AE01525V
A report on a cultural heritage assessment for the Goedehoop South Colliery, close to Kriel, Mpumalanga Province
Summary
Archaetnos cc was requested by Geovicon to conduct a cultural heritage assessment for the Goedehoop South Colliery. It formed part of a Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) study done for the Hope No. 4 Seam Project, which is part of Goedehoop Colliery. The aim was to obtain an idea of cultural heritage resources in the area to assist with future planning.
The Goedehoop South Colliery is spanned over a large area and includes different portions of the following farms: Goedehoop 46 IS, Kleinkopje 15 IS, Enkeldebosch 20 IS, Komati Power Station 56 IS, Bultfontein 187 IS, Geluk 26 IS, Haasfontein 28 IS, Koornfontein 28 IS, Kleinfontein 49 IS, Vlaklaagte 45 IS, Vlaklaagte 21 IS, Broodsnyersplaas 25 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 fourteen sites of cultural heritage significance were located. Four of these are within the Hope 4 Seam Project and although included here, are discussed in a separate report. 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.
This report is note an HIA since development plans are not available. Once plans are available an HIA should be done on affected areas.
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.)