THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT OF THE APEX BULK OUTFALL SEWER

Transcription

1 THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT OF THE APEX BULK OUTFALL SEWER DRAFT BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT NOVEMBER 2018 Prepared by: Galago Environmental CC: Environmental Consultants and Specialists 638 Turf Street, Wingate Park, 0181 Contact Person: Vanessa Marais Tel: Fax: Applicant: Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality Contact Person: Ms. Tholwana Koaho Tel: (011) Fax: (011)

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS: SECTION A: ACTIVITY INFORMATION PROPOSAL OR DEVELOPMENT DESCRIPTION APPLICABLE LEGISLATION, POLICIES AND/OR GUIDELINES ALTERNATIVES LAYOUT OR ROUTE PLAN SITE PHOTOGRAPHS FACILITY ILLUSTRATION SECTION B: DESCRIPTION OF RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT PROPERTY DESCRIPTION ACTIVITY POSITION GRADIENT OF THE SITE LOCATION IN LANDSCAPE GROUNDWATER, SOIL AND GEOLOGICAL STABILITY OF THE SITE AGRICULTURE GROUNDCOVER LAND USE CHARACTER OF SURROUNDING AREA SOCIO-ECONOMIC CONTEXT CULTURAL/HISTORICAL FEATURES SECTION C: PUBLIC PARTICIPATION (SECTION 41) LOCAL AUTHORITY PARTICIPATION CONSULTATION WITH OTHER STAKEHOLDERS GENERAL PUBLIC PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS APPENDICES FOR PUBLIC PARTICIPATION SECTION D: RESOURCE USE AND PROCESS DETAILS WASTE, EFFLUENT, AND EMISSION MANAGEMENT POWER SUPPLY ENERGY EFFICIENCY SECTION E: IMPACT ASSESSMENT ISSUES RAISED BY INTERESTED AND AFFECTED PARTIES IMPACTS THAT MAY RESULT FROM THE CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATIONAL PHASE IMPACTS THAT MAY RESULT FROM THE DECOMISSIONING AND CLOSURE PHASE

3 4. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT IMPACT SUMMARY OF THE PROPOSAL OR PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT TOOLS RECOMMENDATION OF THE PRACTITIONER THE NEEDS AND DESIRABILITY OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT THE PERIOD FOR WHICH THE ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION IS REQUIRED ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME (EMPR) SECTION F: APPENDIXES LIST OF FIGURES: Figure 1: Locality Map and Proposed Alignment Figure 2: Aquatic Delineation Map Figure 3: C-Plan 3.3 Map Figure 4: Vegetation Sensitivity Map Figure 5: Mammal Sensitivity Map Figure 6: Avifaunal Sensitivity Map Figure 7: Herpetofaunal Sensitivity Map Figure 8: Alternative 2, 3 and 4 Alignment for phase Figure 9: Locality map showing the preferred route marked as alternative Figure 10: Proposed sewer line crossing channeled valley bottom wetland Figure 11: Alternative 2 Alignment located within 500m of unchannelled valley bottom wetland Figure 12: Alt 2 Alignment located within 100m of Apex Depression Wetland LIST OF ANNEXURES: Appendix A: Locality map and environmental sensitivity map Appendix B: Photographs Appendix C: Facility illustration(s) Appendix D: Route position information Appendix E: Public participation information Appendix F: Water use license(s) authorisation, SAHRA information, service letters from municipalities, water supply information Appendix G: Specialist reports Appendix G1: Geotechnical Report Appendix G2: Heritage Impact Assessment Appendix G3: Aquatic ecosystem delineation Appendix G4: Biodiversity Assessment Appendix G5: GLS report Appendix G6: Detail Design report Appendix H: EMPr LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS: 2

4 BAR: Basic Assessment Report CBD: Central Business District C-Plan: Conservation Plan DFA: Development Facilitation Act EAP: Environmental Assessment Practitioner E-BOSS: Ekurhuleni Biodiversity Open Space System IEMA: Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment DWS: Department of Water and Sanitation EMP: Environmental Management Programme GAPA: Gauteng Agricultural Potential Atlas GDARD: Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Environment GDRT: Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport GSDF: Gauteng Spatial Development Framework GDS: Growth and Development Strategy I&AP: Interested and affected party IDP: Integrated Development Plan MSDF: Ekurhuleni Metro Spatial Development Framework NEMA : National Environmental Management Act RSDF: Regional Spatial Development Framework SACLAP: The South African Council of the Landscape Architects Profession SAHRA: South African Heritage Resources Agency SDF: Spatial Development framework GLOSSARY OF TERMS: Agricultural Hub: An area identified for agricultural use by GDARD according to the Draft Policy on the Protection of Agricultural Land (2006). Alien species: A plant or animal species introduced from elsewhere: neither endemic nor indigenous. Applicant: Any person who applies for an authorisation to undertake an activity or to cause such activity to be undertaken as contemplated in the National Environmental Management Act (Act No. 107 of 1998), as amended, and the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2014 (as amended). Biodiversity: The variability among living organisms from all sources including, terrestrial, marine and other aquatic ecosystems and the ecological complexes of which they are apart. Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (Act No. 43 of 1983): This Act provides for control over the utilization of the natural agricultural resources of the Republic in order to promote the conservation of the soil, the water sources and the vegetation and the combating of weeds and invader plants; and for matters connected therewith. 3

5 C-Plan 3.3: The GDARD C-Plan focuses on the mapping and management of biodiversity priority areas within Gauteng and identifies those sites that are critical for maintaining biodiversity. Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBAs): CBAs include natural or near-natural terrestrial and aquatic features that were selected based on an area s biodiversity characteristics, spatial configuration and requirement for meeting both biodiversity pattern and ecological process targets. CBAs include irreplaceable sites where no other options exist for meeting targets for biodiversity features, as well as best-design sites which represent an efficient configuration of sites to meet targets in an ecologically sustainable way that is least conflicting with other land uses and activities. These areas need be maintained in the appropriate condition for their category. Some CBAs are degraded or irreversibly modified but are still required for achieving specific targets, such as cultivated lands for threatened species. Ecology: The study of the inter relationships between organisms and their environments. Ecological Support Areas (ESAs): Natural, near-natural, degraded or heavily modified areas required to be maintained in an ecologically functional state to support Critical Biodiversity Areas and/or Protected Areas. ESAs maintain the ecological processes on which Critical Biodiversity Areas and Protected Areas depend. Some ESAs are irreversibly modified, but are still required as they still play an important role in supporting ecological processes. Environment: All physical, chemical and biological factors and conditions that influence an object and/or organism. Also defined as the surroundings within which humans exist and are made up of the land, water, atmosphere, plant and animal life (micro and macro), interrelationship between the factors and the physical or chemical conditions that influence human health and well-being. Environmental Impact Assessment: Assessment of the effects of a development on the environment. Environmental Management Programme: A legally binding working document, which stipulates environmental and socio-economic mitigation measures that must be implemented by several responsible parties throughout the duration of the proposed project. GDARD Requirements for Biodiversity Assessments Version 3 (June 2014): GDARD requirements for biodiversity assessments. Gauteng Provincial Environmental Management Framework, 2014 (GPEMF): The objective of the GPEMF is to guide sustainable land use management within the Gauteng Province. The GPEMF, inter alia, serve the following purposes: To provide a strategic and overall framework for environmental management in Gauteng; Align sustainable development initiatives with the environmental resources, developmental pressures, as well as the growth imperatives of Gauteng; Determine geographical areas where certain activities can be excluded from an EIA process; and identify appropriate, inappropriate and conditionally compatible activities in various Environmental Management Zones in a manner that promotes pro-active decision-making. National Environmental Management Act (NEMA), 1998 (Act No 107 of 1998), as amended: NEMA provides for co-operative, environmental governance by establishing principles for decision-making on matters affecting the environment, institutions that will promote co-operative governance and procedures for co-ordinating environmental functions exercised by organs of state; and to provide for matters connected therewith. 4

6 National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act (Act No. 39 of 2004): The purpose of the Act is To reform the law regulating air quality in order to protect the environment by providing reasonable measures for the prevention of pollution and ecological degradation and for securing ecologically sustainable development while promoting justifiable economic and social development; to provide for national norms and standards regulating air quality monitoring, management and control by all spheres of government; for specific air quality measures; and for matters incident thereto. National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No 10 of 2004): The purpose of the Biodiversity Act is to provide for the management and conservation of South Africa s biodiversity within the framework of the NEMA and the protection of species and ecosystems that warrant national protection. As part of its implementation strategy, the National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment was developed. National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, 2003 (Act No 57 of 2003): The purpose of this Act is to provide the protection, conservation and management of ecologically viable areas representative of South Africa s biological diversity and its natural landscapes. National Heritage Resource Act, 1999 (Act No 25 of 1999): The National Heritage Resources Act legislates the necessity for cultural and heritage impact assessment in areas earmarked for development, which exceed 0.5 ha. The Act makes provision for the potential destruction to existing sites, pending the archaeologist s recommendations through permitting procedures. Permits are administered by the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA). National Veld and Forest Fire Act, 1998 (Act No. 101, 1998): The purpose of this Act is to prevent and combat veld, forest and mountain fires throughout the Republic. Furthermore the Act provides for a variety of institutions, methods and practices for achieving the prevention of fires. National Road Traffic Act, 1996 (Act No. 93 of 1996): This Act provides for all road traffic matters which shall apply uniformly throughout the Republic and for matters connected therewith. National Water Act, 1998 (Act No 36 of 1998): The purpose of this Act is to ensure that the nation s water resources are protected, used, developed, conserved, managed and controlled. Open Space: Areas free of building that provide ecological, socio-economic and placemaking functions at all scales of the metropolitan area. Protected Areas: Protected Areas are areas which have legal protection under relevant legislation or which are managed with a primary conservation objective Study Area: Refers to the entire study area compassing the total area of the land parcels as indicated on the study area map. Sustainable Development: Development that has integrated social, economic and environmental factors into planning, implementation and decision making, so as to ensure that it serves present and future generations. 5

7 Basic Assessment Report in terms of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998), as amended, and the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2014 (Version 1) Kindly note that: 1. This Basic Assessment Report is the standard report required by GDARD in terms of the EIA Regulations, This application form is current as of 8 December It is the responsibility of the EAP to ascertain whether subsequent versions of the form have been published or produced by the competent authority. 3. A draft Basic Assessment Report must be submitted, for purposes of comments within a period of thirty (30) days, to all State Departments administering a law relating to a matter likely to be affected by the activity to be undertaken. 4. A draft Basic Assessment Report (1 hard copy and two CD s) must be submitted, for purposes of comments within a period of thirty (30) days, to a Competent Authority empowered in terms of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998), as amended to consider and decide on the application. 5. Five (5) copies (3 hard copies and 2 CDs-PDF) of the final report and attachments must be handed in at offices of the relevant competent authority, as detailed below. 6. The report must be typed within the spaces provided in the form. The size of the spaces provided is not necessarily indicative of the amount of information to be provided. The report is in the form of a table that can extend itself as each space is filled with typing. 7. Selected boxes must be indicated by a cross and, when the form is completed electronically, must also be highlighted. 8. An incomplete report may lead to an application for environmental authorisation being refused. 9. Any report that does not contain a titled and dated full colour large scale layout plan of the proposed activities including a coherent legend, overlain with the sensitivities found on site may lead to an application for environmental authorisation being refused. 10. The use of not applicable in the report must be done with circumspection because if it is used in respect of material information that is required by the competent authority for assessing the application, it may result in the application for environmental authorisation being refused. 11. No faxed or ed reports will be accepted. Only hand delivered or posted applications will be accepted. 12. Unless protected by law, and clearly indicated as such, all information filled in on this application will become public information on receipt by the competent authority. The applicant/eap must provide any interested and affected party with the information contained in this application on request, during any stage of the application process. 13. Although pre-application meeting with the Competent Authority is optional, applicants are advised to have these meetings prior to submission of application to seek guidance from the Competent Authority. DEPARTMENTAL DETAILS Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Attention: Administrative Unit of the of the Environmental Affairs Branch P.O. Box 8769 Johannesburg 2000 Administrative Unit of the of the Environmental Affairs Branch Ground floor Diamond Building 11 Diagonal Street, Johannesburg Administrative Unit telephone number: (011) Department central telephone number: (011)

8 NEAS Reference Number: File Reference Number: Application Number: Date Received: (For official use only) If this BAR has not been submitted within 90 days of receipt of the application by the competent authority and permission was not requested to submit within 140 days, please indicate the reasons for not submitting within time frame. Not Applicable. Is a closure plan applicable for this application and has it been included in this report? No if not, state reasons for not including the closure plan. Not applicable to this Project. Has a draft report for this application been submitted to a competent authority and all State Departments administering a law relating to a matter likely to be affected as a result of this activity? Yes This Draft Report will be made available to GDARD as well as all Stakeholders and Interested and Affected Parties for comment. (Refer to Appendix E: Public Participation Information). Is a list of the State Departments referred to above attached to this report including their full contact details and contact person? Yes Refer to Appendix E: Public Participation Information. If no, state reasons for not attaching the list. Not Applicable. Have State Departments including the competent authority commented? No If no, why? This Draft Report will be made available to GDARD as well as all State Departments, Stakeholders and Interested and Affected Parties for comment. Their comments will be included in the Final BA report. 7

9 SECTION A: ACTIVITY INFORMATION 1. PROPOSAL OR DEVELOPMENT DESCRIPTION Project title (must be the same name as per application form): PROJECT TITLE: APEX BULK OUTFALL SEWER LINE 1.1 Introduction The Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (EMM) plans to construct a new Bulk Outfall Sewer line from the Apex x12 development in the west to the Welgedacht WWTW in the east. The project entails the construction of a ±7.5 km bulk outfall sewer line including pump stations and pipe diameters varying from 250 cm to 375 cm. The proposed project entails the upgrade of the Bulk Sewer infrastructure in order to service the new Apex x 12 development as well as other future developments in the area. The project also entails the phasing out of the Apex pump station as per the master plan by means of new gravity sewers. The construction of the above will simultaneously phase out the Mackenzie Park- and Rynsoord pump stations as well as provide drainage solutions for other future development areas adjacent to the proposed pipeline. The line will be constructed in two phases. The Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality has appointed Galago Environmental CC: Environmental Consultants to compile and submit a Basic Assessment (BA) Process for the proposed Bulk Outfall Sewer line. 1.2 Locality Phase 1 of the proposed route starts at a point just west of the merging of the Range View Apex railway line with the New Kleinfontein Apex line in New Kleinfontein. The route runs northeast along the railway line then veers north at the Brakpan Mines boundary just before Apex station and then north-east along Wolverhampton and Toronto Streets. The route veers back to the railway line where the Brakpan Mine boundary turns south-east. Phase 1 of the proposed route ends opposite Hamburg Street in Apex Industrial Township at the Apex Pump station. Phase 2 of the proposed route starts opposite Hamburg Street and runs north-east along the defunct Apex Modrea railway line, then crosses, and ends at, the drainage line near Hospital Road. The entire route will be constructed within the railway servitude (Refer to Figure 1: Locality Map and Proposed Alignment alternative 1 will be followed as the preferred option). According to the GDARD C-Plan 3.3 phase 1 of the proposed route runs northwest of a Critical Biodiversity Area and an Ecological Support Area. Phase 2 of the proposed route runs for a short distance northwest of the Ecological Support Area then, at Road M45, for a short distance southeast of a Critical Biodiversity area on the farm Benoni 77-IR. In the vicinity of Rynsoord the proposed route passes through an Ecological Support Area (Refer to Figure 3 for C-Plan Maps). 8

10 The following activities will be applied for in terms of the NEMA Regulations, GN. R 983 and R 985 of 2014, as amended: A letter was received from GDARD stipulating that as the line is within a railway line, these activities are not covered under the NEMA regulations but this report is also relevant for the Water Use Licence and will therefore be used for public participation. R. 983 December 2014 R.985 December 2014 Listing Notice 1, Activity 10 Listing Notice 3, Activity 12 The development and related operation of infrastructure exceeding metres in length for the bulk transportation of sewage, effluent, process water, waste water, return water, industrial discharge or slimes (i) with an internal diameter of 0,36 metres or more; or (ii) with a peak throughput of 120 litres per second or more; excluding where (a) such infrastructure is for the bulk transportation of sewage, effluent, process water, waste water, return water, industrial discharge or slimes inside a road reserve or railway line reserve; or (b) where such development will occur within an urban area. The clearance of an area of 300 square metres or more of indigenous vegetation except where such clearance of indigenous vegetation is required for maintenance purposes undertaken in accordance with a maintenance management plan. i. Within any critically endangered or endangered ecosystem listed in terms of section 52 of the NEMBA or prior to the publication of such a list, within an area that has been identified as critically endangered in the National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment 2004; ii. Within Critical Biodiversity Areas or Ecological Support Areas identified in the Gauteng Conservation Plan or bioregional plans; or iii. 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. 9

11 Figure 1: Locality Map and Proposed Alignment (Refer to Appendix A for enlarged Map) 10

12 Select the appropriate box The application is for an upgrade of an existing development an additional phase of an existing development The application is for a new development x Other, specify Does the activity also require any authorisation other than NEMA EIA authorisation? YES x No If yes, describe the legislation and the Competent Authority administering such legislation The sewer line will run across a wetland before it enters the main line to the wastewater treatment plant. A Water Use License Application (WULA) will be applied for in terms of Section 21 (i) and (c) of the National Water Act, 1998 (Act 36 of 1998) which is administered by the Department of Water and Sanitation. A permit was also obtained from the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) If yes, have you applied for the authorisation(s)? Application for a WULA was submitted to DWS Application to SAHRA was submitted YES X NO If yes, have you received approval(s)? (attach in appropriate appendix) YES NO x 2. APPLICABLE LEGISLATION, POLICIES AND/OR GUIDELINES List all legislation, policies and/or guidelines of any sphere of government that are applicable to the application as contemplated in the EIA regulations: Title of legislation, policy or guideline: National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998, as amended). Administering authority: Promulgation Date: National & Provincial 27 November 1998 The NEMA is primarily an enabling Act in that it provides for the development of environmental implementation plans and environmental management plans. The principles listed in the act serve as a general framework within which environmental management and implementation plans must be formulated. The Act also promotes sustainable development. Implications to the development: The proposed development will be in line with the principles contained in NEMA and it will promote sustainable development. 11

13 Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations in terms of Chapter 5 of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No 107 of 1998) National 2014 The Minister of Environmental Affairs passed (in April 2017) the Amended Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations in terms of Chapter 5 of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act 107 of 1998) (NEMA), as amended. The purpose of this process is to determine the possible negative and positive impacts of the proposed development on the surrounding environment and to provide measures for the mitigation of negative impacts and to maximize positive impacts. Notice No. R 983, R 984 and R985 of the Amended Regulations lists the activities that indicate the process to be followed. The activities listed in Notice No. R 983 require that a Basic Assessment process be followed and the Activities listed in terms of Notice No. R 984 requires that the Scoping and EIA process be followed. Notice No. R 985 has been introduced to make provision for Activities in certain geographical and sensitive areas which requires a Basic Assessment. Implications for development: The application for the proposed development consist of activities listed under Notice R. 983 (Listing No. 1) and R. 985 (Listing No. 3) and therefore a Basic Assessment Report will be submitted to GDARD for consideration. National Water Act, 1998 (Act National & Provincial 20 August 1998 No. 36 of 1998) The purpose of this Act is to ensure that the nation s water resources are protected, used, developed, conserved, managed and controlled in ways that take into account, amongst other factors, the following: Meeting the basic human needs of present and future generations; Promoting equitable access to water; Promoting the efficient, sustainable and beneficial use of water in the public interest; Reducing and preventing pollution and degradation of water resources; Facilitating social and economic development; and Providing for the growing demand for water use. In terms of the section 21 of the National Water Act, the developer must obtain water use licences if the following activites are taking place: a) Taking water from a water resource; b) Storing water; c) Impeding or diverting the flow of water in a water course; d) Engaging in a stream flow reduction activity contemplated in section 36; e) Engaging in a controlled activity identified as such in section 37(1) or declared under section 38(1); f) Discharging waste or water containing waste into a water resource through a pipeline, canal, sewer, sea outfall or other conduit; g) Disposing of waste in a manner which may detrimentally impact on a water resource; h) Disposing in any manner which contains waste from or which has been heated in any industrial or power generation process; i) Altering the bed, banks, course or disposing of water found underground if it is necessary for the safety of people; j) Removing, discharging, or disposing of water found underground if it is necessary for the efficient continuation of an activity or for the safety of people; and 12

14 k) Using water for recreational purposes. The National Water Act also requires that (where applicable) the 1:50 and 1:100 year flood line be indicated on all the development drawings (even the drawings for the external services) that are submitted for approval. Implications for the Development: The sewer line will run across a wetland before it enters the main line to the wastewater treatment plant. A Water Use License Application (WULA) will be applied for in terms of Section 21 (i) and (c) of the National Water Act, 1998 (Act 36 of 1998) which is administered by the Department of Water and Sanitation (Refer to Figure 2 Aquatic Delineation Map and Appendix G3: Wetland Assessment). Figure 2: Aquatic Delineation Map National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act, 2004 (Act 39 of 2004) National & Provincial 2004 The NEMA: AQA serves to repeal the Atmosphereic Pollution Prevention Act (45 of 1965) and various other laws dealing with air pollution and it provides a more comprehensive framework within which the critical question of air quality can be addressed. The purpose of the Act is to set norms and standards that relate to: Institutional frameworks, roles and responsibilities; Air quality management planning; Air quality monitoring and information management; Air quality managment measures; and General compliance and enforcement. Amongst other things, it is intended that the setting of norms and standards will achieve the following: The protection, restoration and enhancement of air quality in South Africa; Increased public participation in the protection of air quality and improved public access to relevant and meaningful information about air quality; and The reduction of risks to human health and the prevention of the degradation of air quality. The Act describes various regulatory tools that should be developed to ensure the 13

15 implementation and enforcement of air quality management plans. These include: Priority Areas, which are air pollution hot spots ; Listed Activities, which are problem processes that require an Atmospheric Emission Licence; Controlled Emitters, which includes the setting of emission standards for classes of emitters, such as motor vehicles, incinerators, etc.; Control of Noise; and Control of Odours. Implications for the development During the construction phase, dust and the generation of noise can become a significant factor, especially to the surrounding landowners. However if the development is well planned and if the mitigating measures are successfully implemented the proposed development s contribution to air pollution and the generation of noise pollution could be insignificant. National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act No. 45 of National & April (NHRA) Provincial The National Heritage Resources Act legislates the neccesity and Heritage Impact Assessment in areas earmarked for development, which exceed 0.5 ha. The Act makes provision for the potential destruction to existing sites, pending the archaelogist s recommendations through permitting procedures. Permits are administered by the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA). Implications for the development The proposed area earmarked for the upgrade to the Apex Outfall Sewer Line Phase 1 and Phase 2 as well as the alternative line were found to be limited in sites of heritage significance. This area has undergone severe alterations to the landscape over the years and for this reason very little or no evidence of heritage sites of significance remains today. Some of the Railway houses located along the alignment could be of architectural and historic importance and if they are to be impacted upon they should be subjected to a second phase of investigation. If during construction any evidence of archaeological sites or artefacts, paleontological fossils, graves or other heritage resources are found, the operations must be stopped and a qualified archaeologist or SAHRA must be contacted immediately for an assessment of the find. (Refer to Appendix G2: Heritage Impact Assessment and Appendix H - EMPr) National Environmental Management Protected Areas Act, 2003 (Act No. 57 of 2003) National 2003 The purpose of this Act is to provide for the protection, conservation and management of ecologically viable areas representative of South Africa s biological biodiversity and its natural landscapes and seascapes, for the management of those areas in accordance with national norms and standards, as well as for intergovernmental co-operation and public consultation in matters concerning protected areas Protected areas are to be conserved for their biodiversity and ecological integrity. Implications for the development The subject property is not located within a protected area. 14

16 National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act 10 of 2004) National 2004 The Biodiversity Act provides for the management and protection of the country s biodiversity within the framework established by NEMA. It provides for the protection of species and ecosystems in need of protection, sustainable use of indigenous biological resources, equity and bioprospecting, and the establishment of a regulatory body on biodiversity. Objectives of the Act: (a) Within the framework of the National Environmental Management Act, to provide for: (i) The management and conservation of biological diversity within the Republic and of the components of such biological diversity; (ii) The use of indigenous biological resources in a sustainable manner; and (iii) The fair and equitable sharing among stakeholders of benefits arising from bioprospecting involving indigenous biological resources; (b) To give effect to ratified international agreements relating to biodiversity which are binding on the republic; (c) To provide for co-operative governance in biodiversity management and conservation; and (d) To provide for a South African National Biodiversity Institute to assist in achieving the objectives of this Act. Implications for proposed development: The landscape consists of gentle to moderately undulating plains on the Highveld plateau supporting short to medium-high, dense, tufted grassland dominated almost entirely by Themedatriandra and accompanied by a variety of other grasses such as Elionurusmuticus, Eragrostisracemosa, Heteropogoncontortus and Tristachyaleucothix. In places where the natural vegetation is not disturbed only scattered small wetlands, narrow steams alluvia, pans and occasional ridges or rocky outcrops interrupt the continuous grassland cover. The proposed route and alternative 1 runs northwest of a Critical Biodiversity Area and an Ecological Support Area. Phase 2 of the proposed route runs for a short distance northwest of the Ecological Support Area then, at Road M45, for a short distance south-east of a Critical Biodiversity area on the farm Benoni 77-IR. In the vicinity of Rynsoord the proposed route passes through an Ecological Support Area (Refer to Figure 3: C-Plan 3.3 Map). Figure 3: C-Plan 3.3 Map Flora 15

17 The proposed route lies in the quarter degree square 2628AB (Benoni). According to Mucina& Rutherford (2006) phase 1 of the proposed route runs partly through Tsakane Clay Grassland and Soweto Highveld Grassland. Phase 2 of the proposed route runs through Soweto Highveld Grassland. The authors (Mucina& Rutherford 2006) describe Tsakane Clay Grassland as short, dense grassland on flat to slightly undulating plains and low hills. A mixture of grasses dominates the vegetation. The area has strongly seasonal summer rainfall with very dry winters and frequent winter frosts. This vegetation unit is considered endangered. Its conservation target is 24%. Only 1,5% is conserved in statutory reserves and a few private nature reserves. More than 60% of the unit is already transformed by cultivation, urbanization, mining, dambuilding and roads. Phase 1 of the proposed route runs mostly through the Apex industrial area where the vegetation is considered totally destroyed by development. Apex pan lies south, and within 200 meters of, phase 1 of the proposed route. Phase 2 of the proposed route runs mostly through mixed alien and indigenous vegetation dominated by Eucalyptus thickets and passes through a reed bed just before it ends east of Hospital Road. (Refer to Figure 4: Vegetation Sensitivity Map and Appendix G4: Biodiversity Assessment). Figure 4: Vegetation Sensitivity Map Mammals: The study site falls in the Soweto Highveld Grassland and Tsakane Clay Grassland vegetation types, which are considered as Endangered. However, most of these grassveld areas are already severely disturbed. Endangered mammal species treat the site as part of their home ranges / territories. Most of these species include bats, which move over huge distances, and a few shrew species. It is very difficult to confirm whether any of these species are present on any study site, but there is a possibility that some individuals of these two groups of species do occur on this particular study route. In optimum conditions the possibility exists that the Southern African hedgehog may occur on the study route. The removal of invasive plants, rubbish and building rubble will greatly improve the area. From a mammal point of view, the study route has a low sensitivity (Refer to Figure 5: Mammal Sensitivity Map and Appendix G4: Biodiversity Assessment). 16

18 Figure 5: Mammal Sensitivity Map Avifauna The study area does not offer optimal habitat conditions for the Red Data avifaunal species recorded for the 2628AB q.b.g.c. These Red Data avifaunal species are habitat specific and unable to adapt to area changed by man. In general, with exception of some Red Data avifaunal, the reporting rate of Red Data avifaunal species recorded for the q.d.g.c. is very low at 3% and less and if they should occur, they are only likely to move through the area on rare occasion and unlikely to make used of the habitat systems on a permanent basis. The aquatic habitat of the Apex Pan offers suitable habitat for a variety of avifaunal species and should be regarded as high sensitive and the rest medium sensitive to ensure future avifaunal biodiversity in the study area (Refer to Figure 6: Avifaunal Sensitivity Map and Appendix G4: Biodiversity Assessment). Figure 6: Avifaunal Sensitivity Map 17

19 Herpetofauna The possibility exists that at least some individuals of the giant bullfrog occur on the study site. The removal of invasive plants, rubbish and building rubble will greatly improve the area. From a herpetological perspective, the site has a low sensitivity (Refer to Figure 7: Herpetofaunal Sensitivity Map and Appendix G4: Biodiversity Assessment). Figure 7: Herpetofaunal Sensitivity Map National Environmental Management: Waste Act (Act 59 of 2009) National 11 June 2010 This Act came into effect on 11 June It aims to consolidate waste management in South Africa, and contains a number of commendable provisions, including: The establishment of a national waste management strategy, and national and provincial norms and standards, for amongst other, the classification of waste, waste service delivery, and tariffs for such waste services; Addressing reduction, reuse, recycling and recovery of waste; The requirements for industry and local government to prepare integrated waste management plans; The establishment of control over contaminated land; Identifying waste management activities that requires a license, which currently include facilities for the storage, transfer, recycling, recovery, treatment and disposal of waste on land; Co-operative governance in issuing licenses for waste management facilities, by means of which a licensing authority can issue an integrated or consolidated license jointly with other organs of state that has legislative control over the activity; and The establishment of a national waste information system. Implication for the development: No waste management license will be required for the project. 18

20 Red List Plant Species Guidelines Provincial 26 June 2006 The purpose of these guidelines is to promote the conservation of Red Listed Plant Species in Gauteng, which are species of flora that face risk of extinction in the wild. By protecting Red Listed Plant Species, conservation of diverse landscapes is promoted which forms part of the overall environmental preservation of diverse ecosystems, habitats, communities, populations, species and genes in Gauteng. These Guidelines are intended to provide a decision-making support tool to any person or organization that is responsible for managing, or whose actions affect, areas in Gauteng where populations of Red Listed Plant Species grow, whether such person or organization be an organ of state or private entity or individual; thereby enabling the conservation of the Red List Plant Species that occur in Gauteng. Implication for the development: No Red Listed species have been recorded on site. GDARD Draft Ridges Policy Provincial 2007 This policy is provided for the protection, conservation and maintenance of ridges within the Gauteng Province. Ridges play an important role in biodiversity and ecosystem functioning as they provide niche habitats for a number of species. Ridges must be viewed as playing a critical role in the preservation of migratory corridors for faunal and floral species. Implications for the development: According to the GDARD Draft Ridges Policy no development should take place on slopes steeper than 8.8%. The proposed development does not occur in an area classified as a ridge in terms of GDARDs draft ridges policy. Draft Policy on the protection of Agricultural Land, 2006 Provincial 2006 GDARD identified 7 Agricultural Hubs in Gauteng Province. These hubs are earmarked for agricultural activities and there are policies and guidelines that should be taken into consideration when one plans to develop in these hubs areas. Urban development is usually not supported in these hubs. Implications for the development: The study area is not situated within any of the 7 agricultural hubs identified for Gauteng. Gauteng Noise Control Regulations, 1999 Provincial 1999 The regulation controls noise pollution. According to the acceptable noise levels in a residential area situated within an urban area is 55dBA and the maximum acceptable noise levels in a rural area is 45dBA. Implications for the Development: During the construction phase, the impact of noise could be problematic, but such impacts are generally short term. One should note that practical mitigation measures for noise pollution are low, but certain measures can be implemented to mitigate the severity (Refer to Appendix H (EMPr) for a list of suitable guidelines and mitigation measures). 19

21 The Gauteng Transport Infrastructure Act, 2001 Provincial 2001 The Act was created to consolidate the laws relating to roads and other types of transport infrastructure in Gauteng; and to provide for the planning, design, development, construction, financing, management, control, maintenance, protection and rehabilitation of provincial roads, railway lines and other transport infrastructure in Gauteng; and to provide for matter connected therewith. Implications for the proposed development All developments in Gauteng must take the Gauteng Road network into consideration and no development may be planned across any provincial or K-route indicated on the published alignments. Not applicable as the proposed line will be located within existing servitudes and will not affect any present or future provincial or K-routes. Gauteng Transport Infrastructure Amendment Act; Provincial The aim of this Amendment Act is to amend the Gauteng Transport Infrastructure Act, 2001 so as to amend and insert certain definitions; to provide for the necessary land use rights with respect to stations and for the necessary powers of the MEC to enter into contracts for road and rail projects; to amend the procedure in relation to route determination; to make a second environmental investigation at the stage of preliminary design of a road or railway line unnecessary where the competent environmental authority decides that the environmental investigation at the stage of route determination is adequate; and to provide for incidental matters. Implications for the Development: The development has already taken the existing and planned provincial roads into consideration. Where roads needs to be traversed with the proposed pipeline, pipe jacking will be done so that no vehicular traffic is disrupted. Ekurhuleni Metro Spatial Development Framework (MSDF) Local 2015 The MSDF is a first step towards guiding future spatial development in Ekurhuleni to achieve a more sustainable metropolitan city structure, which can lead economic and social development in Gauteng. The Benoni CBD plays a central role in the MSDF, as the driving concept of the plan is a strengthening and expansion of the core triangle between Kempton Park, Germiston and Benoni. Each region within the EMM has been identified through the MSDF as having a specific role and function that contributes to the city. The region s locality, predominant land-use and the development pressures are the principal elements that influence the role and function of the region. Benoni CBD falls within REGION D and the following Roles and Functions for the area are established in the MSDF: ROLE Maintain and improve the existing urban fabric (including nodes). Provide residential and job opportunities (especially related to rail). FUNCTION Ensure densification occurs along rail alignment to maximize opportunities. Provide north-south linkages (PWV 17) Protect open spaces (including watercourses and pans) 20

22 Maximize agricultural potential Make provision for the upgrade and maintenance of certain urban areas. Retain existing industrial component and expand on opportunities. Sufficient social services to accommodate the population growth. Capitalize on the N12 and N17 transport routes. Upgrade / renewal of the existing urban nodes. Implications for the Development: The proposed development is in line with the MSDF and fulfils the role and function for the Benoni area as described in this framework. The proposal will provide the required service infrastructure for residential development in the area. Ekurhuleni Regional Spatial Development Framework (RSDF) 2015 Region D Regional 2015 According to the Ekurhuleni RSDF Region D (2015), Benoni, Brakpan and Springs CBDs all fall within the growth path of Gauteng and should therefore be considered as important growth nodes. Business development in Region D is primarily centered in the Benoni, Brakpan and Springs Central Business Districts (CBDs). The RSDF proposals almost mirror the current land-use trends in the study area, with a few exceptions. The CBD core is identified as a strong Mixed Use Business zone, covering the largest land-use portion of the study area. The Western portion of the site is earmarked for an Urban Development zone with supporting Municipal and Social Infrastructure. A Transit Oriented Development (T.O.D) Activity Node is identified within proximity of the Benoni Railway Station. Implications for the Development: The proposed development is in line with the RSDF and supports the Benoni CBD area as important growth node. Ekurhuleni Biodiversity Open Space Regional 2009 System (E-BOSS), May 2009 The Ekurhuleni Biodiversity Open Space System (E-BOSS) is a more comprehensive ecological protection tool within the EMM. The E-BOSS highlights the Hydrological Protection zone in the area. It is important to ensure that development does not infringe on this ecological asset and rather promote it as a key ecological element in the Precinct. EBOSS Classifies the Benoni Lakes Conservation and Recreation Node as one of two Metropolitan open space nodes within the region. This means, Benoni Lakes is an open space node that has a distinct quality and is intended to be utilised by all persons in the metropolitan area and beyond. The Benoni Lakes Conservation and Recreation Node covers an area of approximately 1555ha making it one of the largest open space nodes in the region. Public access to the lakes and green spaces surrounding them should be improved and made safer. Implications for the Development: The proposed development is in line with the E-BOSS and is located outside the Benoni Lakes Conservation and Recreation Node. 21

23 Description of compliance with the relevant legislation, policy or guideline: Legislation, policy of guideline Description of compliance National Environmental The proposed development will be in line with the Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998 as amended). principles contained in NEMA and it will promote sustainable development. Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations in terms of Chapter 5 of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No 107 of 1998) National Water Act, 1998 (Act No. 36 of 1998) National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act, 2004 (Act 39 of 2004) National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act No. 45 of 1965 (NHRA) The application for the proposed development consist of activities listed under Notice R. 983 (Listing No. 1) and R. 985 (Listing No. 3) and therefore a Basic Assessment Report will be submitted to GDARD for consideration. The sewer line will run across a wetland before it enters the main line to the wastewater treatment plant. A Water Use Licence Application (WULA) will be applied for in terms of Section 21 (i) and (c) of the National Water Act, 1998 (Act 36 of 1998) which is administered by the Department of Water and Sanitation. During the construction phase, dust and the generation of noise can become a significant factor, especially to the surrounding landowners. However if the development is well planned and if the mitigating measures are successfully implemented the proposed development s contribution to air pollution and the generation of noise pollution could be insignificant. The proposed area earmarked for the upgrade to the Apex Outfall Sewer Line Phase 1 and Phase 2 were found to be limited in sites of heritage significance. This area has undergone severe alterations to the landscape over the years and for this reason very little or no evidence of heritage sites of significance remains today. Some of the Railway houses located along the alignment could be of architectural and historic importance and if they are to be impacted upon they should be subjected to a second phase of investigation. National Environmental Management Protected Areas Act, 2003 (Act No. 57 of 2003) National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act 10 of 2004) If during construction any evidence of archaeological sites or artefacts, paleontological fossils, graves or other heritage resources are found, the operations must be stopped and a qualified archaeologist or SAHRA must be contacted immediately for an assessment of the find. The subject property is not located within a protected area. The proposed route runs northwest of a Critical Biodiversity Area and an Ecological Support Area. Phase 2 of the proposed route runs for a short distance northwest of the Ecological Support Area then, at Road M45, for a short distance south-east of a Critical Biodiversity area on the farm Benoni 77-IR. In the vicinity of Rynsoord the proposed route passes through an Ecological Support Area. 22

24 National Environmental Management: Waste Act (Act 59 of 2009) Red List Plant Species Guidelines GDARD Draft Ridges Policy Draft Policy on the protection of Agricultural Land, 2006 Gauteng Noise Control Regulations, 1999 The Gauteng Transport Infrastructure Act, 2001 Gauteng Transport Infrastructure Amendment Act; 2003 Ekurhuleni Metro Spatial Development Framework (MSDF), 2015 Regional Spatial Development Framework (RSDF) 2015 Region D Ekurhuleni Biodiversity Open Space System (E-BOSS), May 2009 No waste management license will be required for the project. No Red Listed species have been recorded on site. According to the GDARD Draft Ridges Policy no development should take place on slopes steeper than 8.8%. The existing development does not occur in an area classified as a ridge in terms of GDARDs draft ridges policy. The study area is not situated within any of the 7 agricultural hubs identified for Gauteng. During the construction phase, the impact of noise could be problematic, but such impacts are generally short term. One should note that practical mitigation measures for noise pollution are low, but certain measures can be implemented to mitigate the severity. All developments in Gauteng must take the Gauteng Road network into consideration and no development may be planned across any provincial or K-route indicated on the published alignments. Not applicable as the proposed line will be located within existing servitudes and will not affect any present or future provincial or K-routes. The development has already taken the existing and planned provincial roads into consideration. The proposed development is in line with the MSDF and fulfils the role and function for the Benoni area as described in this framework. The proposal will provide the required service infrastructure for residential development in the area. The proposed development is in line with the RSDF and supports the Benoni CBD area as important growth node. The proposed development is in line with the E- BOSS and is located outside the Benoni Lakes Conservation and Recreation Node. 3. ALTERNATIVES Describe the proposal and alternatives that are considered in this application. Alternatives should include a consideration of all possible means by which the purpose and need of the proposed activity could be accomplished. The determination of whether the site or activity (including different processes etc.) or both is appropriate needs to be informed by the specific circumstances of the activity and its environment. The no-go option must in all cases be included in the assessment phase as the baseline against which the impacts of the other alternatives are assessed. Do not include the no go option into the alternative table below. 23

25 Note: After receipt of this report the competent authority may also request the applicant to assess additional alternatives that could possibly accomplish the purpose and need of the proposed activity if it is clear that realistic alternatives have not been considered to a reasonable extent. Please describe the process followed to reach (decide on) the list of alternatives below 3.1 ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED FOR PHASE 1 Proposal (Alternative 1 (Preferred)): Due to increasing development pressure in the area with new proposed residential developments such as planned on Ptn 46 & 163 of the Farm Rietfontein 115 IR (Apex Land) as well as further future development applications in the Apex pump station s drainage area, the existing sewer system no longer has sufficient capacity. The proposal, henceforth referred to as Alternative 1, entails the phasing out of the Apex pump station by means of new gravity sewers and will simultaneously phase out the Mackenzie Park- and Rynsoord pump stations as well as provide drainage solutions for other future development areas adjacent to the proposed pipeline. The line will be constructed in two phases. Phase 1 of the proposed route starts at a point just west of the merging of the Range View Apex railway line with the New Kleinfontein Apex line in New Kleinfontein. The route runs northeast along the railway line then veers north at the Brakpan Mines boundary just before Apex station and then north-east along Wolverhampton and Toronto Streets. The route veers back to the railway line where the Brakpan Mine boundary turns south-east. Phase 1 of the proposed route ends opposite Hamburg Street in Apex Industrial Township at the Apex pump station. Alternative 2 (Rejected): This alternative alignment is similar to Phase 1 of the proposed alignment. Alternative 2 however entails the temporary upgrade of the existing pump station to deliver 85 l/s. This will also require the existing 200Ø rising main to be replaced by a new 300Ø pipe. The new 200/250/315Ø outfall sewer will also be required (Refer to Figure 8: Alternative 2 Alignment indicated by blue line). Alternative 2 will affect the Benoni WWTP which currently has a treating capacity of approximately 18 Ml/day. The current measured dry weather inflow into the works is approximately 10 Ml/day. This results in a spare capacity of approximately 44%. The difference between the measured wet- and the dry weather inflow at the works results in a calculated infiltration of 21%. Therefore the current 44% spare capacity of the works is sufficient to accommodate the additional sewage flow. Although this Alternative will accommodate the proposed Apex Land development it will not serve any further future developments in the area. Alternative 3 (Rejected): For alternative 3, a new 200Ø sewer at minimum slope is proposed to drain approximately 80% of the proposed residential development on Ptn 46 & 163 of the Farm Rietfontein 115 IR towards the west and crossing Range View Road underneath the Railway bridge. This 200Ø will ultimately drain through the Wattville Erf 3130 development into the main 450Ø Wattville outfall sewer (Refer to Figure 8: Alternative 3 Alignment indicated by green line).this Alternative will not be able to accommodate any further future developments in the area. 24

26 Alternative 4 (Rejected): Alternative 4, proposes draining the proposed residential development on Ptn 46 & 163 of the Farm Rietfontein 115 IR directly southwards through the future Badenhorst 3 development site. These new sewers could also be utilized in the future to drain a large portion of the Badenhorst 3 development. The crossing of Range View Road might require a 350Ø pipe jacking. This alternative will also ultimately drain through the Wattville erf 3130 development into the main 450Ø Wattville outfall sewer (Refer to Figure 8: Alternative 4 Alignment indicated by magenta line). This Alternative will not be able to accommodate any further future developments, other than the aforementioned, in the area. Alternative 3 and Alternative 4 will affect the Vlakplaats- and Waterval WWTP. The Vlakplaats WWTW currently has a treating capacity of approximately 83 Ml/day. The current measured dry weather inflow into the works is approximately 98 Ml/day. The works, however, is capped at 83 Ml/day and all excess flow is currently bypassed to the Waterval WWTW. The Waterval WWTW currently has a treating capacity of 155 Ml/day. The current dry weather inflow into the works is measured at approximately 150 Ml/day with the measured wet weather inflow reaching flows of up to 200 Ml/day. ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED FOR PHASE 2: Phase 2 of the proposed route starts opposite Hamburg Street and runs north-east along the defunct Apex Modrea railway line until the railway line turns east at Rynsoord. Phase 2 of the proposed route thenceforth follows Main Reef Road (M29) then crosses, and ends at, the drainage line near Hospital Road. The entire route will be constructed within the road or railway servitudes. Gautrans did not provide permission for EMM to use the road reserve of Main Reef Road for the construction of the pipeline and an alternative was therefore investigated (Refer to Figure 1: Locality Map and Proposed Alignment). Alternative 1: Preferred Alternative 1 of phase 2 will stay within the Apex-Modrea railway line until it ends at the connection point for Welgedacht WWTW. Transnet gave permission for the sewer line to be constructed within their railway reserve and this alternative is therefore the preferred alternative. Phase 2 will affect the Welgedacht WWTW in Springs which is already operating at more than full capacity. To relieve some of the capacity pressure experienced at the Welgedacht WWTW, however, the Daveyton/Etwatwa pump station can be utilized to pump a portion of the flow towards the Daveyton WWTW. ERWAT has recently completed the extension of the works from 105 Ml/day to 155 Ml/day. The works will, however, have to be extended further as soon as possible. The effect that the additional sewage flow from the proposed development has on the required extension of the works is insignificantly small. ERWAT is aware of the insufficient treating capacity at the above mentioned plants and is currently in the process of planning upgrading to their most critical treatment plants. No-Go Alternative The situation where the environment is left in the present condition and no interference is attempted; therefore the status quo is maintained. Areas earmarked for proposed Residential Development currently do not fall within any of the current Ekurhuleni drainage areas. 25

27 The Apex pump station is located in the eastern corner of the existing Apex Industrial township. This pump station pumps back through the Apex Industrial township and discharges directly into the Benoni WWTW. The current pump flow capacity of the Apex Pump station is approximately 33 l/s. The current maximum dry weather flow discharging into the pump station was calculated to be approximately 20 l/s. This results in an available spare capacity of approximately 30%. As the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality s modeling guidelines stipulates a minimum design spare capacity of 30% for all sewer pump stations, no further sewage flow can be accommodated into the pump station. With the additional sewage flow from the proposed residential development on Ptn 46 & 163 of the Farm Rietfontein 115 IR, together with the additional sewage flow from further future development applications in the pump station s drainage area, the maximum flow draining towards the pump station can increase to 60 l/s. This increased future flow results in an increased pumping requirement of 85 l/s. The current sewer infrastructure thus does not have the capacity to accommodate the various proposed residential developments in the area. 26

28 Figure 8: Alternative 2, 3 and 4 Alignment for phase 1 27

29 Figure 9: Locality map showing the preferred route marked as alternative 1. 28

30 Provide a description of the alternatives considered No. Alternative type, either Description alternative: site on property, properties, activity, design, technology, energy, operational or other(provide details of other ) 1 Proposal (Alternative 1) Refer to Section 3.1 of this Report 2 Alternative 2 3 Alternative 3 Alternative 4 In the event that no alternative(s) has/have been provided, a motivation must be included in the table below. N/A 4. PHYSICAL SIZE OF THE ACTIVITY Indicate the total physical size (footprint) of the proposal as well as alternatives. infrastructure (roads, services etc.), impermeable surfaces and landscaped areas: Proposed activity (Total environmental (landscaping, parking, etc.) and the building footprint) Alternatives: Alternative 1 (if any) Alternative 2 (if any) or, for linear activities: Proposed activity (Alternative 1) Alternatives: Alternative 2 Alternative 3 Alternative 4 Footprints are to include all new Size of the activity: Length of the activity: N/A N/A N/A Ha/ m km N/A N/A N/A m/km Indicate the size of the site(s) or servitudes (within which the above footprints will occur): Size of the site/servitude: Proposed activity N/A Alternatives: Alternative 1 (if any) Alternative 2 (if any) N/A N/A Ha/m 2 5. SITE ACCESS Proposal (ALTERNATIVE 1), ALTERNATIVE 2, 3 AND 4: Does ready access to the site exist, or is access directly from an existing road? If NO, what is the distance over which a new access road will be built Describe the type of access road planned: YES x NO m Include the position of the access road on the site plan (if the access road is to traverse a sensitive feature the impact thereof must be included in the assessment). 29

31 PLEASE NOTE: Points 6 to 8 of Section A must be duplicated where relevant for alternatives Section A 6-8 has been duplicated 0 Number of times (Only complete when applicable) 6. LAYOUT OR ROUTE PLAN A detailed site or route (for linear activities) plan(s) must be prepared for each alternative site or alternative activity. It must be attached to this document. The site or route plans must indicate the following: the layout plan is printed in colour and is overlaid with a sensitivity map (if applicable); layout plan is of acceptable paper size and scale, e.g. o A4 size for activities with development footprint of 10sqm to 5 hectares; o A3 size for activities with development footprint of 5 hectares to 20 hectares; o A2 size for activities with development footprint of 20 hectares to 50 hectares); o A1 size for activities with development footprint of 50 hectares); The following should serve as a guide for scale issues on the layout plan: o A0 = 1: 500 o A1 = 1: 1000 o A2 = 1: 2000 o A3 = 1: 4000 o A4 = 1: 8000 (±10 000) shapefiles of the activity must be included in the electronic submission on the CD s; the property boundaries and Surveyor General numbers of all the properties within 50m of the site; the exact position of each element of the activity as well as any other structures on the site; the position of services, including electricity supply cables (indicate above or underground), water supply pipelines, boreholes, sewage pipelines, septic tanks, storm water infrastructure; servitudes indicating the purpose of the servitude; sensitive environmental elements on and within 100m of the site or sites (including the relevant buffers as prescribed by the competent authority) including (but not limited thereto): o Rivers and wetlands; o the 1:100 and 1:50 year flood line; o ridges; o cultural and historical features; o areas with indigenous vegetation (even if it is degraded or infested with alien species); Where a watercourse is located on the site at least one cross section of the water course must be included (to allow the position of the relevant buffer from the bank to be clearly indicated) FOR LOCALITY MAP (NOTE THIS IS ALSO INCLUDED IN THE APPLICATION FORM REQUIREMENTS) the scale of locality map must be at least 1: For linear activities of more than 25 kilometres, a smaller scale e.g. 1: can be used. The scale must be indicated on the map; the locality map and all other maps must be in colour; locality map must show property boundaries and numbers within 100m of the site, and for poultry and/or piggery, locality map must show properties within 500m and prevailing or predominant wind direction; for gentle slopes the 1m contour intervals must be indicated on the map and whenever the slope of the site exceeds 1:10, the 500mm contours must be indicated on the map; areas with indigenous vegetation (even if it is degraded or infested with alien species); locality map must show exact position of development site or sites; locality map showing and identifying (if possible) public and access roads; and the current land use as well as the land use zoning of each of the properties adjoining the site or sites. 7. SITE PHOTOGRAPHS Colour photographs from the center of the site must be taken in at least the eight major compass directions with a description of each photograph. Photographs must be attached under the appropriate Appendix. It should be supplemented with additional photographs of relevant features on the site, where applicable. 8. FACILITY ILLUSTRATION A detailed illustration of the activity must be provided at a scale of 1:200 for activities that include structures. The illustrations must be to scale and must represent a realistic image of the planned activity. The illustration must give a representative view of the activity to be attached in the appropriate Appendix. 30

32 SECTION B: DESCRIPTION OF RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT Note: Complete Section B for the proposal and alternative(s) (if necessary) Instructions for completion of Section B for linear activities 1) For linear activities (pipelines etc.) it may be necessary to complete Section B for each section of the site that has a significantly different environment. Not Applicable due to the sewer line that will be located within existing road and rail servitudes. No significantly different environments will be affected. 2) Indicate on a plan(s) the different environments identified 3) Complete Section B for each of the above areas identified 4) Attach to this form in a chronological order 5) Each copy of Section B must clearly indicate the corresponding sections of the route at the top of the next page. Section B has been duplicated for sections of the route NA times Instructions for completion of Section B for location/route alternatives 1) For each location/route alternative identified the entire Section B needs to be completed 2) Each alterative location/route needs to be clearly indicated at the top of the next page 3) Attach the above documents in a chronological order Section B has been duplicated for location/route alternatives 0 times (complete only when appropriate) Instructions for completion of Section B when both location/route alternatives and linear activities are applicable for the application Section B is to be completed and attachments order in the following way All significantly different environments identified for Alternative 1 is to be completed and attached in a chronological order; then All significantly different environments identified for Alternative 2 is to be completed and attached chronological order, etc. Section B - Section of Route Section B Location/route Alternative No. N/A (complete only when appropriate for above) N/A (complete only when appropriate for above) 1. PROPERTY DESCRIPTION Property description: (Including Physical Address and Farm name, portion etc.) Portions of the farm Rietfontein 115 IR, Weltevreden 118 IR, Benoni 77 IR and Modderfontein 76 IR. 31

33 2. ACTIVITY POSITION Indicate the position of the activity using the latitude and longitude of the centre point of the site for each alternative site. The co-ordinates should be in decimal degrees. The degrees should have at least six decimals to ensure adequate accuracy. The projection that must be used in all cases is the WGS84 spheroid in a national or local projection. Alternative: Proposed Development Latitude (S): Longitude (E): N/A N/A In the case of linear activities: Proposal (Alternative 1): Latitude (S): Longitude (E): Starting point of the activity Middle point of the activity End point of the activity Alternative 2: Latitude (S): Longitude (E): Starting point of the activity Middle point of the activity End point of the activity For route alternatives that are longer than 500m, please provide co-ordinates taken every 250 meters along the route and attached in the appropriate Appendix Addendum of route alternatives attached The 21 digit Surveyor General code of each cadastral land parcel ALT. 1 T O I R (PROPOSAL) T O I R T O I R T O I R T O I R T O I R T O I R T O I R T O I R T O I R T O I R T O I R T O I R T O I R T O I R

34 3. GRADIENT OF THE SITE Indicate the general gradient of the site. (Proposal and Alternatives) Flat 1:50 1:20 1:20 1:15 1:15 1:10 1:10 1:7,5 1:7,5 1:5 Steeper than 1:5 4. LOCATION IN LANDSCAPE Indicate the landform(s) that best describes the site. (Proposal and Alternatives) Ridgeline Plateau Side slope of hill/ridge Valley Plain Undulating plain/low hills River front 5. GROUNDWATER, SOIL AND GEOLOGICAL STABILITY OF THE SITE a) Is the site located on any of the following? Shallow water table (less than 1.5m deep) Dolomite, sinkhole or doline areas Seasonally wet soils (often close to water bodies) Only applicable to Proposal (Alternative 1) Unstable rocky slopes or steep slopes with loose soil YES NO x Dispersive soils (soils that dissolve in water) NO YES x Soils with high clay content (clay fraction more than 40%) NO YES x Any other unstable soil or geological feature NO YES x An area sensitive to erosion YES NO x (Information in respect of the above will often be available at the planning sections of local authorities. Where it exists, the 1: scale Regional Geotechnical Maps prepared by Geological Survey may also be used). Site Geology Typically the study area is underlain by fine- to coarse-grained sandstone, shale and coal seams of the Vryheid Formation. The eastern part is typically underlain by the Dwyka Group, Turffontein Subgroup, the Blackreef Formation and the Malmani Subgroup. Quartzite, conglomerate, shale, mudstone, dolomite, chert and limestone may be encountered. The Geology Report had the following findings (Refer to Appendix G1): Provision needs to be made for the water table, should the planned excavations and pipe levels be below 2.2meters. The water table found on site is permanent. It may rise to approximately 1.5meters below the surface and with high rainfall it might even raise more. The site topography and drainage features may need to be evaluated. Generally, the material properties allow for backfill and bedding materials, except for the clayey materials encountered on site. Clayey materials should be avoided insofar possible. The ph and electrical conductivity analysis indicated that the materials typically YES YES YES x NO x NO x NO 33

35 encountered on site are corrosive. Materials are generally considered to be excavatable by TLB up to a depth of 2.3meters, deeper excavations may require excavators, excavators with peckers or blasting. The excavations are estimated to be 50% soft, 40% intermediate and 10% hard for excavations up to 2.5meters. Excavations more than 2.5meters are hard. Malmani or dolomite appears at a section of the proposed line. Special care must be taken in the design stage to avoid pipe leaks which may lead to soil subsidence. The compatibility results revealed that materials present are not suitable for use as bedding materials. Bedding materials must be imported. The materials on site are corrosive and this factor must be accounted for in the design. b) are any caves located on the site(s) YES NO X If yes to above provide location details in terms of latitude and longitude and indicate location on site or route map(s) Latitude (S): Longitude (E): o o c) are any caves located within a 300m radius of the site(s) YES NO X If yes to above provide location details in terms of latitude and longitude and indicate location on site or route map(s) Latitude (S): Longitude (E): o o d) are any sinkholes located within a 300m radius of the site(s) YES NO X If yes to above provide location details in terms of latitude and longitude and indicate location on site or route map(s) Latitude (S): Longitude (E): o o If any of the answers to the above are YES or unsure, specialist input may be requested by the Department 6. AGRICULTURE Does the site have high potential agriculture as contemplated in the Gauteng Agricultural Potential Atlas (GAPA 4)? YES NO X Please note: The Department may request specialist input/studies in respect of the above. 7. GROUNDCOVER To be noted that the location of all identified rare or endangered species or other elements should be accurately indicated on the site plan(s). Indicate the types of groundcover present on the site and include the estimated percentage found on site. (Proposal and Alternatives) 34

36 Natural veld - good condition % = Sport field % = Natural veld with scattered aliens % = Cultivated land % = Natural veld with heavy alien infestation % = Paved surface (hard landscaping) % = Veld dominated by alien species % =100 Building or other structure % = Landscaped (vegetation) % = Bare soil % = Please note: The Department may request specialist input/studies depending on the nature of the groundcover and potential impact(s) of the proposed activity/ies. Are there any rare or endangered flora or fauna species (including red list species) present on the site If YES, specify and explain: YES NO x Are there any rare or endangered flora or fauna species (including red list species) present within a 200m (if within urban area as defined in the Regulations) or within 600m (if outside the urban area as defined in the Regulations) radius of the site. If YES, specify and explain: Are there any special or sensitive habitats or other natural features present on the site? If YES, specify and explain: YES YES x NO x NO x Proposal (Alternative 1): The channelled valley bottom wetland is found on site and is highly impacted by old mine residue, mostly alluvial materials, moving from the old mine tailings over the wetland. Currently the wetland connectivity is fragmented, and degraded by road and railway crossings as well as frequent smaller impoundments in the system (Refer to Figure 9: Proposed sewer line crossing channeled valley bottom wetland). 35

37 Figure 10: Proposed sewer line crossing channeled valley bottom wetland Alternative 2: An unchannelled valley bottom wetland is found within 500m from the Alternative 2 alignment and is fed from the Apex depression wetland after the railway. The wetland has in the past been impacted by cultivation but currently it seems as though the area is only harvested for grass. The catchment of the wetland is prone to the establishment of alien vegetation including Eucalyptus sp. and wattles. The wetland is more impacted to the north where the system crosses under Main Reef Road. The system then disappears under the old mine tailings and refuse dump areas (Refer to Figure 10: Alternative 2 Alignment located within 500m of unchannelled valley bottom wetland). Figure 11: Alternative 2 Alignment located within 500m of unchannelled valley bottom wetland 36