AE01419V
A report on a cultural heritage impact assessment for various opencast pits at the G-block of 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 various opencast pits at the G-Block of the proposed Mbila Anthracite Mine. This is in the Nongoma District in the KwaZulu-Natal Province. Nine such proposed areas were investigated.
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 only two of the nine areas impacted upon by the proposed development sites of cultural heritage significance were identified (one in each). However many sites are to be found in the surrounding area and were indicated during a previous heritage 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.
Both of the sites found are grave yards. As these will be impacted on, suitable mitigation measures are recommended. 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.) Accredited member of ASAPA Accredited member of SASCH