Department of

Water and

Sanitation

X


35

Department of Rural

Development and

Land reform;

X

KZN Department of

Economic

Development,

Tourism &

Environmental

Affairs;

X

KZN Department of

Agriculture and Rural

Development;

X

KZN Department of

Transport;

x

KZN Department of

Co-Operative

Governance and

Traditional Affairs

x

KZN Department of

Health

x

South African

National Roads

Agency;

x


36

ESKOM x

TRANSNET x

Ezemvelo KwaZulu-

Natal Wildlife.

X

Communities x

Traditional Affairs N/a

Other affected and

interested parties

x


37

4 SITUATION ASSESSMENT OF PROJECT AREA AND AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

NOTE : THE SUB -SEC TIO NS SE T OU T IN THE SECT IO N BELOW SH OUL D BE RE AD I N CONJ UNC TIO N W IT H THE

SPECI AL I ST REPOR T S E NCL OSED HE REWI TH AS Appendix 3, 4, 5 and 6.

4.1 CLIMATE The climate in the eThekwini region can be described as subtropical with humid warm summers and relatively

mild winters. The region lies within the southern subtropical high-pressure belt, coming under the influence of

eastward migrating high-pressure systems. The regional mean temperature is 25ºC in summer and 20ºC in winter.

The mean annual rainfall is approximately 1000 mm, ranging from some 900 mm to 1050 mm, mostly falling during

September to April, with only about 150 mm falling in the period May to August.

4.2 DESCRIPTION OF SURROUNDING ENVIRONMENT The proposed property is bordered by low cost settlements to the North, South and East containing a mixture of

both formal and informal dwellings with subsistence farming taking place. To the north of the property is a

Shembe pray circle. A few kilometres north of the property along Kelly road is the Hammarsdale treatment works

(HTWP). To the east of the site is a large gravel mine and a Transnet rail line.

Table 8: Surrounding land uses

North Settlements (mixture of formal and informal low cost)

Shembe pray Circle

The HTWP

South Settlements (mixture of formal and informal low cost)

East Gravel Mine

Transnet Railway Line

West Settlements (mixture of formal and informal low cost)

4.3 DESCRIPTION OF SPECIF IC ENVIRONMENTAL FEATURES AND INFRASTRUCTURE ON THE

SITE PROPERTY The proposed site for the development was previously utilised as a Rainbow Chicken poultry farm as evidenced

by the existing structures, many of which are derelict or have been demolished leaving only foundations / floor

slabs and builders rubble (Figure 8). Minor existing earthworks are evident in the central hilltop portions in the

form of small terraced cut to fill platforms (< 3m high), some of which accommodate existing dwelling structures

or car park / truck yards. Lawn gardens are also evident on site. DMOSS vegetation makes up the greater


38

remainder of the property, but no development will take place within the DMOSS zone apart from two small

sections as mentioned.

Figure 8: Existing features on the Sterkspruit property (The central yellow highlighted portion represents the

property which the development will take place on. The green shaded area is the DMOSS layer that surrounds

the proposed site)

4.4 TOPOGRAPHY AND GEOLOGY The site layout and topography comprises of a convex shape gently sloping hilltop area +5-10 ̊, which steepens

considerably +30-60 ̊ progressing down to the watercourse and site boundary on all sides. Only the gently sloping

central hilltop area which slopes at less than 1 in 3 (18 ̊) is suitable for development as the remainder of the

surrounding slopes are too steep for practical cost effective development.

The site is underlain by Natal Group Sandstone bedrock as depicted in the geological map Durban 2930 and

evidenced in cutting exposures on the site. Minor Dolerite intrusions are to be expected, however none were

observed during the field reconnaissance. Regarding the gently sloping hilltop portion, there is no on-site evidence

of slope instability and slopes are generally deemed stable provided instability is not introduced during the

earthworks phase.


39

4.5 FLORA AND FAUNA The development footprint and adjacent areas are located within the Grassland Biome (Mucina and Rutherford,

2006), and according to the vegetation type map for KZN, are located within the Dry Coast Hinterland Grassland

vegetation type (Scott-Shaw and Escott, 2011) which is listed as Vulnerable within the province (Jewitt, 2011). The

Vulnerable status of the vegetation type is supported by the National List of Threatened Terrestrial Ecosystems

(2011) which also lists the study area as Vulnerable due to the presence of Ngongoni Veld.

The eastern portion of the development footprint has been indicated as a Mandatory CBA and the Western

portion, including the two small expansion areas, has been indicated as a Biodiversity Area by the KZN TSCP

(Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, 2010). However, the majority of the development footprint has not been indicated as a

CBA or as an ESA by the more recent KZN BSP (Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, 2016). This is likely as a result of the

transformation of vegetation within the development footprint boundary due to historical development. The KZN

BSP (Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, 2016) does indicate areas on the eastern boundary of the development footprint as

falling within an Irreplaceable CBA, however, these areas have already been developed and no longer contain

natural vegetation. Areas indicated as CBAs within the development footprint are therefore not considered to be

representative of areas of conservation significance.

Figure 9: Critical Biodiversity Areas and Biodiversity Areas indicated by th e KZN TSCP and the KZN BSP


40

Figure 10: Developed areas indicated as an irreplaceable CBA in Figure 9 (Located in green circles)

The majority of the development footprint has already been developed (buildings, infrastructure and lawns),

however, the proponent wishes to expand the development into two small areas of D’MOSS containing natural

woodland vegetation (<1 ha). The two proposed expansion areas are located directly adjacent to the West and

North Western boundary of the existing development footprint and have been impacted on as a result of the edge

effects of historical development related activities as well as by current anthropogenic activities including

dumping. This has resulted in the significant encroachment of alien and invasive species into the areas at the

expense of indigenous vegetation. The vegetation associated with the proposed expansion areas is therefore not

considered representative of intact Vulnerable Dry Coast Hinterland Grassland at present; and the loss of a small

area (<1ha) of significantly disturbed DMOSS area is not likely to significantly impact on provincial biodiversity

conservation targets. There were however, two species of Aloe including Aloe marlothii and Aloe maculata

encountered within the areas proposed for expansion are listed as protected indigenous plants under the

KwaZulu-Natal Nature Conservation Ordinance (15 of 1994). Should these protected species be removed, a permit

application will need to be made to the relevant authority.


41

There is the possibility that the edge effects/construction creep of the proposed development may extend into

surrounding, more natural areas associated with the D’MOSS. Therefore mitigation measures must be employed

to ensure the remainder of the DMOSS vegetation is protected.

4.6 WATER MANAGEMENT AREAS The development footprint falls within the North Eastern Coastal Belt Ecoregion, within the Mvoti to Umzimkulu

Water Management Area (WMA) and within the Mgeni sub-Water Management Area (sub- WMA) as defined by

the National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas project (NFEPA, 2011). The quaternary catchment indicated for

the development footprint is U60C.

The proposed development footprint is located on a hilltop on the inner bend of the Sterkspruit River, with its

Western boundary located directly adjacent to the river (Figure 11). The portion of the Sterkspruit River associated

with the proposed development footprint can be classified as an upper foothill river characterised by a moderately

steep, cobble-bed or mixed bedrock-cobble bed channel, with plane bed, pool-riffle and pool-rapid reach types.

A channelled valley bottom wetland has developed on the banks of the Sterkspruit River. This wetland is fed by

water inputs from the river as well as from the adjacent valley side slopes. The wetland is dominated by obligate

and facultative wetland species including Cyperus dives (Giant Sedge), Sporobolus pyramidalis (Cats-tail dropseed),

Cyperus esculentus (Yellow Nutsedge), Centella asiatica (Asiatic Pennywort), Stenotaphrum secundatum (Buffalo

Grass), Pycreus polystachyos (Bunchy Flat Sedge), Kylinga sp. and Miscanthus capensis (Daba Grass).

Both the Sterkspruit River and the channelled valley bottom wetland have been impacted on as a result of

industrial and urban activities within the catchment. The release of return flows from the HWTP and the runoff of

contaminants in stormwater runoff from the catchment has impacted on the hydrology and water quality of the

features. Disturbance of the features has also resulted in the proliferation of alien and invasive species.

The River Index of Habitat Integrity Assessment (IHIA) was used to assess the Present Ecological State (PES) of the

portions of the Sterkspruit River associated with the development footprint. The overall PES score calculated for

the Sterkspruit River falls within Category C (moderately modified - A loss and change of natural habitat and biota

has occurred but the basic ecosystem functions are still predominantly unchanged).

The WET-Health tool was used to assess the PES of the channelled valley bottom wetland. The overall PES score

calculated falls within Category D (largely modified: a large change in ecosystem processes and loss of natural

habitat and biota has occurred).


42

The Sterkspruit River is considered to be of a high Ecological Importance and Sensitivity (EIS) (delineations that

are considered to be unique on a national scale due to biodiversity. These rivers may be sensitive to flow

modifications but in some cases, may have a substantial capacity for use); and the channelled valley bottom

wetland is considered to be of a moderate EIS (wetlands that are considered to be ecologically important and

sensitive on a provincial or local scale. The biodiversity of these systems is not usually sensitive to flow and habitat

modifications. They play a small role in moderating the quantity and quality of water of major rivers).

For the Recommended Ecological Category (REC) it is recommended that the PES categories of the Sterkspruit

River and the channelled valley bottom wetlands is maintained. This can be achieved through the strict

implementation of the mitigation measures as listed within Section 5 of this report. The implementation of these

mitigation measures will reduce the disturbance of the habitat associated with the river and wetland as a result

of the direct impacts identified.


43

Figure 11: Watercourses adjacent to the Sterkspruit property


44

4.7 S ITES WITH ARCHAEOLOGICAL INTEREST It is the professional opinion of the EAP in consultation with the applicant, project team and site visit that none

of the below are located on or near the proposed Sterkspruit Industrial site

Archaeological (material remains older than 100 years or rock art);

Palaeontology and Meterories (including fossils);

Built Environment (Historical buildings, buildings over 60 years); and/or

Burial Grounds and Graves.

Therefore, no Heritage study was conducted. The proposed site has been farmed for a lengthy period and thus

the uncovering of anything of heritage importance is low to zero. Should anything of archaeological significance

be uncovered a suitably qualified professional will be contacted to conduct an assessment.

4.8 SOCIAL - ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT The proposed development occurs in the peri-urban Hammarsdale Township in the outer Western region of the

eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality. The proposed development is some 40km West of the Durban CBD, slightly

South of the N3 freeway which is the main roadway link between Durban and the Gauteng region. Over the last

decade the Township has seen a high annual growth rate, while the creation of new jobs has been slow. This has

led to a deterioration of living conditions and high unemployment and poverty levels. This has recently been

worsened by the collapse of the poultry industry in the region which provided a large number of jobs.

The property itself is surrounded by a mixture of both formal and informal dwellings on the opposite bank of the

Sterkspruit River, with subsistence farming commonly occurring between the various dwellings. Local community

members were using the Sterkspruit River as a source of water for livestock which had resulted in erosion in some

places on the opposite bank outside the property. A Shembe pray area is located north of property as indicated

by white circular stones, painted trees and white building.


45

4.9 PHOTOGRAPHIC EVIDENCE OF PROPERTY

Image 2: Car park and existing buildings facing East

Image 3: Existing buildings to the South of the property


46

Image 4: Derelict buildings to the North of the property

Image 5: Surrounding communities adjacent to the proposed development


47

5 IMPACT ASSESSMENT

5.1 INTRODUCTION The impact assessment aims at identifying potential environmental impacts (both positive and negative impacts)

and evaluating these impacts in terms of its significance. This assessment is provided in the form of a systematic

analysis framework to evaluate the nature, extent, duration, intensity, probability and significance of the various

impacts considered both without and with mitigation and management measures. The impact assessment

assesses both the impacts of the preferred alternative, as well as the other alternative options considered in the

development proposal. The application further assesses the cumulative impacts of the proposed Development.

5.2 IMPACT ASSESSMENT CRI TERIA The assessment of the potential impacts of the proposed development has been undertaken in accordance with

the broad criteria required by the integrated environmental management procedure and includes the following:

5.2.1 NATURE O F IM PACT

A brief description of the type of impact the proposed development will have on the affected environment.

5.2.2 EXTE NT/S CALE

The physical extent of the impact.

1) Footprint: The impacted area extends only as far as the actual footprint of the activity.

2) Site: The impact will affect the entire or substantial portion of the site/property.

3) Local: The impact could affect the area including neighbouring properties and transport routes.

4) Regional: Impact could be widespread with regional implication.

5) National: Impact could have a widespread national level implication.

5.2.3 DURA TION

The duration of the impact.

1) Short term: The impact is quickly reversible within a period of one year, or limited to the construction

phase, or immediate upon the commencement of floods.

2) Medium term: The impact will have a short term lifespan (project lifespan 1 – 10 years).

3) Long term: The impact will have a long term lifespan (project lifespan > 10 years).

4) Permanent: The impact will be permanent beyond the lifespan of the development.

5.2.4 INTE NS ITY


48

This criterion evaluates intensity of the impact and is rated as follows:

1) Minor: The activity will only have a minor impact on the affected environment in such a way that the

natural processes or functions are not affected.

2) Low: The activity will have a low impact on the affected environment.

3) Medium: The activity will have a medium impact on the affected environment, but function and process

continue, albeit in a modified way.

4) High: The activity will have a high impact on the affected environment which may be disturbed to the

extent where it temporarily or permanently ceases.

5) Very high: The activity will have a very high impact on the affected environment which may be disturbed

to the extent where it temporarily or permanently ceases.

5.2.5 PROBA BIL ITY

Probability describes the likelihood of the impact/s actually occurring.

1) Improbable: The possibility of the impact occurring is highly improbable (less than 5% of impact occurring).

2) Low: The possibility of the impact occurring is very low, due either to the circumstances, design or

experience (between 5% to 20% of impact occurring).

3) Medium: There is a possibility that the impact will occur to the extent that provision must be made there

fore (between 20% to 80% of impact occurring).

4) High: There is a high possibility that the impact will occur to the extent that provision must be made

therefore (between 80% to 95% of impact occurring).

5) Definite: The impact will definitely take place regardless of any prevention plans, and there can only be

relied on migratory actions or contingency plans to contain the effect (between 95% to 100% of impact

occurring).

5.2.5.1 DETERMINATI ON OF S IGN IFICANCE

Significance is determined through a synthesis of the various impact characteristics and represents the combined

effect of the extent, duration, intensity and probability of the impacts.

1) No significance: The impact is not substantial and does not require any mitigatory action.

2) Low: The impact is of little importance, but may require limited mitigation.

3) Medium: The impact is of importance and is therefore considered to have a negative impact. Mitigation

is required to reduce the negative impacts to acceptable levels.


49

4) High: The impact is of great importance. Failure to mitigate, with the objective of reducing the impact to

acceptable levels, could render the entire development option or entire project proposal unacceptable.

Mitigation and management is essential.

The following assessment scale is used to determine the significance of the identified potential impacts on the

environment.

Significance = (probability + duration + scale) x intensity

Probability: 1 – 5

Extent: 1 – 5

Duration: 1 – 4

Intensity: 1 – 10

Significance rating criteria

>75 High environmental significance

50 – 75 Medium environmental significance

<50 Low environmental significance


50

5.2.6 ASSESS ME NT O F POTE NTIAL IMPA CTS

5.2.6.1 IMPACTS ON SOIL , GEOLOGY AND TOP OGRAP HY

Nature Phase Type Extent Duration Intensity Probability WOM

Mitigation WM

1) Soil stockpiles that are left unattended.

Fertile topsoil that is stockpiled for the rehabilitation phase that is left unattended will be subject to the elements and may be lost.

Site Preparation and

Construction Negative Site Short Medium Medium Low

1. Prior to construction commencement, topsoil must be stockpiled for use during the Rehabilitation Phase.

2. Stockpiled topsoil should be used as the final cover for all disturbed areas where re-vegetation is required.

3. Stockpiled soil should be protected by erosion-control berms, covers and the planting of indigenous vegetation.

4. Soil stockpiles should be located away from uneven surfaces, watercourses and areas of temporary inundation.

5. Stockpiles may not exceed 2ms in height.

Low

2) Soil pollution and contamination

Possible pollution and contamination of soils may occur due to improper storage of harmful chemicals/fuel and broken or leaking machinery.

Site Preparation and

Construction

Negative Local Long High High High

1. Should diesel, chemicals or any other hazardous substances be stored on site during construction, it will need to be stored on a hard surface/ preferably in an existing building and 50m away from any watercourses.

2. Ensure that building equipment are properly maintained.

3. Equipment must be regularly serviced and inspected to make sure there are no leaks of oil, diesel, fuel, detergents or hydraulic fluids.

4. Repairs to vehicles and equipment on site should be avoided. If absolutely necessary repairs must be undertaken on hardened surfaces.

5. Under no circumstances diesel or any chemical be disposed of at the site.

6. The ceasing of construction activities and immediate remedial

Low

Operation Negative Local Long High Medium High Low


51

action must take place in the event of spillages of pollutants.

7. If necessary a suitably qualified specialist must be contacted and rehabilitation measures implemented in the event of a spill. Furthermore the relevant Department Officials must be informed of such an event.

8. If dangerous goods are to be stored on site during the operational phase, it will be the responsibility of the Platform owner to apply for Environmental Authorisation.

3) Soil Erosion Soil erosion may potentially occur due to uncontrolled stormwater discharge, construction and operation related activities and due to the gradient of the property.

Site Preparation and Construction

Negative Site Long High High High

1. Keep surrounding vegetation, especially larger trees and shrubs, to create a screen that reduces erosion impacts.

2. During the different project phases, there shall be the protection of areas susceptible to erosion by installing necessary temporary and permanent works as soon as possible.

3. Monitor the project footprint and general surroundings, weekly, for sedimentation and erosion and implement erosion and sediment control measures immediately where needed.

4. Divert stormwater runoff and sheet runoff away from areas susceptible to erosion.

Low

Operation Negative Site Long High High High Low

4) Alteration of the topography of the property

All Phases Negative Site Long Medium Medium Medium

1. Re-planting of indigenous vegetation

2. Implementing of erosion control measures

3. A detailed site specific geotechnical investigation is recommended for each platform / structure to confirm subsoil conditions and obtain geotechnical design parameters for earthworks and structure founding.

4. Only the gently sloping central hilltop area is suitable for

Low


52

development which results in a developable area of around 30Ha of the total +85Ha site.

5.2.6.2 IMPACTS ON SURROUNDING SURFACE AND GROUND WA TERCOURSES


Mitigation WM

1. Disturbance of riparian habitat

Due to pollution, construction creep, the depositing of soil and dumping of waste.

Site Establishment

and Construction

Negative

Local

Long Medium High Medium

1. The riparian habitat located directly adjacent to the western boundary of the development footprint must be designated as a no-go area and any activities within the no-go area must be strictly prohibited.

2. Access into the development footprint must be limited to designated access roads only, access roads must not traverse riparian habitat.

3. Road widening within the

buffer area should occur to the

south-east of the existing

access road. Widening of the

road into the riparian habitat

located to the north-west of

the existing road must be

prohibited.

4. Turning circles for

construction vehicles must be

located outside of the buffer

area.

5. As far as possible, limit the

removal of vegetation cover

from portions of the buffer

area that do not fall within the

direct construction footprint

area. 6. Prohibit the dumping of

excavated material or building

Low


53

material within the riparian

area or within the buffer area

2. Increased runoff, erosion and sedimentation of riparian and wetland habitat

Site Establishment

and Construction

Negative

Local Long High High High

1. Direct runoff from disturbed

areas within the construction footprint area to silt traps (silt fences, sandbags etc.) to remove sediment.

2. Locate silt traps on the western boundary of the development footprint in order to trap sediment before it reaches the riparian habitat which is located directly adjacent to the footprint.

3. All sediment trapping devices should be checked weekly by the appointed ECO and cleared or repaired as needed.

4. Erosion and sediment control measures must be installed before earthworks are initiated.

5. Use porous/permeable paving around buildings.

6. Intercept stormwater runoff from the upgraded access road and the platform within the buffer

Low

Operation Negative

Local Long High High High Low

3. Water quality impairment within the Sterkspruit River and the channelled valley bottom wetland

Site Establishment

and Construction

Negative

Local Long High High High

1. Locate topsoil stockpiles, construction material, equipment storage areas, concrete batching areas as well as vehicle parking areas, bunded vehicle servicing and re-fuelling areas and equipment cleaning areas in designated areas outside of the buffer areas of the riparian and wetland areas.

2. Provide portable toilets where work is being undertaken.

3. Implement soil pollution and contamination mitigation measures.

Low

Operation Negative

Local Long Low High High Low


54

4. High demand for water

Site Establishment

and Construction

Negative Local Long Medium Medium Medium 1. Implement water saving

techniques 2. Install rainwater harvesting

tanks to collect runoff from rooftops

Low

Operation Negative Local Long Medium Medium Medium Low

5.2.6.3 IMPACT ON LOCAL FLORA AND FAUNA


Mitigation WM

1) Impact on Local fauna Construction related activities and the operation of the light industries and warehousing may disturb fauna found in the DMOSS zone


Negative Local Short High High Medium

1. Disturbance of fauna and their habitats must be prevented.

2. Any fauna found on the site needs to be relocated without causing any damage or harm.

3. Workers may not bring pets onto site.

4. Any malicious damage to any fauna species present on site will be considered a punishable offence, and the appropriate measures will be followed.

5. Invasive alien plants must be removed from site.

6. A rehabilitation plan must be implemented

Low

Operation Negative Local High Medium Medium Medium Low

2) Impact on vegetation

Site Preparation, and Construction

Negative Local Short Medium Medium Medium

1. Before construction commences, the development site must be clearly demarcated

2. No go areas around sensitive areas (wetlands, indigenous vegetation, nesting or fauna sites or around the DMOSS areas of the property) must be clearly marked and avoided

3. Limit the removal of vegetation

to the project footprint. 4. Prevent illegal removal of

protected vegetation. 5. Minimise scarring of the soil

surface and land features.

Low

Operation Negative Local High Medium Medium Medium Low


55

6. Minimise disturbance and loss of topsoil.

7. Keep surrounding vegetation, especially larger trees and shrubs, to create a screen that reduces flooding impacts.

3) Loss of a small portion of DMOSS


Negative Site Permeant Low Definite Low

1. Individuals of Aloe maculata

and Aloe marlothii must be rescued and relocated. A permit will be required from EKZN Wildlife for the removal of these individuals

N/a

4) Impact on surrounding DMOSS vegetation

Due to construction creep, pollution and dumping.


Negative Local Long High High

High

1. Clearly demarcate the

construction and operation boundary and monitor for construction creep.

2. Immediately rehabilitate any accidental disturbance to vegetation located adjacent to the development footprint.

3. Remove all invasive alien plants

4. The remaining D’MOSS land within the property will be converted to a non-useable conservation zone.

Low

Operation Negative Local Long High High

High Low

5.2.6.4 OTHER ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS


Mitigation WM

1) Increase in air pollution Air pollution due to the result of construction related activities including the operation of machinery and the building of the platforms. During the operational phase certain industries may also cause air pollution.


Negative Site Short Medium High Medium

1. Air filters on all mechanized equipment must be properly designed and maintained.

2. Onsite burning of waste is not permitted.

3. A dust suppression programme should be implemented on the gravel road surfaces of the existing access roads by means of periodic water sprinkling.

4. Soil should be exposed for the minimum time possible once

Low


56

cleared of vegetation, i.e. the timing of clearing and grubbing should be coordinated as much as possible to avoid prolonged exposure of soils to wind and water erosion. The latter will facilitate the succession of indigenous vegetation.

5. Handling must minimise the creation of dust and handling must be reduced during windy conditions

6. Rehabilitation and re-vegetation will ensure good vegetative cover which will reduce dust creation

7. Measures must be implemented during the operation phase to prevent air pollution.

Operation Negative Site Long Medium Medium Medium Low

2) Increase in ambient noise

levels affecting surrounding communities.

High noise volumes may be created during the construction and operational phases of the development. This may have impacts on adjacent communities.


Negative Local Medium High Medium Medium

1. Silencers on diesel-powered equipment must be properly designed and maintained.

2. Construction activities should be limited to normal office hours.

3. Adjacent landowners should be notified of extremely noisy activities at least 24 hours prior to such activities commencing.

4. Development should take place during work hours, Mondays to Friday.

5. Noise suppression techniques must be implemented during operation.

Low

Operation Negative Local Medium High Medium Medium Low

3) Impacts of visual and

lighting on surrounding properties.

Visual impacts include the development of industries/warehousing and lightening impacts.


Negative Local Long Medium Medium Medium

1. Avoid shiny metals in structures. If possible shiny metal structures should be darkened or screened to prevent glare.

2. Night-time light sources must be directed away from the surrounding communities and DMOSS.

3. Avoid activities outside of normal working hours.

Low

Operation Negative Local Long Medium Medium Medium Low


57

4) Increase in and improper waste disposal

Construction of the platforms can potentially generate large volumes of waste that can pose a serious hazard to the surrounding environment if proper waste disposal methods are not implemented. Furthermore, waste will be generated during the operational phase that will require proper disposal.


Negative Site Long Medium Medium Medium

1. Waste generated on site must be disposed of in clearly marked bins. These must be emptied daily

2. Domestic/general waste and hazardous waste must be separated and bins clearly marked.

3. No waste may be buried or burned.

4. Waste must be disposed of at the correct registered landfill site.

5. Recycling must be implemented.

Low

Operation Negative Site Long Medium Medium Medium Low

5.2.6.5 ARCHAEOLOGICAL , H ISTORICAL AND CULTU RAL S I GNI FICANCE


Mitigation WM

1) Impact on sites with valuable archaeological, history and cultural significance.


Negative Site Short Minor Low Low

1. Should any archaeological artefacts be exposed during excavation, work on the area where the artefacts were found, shall cease immediately and the ECO and Heritage Authority should be notified as soon as possible.

Low

Operation

Negative Site Short Minor Low Low Low

5.2.6.6 SOCIO-EC ONOMIC IMPACTS


Mitigation WM

1) Direct employment creation. All Phases Positive Local Long Medium High Medium Employ local labour Medium

(Positive)

2) Impact on Shembe pray rituals

Construction and

Operation Negative Local Short Low Low Low

1. No Construction may take place during Shembe pray services.

Low

5.2.6.7 SAFETY AND SECURITY


58


Mitigation WM

1) Potential for increased security risk

Impacts on surrounding communities.


Negative Local Short Medium Low Low

1. Staff should be informed that access to adjacent properties is strictly off-limits and that it will be deemed a serious offence (i.e. no fences should be jumped at any time and no gates are to be opened without permission from the relevant landowner).

2. Fences and security must be implemented to ensure protection of businesses, workers and surrounding community members.

Low

Operation Negative Local Short Medium Low Low Low

2) Increased Traffic


Negative Regional Long Medium High Medium

1. Upgrading of the access roads to the proposed Sterkspruit Industrial Park must occur as specified in the Traffic Impact Assessment. This will help to alleviate traffic impacts.

2. All parking facilities, accesses and driveways are to be designed and dimensioned in accordance with the schedule of guidelines for off-street parking.

3. All driveway ramps to have a maximum gradient of 15% with a minimum 30m vertical curve radius.

Low

Operation Negative Regional Long Medium High Medium Low

5.2.6.8 CUMULATIVE IMPACTS


Mitigation WM

1) Destruction of the greater DMOSS layer

Unintended destruction of the DMOSS could potentially occur due to development/construction creep, the dumping of waste, erosion, improper

Construction and

Operation Negative Local Long High Low Medium

1. Before construction commences, the development site must be clearly demarcated

2. The sensitive DMOSS layer must be clearly demarcated

Low


59

stormwater management and the pollution of this sensitive environment.

off and is a strict no go area (a part from the two small western sections).

3. Implementing mitigation measures as specified in the above impacts

2) Infilling of the surrounding watercourses

Infilling of the surrounding watercourses could occur due to construction creep and the instability of embankments adjacent to the watercourses.

Construction

Negative Local Long High Low Medium

1. Before construction commences, the development site must be clearly demarcated and monitoring of construction creep must occur

Low

5.2.6.9 ALTERNATIVES

Alternative 1: Development of General Industry


Mitigation WM

1) Increase in Air pollution

Depending on industries Operation Negative Local Long Medium High Medium Same as preferred alternative Low

2) Increase in Noise pollution Depending on industries

Operation Negative Local Medium High Medium Medium Same as preferred alternative Low

3) Increase in Traffic Operation Negative Regional Long Medium High Medium Same as preferred alternative Low


60

Alternative 2: Development into the large DMOSS section to the North West of the property


Mitigation WM

1) Destruction of sensitive DMOSS

The loss of a largely intact DMOSS vegetation with protected plant species

Construction and

Operation Negative Site High High High High Same as preferred alternative High


61

5.3 SUMMARY OF SPECIALIST STUDIES The following specialist studies were conducted for the proposed Sterkspruit Industrial Park:

Botanical Screening Assessment;

Freshwater Specialist Assessment;

Geotechnical Investigation; and

Traffic Impact Assessment.

The various specialist studies recommended extensive mitigation measures that if implemented

would lower the environmental impact of the development to a low /acceptable level. These

mitigation measures have been included into the Draft EMP 1 and are thus legally binding upon the

developer.

5.4 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT NOTE : THE SU B-SECT IO NS SET O UT IN T HE SEC TIO N BELO W SH O ULD BE RE AD I N CO NJ U NC TIO N

WIT H THE SPEC IAL I ST REP ORT S E NCLO SED

5.4.1 ENV IRONME NTA L IMPA CT STA TEME NT

The main environmental impacts which are likely to result from the proposed Sterkspruit Industrial

Park activity have been assessed. Such impacts include soil, water, visual, noise, traffic, air, social and

biophysical impacts which have previously been mentioned throughout the course of this chapter.

Through the implementation of suitable mitigation measures as specified by the EAP and Specialists

in their respective fields, the EAP is confident that these impacts can be mitigated to Acceptable/Low

levels. The developer has committed to ensuring the Industrial Park embodies Eco-friendly principals

and that the greater extent of the DMOSS zone will be converted to a non-useable conservation zone.

This in line with sustainable principals.

Table 9 below considers both the advantages and disadvantages of the proposed development:

Table 9: Advantages and Disadvantages of the proposed development

Advantages Disadvantages

The proposed development site is

significantly disturbed, apart from the two

small sections of DMOSS.

The loss of a small section of DMOSS.

Creation of Local Economic Development in

a region with high levels of poverty,

unemployment and inequality.

Impact on the adjacent Sterkspruit River and

Channelled Valley Bottom Wetlands.


62

The provision of warehousing and light

industrial space in a region with high

demand.

Impact on surrounding communities in terms of

safety, noise and possible air pollution.

Rehabilitation and implementing of a non-

useable Conservation zone around a

sensitive DMOSS zone.

-

Through the implementation of mitigation measures as specified in the BAR and EMP, the

impacts of the proposed Sterkspruit Industrial Park can be mitigated to Low/acceptable levels

with minimal impact on surrounding environment.

5.4.2 PROPO SED IM PACT MA NAG EME NT O BJECT IVES AND THE IMPA CT M ANAGEME N T

OUTCOME S FOR INCLUS IO N IN THE EMPR

Protection of the DMOSS zone;

Ensure strict erosion control measures are implemented;

Avoid/Limit the removal of indigenous vegetation;

Removal alien vegetation that may appear;

Limit the use of water as far as possible;

Enforce no-go areas and buffer zones;

Limit access to site and place signage;

Ensure proper waste disposal is implemented;

Limit the noise created during the construction process;

Implement proper dust control measures;

Implement storm water management;

Employ local labour from the area; and

Rehabilitation should be treated as an on-going process

5.4.3 BUFFE RS

The Buffer Zone Guidelines for Rivers, Wetlands and Estuaries was utilised in order to determine an

appropriate buffer area for the river and wetland. Factors such as the type of development as well as

the PES and EIS were considered during the calculation of the buffer. A buffer area of 23m was

calculated for the Sterkspruit River for the construction phase of the development and was applied

from the edge of the riparian zone of the river (Figure 12). A buffer of 20m was calculated for the

channelled valley bottom wetland for the construction phase of the development, however, this

buffer area is covered by the 23m riparian buffer zone. A small portion of the 23m buffer zone falls


63

within the development footprint area. However, it should be noted that this portion of the buffer is

already significantly disturbed as a result of the removal of natural vegetation for the historical

development of the existing internal access road, and as a result of alien invasive vegetation

proliferation (Figure 13). Therefore no direct loss of riparian or wetland habitat will take place, and,

should the mitigation measures as listed within this report be strictly adhered to, all additional impacts

to the Sterkspruit River and the channelled valley bottom wetland can be reduced to low and very low

(negative) significances. Apart from the existing development in the buffer zone, the 23m buffer

should be strictly enforced.


64

Figure 12: The Sterkspruit Industrial Park Buffer Map


65

Figure 13: Existing development within the buffer zone


66

5.4.4 ASPE CTS FOR INCLUS IO N AS CO ND ITIONS O F AUTH ORISA T IO N

There are three conditions that will need to be included in the Environmental Authorisation (EA).

These include:

If dangerous goods are to be stored on site it is the responsibility of the platform owner to

apply for environmental authorisation;

The greater remainder of the DMOSS layer that development is not to take place on is to be

converted to a non-useable conservation zone; and

A detailed site specific geotechnical investigation is recommended for each platform /

structure to confirm subsoil conditions and obtain geotechnical design parameters for

earthworks and structure founding.

5.4.5 DESCRIPT IO N O F A NY AS S UMPTIO NS , UNCE RTA INTIES AND GA PS IN K NOWLE DG E

The following assumptions, uncertainties and gaps in knowledge have been identified by the EAP and

appointed specialists:

It must be noted the absence of species on the proposed site does not conclude that the

species (including endangered or protected) is not present at the site.

5.4.6 PERIO D FOR WH ICH THE ENV IRONME NTA L AUTHO RISA T IO N IS REQ U IRE D

There are no plans for decommissioning. If decommissioning is required, a Closure and Rehabilitation

Plan must be implemented.


67

6 SUMMARY

It is the opinion of the EAP that the project can be supported on condition that the Mitigation and

Management measures described in Section 5 of this Report, the Environmental Management Plan

(Appendix 1) and with those proposed by the specialist consultants (Appendix 3, 4, and 6) are strictly

adhered too and implemented.

A variety of mitigation measures have been identified that will serve to mitigate the scale, intensity,

duration or significance of the impacts which have a medium to high significance rating. The proposed

mitigatory measures, if implemented, will reduce the significance of the majority of the identified

impacts to "low", and allow for the proposed project to proceed with minimal effect to the

environment, local community and surrounding land use practice.


68

ANNEXURE A: LOCALITY MAP


69

ANNEXURE B: LAYOUT/SKETCH PLAN

NB: Encroachment into the DMOSS will only occur into the North West and Western sections of the property.

No encroachment into DMOSS will occur to the South of the site as indicated in the below layout. An amended

layout will be provided.

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT- DRAFT 1 - IDM Consultants

Documents

Transcript of BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT- DRAFT 1 - IDM Consultants