AE01521V
A report on a cultural heritage impact assessment for the proposed Hope no. 4 Seam Mining Project, close to Kriel, Mpumalanga Province
Summary
Archaetnos cc was requested by Geovicon Environmental (Pty) Ltd to conduct a cultural heritage impact assessment (HIA) for an amendment of the approved EIA/EMP to include an additional underground mining area called the Hope No. 4 Seam Project. The project includes an associated decline shaft.
The Hope 4 Seam Project is spanned over different portions of the following farms: Goedehoop 46 IS, Komati Power Station 56 IS, Bultfontein 187 IS, Geluk 26 IS, Haasfontein 28 IS and Willmansrust 47 IS. This is between Emalahleni and Kriel 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.
During the survey, which formed part of a larger survey for the Goedehoop Colliery, fourteen sites of cultural heritage significance were located. Four of these are within the Hope 4 Seam Project. Mitigation measures for these sites are proposed, after implementation of which the development may continue.
It should be noted however that the subterranean presence of archaeological and/or historical sites, features or artifacts is always a distinct possibility. Care should therefore be taken when the development commences further that if any of these are discovered, a qualified archaeologist be called in to investigate and that the HIA be amended if necessary.
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.)