consultative environmental scoping report: … · figure 3.1: proposed layout of polokwane...
TRANSCRIPT
-
P O Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 Tel 015 – 307 3606 Fax 015 – 307 3080 [email protected]
www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
APPLICANT: POLOKWANE MUNICIPALITY
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT:
PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTESION 134 TOWNSHIP ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM
VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE
24 November 2017
CONTACT: Ms Louise Agenbag
TEL: 015 307 3606 / 083 339 2731
FAX: 015 307 3080 / 086 527 0012
E-MAIL: [email protected]
POST: PO Box 1935, TZANEEN, 0850
WEB: www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
2
Contents
ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS ……………………………………………………………….……4
CONTACT DETAILS ……………………………………………….……………………………….……….5
1. INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................... 6
2. SITE LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION ........................................................................................................ 6
3. PROJECT DESCRIPTION ............................................................................................................................ 8
3.1. Overview ...............................................................................................................................................8
3.2. Services and Infrastructure ....................................................................................................................9
3.3. Storm water .........................................................................................................................................10
3.2.4 Solid waste ..................................................................................................................................... 10
4. PROJECT MOTIVATION, NEED AND DESIRABILITY ............................................................................. 10
5. IMPACT ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY ............................................................................................... 11
6. INVESTIGATION OF ALTERNATIVES ...................................................................................................... 12
6.1. Project Alternatives .............................................................................................................................12
6.2. Site Alternatives ..................................................................................................................................12
6.3. Layout Alternatives .............................................................................................................................12
6.4. No-go Alternative ...............................................................................................................................13
7. APPLICABLE LEGISLATION .................................................................................................................... 14
7.1. Environmental Legislation ..................................................................................................................14
7.2. Other Legislation .................................................................................................................................15
7.3. Municipal and provincial planning tools .............................................................................................16
7.3.1. Polokwane Municipality – Integrated Development Plan and Spatial Development Framework
16
7.3.2. Limpopo Conservation Plan version 2 (2013) ............................................................................ 18
7.3.3. National Freshwater Ecosystems Priority Areas ......................................................................... 18
8. ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING INVESTIGATION – ................................................................................... 19
BIO-PHYSICAL INVESTIGATIONS ................................................................................................................... 19
8.1. Climate ................................................................................................................................................19
8.1.1. Status quo .................................................................................................................................... 19
8.1.2. Potential impacts ......................................................................................................................... 19
8.2. Topography, Surface Hydrology, Soils and Geology .........................................................................20
8.3. Ecology ...............................................................................................................................................22
8.3.1. Status quo .................................................................................................................................... 22
8.3.2. Potential impacts ......................................................................................................................... 25
9. ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING INVESTIGATION – ................................................................................... 26
SOCIO-ECONOMIC INVESTIGATIONS ............................................................................................................ 26
9.1. Heritage Assessment ...........................................................................................................................26
9.2. Social Aspects .....................................................................................................................................27
9.2.1. Status quo: Polokwane Local Municipality (Information adapted from PM IDP 2016/2021) .. 27
9.2.2. Potential impacts ......................................................................................................................... 29
9.3. Visual Aspects.....................................................................................................................................30
9.3.1. Status quo .................................................................................................................................... 30
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
3
9.3.2. Potential impacts ......................................................................................................................... 31
9.4. Noise ...................................................................................................................................................31
9.4.1. Status quo .................................................................................................................................... 31
9.4.2. Potential impacts ......................................................................................................................... 31
9.5. Cumulative impacts .............................................................................................................................32
10. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS ....................................................................................................... 33
10.1. Advertisement of Commencement of EIA Process .........................................................................33
10.2. Issues Raised ...................................................................................................................................33
10.3. Availability of Consultative ESR for Review and Comment..........................................................34
11. PLAN OF STUDY FOR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT ..................................................... 34
11.1. Approach to Undertaking the Impact Assessment Phase of the Project .........................................34
11.2. Assessments to be conducted as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment phase ..................34
11.3. Assessment of impacts ....................................................................................................................35
11.4. Environmental Impact Assessment Report and Environmental Management Programme ............37
11.5. Public Participation Process ............................................................................................................37
11.5.1. Public Meeting ............................................................................................................................ 37
11.5.2. Issues Trail .................................................................................................................................. 37
11.5.3. Public Review of the draft EIAR and EMPR .............................................................................. 37
11.5.4. Authority Review of the EIAR and EMPR ................................................................................. 37
11.6. Authorisation ...................................................................................................................................38
12. CONCLUSIONS .......................................................................................................................................... 38
13. REFERENCES ............................................................................................................................................ 43
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
4
APPENDICES
Appendix A: Locality map and aerial photograph
Appendix B: Site photographs
Appendix C: Facility Illustration
Appendix D: Advertisement of initial public comment period
Appendix E: I&AP and stakeholder correspondence:
- List of I&APs
- Issues Trail
- Copies of I&AP correspondence
Appendix F: Advertisement of availability of Consultative Environmental Scoping Report
for public review and comment
Appendix G: LDEDET pre-application meeting
Appendix H: EAP declaration of interest
ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS:
DWS Department of Water and Sanitation
EAP Environmental Assessment Practitioner
ECO Environmental Control Officer
EIA Environmental Impact Assessment
EIR Environmental Impact Report
EMF Environmental Management Framework
EMPR Environmental Management Programme
ESR Environmental Scoping Report
ESS Environmental Scoping Study
GPS Global Positioning System
PLM Polokwane Local Municipality
Ha Hectare
HIA Heritage Impact Assessment
I&AP Interested and/or Affected Party
LDEDET Limpopo Department of Economic Development and Environmental Tourism
MAE Mean Annual Evaporation
MAMSL Metres Above Mean Sea Level
MAP Mean Average Precipitation
NEMA National Environmental Management Act (1998)
NEMWA National Environmental Management: Waste Act (2008)
NWA National Water Act (1998)
WUL Water Use Licence
WULA Water Use Licence Application
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
5
CONTACT DETAILS
Environmental Impact Assessment Practitioner
Polygon Environmental Planning CC
Contact: Ms. Louise Agenbag
Tel.: 015 307 3606 / 083 339 2731
Fax: 015 307 3080
E-mail: [email protected]
Postal address: PO Box 1935, Tzaneen, 0850
Web: www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
EAP’s Qualifications (Louise Agenbag):
- BSc (Hons) Geography (cum laude), University of Pretoria
- BSc Environmental Sciences (cum laude), University of Pretoria
- Certificate in Environmental Management Systems (ISO14001:2004), North-West University,
Potchefstroom campus
- Completed short courses in Water Use Authorisation and Project Management
- 13 years’ experience in environmental impact assessment and management (2005 to current),
11 of which at management level (2007 to current)
- Member of IWMSA (Institute of Waste Management of Southern Africa) and IAIAsa
(International Association for Impact Assessment, South African chapter)
Applicant
Polokwane Municipality
Contact: : Yasmin Gani
Tel: : 015 290 2138 E-mail: : [email protected]
Environmental Authority
Department of Economic Development, Environment & Tourism (LDEDET)
Contact: Ms Melinda Rodgers
Tel.: 083 443 5749
Fax: 015 295 5015
E-mail: [email protected]
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
6
1. INTRODUCTION
Polygon Environmental Planning has been appointed to conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
for the proposed establishment of Polokwane Extension 134 mixed-use township on a farm Vogelstruisfontein
667-LS, near Seshego, within the Polokwane Local Municipality, Limpopo Province.
The township is proposed to cover 120.9ha of the 184ha property and to be composed of residential and
business areas, places of worship, schools, public open space and stands for municipal use. The development
is expected to improve access to housing and provide an integrated, multi-use community for residents.
This consultative Environmental Scoping Report (ESR) was compiled following the scoping-phase investigations
and stakeholder engagement, and is currently available for public review and comment, from 24 November 2017
to 15 January 2018. All comments received will be incorporated into the final ESR, which will then be submitted
to the Limpopo Department of Economic Development and Environmental Tourism (LDEDET).
2. SITE LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION
2.1. Location
The proposed development site is located on the Remaining Extent of the farm Vogelstruisfontein 667- LS, at
Seshego within the Polokwane Municipality, Limpopo Province. The property, which is 184 ha in extent, is
11.6km north-west of Polokwane.
.
Figure 2.1: 1:50 000 topo-cadastral map of the proposed property.
Legend The site
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
7
2.2. Site description
The site is currently vacant and undeveloped, but appears to be informally used for firewood collection, livestock
grazing and sand mining (the latter specifically within and along the drainage lines). Vegetation is fairly natural,
but degraded by these activities, and footpaths criss-cross the site. The Blood River forms the south-eastern
boundary of the farm, and two smaller non-perennial drainage lines, which are tributaries of the Blood River,
drain in a south-easterly direction across the site. The Matlala road crosses the south-westernmost corner of
the site.
Township developments are planned on the properties north-east and south-east of the site, but these have as
yet not been developed.
Figure 2.2: Aerial photograph with the site boundaries indicated in red (Imagery: Google Earth 2017)
The following table provides general information pertaining to the site.
Table 2.1: General site information
District Capricorn District
Local Municipality Polokwane Local Municipality
Property description Farm Vogelstruisfontein 667-LS
Surveyor-General code T0LS00000000066700000
Nearest town Polokwane
Coordinates Lat: 23˚ 51’ 26.20”S
Lon: 29˚ 20’ 28.39”E
Current land use Vacant land; informal firewood collection, grazing and
sand mining
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
8
Surrounding land use Residential Areas (Medium-high density)
Natural areas
Proclaimed but undeveloped townships (Polokwane Ext.
126, 127 and 133)
3. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
3.1. Overview
The Polokwane Municipality proposes the development of a mixed-use township (Polokwane Extension 134)
directly west of Seshego, on the Farm Vogelstruisfontein 667-LS, which is 184ha in extent. The development
is proposed to comprise the following land uses:
Table 3.1: Proposed land uses as part of Polokwane Ext. 134.
PROPOSED ZONING NUMBER OF STANDS AREA / EXTENT
Residential 1 2 562 ± 70.6ha
Business 3 1 ± 3.4ha
Institutional (reserved for Church) 3 ± 0,5ha
Educational (reserved for schools) 5 ± 8ha
Municipal 1 ± 1.5ha
Public open space (parks) 14 ± 58ha
Streets - ± 36,9ha
In total, 120.9ha is proposed to be developed (excluding open space). No development will take place within
the 1:100 year flood line or the buffer zone around the river and drainage lines, apart from stream crossings
which necessarily have to cross these areas.
The residential component of the development is to consist of bonded homes, subsidy homes and combination
bonded and subsidy homes. Stands will have a minimum size of 200m2, with an average size of 209m2 in one
area and an average of 356m2 in another section.
The development is proposed to serve the demand for housing and ancilliary uses in Seshego and the
surrounding area.
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
9
Figure 3.1: Proposed layout of Polokwane Extension 134.
3.2. Services and Infrastructure
Access is proposed to be from the Matlala Road as well as from Seshego’s side via the proclaimed (but
undeveloped) Polokwane Ext. 126 and 127 townships. Internal streets are to vary from a servitude width of 13m
to 30m. Three stream crossings by internal streets are proposed to form part of the development, while a fourth
is tentatively planned just off the site (not part of this application; will need to be applied for separately if and
when that crossing is in fact planned to be constructed).
Services – water, sewerage and electricity – are proposed to connect to the existing bulk service infrastructure
in neighbouring Seshego, supplied by Polokwane Municipality. As part of the internal infrastructure network,
stream crossings by streets and pipelines (water and sewerage) will be required.
A 15m wide water pipeline servitude traverses the northern section of the site, in a roughly north-west to south-
easterly direction. As can be seen on the layout map in the figure above, this servitude is not just located on
this site, but traverses the site as part of a longer route.
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
10
3.3. Storm water
With the construction of new roads, storm water runoff will be accommodated by means of formal storm water
systems such as open lined channels, kerb inlets, grid inlets and storm water pipes.
3.4. Solid waste
Solid waste is proposed to be collected by the Polokwane Municipality for disposal at a municipal landfill site.
4. PROJECT MOTIVATION, NEED AND DESIRABILITY
The Polokwane Municipality Integrated Development Plan (IDP, 2008-2011) indicates that the population in the
urban areas including Seshego and Bloodriver is increasing, much of which is due to a substantial increase in
rural-urban migration, as people seek an improved quality of life as well as access to jobs and improved services
and infrastructure. This has led to a need for increased housing and effective provision of basic services in
these areas. According to the IDP, Seshego City has a housing waiting list of 22 693. This proposed project
aims to address some of those needs.
This proposed development is listed as part of the Polokwane Municipality Reviewed Housing Sector Plan
(2013-2016).
The Polokwane Municipality Spatial Development Framework (SDF, 2005) highlights the need for public land
development and subsidized housing schemes, aimed at lower and middle income groups, to be strategically
located closer to activity nodes and as part of clusters where job opportunities (formal and informal) exist, and
in a manner to be fully integrated with the current urban structure. It should also be aimed at Strategic
Development Areas (SDAs).
This proposed development site is located in SDA1, between Seshego and Polokwane, and therefore near areas
where job opportunities and services are clustered; it has also been planned to be close to public transport
routes as part of the Integrated Rapid Public Transport Network, which would facilitate easy access to
Polokwane. SDA1 is specifically highlighted in the SDF as one of the areas that should receive preference for
development where public funds are applicable, such as subsidized housing schemes.
The development is proposed as an integrated, mixed-use development in which job opportunities will also be
contained, for instance in the business component of the development and in schools, etc. The integration of
different uses into the development aims to reduce the need for residents to travel long distances to obtain
goods and services or attend schools, places of worship, etc.
In terms of the 2010 SDF, Seshego is classified as a first order settlement and a provincial growth point (PGP),
which is the highest order in the settlement hierarchy and therefore also the most important type of growth point.
The PGPs have a sizable economic sector and have a regional or even provincial service delivery function, and
furthermore usually also have a large number of social and institutional facilities. Growth points (and most
importantly PGPs) form the major areas where future growth should be stimulated.
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
11
5. IMPACT ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY
Potential impacts were scored on the following basis:
• Status:
- Positive – the proposed project is to have a positive impact in terms of the particular parameter;
- Negative – the proposed project is to have a negative impact in terms of the particular
parameter;
- Neutral – the proposed project is to have neither a positive nor a negative impact in terms of
the particular parameter.
• Extent:
- Local – the impact is to be felt on the site and in its immediate surroundings, up to a radius of
50km from the site);
- Sub-regional – the impact is to be felt at a distance of up to 100km from the site;
- Regional – the impact is to be felt in the Limpopo Province;
- National – the impact is to be felt across provincial boundaries.
• Duration:
Refers to the period of time over which impacts can be expected to be experienced.
- Short term – 0 to 5 years;
- Medium term – more than 5 years, up to 15 years;
- Long term – more than 15 years;
- Permanent – the impact is irreversible.
• Magnitude:
Refers to the intensity of the potential impact, if it is experienced.
- Negligible – the impact will barely be felt, if at all. No mitigation required;
- Very low – the will only be affected to a very small extent. No mitigation required, but monitoring
may be recommended, where applicable;
- Low – the parameter will be affected to a small extent by the proposed project. Monitoring is
required and mitigation may be recommended;
- Medium – the parameter will be affected by the proposed project, but functions in terms of the
parameter can still continue. Mitigation and monitoring required;
- High – functioning in terms of the parameter will be significantly affected by the impact.
Extensive mitigation and long-term monitoring required.
• Likelihood:
- Improbable – it is unlikely that the impact will be experienced;
- Possible – the impact may be experienced. Monitoring required; mitigation may also be
required based on the type of impact and its significance;
- Highly probable – the impact will most likely be experienced. Monitoring and mitigation required
based on the type of impact and its significance in order to reduce the probability of the impact
occurring and/or to reduce the magnitude of the impact;
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
12
- Definite – the impact will be experienced. Monitoring and mitigation required based on the type
of impact and its significance in order to reduce the probability of the impact occurring and/or to
reduce the magnitude of the impact.
• Significance:
Significance is based on a consolidation of the anticipated extent, duration, magnitude and likelihood of
the potential impact.
- Negligible – The impact will barely be felt, if at all. No mitigation required;
- Very low – the will only be affected to a very small extent. No mitigation required, but monitoring
may be recommended, where applicable;
- Low – the parameter will be affected to a small extent by the proposed project. Monitoring is
required and mitigation may be recommended;
- Medium – The parameter will be affected by the proposed project, but functions in terms of the
parameter can still continue. Mitigation and monitoring required;
- High – Functioning in terms of the parameter will be significantly affected by the impact.
Extensive mitigation and long-term monitoring required.
6. INVESTIGATION OF ALTERNATIVES
6.1. Project Alternatives
No project alternatives were investigated, as the aim of the applicant was specifically to provide housing and
supporting land uses in this area. The project proposal, viz. township establishment with open space and
community facilities, is in line with surrounding land use and development trends, and there is a demand for the
type of development proposed, as there is a housing backlog and a need for commercial space from which
businesses can be operated and jobs thereby be created.
6.2. Site Alternatives
No site alternatives were investigated, as the proposed development site already belongs to the municipality
and is in a highly suitable position for the proposed development type, being situated near already existing
similar development and adjacent to proclaimed (though as yet undeveloped) townships.
6.3. Layout Alternatives
Initially a 147ha portion of the property was proposed to be developed, but this has been reduced based on the
1:100 year flood line and the buffers recommended around the watercourses by the wetland and riparian
specialist. Insubstantial variations on the layout were considered, but the constraints of the site (particularly with
regards to the watercourses traversing and bordering the site) dictated the development area, and the only
variations would be in terms of the arrangement of land uses within the development footprint. These variations
were minor and did not affect the type or scale of environmental impacts, hence the impact assessment focused
on the preferred alternative which is described in this report.
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
13
6.4. No-go Alternative
The ‘no-go’ alternative refers to the scenario in which the proposed activity does not take place and the site
remains as it is.
If the no-go alternative is taken, the impacts that can be anticipated to be associated with the proposed township
establishment would not come to pass and the conditions and trends on the property can be expected to remain
as per the status quo. Impacts that can be expected to be experienced in case of the no-go alternative being
selected include the following:
Table 6.1: Potential impacts that may be associated with the no-go option
POTENTIAL IMPACT STATUS EXTENT MAGNITUDE LIKELIHOOD SIGNIFICANCE
Bio-physical aspects
No construction-phase increase
in soil erosion and sedimentation
of watercourses
Neutral Local Medium Highly
probable
Low
Long-term levels and trends of
erosion and of sedimentation of
drainage lines remain
unchanged
Neutral Local Low Highly
probable
Low
No soil compaction / trampling of
vegetation within watercourses
or riparian areas
Neutral Local Low-Medium Highly
probable
Low
No contamination of water
resources
Neutral Local Unknown Highly
probable
Low-Medium
No habitat destruction and/or
fragmentation
Neutral Local Medium
Definite Low-Medium
No fragmentation of wetland or
aquatic ecosystems
Neutral Local Low-Medium Definite Low
No removal of protected plant
species
Neutral Local Low
Highly
probable
Very low
No faunal fatalities resulting from
construction-related activities
Neutral Local Low Definite Low
No disruption of the activities of
fauna on and around the site due
to e.g. noise
Neutral Local Low Highly
probable
Low
No trapping / hunting / killing
fauna by labourers out of fear or
for food
Neutral Local Low Highly
probable
Low
No roadkilll within the
development
Neutral Local Low Definite Low
Socio-economic aspects
No disturbance of
archaeological material
Neutral Local Unknown Definite Unknown
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
14
7. APPLICABLE LEGISLATION
7.1. Environmental Legislation
• National Environmental Management Act, EIA Regulations (2014)
Environmental Authorisation (EA) is required in terms of the EIA Regulations (2014, as amended 2017),
published in terms of section 24(5) read with section 44 of the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA,
Act No. 107 of 1998), as certain of the listed activities are triggered, as indicated in Table 7.1 below.
Table 7.1: Applicable listed activities (EIA Regulations 2014, as amended 2017)
Listing Notice 1:
12(ii)(a)
12(ii)(c)
The development of infrastructures or structures with a physical footprint of 100m2 or more,
where such development occurs within a watercourse; or if no development setback exists,
within 32m of a watercourse, measured from the edge of a watercourse.
No employment creation or
sustaining of jobs in
construction-related fields
Neutral Local Medium-High Definite Medium-High
No supporting local businesses
through local procurement of
materials, equipment & services
Neutral Local to
Sub-
regional
Medium-High Highly
probable
Medium-High
No increase in criminal activity
and/or rowdiness
Neutral Local Unknown Highly
probable
Low-Medium
No job creation (long term) Neutral Local Low-Medium Highly
probable
Low-Medium
No decrease in the backlog of
housing and amenities in the
area
Neutral Local Medium-high Highly
probable
Medium-high
No visual impacts of construction
activities
Neutral Local Medium-High Definite Medium
No visual impact of the
development
Neutral Local Medium-High Definite Medium
No noise associated with
increased traffic (heavy
vehicles) during construction
Neutral Local Low Definite Low
No noise associated with
construction activities
Neutral Local Low--medium Definite Low
Long-term ambient noise level
remains unchanged
Local Low Highly
probable
Very low
Setting a precedent for further
development in the area
Local –
sub-
regional
Unknown Definite Unknown
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
15
19 The infilling or depositing of any material of more than 10m3 into, or excavation, removal or
moving of soil, sand, shells, shell grit, pebbles or rock of more than 10m3 from a
watercourse.
Listing Notice 2:
15 The clearance of an area of 20 hectares or more of indigenous vegetation.
Listing Notice 3:
14(ii)(a)e(i)(ff)
14(ii)(c)e(i)(ff)
The development of infrastructures or structures with a physical footprint of 10m2 or more,
where such development occurs within a watercourse; or if no development setback exists,
within 32m of a watercourse, measured from the edge of a watercourse. Applicable in
Limpopo Province, outside urban areas, in critical biodiversity areas or ecosystem service
areas as identified in systematic biodiversity plans adopted by the competent authority or in
bioregional plans.
• National Water Act (1998)
The following Section 21 water uses in terms of the National Water Act (NWA, Act No. 36 of 1998), are
anticipated to be triggered and will require a Water Use Licence (WUL) from DWS:
Table 7.2: Applicable water uses in terms of the National Water Act (1998)
SECTION WATER USE DESCRIPTION
21(c) Impeding or diverting the flow of water in a watercourse.
21(i) Altering the bed, banks, course or characteristics of a watercourse.
7.2. Other Legislation
Table 7.3: Other applicable legislation
LEGISLATION RELEVANT
SECTIONS PERTAINS TO
The Constitution Act (No 108 of
1996)
Chapter 2,
Section 24
Bill of Rights: Environmental rights
Conservation of Agricultural
Resources Act (1983)
Section 5 Prohibition of the spreading of weeds
Fencing Act (No 31 of 1963) Section 17 Clearing of bush for fencing
Fertilizers, Farm Feeds,
Agricultural Remedies and Stock
Remedies Act (No 36 of 1947)
Sections 3 – 10 Control of the use of pesticides, herbicides and
fertilizers, and precautions to protect workers in this
regard
Limpopo Environmental
Management Act
Schedule 2, 3,
11 and 12
Lists of protected animals and plants
National Environmental Management Act (No 107 of 1998) and regulations (2010)
National Environmental
Management: Air Quality Act
(No 39 of 2004)
Section 32 Control of dust
Section 34 Control of noise
Section 35 Control of offensive odours
Section 57 Restricted activities involving listed threatened or
protected species
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
16
National Environmental
Management: Biodiversity Act
(No 10 of 2004)
Sections 65–69 Regulation of activities involving alien species
Sections 71, 73
and 75
Regulation of activities involving invasive species
National Environmental
Management: Waste
Amendment Act (No 26 of 2014)
Chapter 4, Part
4 Waste management activities
Chapter 5 Licensing of waste management activities
Chapter 5 Institutional and planning matters
Chapter 7 Compliance and enforcement
National Heritage Resources Act
(No 25 of 1999)
Section 34 Protection of structures older than 60 years
Section 35 Protection of archaeological and paleontological sites
and material as well as meteorites
Section 36 Conservation of burial grounds and graves
National Forests Act (No 84 of
1998), as amended by the
Forestry Laws Amendment Act
(No 35 of 2005)
Section 7 Prohibition on destruction of trees in natural forests
Sections 12–16 Declaration of trees, groups of trees, woodlands or
tree species as protected
Section 17 Declaration of controlled forest areas
National Water Act (No 36 of
1998)
Section 19 Prevention and remedying effects of pollution,
particularly where pollution of a water resource
occurs or might occur as a result of activities on land
Section 20 Control of pollution of water resources following an
emergency incident
Chapter 4
(Sections 21-55)
Governs water use
Occupational Health and Safety
Act (No 85 of 1993)
Section 8 General duties of employers to their employees
Section 9 General duties of employers and self-employed
persons to persons other than their employees
Polokwane Municipality
Standard Water Supply By-Laws
(1977, as amended)
Chapter I General provisions
Chapter II
Supply of water by the council
7.3. Municipal and provincial planning tools
7.3.1. Polokwane Municipality planning tools Integrated Development Plan and Spatial Development
Framework
The site is located within the urban edge.
In terms of the Polokwane Municipality Spatial Development Framework and Integrated Development Plan, the
site is located within Strategic Development Area 1. Subsidized housing development is one of the priorities for
SDAs.
Seshego is classified as a first order settlement and a provincial growth point (PGP), which is the highest order
in the settlement hierarchy and therefore also the most important type of growth point. The PGPs have a sizable
economic sector and have a regional or even provincial service delivery function, and furthermore usually also
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
17
have a large number of social and institutional facilities. Growth points (and most importantly PGPs) form the
major areas where future growth should be stimulated.
This proposed development is listed as part of the Polokwane Municipality Reviewed Housing Sector Plan
(2013-2016).
Figure 6.1: Extract from Polokwane Municipality SDF (2010)
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
18
7.3.2. Limpopo Conservation Plan version 2 (2013)
Most of the site is located within an Ecological Support Area 1 (ESA1) in terms of the Limpopo Conservation
Plan version 2, whilst the remaining section is within Other Natural Areas (ONA).
Figure 6.2: Extract from Limpopo Conservation Plan (image: SANBI BGIS, 2017)
7.3.3. National Freshwater Ecosystems Priority Areas
The National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Area (NFEPA) Map indicates that the site is located within an
upstream management area. The Blood River is an NFEPA river and an artificial wetland (consisting of a man-
made dam) is indicated onsite.
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
19
Figure 6.3: Location of the proposed development site in the context of FEPAs
8. ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING INVESTIGATION –
BIO-PHYSICAL INVESTIGATIONS
8.1. Climate
8.1.1. Status quo
Summer rainfall with very dry winters. Mean Annual Precipitation (MAP) from about 400mm to about 600mm.
Frost fairly infrequent. Mean monthly maximum and minimum temperature for Polokwane 33.2°C and 0.6 °C for
October and June, respectively (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006)
8.1.2. Potential impacts
The proposed project is not anticipated to have any impact on the local climate.
The local climate, however, may impact the project by causing increased soil erosion if rain occurs during the
construction phase of the project. It will be recommended in the Environmental Management Programme
(EMPR) that earthworks should preferably commence during the relatively dry winter season in order to avoid
this potential impact
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
20
Table 8.1: Potential impacts in terms of climate
CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Potential impact Status Extent Duration Magnitude Likelihood Significance
without
mitigation
Significance
with
mitigation
Increased risk of erosion Negative Local Short term Medium Possible Medium Low
OPERATIONAL PHASE
Increased risk of erosion Negative Local Long term Low Possible Low Very low
8.2. Topography, Surface Hydrology, Soils and Geology
8.2.1. Status quo
Topography and drainage
The proposed development site has a maximum elevation of approximately 1292 metres above mean sea level
(mamsl). The area comprises of moderately undulating plains with a short open tree layers and a well-developed
grass layer. The area slopes gently towards the Blood River which forms the eastern boundary of the property.
Surface Hydrology
The site is located within the A71A quaternary catchment, which forms part of the Limpopo Water Management
Area (WMA). The Blood River forms the eastern boundary of the property. Two non-perennial tributaries of the
Blood River traverse the site, and a small dam is situated on one of these, The dam is indicated as a wetland
on the National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas (NFEPA) map, though it doesn’t display wetland
characteristics on the ground and is a man-made dam. The Blood River is impounded by the Seshego Dam,
and is captured by the Sand River downstream to the north of Polokwane City.
In the region of the study site, areas that have been dug-out or eroded due to anthropogenic activities now
support some wetland vegetation. This is due to the depressions created where water collects and remains for
extended periods, thus creating wetland-like areas. These areas were not historically wetlands or part of the
river systems in the area. These areas of water retention can clearly be seen on aerial imagery (Limosella,
2017).
Soils
The soil class Ab91 located on the study site is characterised by red-yellow apedal, freely drained soils; red,
dystrophic and/or mesotrophic as well as Geyser Granite; leucocratic grey biotite granite and pegmatite gneiss,
granite and Pietersburg Group; acid to intermediate lava, pyroclasts (Limosella, 2017).
Geology
Migmatites and gneisses of Hout River Gneiss and the Turfloop Granite (both of Randian Erathm) are dominant.
Some ultramafic and mafic metavolcanics, quardzite and chlorite schist Pietersburg Group (Swazian Erathem)
are also found.
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
21
Figure 8.1: Aerial photograph showing the boundaries of the project site and surface hydrology (imagery: BGIS
2017)
8.2.2. Potential impacts
Topography and soils
Potential impacts that may be associated with alteration of the local topography is the increased erosion because
of site clearing (Construction phase) and increased proportion of hard surfaces leading to concentrated peak
storm water flow (operational phase).
Geology and Geo-hydrology
The project is not anticipated to impact on the geology or geo-hydrology of the area.
Surface Hydrology
Clearing of vegetation during earthworks will make the site vulnerable to soil erosion in case of rains during the
period that bare soil is exposed. This, in turn, may increase siltation of watercourses. During the Construction
phase the water can be contaminated by runoff containing construction-related substances such as fuel, cement
or paint.
Vehicles or machinery moving through drainage lines may cause compaction of soil and disturbance of aquatic
and riparian ecology. Construction of low-level bridges may contribute to fragmentation of wetlands (if any) and
may result in increased soil erosion within the watercourse due to the turbulence resulting from bridge footings
or the acceleration of water flow through culverts.
LEGEND
The Site
Blood River Onsite Dam
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
22
A specialist wetland and riparian delineation, functional assessment and risk assessment will be undertaken as
part of the impact assessment phase.
Potential impacts that may be associated with topography, soils, geology and hydrology are summarised in the
following table.
Table 8.2: Potential impacts in terms of topography, soils, geology and hydrology
CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Potential impact Status Extent Duration Magnitude Likelihood Significance
without
mitigation
Significance
with
mitigation
Increased soil
erosion and
concomitant
sedimentation of
watercourses
Negative Local Short term Medium Possible Medium Low
Soil compaction /
trampling of
vegetation within
watercourses or
riparian areas
Negative Local Short term Low-
Medium
Possible Medium Low
OPERATIONAL PHASE
Increased soil
erosion due to
hard surfaces and
increased peak
storm water flow,
and concomitant
sedimentation of
watercourses
Negative Local Long term Low Possible Low Very low
Contamination of
water resources
Negative Local to
Sub-
regional
Long term Unknown Possible Medium Low-Medium
8.3. Ecology
8.3.1. Status quo
Limpopo Conservation Plan
Most of the site is located within an Ecological Support Area 1 (ESA1) in terms of the Limpopo Conservation
Plan version 2, whilst the remaining section is within Other Natural Areas (ONA).
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
23
Figure 8.2: Extract from the Limpopo Conservation Plan version 2 (BGIS, accessed 2017).
Vegetation
According to Mucina and Rutherford (2006), the proposed location forms part of the Polokwane Plateau
Bushveld, which consists of moderately undulating plains with short open tree layer with well-developed grass
layer to grass plains with occasional trees at higher altitude.
The vegetation unit has a conservation status least threatened and a targeted conservation percentage of 19%.
Only 2% is statutorily conserved mainly in the Percy Fyfe and Kuschke Nature Reserves and about 0.7%
conserved in private Nature Reserves such Polokwane Game Reserve. There is about 17% transformed
including about 10% cultivated and 6% urban and built-up. Dense Concentration of rural settlement is found
particularly in the eastern and north-western parts of the unit. In some regions, scatted populations of Alien
Agave, Jacaranda mimosifois , Melia azedaeach, optunia ficus-indica and ricinus are of concern.
Other important taxonomy within the vegetation includes:
Small Trees:
Acacia caffra, A.permixta, A. rehmanniana, A. karoo, A. tortilis subsp. Heteracantha, combretum moolle,
Ormocarpum kirkii, ziziphus mucronate.
Tall Shrubs:
Acacia hebeclada subsp. Hebclada, gymnosporia senegelensis, combretum hereroense, Diospyros lycioides
subsp sericea, Euclea crispa, heteromorpha arborescens var. abyssinica, Triumfetta pilosa var. tomentosa.
Succulent tree:
Aloe marlothii subsp. Marlothii.
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
24
Low Shrubs:
Agathisanthemum rigidum, Gymnosporia glaucophylla, Hirpicium bechuanense, Lantana rugosa, senecio
burchellii,sida rhombifolia, solanum panduriforme.
Succulent Shrubs
Aloe cryptopoda.
Woody Climbers:
Asparagus Africanus,
Herbaceous climbers
Momordica balsamina, Rubia petiolaris
Graminoids:
Aristida diffusa, brachiaria nigropedata, digiteria eriantha , eragrostis curvula, themeda triandra, aristida
congesta, cymbopogon, caesius, cynodont dactylon, digitaria diagnalis, diheteropogon amplectens, elionurus
muticus, eragrostis gummiflua, E. racemose, E. superba, Eustachys paspaloides, panicum maximum,
pogonarthria squarrosa, sporobolus africanus.
Herbs:
Felicia mossamedensis, hermbstaedtia odorata, pollichia campetris.
Geophytic Herbs
Eulophia petersii, hypoxis hemerocallidea.
Succulent herb
Aloe greatheadii
The specialist ecological study, to be done during the impact assessment phase, will investigate the state of the
vegetation onsite, the occurrence of threatened or protected plant species, and the potential impacts of the
proposed project.
Fauna
Due to the degraded condition of the habitat onsite, the use of the site for e.g. grazing and firewood collection,
and the proximity of intensive human activity (busy road and nearby development) it is expected that larger
mammals will be absent from the site, but small mammals, reptiles, amphibians and insects can be expected to
be present, and certain bird species likely use the site for roosting and/or foraging.
Threatened or Protected Species (TOPS) that are likely to occur onsite include one scorpion (Opistophthalmus
glabrifrons) and one bird species (Coracias garrulus – European Roller), which is listed as near threatened.
The specialist ecological study to be done during the impact assessment phase will investigate the probability
of sensitive species occurring onsite and the potential impact of the proposed project on these.
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
25
8.3.2. Potential impacts
The project will result in habitat destruction in the area that is developed, as well as habitat fragmentation. The
latter will be mitigated to some extent by retaining the watercourses with their attendant flood lines and buffer
zones (as recommended by the wetland and riparian specialist) as public open space.
During the construction phase, fauna that are unable to flee to undeveloped areas in time, may be killed by e.g.
earthmoving equipment. However, as the development is to take place in phases (starting with installation of
services, followed by gradual building-up of stands), animals are likely to move into undeveloped areas in time.
The exception may be hibernating animals (e.g. snakes) or nesting birds that may need to abandon eggs or
chicks if trees are felled.
The disturbance wrought by the development may aid alien invasive vegetation in spreading or establishing
itself in higher concentrations than is currently the case. The introduction of exotic plants into gardens or
landscaped areas as part of the development may also contribute to the spreading of alien vegetation.
Traffic on roads within the development may result in roadkill of animals crossing the roads, particularly frogs
but also small mammals and reptiles such as snakes.
The encroachment of human habitation and activity onto most of the site may disturb the activities of fauna
remaining in refugia such as the drainage lines onsite. For instance, light spilling over from the development
may disrupt the activities of nocturnal fauna, and noise from the development may similarly interfere with some
species’ activities. The possibility exists that residents or their pets may kill animals venturing into the
development, especially species considered dangerous (e.g. snakes) or a nuisance (e.g. mice).
The potential impacts are summarised in the table below.
Table 8.5: Potential ecological impacts
CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Potential impact Status Extent Duration Magnitude Likelihood
Significance
without
mitigation
Significance
with
mitigation
Habitat destruction
and/or fragmentation
Negative Local Long term –
permanent Medium Definite Medium
Low-Medium
Removal of protected
plant species
Negative Local Long term –
permanent Low Possible Low
Very low
Faunal fatalities
resulting from
construction-related
activities
Negative Local Short term Low Highly
probable
Low Low
Disruption of the
activities of fauna on
and around the site
due to e.g. noise
Negative Local Short term Low Highly
probable
Low Low
Trapping / hunting /
killing fauna by
Negative Local Short term Low Highly
probable
Low Low
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
26
labourers out of fear
or for food
OPERATIONAL PHASE
Roadkilll within the
development
Negative Local Long term Low Highly
probable
Low Low
Habitat destruction
and/or fragmentation
Negative Local Long term –
permanent
Medium Definite Medium Low-Medium
Fragmentation of
wetland or aquatic
ecosystems
Negative Local Short term Low-
Medium
Possible Medium Low
9. ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING INVESTIGATION –
SOCIO-ECONOMIC INVESTIGATIONS
9.1. Heritage Assessment
9.1.1. Status quo
There are no known areas designated for socio-religious activities were on the site, and no known formal or
informal graves.
According to the most recent archaeological cultural distribution sequences by Huffman (2007), this area falls
within the distribution area of various cultural groupings originating out of both the Urewe Tradition (eastern
stream of migration) and the Kalundu Tradition (western stream of migration). The facies that may be present
are:
Urewe Tradition: Kwale branch- Mzonjani facies AD 450 – 750 (Early Iron Age)
Moloko branch- Icon facies AD 1300 - 1500 (Late Iron Age)
Marateng facies AD 1650-1840 (Late IA)
Kalundu Tradition: Happy Rest sub-branch - Doornkop facies AD 750 - 1000 (Early Iron Age)
Eiland facies AD 1000 – 1300 (Middle Iron Age)
Klingbeil facies AD 1000 - 1200 (Middle Iron Age)
Letaba facies AD 1600 - 1840 (Late Iron Age)
Marateng facies AD 1650-1840 (Late IA)
Archaeologically, the Polokwane/Pietersburg area has a rich and well documented past, and was mainly
occupied by people of the Ndebele groups.
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
27
9.1.2. Potential impacts
No impacts are foreseen, but a heritage impact assessment will be undertaken during the impact assessment
phase to determine whether there are heritage resources / artefacts / sites on the property and if so, what the
impacts will be.
9.2. Social Aspects
9.2.1. Status quo: Polokwane Local Municipality (Information adapted from PM IDP 2016/2021)
Location
The proposed development site forms part of the Polokwane Local Municipality within the Capricorn District
Municipality. The PLM borders the municipalities of Molemole, Greater Tzaneen, LepelleNkumpi, Mogalakwena
and Aganang. Polokwane has a large portion of the population living in rural or peri-urban areas, which for the
most part is unplanned and poorly serviced (PM IDP 2013/2017)
Population
Polokwane Municipality is a home to approximately 628 999 persons, where females make up 326 766 of the
population whilst males attribute for the remaining 302 233 of the population. There are about 178 001
households and average of 4 persons per household. 92,9% of the population is black African, followed by white
people at 5,2%. Other population groups make up the remaining 1,9%. Most people in the municipality speak
Sepedi as the first language at 80%, Afrikaans at 5%, English at 3% and other languages make up 11% (PM
IDP 2016-2021).
Income, employment and education
The majority of the people in Polokwane fall within the lower to middle income groups, which is a reflection of a
developing economy (PM IDP 2015/2016). Polokwane had 29,401 employed persons in 2010 and 26,792
unemployed persons in 2011. This implies an unemployment rate of 17.1%, but with many more women than
men who are unemployed in 2011 (PM IDP 2013/2017).
Polokwane Municipality has a strong educational profile among people of school going age and older. 17,9% of
the population aged 20 years and older had some form of higher education; whereas 29,6% has completed
matric and only 6,8% had no schooling. The municipality has a number of public schools and tertiary institutions
such as University of Limpopo and campuses of the University of South Africa and Tshwane University of
Technology (PM IDP 2016-2017).
Economic activities and opportunities
The majority of employed persons work in the following sectors:
- Community service sector
- Finance Sector
- Retail trade
- Transport Sector
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
28
The major contributor to the municipal economy is the community services sector, which is responsible for 30.9%
of the value of contribution. It incorporates a wide range of activities from economic development, infrastructure
and community upliftment project by both private and public sector. Finance sector incorporates banking,
business, insurance and consulting services to real estate transactions; and is a reflection of Polokwane as a
service centre for Limpopo Province and it is responsible for 28.1% of the value. Trade which includes wholesale
and retail trade, catering and accommodation, is the third largest sector with a contribution of 14.4% and the
transport is the fourth largest sector with 14.3%.
Infrastructure and services
Water: Polokwane Municipality is a water scares city, with more than 60% of its water sourced outside the
boundary of the Municipality. Seshego’s water is supplied by the following water sources: Seshego Dam,Olifants
and Seshego Dam. Most of municipal Regional Water Schemes are 100% reticulated with metered yard
connections (PLM IDP 2013/2017).
Sewerage: Major progress was made in the provision of sanitation services in Polokwane between the census
periods of 2001 and 2011. However, even with the improvement the municipality will not meet the Millennium
Development Goal that every household must have access to healthy and dignified sanitation facility. In 2011
Polokwane Municipality had 73 092 flush toilets connected to the sewerage infrastructure and 4 777 with septic
tanks (PLM IDP 2013/2017)
Electricity: The Municipality distributes electricity in the City/Seshego cluster while Eskom is the service
provider in the rest of the Municipal area. 99% of dwellings in the City/Seshego cluster are supplied with
electricity. Apart from main roads, street lighting is of reasonable standard (PLM IDP 2013/2017).
Housing: Polokwane Municipality, as the economic hub of the Province, is experiencing population growth
which results in an influx of people from the rural areas into the urban parts of the municipality. In the municipality
there are 159 082 households that live in formal dwellings, and 16 044 live in informal dwellings/backyard
shacks. 1 000 RDP houses have been allocated to Polokwane by COGHSTA for 2013/14. Those RDP houses
will be constructed in different wards within the municipality (PLM IDP 2013/2017)
Health care: The provision of health services within the municipality is fairly covering the communities. There
are 29 clinics and 1 health care centre found in the municipal area. Most of the clinics operate 24 hours per day
and are fairly well equipped with all necessary infrastructure. The municipality also harbours a provincial hospital
in the CBD, one District hospital (Seshego) and 1 tertiary hospital in Mankweng (PLM IDP 2013/2017).
Roads: In terms of the current analysis, City / Seshego and Mankweng Cluster‘s roads have deteriorated due
to limited routine and preventative maintenance. With increased road users, congestion has therefore increased
in recent years, and has now become problematic in the City/Seshego and Mankweng/Sebayeng, therefor traffic
safety can be linked with the existing condition of roads in the municipal area (PLM IDP 2013/2017).
Waste management
Currently, only City / Seshego and some parts of Mankweng / Sebayeng clusters have conventional waste
management services in place. There is only one landfill site permitted and two transfer stations in the CBD
area (PLM IDP 2013/2017).
According to PLM IDP (2013/2017) the municipality has 5 transfer stations:
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
29
• 3 x permitted
• 1 x application in process 103
• 1 x ROD (record of decision) but not permitted.
• The Municipality has 1 permitted landfill site.
Development constraints
Constraints to development within PLM relate mainly to the following:
Lack of water sources: Lack of sustainable water sources for future supply. The municipality is currently
receiving between 80 to 94Ml/d and is unable to meet the peak flow demand of 163Ml/day. Construction of
Seshego CRU housing project has been completed and it is expected to increase water demand as soon as
beneficiaries are allocated (PLM IDP 2016/2021).
Land claims: A number of land claims have been lodged with government within the municipal area of
jurisdiction. However, none of these claims are finalized. It is currently not possible to determine their likely
impact on spatial development. Prospective developers are obliged to seek consent of the Land Claims
Commissioner prior to undertaking any form of development, that is, either for township establishments or
change in land use. Although consultations do not hinder development, they do affect the speed at which
development moves (PLM IDP 2013/2017).
Lack of funding: Limited operation and maintenance of infrastructure due to shortage of funds. Large sums are
also required to increase the capacity of water infrastructure to be able to cater for current and new
developments, and for construction of a regional waste water treatment plant (PLM IDP 2016/2021))
Illegal Connections: Illegal connection and bridging of electricity is contributing to electricity losses and Illegal
extension of houses (back yard rooms) has an impact on sewer treatment plant (PLM IDP 2016/2021).
Spatial analysis
A new Land Use Management Scheme should be compiled to address some of the main short comings of the
existing scheme. The existing Land Use Management scheme of Polokwane Local Municipality is currently only
limited to the urban area of Polokwane City/ Seshego as well as the adjacent small holdings / farm portions
(Urban Fringe Area). The commercial farming area, rural villages and Tribal areas are excluded from the current
land use scheme (PM IDP 2013-2021).
9.2.2. Potential impacts
The following short-term socio-economic impacts may be expected during the construction phase of the
proposed project:
• Creation of employment opportunities in construction and installation of services.
• Support of local job opportunities through the local procurement of materials, equipment and services to
be used in the construction phase, as well as the support of local shops by construction workers who are
likely to spend money locally;
• The possibility exists that the presence of construction workers may lead to an increase in criminal activity
and/or rowdiness.
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
30
Long-term socio-economic impacts during the operational phase may relate to the following:
• Creation of long-term job opportunities, in the business component.
• Contribution to alleviating the shortage of housing in the area.
• Contributing to the local economy through job creation and an anticipated increase in local spending, as
the development is anticipated to draw home buyers – who are likely to have disposable income – and
the creation of jobs will lead to increased disposable income for the people employed in the development.
• Provide much needed facilities such as healthcare, schools and retail.
Table 9.2: Potential social impacts
CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Potential impact Status Extent Duration Magnitude Likelihood
Significance
without
mitigation
Significance
with
mitigation
Employment creation
and/or sustaining of jobs
in construction-related
fields
Positive Local Short
term
Medium-
High
Definite Medium Medium-High
Supporting local
businesses through local
procurement of
materials, equipment &
services
Positive Local to
Sub-
regional
Short
term
Medium-
High
Highly
probable
Medium Medium-High
Possible increase in
criminal activity and/or
rowdiness
Negative Local Short
term
Unknown Possible Unknown Low-Medium
OPERATIONAL PHASE
Job creation (long term) Positive Local Long
term
Low-
Medium
Highly
probable
Low Low-Medium
Decreasing the backlog
of housing and amenities
in the area
Positive Local Long
term
Medium-
high
Definite Medium Medium-high
9.3. Visual Aspects
9.3.1. Status quo
The site occurs on a gently undulating landscape with a short open tree layer and a well-developed grass layer.
The Blood River forms the site’s eastern boundary, while two smaller tributaries traverse the site. A small artificial
wetland is located in one of the drainage lines that drain into the Blood River in the central south-eastern portion
of the site. The site is vacant and not formally used, and the vegetation appears to be fairly natural, though likely
degraded to some extent by informal use (e.g. for collection of firewood) by neighbouring community members,
as several footpaths can be seen criss-crossing the site. A number of roads are located on the site and all
appear to travel towards the drainage lines and banks of the Blood River where illegal sand mining seems to be
taking place.
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
31
9.3.2. Potential impacts
Potential visual impacts can be distinguished into potential construction-phase impacts and potential
operational-phase impacts. Construction-phase impacts are related to construction activities such as clearing
of vegetation and actual construction. Operational phase impacts relate to the visual impact of replacement of
natural vegetation with development, including dwellings, roads, etc.
The operational phase visual impact of the proposed development is anticipated to be low, as the proposed
development is compatible with existing nearby development (Seshego neighbourhood).
Table 9.3: Potential visual impacts
CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Potential impact Status Extent Duration Magnitude Likelihood Significance
without
mitigation
Significance
with
mitigation
Visual impacts of
construction
activities
Negative Local Short term Medium-
High
Definite Medium-High Medium
OPERATIONAL PHASE
Visual impact of the
development
Negative Local Long-term
to
permanent
Medium-
High
Definite Medium-High Medium
9.4. Noise
9.4.1. Status quo
The site is situated close to the Matlala road, which raises the ambient noise level in the southern and south-
western section of the property. The ambient noise level on the rest of the site is very low, comprising mainly
the limited sounds of livestock and herders. Sounds associated with human habitation in Seshego E- Ext. 2 and
Seshego B, may sometimes drift over to the site, but will be reduced by the time it reaches the site due to the
distance separating these residential areas from the site.
9.4.2. Potential impacts
Construction phase
Construction-phase impacts are anticipated to be mainly associated with construction activities themselves,
including earthworks, off-loading of material from trucks, etc., as well as with increased traffic during construction
(construction vehicles and the transport of construction workers).
Construction-phase impacts will be fairly short-term in duration, occurring only whilst construction is underway.
The site is situated some distance away from Seshego B settlement and no particularly noisy activities like
blasting are proposed, all of which will reduce the noise impact on the inhabitants; it is therefore not anticipated
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
32
that noise associated with construction would cause significant disruption of activities or constitute a significant
impact. Construction-phase noise impacts are therefore anticipated to be of low to medium significance.
Operational phase
Potential noise impacts during the operational phase are anticipated to relate mainly to an increase in traffic, as
well as increased ambient noise levels associated with human habitation, e.g. voices, music, dogs barking, etc.
The impact are anticipated to be congruent with the type and level of noise currently generated in the surrounding
area.
Table 9.4: Potential impacts in terms of noise
CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Potential impact Status Extent Duration Magnitude Likelihood
Significance
without
mitigation
Significance
with
mitigation
Noise associated with
increased traffic (heavy
vehicles) during construction
Negative Local Short
term
Low Highly
probable
Low Low
Noise associated with
construction activities
Negative Local Short
term
Low--
medium
Definite Low-medium Low
OPERATIONAL PHASE
Increase in ambient noise
level
Negative Local Long
term
Low Definite Low Very low
9.5. Cumulative impacts
As is the case for any activity, impacts are not limited to those directly or even indirectly associated with the
proposed activity – potential cumulative impacts need to be considered as well, so that activities can be seen
not as stand-alone entities but as part of the larger picture. Potential cumulative impacts of the proposed
development consist of:
Cumulative bio-physical impacts
Considered together with other developments in the area, the proposed development will contribute cumulatively
to habitat loss and fragmentation in the area. However, apart from the comparatively sensitive drainage
channels, the area is not considered to be ecologically sensitive, as most of the area which is proposed to be
developed has already been disturbed. More sensitive portions of the site will remain undeveloped in the form
of public open space.
Cumulative socio-economic impacts
The proposed development is anticipated to contribute to alleviating the shortage of housing in the area as well
as contributing to the local economy through job creation and an anticipated increase in local spending within
Seshego.
Cumulative impacts on services
When the development connects to municipal service infrastructure, the proposed project will place additional
demands on the municipal service infrastructure in terms of water and electricity provision, sewerage, roads and
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
33
solid waste collection and disposal. However, at the same time the proposed development will also lead to
increased revenue for the municipality in terms of rates and taxes paid to it by residents of the proposed
township, which will assist them in development and maintenance of services.
Table 9.5: Potential cumulative impacts
CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Potential impact Status Extent Duration Magnitude Likelihood
Significance
without
mitigation
Significance
with
mitigation
Job creation Positive Local Short
term
Medium Definite Low-Medium Medium
Habitat loss Negative Local Long term Medium Definite Low-Medium Low
OPERATIONAL PHASE
Increase in housing and
amenities in the area
Positive Local Long term Medium-
high
Definite Medium-high High
Contribution to local
economy
Positive Local Long term Medium Highly
probable
Low-Medium Medium
Increased pressure on
services
Negative Local Long term Medium-
high
Definite Medium-high Medium
Stimulus for further
development in the area
Positive
or
negative
Local Long term Unknown Possible Medium Medium
10. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS
10.1. Advertisement of Commencement of EIA Process
The commencement of the EIA process was advertised for a period of more than 30 days (14 July to 17 August
2017) in the following ways (please refer to Appendix E for proof of advertisement):
• Placement of a notice (English and SePedi) in the local newspaper the Polokwane Observer on 13 July
2017
• Display of site notices (each containing both the English and the SePedi adverts) at the site as well as at
other highly visible points in the area;
• Direct notification of identified stakeholders via fax, e-mail, post or personal delivery of notices.
10.2. Issues Raised
During the public comment period, the only comments received were from community members seeking more
information. Please refer to the attached Issues Trail (Appendix F), which provides a summary in English of all
issues raised, the forum through which these issues were raised and the response provided. Copies of
correspondence with I&APs are also included in Appendix F.
-
CONSULTATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED POLOKWANE EXTENSION 134 TOWNSHIP
ESTABLISHMENT ON THE FARM VOGELSTRUISFONTEIN 667-LS AT SESHEGO, POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO PROVINCE
Polygon Environmental Planning
Tel 015 307 3606 – Fax 015 307 3080 – [email protected] – PO Box 1935 TZANEEN 0850 – www.polygonenvironmental.co.za
34
10.3. Availability of Consultative ESR for Review and Comment
The consultative ESR is currently available for public review and comment for a period of 30 days, from 24
November 2017 to 15 January 2018. Copies of the report are available at VENUE and Polygon’s offices at 21C
Peace Street, Tzaneen. Electronic copies on CD are also available from Polygon upon request and copies
(whether in hard copy or on CD) were submitted directly to a number stakeholders for their comment (notably
DWS, SAHRA, LDEDET and the Polokwane Municipality). All comments received will be incorporated into the
final ESR for submission to LDEDET.
11. PLAN OF STUDY FOR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
11.1. Approach to Undertaking the Impact Assessment Phase of the Project
The impact assessment phase of this project will comprise an extension of the public part