Case Decision - 196947

Interim Comment
The SAHRA Archaeology, Palaeontology and Meteorites (APM) Unit notes the previous assessments in the area, and while these reports can contribute to providing context and insight into the significance of any heritage identified within the area, they do not replace the application specific field-based assessment required to effectively assess the impacts of the current development on heritage resources that may occur within the impact area. Additionally, all previous assessments were conducted over 5 years prior, and an updated field assessment is required.
A field-based HIA must be conducted that complies with section 38(3) of the National Heritage Resources Act, Act 25 of 1999 (NHRA). The assessment must include an assessment of the impact to archaeological and palaeontological resources. The assessment of archaeological resources must be conducted by a qualified archaeologist and the report comply with the SAHRA 2007 Minimum Standards: Archaeological and Palaeontological Components of Impact Assessment Reports
As the proposed development footprint is underlain by areas of moderate palaeontological sensitivity, a desktop PIA must be conducted as part of the HIA. The assessment of palaeontological resources must be conducted by a qualified palaeontologist and the report comply with the SAHRA 2012 Minimum Standards: Palaeontological Components of Heritage Impact Assessments.
The draft EA documents inclusive of appendices must be provided with the above requested reports so that an informed comment may be issued.
Further comments will be issued upon receipt of the above.