AE01246V
A report on a cultural heritage impact assessment for the proposed return water dam at the new Kleinfontein Goldmine close to Springs, Gauteng ProvinceSummary
Archaetnos cc was requested by Prime Resources (Pty) Ltd to conduct a cultural heritage impact assessment for the site of the proposed return water dam at the New Kleinfontein Goldmine. This is to the east of the town of Boksburg and to the north of the town of Springs in the Gauteng Province.
A survey of the available literature was undertaken in order 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 footprint area of the proposed development.
All sites, objects features and structures identified are documented according to the general minimum standards accepted by the archaeological profession. Co-ordinates of individual localities are determined by means of a Global Positioning System (GPS). The information usually is added to photographs and the description in order to facilitate the identification of each locality.
During the survey no sites of cultural heritage significance were located close to the area to be developed. Since the area is extremely disturbed by recent human activities, this is no surprise. The proposed development may therefore continue.
It should be noted that the subterranean presence of archaeological and/or historical sites, features or artifacts is always a distinct possibility. Care should therefore be taken when mining commences that if any of these are discovered, a qualified archaeologist be called in to investigate.
Report by
Dr. A.C. van Vollenhoven (L.AKAD.SA.)