Case Decision - 379101

Interim Comment

The SAHRA Development Applications Unit (DAU) notes the submitted draft Scoping Report, Phase 2 Heritage Impact Assessment, and Phase 1 Palaeontological Impact Assessment. 

Since the development is located in an area of High palaeontological sensitivity a field-based PIA is required. The assessment must be undertaken by a qualified palaeontologist and the report must comply with the 2012 Minimum Standards: Palaeontological Components of Heritage Impact Assessments. 

The field-based palaeontological component of the PIA must be conducted by a qualified palaeontologist and must comply with the SAHRA 2007 Minimum Standards: Archaeological and Palaeontological Components of Impact Assessment Reports (see www.asapa.co.za or www.aphp.org.za for a list of qualified archaeologists). The Minimum Standards refer to a Letter of Recommendation for Exemption for further studies should the specialist deem it appropriate. SAHRA reserves the right to insist on a field-based assessment should the Letter of Recommendation not provide ample information to make an informed comment.

Further comments will be issued upon the submission of the draft EIA and its appendices, as well as the Phase 2 Palaeontological Impact Assessment (PIA) or Letter of Recommendation for Exemption.