AE01410V
A report on a cultural heritage impact assessment for the proposed G-block underground mining (Phase I) at the proposed Mbila Anthracite Mine, Nongoma District, Kwazulu-Natal Province
Summary
Archaetnos cc was appointed by Prime Resources to conduct a cultural heritage impact assessment for the proposed G-Block Underground Mining (Phase I) at the proposed Mbila Anthracite Mine. This is in the Nongoma District in the KwaZulu-Natal Province.
The HIA survey was conducted according to generally accepted HIA practices. It was aimed at locating all possible objects, sites and features of cultural significance in the area of proposed development.
In the area impacted upon by the proposed development two sites of cultural heritage significance were identified. However many sites were found nearby during a previous assessment in the area. The report gives a discussion of these. It also indicates how to deal with any archaeological material that may be unearthed during construction activities in the future.
One of the sites found is a grave yard and the second is a Late Iron Age/ Historical site. Both sites however seem to be far enough from the development to only be potentially affected by secondary impacts. The necessary recommendations in dealing with these are made.
It is concluded that the proposed development may continue, but only after the indicated mitigation measures have been implemented. 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 development commences that if any of these are discovered, a qualified archaeologist be called in to investigate the occurrence.
Report by
Dr. A.C. van Vollenhoven (L.AKAD.SA.)