AE01542V

A report on a basic cultural heritage assessment for the proposed Impou – Ngwedi 132kv line project, Northwest ProvinceSummary

Archaetnos cc was requested by Texture Environmental Consultants to conduct a basic cultural heritage assessment for the proposed ESKOM Impofu – Ngwedi 132Kv Line Project. The development constitutes power lines and forms part of a Basic Assessment.
Although two proposed routes were identified, the entire area was investigated as it is foreseen that the line may be placed anywhere within the demarcated area. This is to the north of Boshoek, which lies to the north of Rustenburg in the Northwest Province.
The applicable farm for the project is Frischgewaagd 96 JQ. The area currently falls within the mine boundary of the Maseve Mine.
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 no sites of cultural heritage significance were identified. The area is mostly disturbed and therefore this is no surprise. The proposed development may therefore continue. From a heritage perspective there is no specific preference for any of the two route alternatives.
It should be noted however that the subterranean presence of archaeological and/or historical sites, features or artifactartefacts 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 assessment 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.)