AE01427V

A report on a cultural heritage baseline studyfor theproposed T-Project South Shaft Expansion Project, close to Kinross, Mpumalanga Province

Summary

Archaetnos cc was requested by Prime Resources to conduct a baseline heritageassessment for the proposed T-Project South Shaft Expansion Project. This was done as part of the Scoping Phase of the project. The project is situated close to Kinross in the Mpumalanga 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 area of the proposed development.

All sites, objects features and structures identified were to be documented according to the general minimum standards accepted by the archaeological profession. Co-ordinates of individual localities were determined by means of a Global Positioning System (GPS). The information was 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. The extremely dense maize fields and wetness due to recent rains experienced during the survey however made accessibility and archaeological visibility difficult. The area is however largely disturbed and therefore not much was expected to be found during the field study. The proposed project may therefore continue.

It should be noted however that due to the nature of archaeological and/or historical sites, features or artifacts, which may have a subterranean presence, there always is a distinct possibility that these can be discovered at a later stage. Therefore, care should be taken that if any other sites are encountered during the development, a qualified archaeologist should be called in to investigate.

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

Dr. A.C. van Vollenhoven (L.AKAD.SA.) Accredited member of ASAPA Professional member of SASCH and Zurethe Collins (BA), BA (Hons) Archaeology