01947V
A REPORT ON AN ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND BUILT ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT FOR THE PROPOSED VERGENOEG MINE 132KV POWER LINE, GAUTENG PROVINCE
Summary
Archaetnos cc was requested by Setala Environmental to conduct an Archaeological and Built Environment Impact Assessment related to the proposed Vergenoeg Mine 132kV power line. This includes a substation as well as a loop in and loop out line. Once constructed, the ownership, operation and maintenance of the overhead power line will be transferred to Eskom.
The Vergenoeg Mining Project is located in the Gauteng Province approximately 85 km north of Pretoria and 15 km south of the town of Rust de Winter. Bulk electricity supply infrastructure is needed to augment the existing supply to the above-mentioned mining project on the Farm Kromdraai 209 JR. This is within the Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality in Gauteng Province.
A survey of the available literature was undertaken to obtain background information regarding the area. This was followed by the field survey, which was conducted according to generally accepted HIA practices, aimed at locating all possible objects, sites and features of cultural significance in the area of the proposed development.
Two alternative routes were investigated. During the survey one site of cultural heritage significance was identified close to (100 m) the development area. From a heritage perspective, there is no preference for any of the routes investigated. The proposed development may therefore continue on any of these.
However, as a mitigatory measure, the graves should be fenced in and a management plan be drafted to ensure the sustainable preservation thereof. The proposed development may therefore only continue after receiving comments from the relevant heritage authority and implementation of the mitigation measures indicated..
It should be noted however that the subterranean presence of archaeological and/or historical sites, features or artefacts is always a distinct possibility. Care should therefore be taken when the development commences further that if any of these are discovered, a qualified archaeologist be called in to investigate and that the assessment be amended if necessary.
It is also important to take cognizance that it is the client’s responsibility to do the submission of this report via the SAHRIS System on the SAHRA website. No work on site may commence before receiving the necessary comments from SAHRA.
Report by:
Prof. A.C. van Vollenhoven (L.AKAD.SA.)
Accredited member of ASAPA
Accredited member of SASCH