AE01256P
A report on the archaeological investigation, exhumation and relocation of a number of burials impacted on by the Lanseria Commercial Development on Bultfontein 533JQ & Nooitgedacht 535JQ, near Lanseria, Gauteng
Summary
During 2011 Archaetnos cc was requested by Cavaleros Construction Co. to undertake an HIA (AE11116 – November 2011) on portions of the farms Bultfontein 533, Nietgedacht 534 and Nooitgedacht 535JQ near Lanseria. An Industrial development (Lanseria Commercial Crossing) is being undertaken. During the HIA a number of grave sites (6 in total) were recorded that would be impacted on by the development and it was recommended that the graves be exhumed and relocated after following all due legal processes. Three of these sites (G1, G2 and G6) were to be directly impacted and the client then appointed Archaetnos (in conjunction with AVBOB Johannesburg) to undertake the grave investigation, exhumation and relocation process as well. SAHRA concurred with the recommendations and requested that a permit be applied for.
A permit from SAHRA (BG/12/10/001/87) was obtained and used for this purpose after all processes were followed (newspaper advertisements, social consultation and consents obtained from family members). A total of 66 graves, of which most were unknown in terms of identity and age, were investigated during the exhumation work in November 2012. The family members of the identified deceased were present during the work undertaken. All the graves (except 7 that will be reburied at Majakaneng near Brits) will be reburied at the Waterval Cemetery in Midrand.
This report discusses the results of the investigations and exhumations. The required work was completed successfully and the development can therefore continue, taking cognizance of the recommendations given at the end.
Report by
Dr. A.C. van Vollenhoven (L.AKAD.SA.)