1
SECTION 24 K ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT TO INFORM THE
NEMA/LFTEA APPLICATION FOR RESETTLEMENT OF THE
VISSERSHOK RESIDENTS ON ONE OF THREE SITES IN THE
VICINITY OF THE CITY OF CAPE TOWN
March 2011
PORTION OF CAPE FARM 153
VAN SCHOORSDRIFT
Reference number: E 12/2/4/3-A6/153
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE NO
EXECUTIVE SUMMARIES (ENGLISH, AFRIKAANS, XHOSA)
4
BACKGROUND
10
SECTION A
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
REPORT COMPILERS……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
PROJECT DESCRIPTION………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
LIST OF ACTIVITIES ASSESSED DURING THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT……………………………………………………………….
DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPERTY ON WHICH THE ACTIVITY IS TO BE UNDERTAKEN……………………………………………………..
SITE PHOTOGRAPHS……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
PUBLIC INFORMATION AND PARTICIPATION PROCEDURES IN TERMS OF NEMA AND LFTEA……………………………………….
NEED AND DESIRABILITY OF THE ACTIVITY………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
REQUIREMENTS OF SECTION 23 OF NEMA NO 62 OF 2008………………………………………………………………………………………….
HOW THE PRINICIPLES OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AS SET OUT IN SECTION 2 OF
NEMA HAVE BEEN TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
IDENTIFICATION OF ALTERNATIVES……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
INVESTIGATION OF THE POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES OF IMPACTS OF THE ALTERNATIVES…………………………………………
ARRANGEMENTS FOR MONITORING AND MANAGEMENT OF CONSEQUENCES OF IMPACTS…………………………………….
INVESTIGATION, ASSESSMENT AND EVALUATION OF THE IMPACTS ON CULTURE AND HERITAGE………………………………
SPECIALIST INPUTS/STUDIES, FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS……………………………………………………………………………
IMPACT SUMMARY…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGIES AND CRITERIA, GAPS IN KNOWLEDGE, UNDERLYING ASSUMPTIONS
AND UNCERTAINTIES…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
SECTION B
17. LFTEA DOCUMENTATION (TO BE SUBMITTED SEPERATELY)
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
13
13
17
18
Appendix 7
20
22
26
27
30
31
45
49 & Appendix 6
49
49
52
3
LIST OF APPENDICES
APPENDIX 1a) Ministerial agreement for a combined Section 24 K and Less Formal Township Establishment Act Process
APPENDIX 1b) Report to Spatial Planning, Environment and Land Use Management Committee
APPENDIX 1c) Council Resolution
APPENDIX 1d) Requirements of NEMA section 24 (4), (a) and (b)
APPENDIX 2
APPENDIX
NEMA advertisements
3 Summary of issues raised by I&Aps in response to the LFTEA advertisement
APPENDIX 4a) Photograph of model of typical unit to be provided
APPENDIX 4b) Alternative ‘wet core’ and slab option
APPENDIX 5
Biodiversity map
APPENDIX 6
Heritage report
APPENDIX 7
Site photographs
APPENDIX 8
Corridor of proposed R 300 freeway extension
APPENDIX 9a) Site location
APPENDIX 9b) Site layout
APPENDIX 9c) Internal layout plan
APPENDIX 10
a) and b) Maps showing the City’s planned growth corridors
APPENDIX 11 Environmental Management Programme Specifications
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
4
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: VAN SCHOORSDRIFT
This environmental assessment is intended to inform the decision on which site may be used for the resettlement of the Vissershok community. Three
assessments are being undertaken, one for each of the potential sites for which application has been made by the City of Cape Town. This assessment is for
the Van Schoorsdrift site (reference number: E 12/2/4/3-A6/153). The City has applied for the temporary use of the Van Schoorsdrift site (7 years).
This site is part of the same erf as the Vissershok solid waste disposal site and would thus represent the least distant move for the Vissershok residents. The
Vissershok residents have to be moved as the landfill site is being expanded and they are occupying land in the expansion pathway. Relocation is a
condition of approval for expansion of the landfill. An application to relocate the squatters to “Van Schoorsdrift” was made in 2007, but was stopped due
to community opposition. Other possible sites were identified and land use applications made, such as for a site in Atlantis, which also resulted in
opposition and which was not finalised. The current three applications concern sites which have been identified as potentially suitable. This application
does not form part of the City’s Integrated Development Plan, but falls under the category of emergency housing as identified in the City’s Housing Plan.
The project involves moving approximately 266 – 300 families (about 850 people) from the Rooidakkies and SkandaalKamp informal settlements at
Vissershok to a new site of approximately 2.7 ha in size. The Van Schoorsdrift site is intended by the City of Cape Town to be temporary and smaller than
either of the other two potential sites (Atlantis and Wolwerivier). The Vissershok residents will be provided with a plot of 49m2 and a prefabricated shelter
(steel frameworks and treated metal sheeting) of approximately 24m2. The site will be fenced and provided with electricity to each shelter, gravel roads,
water and chemical toilets.
The predicted environmental impacts are summarised below. Emphasis is placed on the operation phase impacts as they are permanent (i.e. until the
settlement is moved). The construction phase impacts would include the dust and noise from construction activities over a 6 – 12 month period.
Impact Summary
-
Impacts on tourism: The presence of the Vissershok community and the increased traffic and activity on the Old Malmesbury Road may change the
character of the area which is used for horseriding and filming activities. Adjacent properties would be most affected. Impacts on tourism
establishments further away are likely to be minimal. Impact significance for adjacent property owners is Medium – High.
-
Impacts on Biodiversity: Loss of a remnant of Critically Endangered Cape Flats Sand Fynbos in restorable (low) condition. The significance of this impact
after mitigation is Medium – High.
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
5
-
Impacts on quality of life, safety, security and livelihoods: Property owners are concerned about personal safety and safety of their properties and
animals. There are existing problems with safety and security in the area and it is not possible to predict whether moving the Vissershok residents to
this site would further add to the situation. Safety and security concerns have the potential to affect quality of life and livelihoods. The significance of
this impact is estimated to be Medium and uncertain. The benefits of relocation for the Vissershok residents will be of Medium - High significance.
However, the site is not ideal in terms of safe access as the N7 has to be crossed to get onto the old Malmesbury road which gives access to the site.
-
Impacts on the economy, employment and city planning: There are unlikely to be significant impacts on the Vissershok residents in terms of income or
work opportunities as the site is very close to their existing location. It cannot be predicted as to whether adjacent landowners will close or modify
their operations due to perceived security threats. Impacts on the local economy are expected to be of low significance after mitigation. Although
uncertain, impacts on adjacent properties and their activities are potentially of Medium – High significance. As the site is outside the urban edge and
not in the planned growth path of the City, the site will remain temporary in nature. The site may be affected by the possible future extension of the
R300.
-
Impacts on Cultural – historical aspects: The avenue of Bluegum trees along the Old Malmesbury road is culturally significant. Impacts on this avenue
would be of Low significance after mitigation.
-
Noise and visual impacts: Due to distance factors and the presence of a buffer area, impacts due to noise or visual impacts are predicted to be of Low
to Medium significance after mitigation.
The proposed use of this site for resettlement purposes would result in negative impacts in terms of efficiency, equity and sustainablity criteria due to the
site being outside of the urban edge, outside of the urban growth path, and on the eastern side of the N7 (unsafe access and difficult to service).
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
6
UITVOERENDE OPSOMMING: VAN SCHOORSDRIFT
Dié omgewingsimpakbepaling is daarop gemik om die grondslag van die besluit te vorm oor watter perseel vir die verskuiwing van die Vissershokgemeenskap gebruik kan word. Drie bepalings word gedoen – een vir elk van die potensiële persele waarom daar by die Stad Kaapstad aansoek gedoen is.
Dié bepaling is vir die Van Schoorsdrift-perseel (verwysingsno.: E12/2/4/3-!6/153). Die Stad het om die tydelike gebruik van die Van Schoorsdrift-perseel (7
jaar) aansoek gedoen.
Dié perseel is deel van dieselfde erf as die Vissershok-vasteafvalwegdoenperseel en sal dus die kortste afstand wees wat die Vissershok-inwoners verskuif
word. Die Vissershok-inwoners moet verskuif word, aangesien die grondopvulterrein uitgebrei word, en die grond waarop hulle woon, in die pad van die
uitbreiding is. ’n Aansoek om die plakkers na “Van Schoorsdrift” te verskuif, is in 2007 ingedien, maar dit is weens gemeenskapsteenstand gestaak. Ander
moontlike persele is geïdentifiseer en grondgebruikaansoeke is voorgelê, byvoorbeeld ’n perseel in Atlantis, maar dit is ook weens teenstand laat vaar. Die
huidige drie aansoeke het betrekking op persele wat as potensieel geskik geïdentifiseer is. Dié aansoek maak nie deel van die Stad se geïntegreerdeontwikkelingsplan uit nie – dit val in die kategorie noodbehuising soos geïdentifiseer in die Stad se behuisingsplan.
Die projek behels die verskuiwing van sowat 266 – 300 gesinne (sowat 850 mense) van die Rooidakkies- en SkandaalKamp- informele nedersettings te
Vissershok na ’n nuwe perseel wat sowat 2,7 ha groot is. Die Stad Kaapstad beoog dat die Van Schoorsdrift-perseel tydelik en kleiner moet wees as enige
van die ander twee potensiële persele (Atlantis en Wolwerivier). Die Vissershok-inwoners sal van ’n perseel van 49 m2 en ’n vooraf vervaardigde (staal-enmetaal) skuiling van sowat 24 m2 voorsien word. Die perseel sal omhein word, elke skuiling sal van elektrisiteit voorsien word, en daar sal gruispaaie, water
en chemiese toilette wees.
Die verwagte omgewingsimpakte word hieronder opgesom. Die bedryfsfase-impakte word beklemtoon, aangesien hulle permanent is (d.w.s. totdat die
nedersetting verskuif word). Die konstruksiefase-impakte sal oor ’n tydperk van 6 tot 12 maande stof en geraas as gevolg van konstruksieaktiwiteite
veroorsaak.
Impakopsomming
-
Impakte op toerisme: Die aanwesigheid van die Vissershok-gemeenskap en die toename in verkeer en aktiwiteit op die Ou Malmesburypad kan dalk
die karakter verander van die gebied wat vir perdry en rolprentopnames gebruik word. Aanliggende eiendomme sal die meeste geraak word. Die impak
op toerisme en ondernemings/huishoudings verder weg sal waarskynlik gering wees terwyl die impak op aanliggende eiendomseienaars medium tot
hoog is.
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
7
-
Impakte op biodiversiteit: Die verlies van ’n oorblyfsel van kritiek bedreigde Kaapse Vlakte-sandfynbos in herstelbare (lae) toestand. Na versagting sal
dié impak medium tot hoog wees.
-
Impakte op lewensgehalte, veiligheid, sekuriteit en broodwinning: Eienaars van eiendom is besorg oor persoonlike veiligheid en die veiligheid van hulle
eiendomme en diere. Daar is bestaande probleme met veiligheid en sekuriteit in die gebied, en dit is nie moontlik om te voorspel of die verskuiwing van
die Vissershok-inwoners na dié perseel verder daartoe sal bydra nie. Kommer oor veiligheid en sekuriteit kan moontlik ’n uitwerking op lewe en
broodwinning hê. Dié impak sal na verwagting medium en onseker wees. Die voordele daarvan om die Vissershok-inwoners te verskuif, sal medium tot
hoë draagwydte hê. Die perseel is egter nie ideaal wat veilige toegang betref nie, aangesien die N7 oorgesteek moet word om op die Ou
Malmesburypad te kom, wat toegang tot die perseel verleen.
-
Impakte op die ekonomie, werkgeleenthede en Stadsbeplanning: Daar sal waarskynlik nie wesenlike impakte op die Vissershok-inwoners wees wat
inkomste of werkgeleenthede betref nie, aangesien die perseel baie naby aan hulle bestaan plek is. Daar kan nie voorspel word of aanliggende
grondeienaars hulle werksaamhede weens vermeende veiligheidsbedreigings sal sluit of verander nie. Impakte op die plaaslike ekonomie sal na
verwagting na versagting ’n lae draagwydte hê. Hoewel daar onsekerheid bestaan, sal die impakte op aanliggende eiendomme en hulle aktiwiteite
potensieel ’n medium tot hoë draagwydte hê. Aangesien die perseel buite die stedelike soom is en nie in die beplande groeipad van die Stad is nie, sal
die perseel tydelik in die natuur bly. Die perseel kan dalk geraak word deur die moontlike toekomstige verlenging van die R300.
-
Impakte op kulturele/historiese aspekte: Die laning Bloekombome langs die Ou Malmesburypad is kulturele belangrik. Die impak op dié laning sal na
versagting lae tot medium draagwydte hê.
-
Geraas- en visuele impakte: Vanweë afstandsfaktore en die teenwoordigheid van ’n buffergebied, word daar verwag dat geraas- en visuele impakte na
versagting lae tot medium draagwydte sal hê.
Die voorgestelde gebruik van dié perseel vir hervestigingsdoeleindes sal negatiewe impakte ten opsigte van doeltreffendheids-, billikheids- en
volhoubaarheidskriteria hê, omdat die perseel buite die stedelike soom, buite die stedelike groeipad, en aan die oostelike kant van die N7 is (onveilige
toegang en moeilik om dienste te lewer).
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
8
ISISHWANKATHELO SESIGQEBA ESILAWULAYO: VAN SCHOORSDRIFT
Olu vavanyo lwendalo esingqongileyo lwenzelwe ukwenza isigqibo malunga nesiza ekufuneka sisetyenzisiwe ekusekeni ngokutsha indawo yokuhlala yoluntu
lommandla waseVissershok. Iindidi ezintathu zovavanyo ziye zaqaliswa, uvavanyo lwesiza ngasinye esinokusetyenziswa nalapho isiXeko saseKapa sifake
khona isicelo. Olu vavanyo lolwesiza sase-Van Schoorsdrift (inombolo yesalathisi: E 12/2/4/3-A6/153).IsiXeko sifake isicelo sokusetyenziswa kwesiza saseVan Schoorsdrift okwethutyana (7 iminyaka).
Esi siza siyinxenye yesiza esinye nesiza apho kulahlwa khona inkunkuma eyomileyo yase-Vissershok kwaye oko kungathetha umganyana omncinci kakhulu
wemfuduko kubahlali baseVissershok. Abahlali base-Vissershok kufuneka besusiwe njengoko esi siza sokulahla inkunkuma sisandiswa kwaye bona behlala
kumhlaba osendleleni eyandiswayo. Ukufuduselwa kwenye indawo kuyimeko yolwamkelo lolwandiso lwendawo yokulahla inkunkuma. Isicelo
sokufuduselwa e-“Van Schoorsdrift” kwabahlali kwenziwa ngonyaka ka-2007, kodwa kwamiswa ngenxa yenkcaso esuka kuluntu kummandla. Ezinye iziza
ezinokuqwalaselwa ziphawuliwe kwaze kwafakwa isicelo sokusetyenziswa komhlaba, ezinjengesiza e-Atlantis, naso esibangele inkcaso kwaze oko
akwaququnjelwa. Izicelo ezikhoyo zithathu kwiziza eziphawuliweyo njengezifanelekileyo. Esi sicelo asiyonxenye yesiCwangciso soPhuhliso
oluManyanisiweyo lwesiXeko koko siphantsi kodidi lolwakhiwo-zindlu zexesha likaxakeka njengoko kuphawulwe njalo kwisiCwangciso soLwakhiwo-zindlu
sesiXeko.
Iprojekthi iquka ukufudukisa iintsapho ezimalunga nama-266 – 300 (malunga nabantu abangama-850) ematyotyombeni aseRooidakkies naseSkandaalKamp e-Vissershok ukuya kwisiza esitsha esimalunga ne-2.7 ha (ihekthare) ubukhulu. Isiza sase-Van Schoorsdrift sicwangciswe sisiXeko saseKapa
ekubeni sibe sesexeshana kwaye sibe sincinci kunezinye iziza ezibini (i-Atlantis ne-Wolwerivier). Abahlali base-Vissershok baya kunikwa iplothi engama49m2nendawo yokuhlala eseyenziwe nemalunga nama-24m2. Isiza siya kubiyelwa kwaye kunikezelwe nombane kwindawo yokuhlala nganye, iindlela
zegrabile, amanzi kunye nezindlu zangasese zamachiza.
Iimpembelelo ezicingelwayo kwindalo esingqongileyo zishwankathelwe apha ngezantsi. Ugxininiso lubekwe kwiimpembelelo zenqanabalomsebenzi
njengoko zisisigxina (oko kukuthi, de kufuduswe iindawo zokuhlala). Iimpembelelo zenqanaba lolwakhiwo ziya kuquka uthuli kunye nengxolo ebangelwa
yimisebenzi yolwakhiwo kwixesha leenyanga ezi-6 – 12.
IsiShwankathelo seMpembelelo
-
Iimpembelelo kukhenketho: Ubukho boluntu lommandla wase-Vissershok nokwanda kwezihamba-ndlela nemisebenzi eyenzeka kwindlela i-Old
Malmesbury kungatshintsha ubume bommandla nosetyenziselwa ukukhwela amahashe nemiboniso bhanyabhanya. Imihlaba nezakhiwo ezikufutshane
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
9
ziya kuchaphazeleka kakhulu. Iimpembelelo kwiziseko zokhenketho ezikude zimbalwa kakhulu. Ukubaluleka kwempembelelo kubanini bemihlaba
nezakhiwo ezikufutshane iPhakathi ukuyaPhezulu.
-
Iimpembelelo kwiBhayodayvesithi: Ilahleko ikwimeko egcinekayo (ephantsi) ekwiNdawo enotyani olusemngciphekweni olukhula esantini yase-Cape
Flats. Ukubaluleka kwale mpembelelo emva kokuncitshiswa kuPhakathiukuyaPhezulu.
-
Iimpembelelo kumgangatho wobomi, ukhuseleko, ukhuselo neendlela zokuphila: Abanini bemihlaba nezakhiwo baxhalabile malunga nokhuseleko
lwabo nokhuseleko lwemihlaba nezakhiwo zabo kunye nezilwanyana. Kukho iingxaki ezikhoyo zokhuseleko nokhuselo kummandla kwaye akukwazeki
ukucingela ukuba ukufudusa abahlali baseVissershok kwesi siza kungongeza ngakumbi kule meko. Inkxalabo ngokhuseleko nokhuselo kuyakwazi
ukuchaphazela umgangatho wobomi nendlela yokuphila. Ukubaluleka kwale mpembelelo kuqikelelwa ekubeni kubePhakathi kwaye kungacaci. Iinzuzo
zokufudusa abahlali base-Vissershok ziya kubaluleko oluPhakathi ukuya Phezulu. Kodwa ke, isiza asifanelekanga ngokofikelelo olukhuselekileyo
njengoko kufuneka kunqunyulwe u-N7 ukuze ungene kwindlela i-Old Malmesbury nenikezela ufikelelo kwisiza.
-
Iimpembelelo kuqoqosho, ingqesho nocwangcwiso lwedolophu: Akukho siqinisekiso sobukho bempembelelo ebalulekileyo kubahlali base-Vissershok
ngokwemivuzo okanye amathuba emisebenzi njengoko isiza sikufutshane kakhulu kwindawo yabo ekhoyo. Akukwazeki ukuqiqa ukuba abanini
bomhlaba abakufutshane baya kuyivala okanye bayilungise imisebenzi yabo ngenxa yezoyikiso zokhuselo ezinokubakho. Impembelelo kuqoqosho
lwengingqi kulindeleke ukuba ibe nokubaluleka okuphantsi emva koncitshiso. Nangona kungekho siqinisekiso soku, impembelelo kwimihlaba nezakhiwo
ezikufutshane nemisebenzi yazo inokubaluleka okuPhakathi ukuya Phezulu. Njengoko isiza singaphandle komphetho wedolophu kwaye singekho
kwindlela ecetyiweyo yesiXeko, isiza siya kuhlala isesethutyana. Isiza singachaphazeleka kulwandiso olunokubakho lwendlela i-R300.
-
Iimpembelelo kwiNkcubeko – imiba yembali: Indawo yemithi i-Bluegum kwindlela i-Old Malmesbury ibaluleke kakhulu ngokwenkcubeko. Impembelelo
kule ndawo iya kuba nokubaluleka okuPhantsi emva koncitshiso.
-
Ingxolo kunye neempembelelo ezibonakalayo:
Ngenxa yemiba ekude nobukho bommandla ophakathi kwemimandla emikhulu, impembelelo
ebangelwa yingxolo okanye impembelelo ebonakalayo icingelwa njengenokubaluleka okuPhantsi ukuya kokuPhakathi emva koncitshiso.
Ukusetyenziswa okucetywayo kwesi siza ngeenjongo zokumisa iindawo zokuhlala kungabangela iimpembelelo ezingentlanga ngokwendlela esebenzayo
okanye enobuchule, enobulungisa negcinakeleyo ngenxa yokuba isiza singaphandle komphetho wedolophu, ngaphandle kwendlela ezidolophini kwaye
sikwicala elingasempuma ku-N7 (ufikelelo olungakhuselekanga nolunzima ukulusebenzisa).
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
10
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT TO INFORM THE NEMA/LFTEA APPLICATION FOR RESETTLEMENT OF THE VISSERSHOK SETTLERS ON ONE OF THREE SITES
IN THE VICINITY OF THE CITY OF CAPE TOWN
February 2011
Van Schoorsdrift
Reference number: E 12/2/4/3-A6/153
BACKGROUND
In terms of the enabling provisions of section 24K(2) of the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA), the provincial Minister for Local Government,
Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (DEA&DP) and the Provincial Minister for Human Settlements signed an agreement on 16 September
2010 (Appendix 1a) to enable the submission of a combined Section 24 National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) and Less Formal Townships
Establishment Act (LFTEA) application for the assessment of 3 potential sites for the resettlement of informal residents currently located in Skandaalkamp
and Rooidakkies settlements at the Vissershok landfill site. The environmental assessments undertaken are intended to provide DEA&DP with sufficient
information to enable them to make a decision on which of the sites may be used for resettlement purposes. Three separate assessments are being
undertaken, one for each of the potential sites. This assessment is for a Portion of Cape Farm 153 Van Schoorsdrift (reference number: E 12/2/4/3-A6/153).
The site being considered here was identified because1 it is part of the same cadastral erf as the Solid Waste Disposal site. In other words it is the
Vissershok site and the residents would be moved from one part of the site to another. Since they are already resident on the Solid Waste Site it was
thought to be the least disruptive to the Vissershok community and easiest to formalise their residence in terms of land use rights. Furthermore the land is
owned by Council. A formal land use application on a portion of farm CA 153 was thus initiated. The report to the Spatial Planning, Environment and Land
Use Management Committee is attached as Appendix 1b). The Council resolution is given as Appendix 1c). As can be seen from the Council resolution, this
site, unlike the others (Wolwerivier and Atlantis) – is not intended to be permanent.
1
Criteria for identification of all the sites: The key criteria in identification were (a) that the land is owned by Council, so that an acquisition processes need not precede
delivery; (b) that the site was serviceable with municipal infrastructure at not too high a cost; and (c) that the area was minimally sensitive as far as the natural
environment goes. Other but lesser criteria included a reasonable prospect of upgrading the area to being a fully-fledged urban area in the longer run, and not relocating
the beneficiaries too far from their current place of residence.
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
11
It should be noted that this environmental assessment is required to meet the minimum requirements of section 24 (4) (a) and (b) of the National
Environmental Management Act (NEMA). It has been structured according to the guideline attached to the letter provided by the Department of
Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (dated 25 October 2010), in which the reference number of the application was given. The NEMA
requirements are given in Appendix 1d).
History of the selected sites
The need to relocate the squatters on the Vissershok solid waste site has been on the agenda for at least 5 years. In that time efforts to identify a suitable
location have shifted from one line department to another. Initially the intention was to move them aside, allowing for the extension of the waste site. In
2007 a Land Use Planning opinion was given that no residential occupation of the site is allowed – it is Zoned “outspan”. This was followed by a search,
conducted by Spatial Planning, of possible locations outside the Outspan. Several possibilities were identified but found to be unsuitable. An
administrative decision was made that the most rapid, smoothest and simple relocation would be to the edge of the Outspan (region 6), on the other side
of the N7 freeway. The first choice was a location just off the turn-off from the N7 onto the Van Schoorsdrift Pad – in the fork effectively. It was
subsequently found to be unsuitable and a location further up the road, just opposite the Council offices was jointly settled on.
This is also the terrain that is the subject of the current “Van Schoorsdrift” application. In late 2007 it was decided to proceed with a funding application
and construction. Town planning suggested a land use change would first be required. Housing then requested a “deviation” approval from Outspan on
the said portion. This was turned down, and in 2008 a formal LUPO application rezoning was launched. Site clearing continued alongside the public
participation process. The result was a legal challenge from the neighbouring land owner which ended up in an instruction to stop construction, as well as a
search for a new location.
Once again Spatial Planning took the lead, offering two sites between Atlantis Industria and the neighbouring residential area. A formal LUPO rezoning
process was started on each of the sites shown below. In the course of the public participation process, together with 2 public meetings hosted by the
SubCouncil, the process was stopped. The objection to the proposal transformed into a community protest, bringing on a new site search.
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
12
Aerial Photograph: Atlantis sites (within the urban edge) that were opposed by the Atlantis Community
The Subcouncil thus recommended a location on a piece of land that had just been purchased by the Housing Directorate. This piece is referred to as
Atlantis South and is the subject of the current Application and Assessment. A second response was offered by the Town Planning Branch, more directly in
reaction as an alternative to the Van Schoorsdrift location. This took the form of a motivating report to Council (the draft was never approved) which
recommended that the squatters be relocated to another piece of land recently bought by Housing: this is referred to as the Wolwerivier site. It forms the
3rd in a trio of applications currently in process. In sum, the choice of site has been the subject of much politics and several alternatives have been
considered and discarded, not at technical level only but also politically.
Role in 5 year Housing Plan
It is important to understand that the relocation of the squatters from the Vissershok landfill site is not premised on the provision of housing. It is based on
the need to fulfill the requirements of the operating permit issued by the national Department of Environment. Keeping the waste disposal facility open,
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
13
and extending its capacity, is a crucial urban management function. The relocation “project” does not appear either on the IDP or the 5 year housing plan.
The relocation is in fact a contingency task linked to the Solid Waste function and Vissershok expansion project. However since housing funds will be used
for the relocation and the installation of infrastructure, a capital sum does appear on Council’s (housing) budget and a statement of intent to deal with
“Emergency” housing situations in the 5 year housing Plan also appears. And yet, a benefit with respect to tenure and services will accrue to the subject
community should either the Atlantis or Wolwerivier sites be utilised.
SECTION A:
1. DETAILS OF THE PERSON DESIGNATED TO CONDUCT THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT PROCESS AND TO PROVIDE THE REQUIRED
INFORMATION IN ORDER TO OBTAIN AN ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION
The Environmental Impact Assessment reports (including the Environmental Management Programme Specification) for the applications for each of the 3
sites have been compiled by staff from the City of Cape Town Environmental Resource Management Department (ERMD): Environmental Management
Systems Branch, with the assistance of and information provided by district staff from the Environmental and Heritage Management Branch of the ERMD as
well as district staff from a variety of service departments (e.g Transport, Roads and Stormwater, Electricity, Bulk water, Solid Waste). Inputs have also
been made by the Housing and Planning, Building and Land use Management Departments.
Contact Details:
Jens Kuhn
Housing, Land and Forward Planning
Jens.Kuhn@capetown.gov.za
Tel: 021 400 4217
2. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
A portion of Cape Farm 153: Van Schoorsdrift
The project involves the resettlement of approximately 850 individuals (approximately 266 - 300 families) currently living adjacent to the Vissershok waste
site. The site is currently being expanded and it is critically important that the occupants of the site be moved elsewhere as they are located in the direct
path of the extension. Permit requirements prevent human settlement or permanent habitation within an 800 m buffer zone of the landfill site. Three
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
14
possible resettlement sites have been identified by the City of Cape Town. The project description below relates to those activities that would be necessary
on the Van Schoorsdrift site.
The source of funding would be the national housing grant, issued and approved by the MEC Housing. It is important that any structure and form
conditions accompanying the approval of the township are affordable, which implies liaison between the MEC’s for Housing and Environment, as also noted
in their Memorandum of Understanding regarding LFTEA cases.
Site preparation would involve the removal of some of the Bluegum trees currently on the site, with those along the old Malmsbury Road being retained.
The terrain is fairly level and so minimal earthmoving or site reshaping will be necessary. The development concept makes provision for approximately 320
- 350 plots, each measuring 49m2 with a prefabricated unit of 24m2. The units will be constructed out of steel and treated metal sheeting [see model
photograph in Appendix 4a)]. An alternative being considered is the provision of a slab (40m2) and a ‘wet core’. The wet core includes a wall and a
bathroom (Appendix 4b). This alternative allows the residents to build a structure using their own materials and configuration.
The engineering services necessary would include:
Roads: Gravel roads would be provided on site. The property is served by an old divisional road (Old Malmesbury Road) with direct access proposed off
this road. The road is in a state of disrepair and requires upgrading to service the Transitional Relocation Area (TRA). The road is however usable in its
current condition providing that reasonable speeds are adhered to. Funding for upgrading would need to be obtained from a Municipal Infrastructure
Grant. The funding can be secured but no formal application has been made yet. Such application would be premature in light of the initial resistance to
use of the site and of not having land use rights.
Public transport will be the only means of transport to the site and provision for taxis would have to be provided on site to avoid unsafe conditions on the
divisional road. A taxi pick-up and drop-off facility will be provided as part of the scheme.
The predominant desire lines of pedestrians and vehicles for Van Schoorsdrift will require crossing of the N7 freeway (to get to the site), which has led to
fatalities in the past, since some N7 crossings have always occurred, mostly in search of employment. N7 crossings can be expected to intensify as result of
the proposal and so mitigation measures would be expected. However, for those going to work in Montague Gardens and Cape Town, crossing of the N7
will no longer be necessary. It is proposed that if this site is used, consultation take place between the road authorities to determine the safest place for
pedestrian crossing and that the necessary safety road signs be put up.
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
15
Overland stormwater drainage: The property has no formal bulk stormwater system available and the current norm is that the concentrated run-off is
simply discharged onto the land and natural furrows leading to nearby streams and rivers. The informal standard of services in TRA/IDA’s often results in
very poor quality stormwater and there is potential for polluted water to reach the Diep River due to the natural fall of the land. The required mitigation is
thus to provide conservancy tanks for capture and removal of all stormwater and grey water.
Water reticulation and stand pipes: There is currently insufficient water reticulation in the vicinity of Farm 153 Van Schoorsdrift. The existing 75mm
diameter waterline leading past the farm is insufficient for the proposed number of households. If this site was used, minimum upgrading of the line would
need to take place along approximately 2000m of the line, including a crossing of the N7 at significant cost. Alternative supply lines west of the N7 would
also require crossing of the N7. (See Figure 1). There are also currently very low pressures in the line and costs of upgrading bulk services has been
indicated as not being feasible in the short – medium implementation planning of the area. TRA funds will not cover the cost of external services and so
Municipal Infrastructure Grant funding would have to be obtained. Although more costly to provide water to this site, it is feasible in terms of engineering
and would be provided.
Sewerage reticulation and toilets: There are no bulk services available to the site and the proposed system to cater for the households will have to be a
chemical toilet or eco-friendly dry sanitation system. A conservancy tank system would be required for grey water. Van Schoorsdrift falls outside any
development corridor and there is no intention at present to upgrade bulk services in this area. Although there are cost implications, the City would
provide the resources to service the site for as long as necessary.
Street lighting: Internal street lighting would be provided.
Provision of electricity to dwellings: This site is part of the Eskom supply zone and so Eskom does the installations. Municipal funds are available to pay for
the works done by Eskom. No formal request to do such works has yet been submitted, as it would be premature. The objective is to supply access to
electricity to each household.
Fencing: The entire development will be fenced for security purposes. Palisade fencing is proposed.
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
16
Figure 1: Possible routes for water connections to Van Schoorsdrift
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
17
3. LIST OF ACTIVITIES ASSESSED IN TERMS OF GN R. 544, GN NO R. 545 AND GN NO R. 546
The following activities may be applicable to this site:
Government
Notice R544
Activity
No(s):
Activity 9
Activity 22
Activity 37
Activity 23
Government
Notice R546
Activity
No(s):
Activity 4:
Describe the relevant Basic Assessment Activity(ies) in writing as per Listing
Notice 1 (GN No. R544)
Describe the portion of the development as per the project description that
relates to the applicable listed activity
Construction of facilities or infrastructure exceeding 1000m in length for the
bulk transportation of water sewerage or storm-water with an internal
diameter of .36m or more, or a peak throughput of 120 liters or more;
The construction of a road outside urban areas (ii) where no reserve exists
where the road is wider than 8 meters
The expansion of facilities or infrastructure for the bulk transportation of water
sewage or storm water where: (a) the facility or infrastructure is expanded
by more than 1000 metres in length; or (b0 where the throughput capacity
of the facility or infrastructure will be increased by 10% or more – excluding
where such expansion relates to transportation of water, sewage or
stormwater within a road reserve or where such expansion will occur within
urban areas but further than 32 metres from a watercourse, measured from
the edge of the watercourse.
The transformation of undeveloped vacant or derelict land to – residential,
retail, commercial, recreational, industrial or institutional use, outside an
urban area; AND where the total area to be transformed is bigger than 1ha
but less than 20ha.
A water supply pipe of minimum 150 mm in diameter will be required to
supply water to the area over a distance of approximately 2000 m
Describe the relevant Basic Assessment Activity(ies) in writing as per Listing
Notice 3 (GN No. R546)
Describe the portion of the development as per the project description that
relates to the applicable listed activity
The construction of a road wider than 4 meters with a reserve less than 13.5
m all outside urban areas.
Design details are not yet known but at least 3000 m of new roadway will be
graded.
The above-ground vegetation to be cleared on this site consists largely of
Bluegum trees. However, occasional indigenous plants remain in the
understorey and it is possible that propagules of other Cape Flats Sand
Fynbos species persist in the soil-stored seed bank.
The above-ground vegetation to be cleared on this site consists largely of
Bluegum trees. However, occasional indigenous plants remain in the
understorey and it is possible that propagules of other Cape Flats Sand
Fynbos species persist in the soil-stored seed bank.
Activity 12:
Clearing of 300m2 or more of vegetation where 75% or more of the
vegetative cover constitutes indigenous vegetation
Activity 13:
Clearance of an area of 1ha or more where 75% or more of the vegetative
cover consititutes indigenous vegetation.
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
Design details are not yet known but at least 3000 m of new roadway will be
graded.
A water supply pipe of minimum 150 mm in diameter will be required to
supply water to the area over a distance of approximately 2000 m . The pipe
will be in the road reserve and required to cross the N7.
Surface area of the development is at least 6ha in size.
18
4. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPERTY ON WHICH THE ACTIVITY IS TO BE UNDERTAKEN
A plan is contained in Appendix 9.
a) Physical size of the proposed activity
1. Size of the parent property: 431,7 ha
2. Size of the portion needed is a maximum of 2.7 ha (i.e. 27 000m2) which is inclusive of all ancillary land uses.
b) Gradient: Flat
c) Location in landscape: The site is on a flatish plain. There are no distinguishing features.
d) Groundwater, soil and geological stability of the site.
Groundwater: There is no groundwater information specific to the Van Schoorsdrift site, but the Vissershok landfill site is very close by and the
following information is available for Vissershok: A shallow groundwater gradient flows to the local drainage course in a southerly direction. Depths
of the water table ranges from 25 – 5 msl from north to south across the site. There is also mention of a shallow aquifer. The groundwater
gradient of the shallow aquifer has not been determined but is expected to follow the surface topography and flow in a south-easterly and
southwesterly direction.
Soil and Geology: The information for the adjacent Vissershok landfill site is as follows: The site is underlain by the Malmesbury Group which
consists of highly weathered soil and rock profile of mudrock (phyllites). A typical geological profile consists of 0-5m of aeolian dune sand overlying
11-12 m of highly weathered residual mudstone comprising mostly sandy clayey silt with Malmesbury mudstone. A slightly less weathered layer of
Malmesbury mudstone, 13 – 24m thick lies below this with some residual sandy silt directly below. The soils on the Van Schoorsdrift site are sandy
and the underlying geology is expected to be much the same as at Vissershok.
e) Surface water: There is no surface water on the site.
f) Biodiversity: The proposed site is a remnant of Critically Endangered Cape Flats Sand Fynbos in restorable (low) habitat condition selected on the
Biodiversity Network (Appendix 5). It is a CBA1 site selected for vegetation targets and elevated to CBA1 status for consolidation of two adjacent
remnants of high habitat value (considered “high” despite being invaded by alien Acacia saligna).The proposed development site comprises an
overstorey of Eucalyptus sp. (Bluegum) trees, with a very open understorey comprising young gums and scattered fynbos plants. This site is required
to meet national and City biodiversity conservation targets.
g) Land use of the site: The site is not being used for any purpose at present. The area to the west of the site is mostly vacant but some portions are
leased to the Gordon & Rolfe Riding School, the Cape Swartland Motorcar Club and the Western Cape Microlight Club. The horseriders in the area
may use parts of the site during their outrides.
h) Land use character of the surrounding area: There is a variety of land uses in the surrounding area including: Agriculture, Quad Bike Track, Microlite
Airfield, Horse Riding School, Horse eventing course, Cape Town Polo Club, Havana Hills and Capaia Wineries, Vasco cheese factory and restaurant,
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
19
scratch patch (semi-precious stones), off road motor cycle track, Cape Town Ostrich Ranch and restaurant. The area is also used for film shoots
(Cape Town North Destination Marketing Association).
i) Socio-economic characteristics of the community:
Vissershok informal residents
Most of the Vissershok residents are extremely poor and are reliant on authorities and charitable organisations for shelter and basic services. Most
of the beneficiaries earn less than R1500 per month. Up to 80% of the beneficiaries could be unemployed (an estimate). Many of the residents
were previously scavenging on the landfill site but this is now being prevented due to conditions contained in a Record of Decision issued by
Department of Environmental Affairs & Development Planning (DEA&DP) for the extension of the landfill site. There are approximately 266 informal
dwellings in the Rooidakkies and Skandaalkamp settlements. The total number of inhabitants is approximately 850 people. Of these,
approximately 503 are adults and 340 are children under the age of 16 (2008 data). The site is however, intended to support up to approximately
500 families as there is a need to move squatters from other sites as well.
Van Schoorsdrift community
This community appears to be made up of a variety of middle to upper income people who are making their living from activities such as
agriculture, ostrich farming, quad biking, microlite flights, horse riding, supply of horse feed to Milnerton, polo, viticulture and a cheese factory.
Tourism of various kinds therefore plays a role in the economy of the area.
j) Historical and cultural aspects: The farm was originally named Lot U and a 1901 map of the Cape Division indicates that it used to be the Visshchers
Hok Outspan. No signficant archaeological remains have been found and no material signs of the Outspan have been found. The adjacent road is
however lined with Bluegum trees and these are of cultural interest and should be protected. A full report with maps and photographs is attached
as Appendix 6.
k) Applicable legislation, policies and/or guidelines:
The following legislation is applicable:
•
•
•
National Environmental Management Act 107 of 1998
Less Formal Townships Establishment Act 113 of 1991
National Heritage Resources Act 25 of 1999
The following policies, frameworks and guidelines are applicable:
•
Western Cape Provincial Spatial Development Framework (2009)
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
20
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
City of Cape Town Northern Urban Edge Report (2001)
City of Cape Town Draft Development Edges Policy (2009)
Draft Cape Town Spatial Development Framework (2009)
Atlantis and Environs Guide Plan (1981)
City of Cape Town Floodplain and River Corridor Management Policy (2009)
City of Cape Town’s Management of Urban Stormwater Impacts Policy (2009)
City of Cape Town Biodiversity Network
City of Cape Town Veldfire Planning Guidelines (2004)
City of Cape Town Scenic Routes Management Plan
City of Cape Town Heritage Resources Strategy
City of Cape Town’s Agricultural Land Review (2008)
5. SITE PHOTOGRAPHS
Photographs are attached in Appendix 7.
6. PUBLIC INFORMATION AND PARTICIPATION PROCEDURES IN TERMS OF NEMA AND LFTEA
a. LFTEA
The proposed development has been announced to the public in terms of the requirements of the Less Formal Townships Establishment Act. Such
requirements included: a) publication of an advert in the press; b) publication of an announcement in the Provincial Gazette and c) informing political
representative of the intended development (by getting a mandate from Council) (Appendix 1b and 1c) and d) getting clearance from the MEC to apply in
terms of LFTEA (Appendix 1a). Furthermore, in line with the directive issued by the MEC, the application had been circulated to all line-departments within
the municipality for comment and information. The preceding application (i.e. under LUPO) resulted in the neighbouring land owner objecting and
undertaking to embark on legal action. Several bilateral meetings were held with the land owner in 2008 as well as meetings with his legal and
environmental advisers.
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
21
b. NEMA
A “Notice of Intent” was submitted to the MEC launching a NEMA case, followed by a NEMA oriented advert, placed in the local press in fulfilment of the
NEMA regulations (Appendix 2). A notice board announcing the proposed development was not placed on the site, partly because the development by
that time was already so well known, and partly because it would generate animosity and confusion.
The present Environmental Assessment will serve as
a more comprehensive and systematic assembly of all information of the proposed development, and be available for public scrutiny. The Environmental
Assessment report shall be open to inspection from mid March to mid April and all feedback willl be logged, processed and submitted along with the NEMA
application to the MEC. The communities of Rooidakies and Skandaalkamp are also well informed.
The subject Application has been made widely known through the following public and decision-maker process:
Type
Date
1
Municipal MAYCO decision
20 April 2010
2
3
Advertisement in Government Gazette #6772
Advertisement in open media
Internal circulation to line departments
30 July 2010
29 July 2010
September 2010
1
3
4
5
6
Notice of Intent to MEC
Placement of report in Local Libraries
Mail-notice direct to I&A parties
Web-site placement
Deadline for receipt of comments
19 October 2010
10 March 2011
10 March 2011
11 March 2011
21 April 2011
Process
LFTEA
NEMA
This process was preceded by an aborted LUPO Rezoning application, one which went public and on which local land owners reacted. It implies that much
public debate had already taken place. It has been discussed at Subcouncil meetings, at various Portfolio meetings, by land owners and communities.
SUMMARY LIST OF ISSUES RAISED BY INTERESTED AND AFFECTED PARTIES (I&Aps) AFTER THE ISSUEING OF THE LFTEA ADVERTISEMENT
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
22
A list of issues (contained in Appendix 3) is summarised from written submissions from I&Aps that were received in response to the LFTEA advertisement of
30 July 2010. The NEMA advertisement of 19 November 2010 (Appendix 2) indicated that issues raised in response to the LFTEA advertisement would be
taken into account in the NEMA environmental assessment process. No written submissions were received in response to the NEMA advertisement.
7. NEED AND DESIRABILITY OF THE ACTIVITY
(a) Describe the need and desirability of the activity
NEED (timing)
Question 1: Is the land use (associated with the activity being applied for) considered within the timeframe intended by the existing approved Spatial
Development Framework agreed to by the relevant environmental authority (i.e is the proposed development in line with the projects and programmes
identified as priorities within the credible IDP)?
The Van Schoorsdrift site is located outside both the Interim Urban Edge (in terms of the approved PSDF) and the Medium Term Urban Edge (to come into
place once the CCT Draft Spatial Development Framework is approved in terms of LUPO). It is also outside the urban edge as defined in the City’s Northern
Urban Edge Report (2001). The site is not located within the City’s planned future growth corridor (see maps in Appendix 11). The proposed land use is
therefore not consistent with the draft SDF in either the short or medium term.
Question 2: Should development, or if applicable, expansion of the town/area concerned in terms of this land use (associated with the activity being applied
for) occur here at this point in time?
Spatial and infrastructure planning indicate that urban development should not take place on the Van Schoorsdrift site at this point in time (see the answer
to question 1).
Question 3: Does the community/area need the activity and the associated land use concerned (is it a societal priority)? This refers to the strategic as well
as local level (e.g. development is a national priority but within a specific local context it could be inappropriate).
There is an urgent local and regional need to move the informal settlers away from the Vissershok landfill site as it is being expanded to accommodate
waste from the Cape Town Unicity. The Vissershok residents are living in an unhealthy and unpleasant environment. The Van Schoorsdrift site and area
and the communities who live or work in the area do not however need the informal settlement and are opposed to it.
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
23
Question 4: Are the necessary services with adequate capacity currently available (at the time of the application) or must additional capacity be created to
cater for the development?
Water: There is insufficient water reticulation. The existing 75mm waterline leading past Farm 153 Van Schoorsdrift is insufficient for the proposed
number of households and minimum upgrading of 2000m of this line, including a crossing of the N7 will be necessary (see Figure 1). A 150mm diameter
pipeline is proposed. The pressure in the existing line is low and will not provide sufficient pressure for fire fighting purposes. Upgrading of bulk services
would be necessary to address this problem.
Electricity: This site is located in the Eskom supply zone and so Eskom does the installations. Municipal funds are available to pay for the works done by
Eskom. No formal request to do such works has yet been submitted, as it would be premature. The objective is to supply access to electricity to each
household.
Sewer: There are no bulk services to this site and therefore a chemical toilet system will be required, with long term maintenance and cost implications.
The necessary resources to provide these services will be made available by the City of Cape Town.
Roads: The property is served by the Old Malmesbury Road which is in a state of structural disrepair and requires significant upgrading. Although the road
is not in good condition, it is adequate as long as reasonable speeds are adhered to. Internal roads will be gravel tracks which will require ongoing
maintenance. The site is also very close to the corridor of the proposed R300 freeway (see Appendix 10). Access to the R300 may be problematic and use
of erf 153 could compromise future planning and safety of users of the road system.
As this area is not in the growth path of the City – no provision has been made for any service provision in this area.
Question 5: Is this development provided for in the infrastructure planning of the municipality, and if not what will the implication be on the infrastructure
planning of the municipality (priority and placement of services and opportunity costs)?
The infrastructure (site structures and gravel roads within the boundary of the site) have been planned for and a budget approved from the housing
subsidy. The services to the site will be funded through Municipal Infrastructure Grant funding (not yet approved). The site has been purchased by the
City of Cape Town with the objective of providing land for resettlement purposes. This development is, however, not provided for in the infrastructure
planning of the City of Cape Town as the site is east of the N7 and not in the City’s planned growth path. Provision of infrastructure here could divert
resources away from other areas where they are needed and where such services or infrastructure have been planned for.
Question 6: Is this project part of a national programme to address an issue of national concern or importance?
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
24
No
DESIRABILITY (‘placing’)
Question 7: Is the development the best practicable environmental option for this land/site?
Biophysical environment: The site is not the best practicable environmental option as it is needed to achieve national and city biodiversity and conservation
targets [refer to section 4 f) of this report].
Socio – economic environment: Although close to where the Vissershok community are currently situated, the site is not the best practicable environmental
option as it is isolated from any services or job opportunities, pedestrian and taxi access is potentially dangerous due to the condition of the road and the
need to cross the N7. There are no schools or clinics within easy reach of the site. The site would be vulnerable to fire due to the surrounding trees and
the difficulty of providing rapid response. Safety measures have therefore been proposed.
Spatial planning and infrastructure: The site is not the best practicable option as it is located outside the City’s growth path and no provision has been
made for infrastructure provision in this area.
Question 8: Would the approval of this application compromise the integrity of the existing approved and credible municipal IDP and SDF as agreed to by
the relevant authorities?
The approval of this application would not be in harmony with the development axes and planning as reflected in the final Draft of the CTSDF (see maps in
Appendix 11). The plan proposes that in the medium term development be kept west of the N7 so the necessary thresholds are developed along the Cape
Town to Atlantis rail link
Question 9: Would the approval of this application compromise the integrity of the existing environmental management priorities for the area (e.g. as
defined in EMFs) and if so, can it be justified in terms of sustainability considerations?
This particular site is not the subject of specific priorities in the EMF, but in terms of biophysical and socio-economic characteristics, use of this site would
be unlikely to be justifiable in terms of efficiency, equity and sustainability criteria.
Question 10: Do location factors favour this land use (associated with the activity applied for) at this place? (This relates to the contextualisation of the
proposed land use on this site within its broader context).
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
25
This site is not well located for resettlement purposes in terms of infrastructure, planning, environmental and socio-economic criteria.
The site is within the 16 kilometer, urgent protective action planning zone of the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station. The Vissershok landfill site is also within
this zone and the application therefore does not result in an increase in population within this zone as it involves the relocation of existing residents within
the zone. This site would only be used for the current Vissershok residents who would be there on a temporary basis. There is no intention to bring people
in from outside the 16 km zone but even if they were, the numbers are unlikely to be problematic in terms of the emergency requirements which require
that the population within the urgent protective action planning zone be evacuated within 16 hours.
Question 11: How will the activity or the land use associated with the activity applied for, impact on sensitive natural and cultural areas (built and
rural/natural environment)?
The clearing of this site and creation of a TRA would change the rural character or the property to one that is partially urbanised. Although the specific
portion of the site identified is not highly sensitive in terms of natural and cultural features, it has value as a restorable biodiversity site, has some features
of cultural and aesthetic interest (Bluegum tree avenue) and is complementary to the surrounding land uses.
Question 12: How will the development impact on people’s health and wellbeing (e.g. in terms of noise, odours, visual character and sense of place etc)?
Vissershok residents: The Vissershok residents’ situation would be improved in that they would be located away from the expanding Vissershok landfill
site and be provided with basic shelter and services. However, the difficulty of obtaining safe access to the site and its temporary status (no potential for
ownership) may compromise opportunities they might have to improve their situation.
Communities currently living and working in the vicinity of Van Schoorsdrift: The people living in the area rely to a large extent on the rural environment for
their livelihoods. The introduction of a largely unemployed and vulnerable community into the area is perceived to be a threat to their way of life and
livelihoods. Although the Vissershok community are not currently far away from Van Schoorsdrift – the N7 does act as a barrier. Concerns have been
raised with regard to personal safety, theft of stock and agricultural equipment, attacks on stock and wildlife from the dogs kept by the residents,
disruptions due to protests by the residents, fire risk, pollution and litter, potential for an increase in prostitution, inadequate capacity at the Philadelphia
police station and the impacts on the tourism industry in the area. Although there will be a buffer area around the settlement, most of the concerns of the
existing residents would need to be addressed as far as possible. There would be impacts on sense of place and aesthetics due to conversion from a quiet
rural environment to one that is partially urbanised – albeit in a contained area.
Question 13: Will the proposed activity (or the land use associated with the activity) applied for result in unacceptable opportunity costs?
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
26
The location of this site outside the growth path and infrastructure provision routes of the City as well as its distance from key services makes it difficult to
prevent or mitigate anticipated impacts on the local communities and the existing land uses. There are therefore likely to be opportunity costs associated
with the use of this site for resettlement purposes. Such costs would arise primarily from a potentially compromised local tourism industry and the loss of
the opportunity to restore the biodiversity of the site. There would also be opportunity costs for the Vissershok residents who would be settled in an area
where it would be difficult to improve their circumstances. The temporary nature of the settlement would prohibit granting of tenure to the residents.
There may also be opportunity costs as City resources may be redirected from planned growth areas to this rural area.
Question 14: Will the proposed land use result in unacceptable cumulative impacts?
The extent of cumulative impacts arising from the use of this site would be dependent on the level of impact mitigation possible. As indicated above,
impact prevention and mitigation in this area is going to be expensive and difficult and therefore there may be unacceptable cumulative impacts –
particularly in terms of socio-economic impacts on the residents of the area, the Vissershok residents themselves (in terms of potential for a continued low
quality of life) and in terms of redirection of scarce resources (for service provision or upgrading) by the City away from designated planned areas.
b) Indicate the benefits that the activity will have for society in general and also indicate the benefits that the activity will have for the local
communities where the activity will be located.
There will be strategic and essential benefits for the residents of the City of Cape Town and the City Council as the resettlement of the Vissershok
community will enable the completion and permitting of the expansion of the Vissershok landfill site. There will be some benefits for the Vissershok
residents as they will be living in a healthier and quieter environment. They will also be relatively close to the areas where some of them work. There will
be no direct benefits for the residents of the area around the Van Schoorsdrift site unless services are upgraded to the area in such a way that current
residents also benefit.
8. DESCRIBE HOW THE REQUIREMENTS OF SECTION 23 OF THE NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT ACT NO 62 OF 2008 (NEMA) WHICH
SPECIFIES THE GENERAL OBJECTIVES OF INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT (IEM) WILL BE MET.
The general objectives of IEM are to:
a) Promote the integration of the Principles of NEMA in terms of section 2 into the making of all decisions that may have a detrimental effect on the
environment
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
27
See section 9 below
b) Identify, predict and evaluate the actual and potential impacts on the environment, socio-economic conditions and cultural heritage, the risk and
consequences and alternative and actions for mitigation of activities, with a view to minimizing negative impacts, maximizing benefits and
promoting compliance with the principles of environmental management as set out in Section 2
See section 11 below
c)
Ensure that the effects of activities on the environment receive adequate consideration before actions are taken in connection with them.
See section 11 below
d)
Ensure adequate and appropriate opportunity for public participation in decisions that may affect the environment
See section 6 above
Ensure the consideration of environmental attributes in management and decision making which may have a significant effect on the environment
See section 11 below
e) Identify and employ modes of environmental management best suited to ensuring that a particular activity is pursued in accordance with the
principles of environmental management as set out in Section 2 of NEMA.
See section 12 below.
9. DESCRIBE HOW THE PRINCIPLES OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AS SET OUT IN SECTION 2 OF NEMA HAVE BEEN TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT
The principles that are of greatest relevance to this project have been shaded.
NEMA principle
How has it been taken into account?
2) Environmental management must place people and their needs at the The City of Cape Town has recognised the advantages and disadvantages of
forefront of its concern and serve their physical, psychological, the Van Schoorsdrift site in terms of the effects its usage would have on
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
28
developmental, cultural and social interests equitably
people (see section 11.3 of environmental assessment)
3) Development must be socially, environmentally and economically The largely negative social, environmental and economic impacts of the use
sustainable.
of the Van Schoorsdrift site have been evaluated in the Environmental
Assessment
4) a) Sustainable development requires the consideration of all relevant
factors including;
(i) That the disturbance of ecosystems and loss of biological diversity The impact of the Van Schoorsdrift site on biodiversity has been shown to be
are avoided, or where they cannot be altogether avoided, are negative (see section 11.2).
minimised and remedied
(ii) That pollution and degradation of the environment are avoided or, Means to avoid or mitigate pollution have been described in the
where they cannot be altogether avoided, are minimised and Environmental Management Programme (EMP) (Appendix 11).
remedied
(iii) That the disturbance of landscapes and sites that constitute the The cultural value/features (e.g. Bluegum trees) of the site has been
nation’s cultural heritage is avoided, or where is cannot be assessed (see Appendix 6) and mitigation measures suggested in the EMP.
altogether avoided, is minimised and remedied
(iv) That waste is avoided, or where it cannot be altogether avoided, Waste management measures have been suggested in the EMP. Relocation
minimised and reused or recycled where possible and otherwise of the Vissershok community will allow permitted expansion of the landfill
disposed of in a responsible manner
site to continue.
(v) That the use and exploitation of non-renewable natural resources is This principle is not of key relevance in this particular project.
responsible and equitable and takes into account the
consequences of the depletion of the resource
(vi) That the development, use and exploitation of renewable resources Impacts on renewable resources and their associated ecosystems have been
and the ecosystems of which they are part do not exceed the considered as part of the overall environmental evalution.
level beyond which their integrity is jeopardised
(vii) That a risk averse and cautious approach is applied, which takes into Areas where there are gaps in knowledge, as well as key assumptions have
account the limits of current knowledge about the been noted. The implications of these gaps or assumptions in terms of
consequences of decisions and actions; and
decision making have been assessed.
(viii)
That the negative impacts on the environment and on people’s The EMP sets out possible measures to prevent or minimise impacts.
environmental rights be anticipated and prevented, and where
they cannot be altogether prevented, are minimised and
remedied.
b) Environmental management must be integrated, acknowledging that all This assessment acknowleges the need for integrated environmental
elements of the environment are linked and interrelated, and it must management and evaluates the potential consequences of use of this site on
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
29
take into account the effects of decisions on all aspects of the
environment and all people in the environment by pursuing the selection
of the best practicable environmental option.
c) Environmental justice must be pursued so that adverse environmental
impacts shall not be distributed in such a manner as to unfairly
discriminate against any person, particularly vulnerable and
disadvantaged persons.
d) Equitable access to environmental resources, benefits and services to
meet basic human needs and ensure human wellbeing must be pursued
and special measures may be taken to ensure access thereto by
categories of persons disadvantaged by unfair discrimination.
e) Responsibility for the environmental health and safety consequences of a
policy, programme, project, product, process, service or activity exists
throughout its life cycle.
f) The participation of all interested and affected parties in environmental
governance must be promoted, and all people must have the
opportunity to develop the understanding, skills and capacity necessary
for achieving equitable and effective participation, and participation by
vulnerable and disadvantaged persons must be ensured.
f) Decisions must take into account the interests, needs and values of all
interested and affected parties, and this includes recognising all forms of
knowledge, including traditional and ordinary knowledge.
g) Community wellbeing and empowerment must be promoted through
environmental education, the raising of environmental awareness, the
sharing of knowledge and experience and other appropriate means.
h) The social, economic and environmental impacts of activities, including
disadvantages and benefits, must be considered, assessed and
evaluated, and decisions must be appropriate in the light of such
consideration and assessment.
i) The right of workers to refuse work that is harmful to human health or
the environment and to be informed of dangers must be respected and
protected.
j) Decisions must be taken in an open and transparent manner and access
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
people and the environment.
The affected parties for each impact have been identified and the equity of
the distribution of these impacts assessed.
The environmental assessment has evaluated the potential for the Van
Schoorsdrift site to provide for basic human needs and wellbeing.
The short and long term health and safety consequences of the use of the
Van Schoorsdrift site for resettlement are evaluated in the assessment.
Participation opportunities have been provided that allow for both written
and verbal communication.
The interests, needs and values of interested and affected parties have been
determined through participation processes and reflected in the assessment
of the impacts.
The EMP makes suggestions for awareness environmental awareness raising
as it affects the Vissershok residents.
The environmental assessment fulfills this role and should inform decision
making.
This priniciple is not of particular relevance in this project.
Decisions are to be taken by the relevant ministers. The reasons for these
30
to information must be provided in accordance with the law.
k) There must be intergovernmental coordination and harmonisation of
policies, legislation and actions relating to the environment
l) Actual or potential conflicts of interest between organs of state should
be resolved through conflict resolution procedures.
m) Global and international responsibilities relating to the environment
must be discharged in the national interest.
n) The environment is held in public trust for the people, the beneficial use
of environmental resources must serve the public interest and the
environment must be protected as the people’s common heritage.
o) The costs of remedying pollution, environmental degradation and
consequent adverse health effects and of preventing, controlling or
minimising further pollution, environmental damage or adverse health
effects must be paid for by those responsible for harming the
environment.
p) The vital role of women and youth in environmental management and
development must be recognised and their full participation therein
must be promoted.
q) Sensitive, vulnerable, highly dynamic or stressed ecosystems, such as
coastal shores, estuaries, wetland and similar systems require specific
attention in management and planning procedures, especially where
they are subject to significant human resource usage and development
pressure.
decisions are expected to be documented and accessible.
Intergovernmental coordination is being pursued through the parallel
LFTEA/NEMA process
Noted.
Noted. This project is of local and regional relevance.
The IEM process and environmental impact assessment for this project
recognise the need to protect people’s common heritage.
Noted. The EMP makes suggestions for prevention of pollution.
Noted.
Sensitive systems have been identified in the environmental assessment and
management measures proposed.
10. IDENTIFICATION OF ALTERNATIVES
a) Property alternatives. Three applications have been submitted. Although only one site is needed immediately, a decision is being sought on each
site.
b) Activity alternatives: There are no activity alternatives. The residents at Vissershok have to be moved to enable the expansion of the landfill site.
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
31
c) Design or layout alternatives: There is some scope to modify layout of the informal settlement if there are factors which require this. This
assessment has assumed that the area shown on the aerial photographs will be completely altered by the presence of the settlement (i.e. a
footprint assessment approach has been taken). A generic layout has been provided (Appendices 9b and 9c), but there is some potential to modify
the layout of the structures to create a less grid like settlement. It is recommended that open space be created for children to play and that some of
the erven be a little bigger to enable a mother to care for pre-school children (i.e. incorporating a play area). Some of the erven could also be
slightly bigger to allow for spaza shops. From a biodiversity perspective, the development footprint should be as small as possible to impact as little
of the vegetation as possible.
d) Technology alternatives (not applicable)
e) Operational alternatives: Different routes to supply services (water) to the site have been suggested (Figure 1).
f) No Go option: There is no possibility of a no go option. The informal settlers are located in the direct pathway of the landfill site expansion and are
in increasing danger from construction activities. They have to be resettled on one of the 3 sites under investigation.
g) Other: none
h) Summary of alternatives assessed:
• There are two possible routes for supply of water to the site, both of which are parallel to existing roads and have to cross the N7. Option A is 3432
m long and Option B is slightly longer at 3888 m long. Either option would be acceptable, but from an environmental point of view, option B would
be preferred so as to avoid disturbance of any of the root systems of the gum trees along the Old Malmesbury Road. Option B is however longer
(see figure 1).
• There may be alternatives in terms of choice of whether a top structure or slab and ’wet core’ are provided. From an environmental point of view,
the top structure is preferred as it provides a consistent standard of shelter and better safety in terms of fire risk. It is also recommended that bricks
(as opposed to concrete) be used for flooring on this particular site as bricks can be easily removed when the site is decomissioned.
• There will be alternatives in terms of the layout of the top structures within the development area as well as layout of gravel roads, open space etc.
In the assessment, it has been assumed that the entire development area within the fence will be completely altered. The choice of layout
alternatives within the development area will be influenced largely by topography and vegetation. The impact mitigation requirements in sections
11 and 12 are to be used to influence final layout choices.
11. INVESTIGATION OF THE POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES OR IMPACTS OF THE ALTERNATIVES (AS MENTIONED IN 10 ABOVE IN ADDITION TO THE PREFERED
ALTERNATIVE) TO THE ACTIVITY (PREFERED ALTERNATIVE) ON THE ENVIRONMENT AND ASSESSMENT OF THE SIGNIFICANCE (SIGNIFICANCE RATING) OF
THOSE POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES OF IMPACTS PRIOR TO AND AFTER MITIGATION. THE MITIGATION MEASURES MUST BE INVESTIGATED TO ENSURE
THAT ADVERSE CONSEQUENCES OR IMPACTS ARE KEPT TO A MINIMUM.
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
32
11.1 POTENTIAL
IMPACTS ON
GEOGRAPHICAL AND
PHYSICAL ASPECTS
Nature of Impact
CONSTRUCTION
The site is already fairly flat but some leveling may take
place and some provision may be made to direct runoff
into certain areas. There will be some dust generated
during site preparation. There will be soil compaction in
areas provided with gravel roads.
Construction
activities could result in soil pollution (litter, oil). Runoff
patterns may be altered – due to the construction
activities as well as deliberate modification to enable
stormwater control. There could also be impacts
associated with the disposal/removal of the tree trunks
– depending on what method is adopted (e.g. erosion,
compaction).
Extent and duration
Site area (2.7 ha): approximately 6 months.
Probability of Occurence High
Reversability
Dust can be prevented.
Reshaping or terrain
modification is likely to be beneficial for the settlers.
Pollution prevention is possible.
Degree to which the No irreplaceable loss of resources.
impact
may
cause
irreplaceable loss of
resources
Cumulative impact prior No cumulative impact
to mitigation
Significance rating of Low
impact
prior
to
mitigation
(Low,
Medium, Medium-High,
High or Very High)
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
OPERATION
The area will become compacted due to human and vehicular traffic.
Dust levels should decrease except during windy dry periods. There may
be some pollution of soils due to human activities. Most pollution is
likely to come from stormwater and grey water.
Limited to site area and connecting road. Permanent duration.
High
Impacts can be mitigated. Pollution prevention is possible.
No irreplaceable loss of resources.
There may be some edge effects from the settlement – e.g. runoff from
the compacted areas may provide more water to the surroundings. This
may encourage growth of more vegetation.
Low
33
Degree to which impacts Dust can be prevented but there is no-one in the Pollution can be reduced, but is unlikely to be completely eliminated.
can be mitigated
vicinity who would be affected so necessity for dust
control is questionable.
Proposed mitigation
Shaping of the site to ensure that stormwater (that is • Site maintenance
likely to be polluted) does not have any opportunity to • A weekly waste removal service would be initiated. The residents
enter the Diep River.
would be provided with bins or bags for waste storage until
collection.
• Conservancy tanks will have to be installed to collect all stormwater
and grey water.
Significance rating of Low
Low
impact after mitigation
11.2 POTENTIAL IMPACT
ON BIOLOGICAL ASPECTS
Nature of Impact
Removal of the trees in the settlement area and use of
the site for settlement will eliminate the possibility of
restoring the biodiversity of the site. The proposed site
is a remnant of Critically Endangered Cape Flats Sand
Fynbos in restorable (low) habitat condition selected on
the Biodiversity Network. It is a CBA1 site selected for
vegetation targets and elevated to CBA1 status for
consolidation of two adjacent remnants of high habitat
value (considered “high” despite being invaded by alien
Acacia saligna). (See map in Appendix 5). The proposed
development site comprises an overstorey of
Eucalyptus sp. (Bluegum) trees, with a very open
understorey comprising young gums and scattered
fynbos plants. This site is required to meet national and
city biodiversity conservation targets.
Extent and duration
Extent: Maximum 2.7 ha: Duration: Permanent (unless
people are moved out of the area)
Probability of Occurence
Definite
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
As for construction. The impact remains as long as the settlement is
present. There will also be some fringe effects (unpredictable in extent).
Remaining mammal fauna (buck or small mammals and birds) may be
hunted for food or attacked by domestic dogs.
As for construction.
There will also be some fringe effects
(unpredictable) as settlers are likely to use surrounding Bluegum
plantation areas as well.
Definite
34
Reversability
Degree to which the
impact
may
cause
irreplaceable loss of
resources
Cumulative impact prior
to mitigation
Not reversable
Not reversable
There will be permanent loss of the opportunty to Control of invasive alien vegetation on remainder of the property using a
restore Cape Flats Sand Fynbos.
skilled contractor and removal of felled material would reduce impact of
loss of resources
The loss of the potential to restore this site’s Sand As for construction. Control of alien vegetation on remainder of property
Fynbos has a cumulative impact in that two would reduce cumulative impact to some extent.
neighbouring areas of Sand Fynbos cannot be linked
(i.e. loss of connecting corridor).
Significance rating of Medium-High:
Medium-High
impact
prior
to
mitigation
(Low,
Medium, Medium-High, Should any development occur here it is imperative that
the remainder of the site is first cleared of invasive alien
High or Very High)
vegetation and fire hazard (i.e. dead fuel). This will
allow some recovery of the fynbos vegetation
(although it will not fully mitigate the habitat loss).
Ongoing management at the site would be required,
following an EMP approved by the Biodiversity
Management Branch.
Degree to which impact
can be mitigated
Proposed mitigation
•
Some mitigation possible in terms of Sand Fynbos if the remainder of the
site is cleared of alien vegetation and managed.
Control of invasive alien vegetation on remainder of • Control of invasive alien vegetation on remainder of the property
the property using a skilled contractor and removal
using a skilled contractor and removal of felled material
of felled material
• Retain as many trees as is practical and of benefit to
the settlers and surroundings
Signficance rating of Medium-High
Medium-High
impact after mitigation
If the alien vegetation on the rest of the site was (If ongoing management and alien clearing of the rest of the site could be
removed, the rating could be reduced to Medium.
assured, the rating could be changed to Medium).
11.3 POTENTIAL
11.3.1 Impacts on tourism
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
35
IMPACTS ON SOCIOECONOMIC ASPECTS
Nature of Impact
Extent and duration
There will be increased vehicular activity (construction
vehicles and contractors vehicles) during the
construction period. There will also be noise and dust
from tree felling, removal of the felled trees, and
leveling and compacting of the site and construction of
gravel roads. The noise and dust nuisances may be
experienced by the neighbouring properties for the
duration of the construction period. The construction
activities themselves are unlikely to affect tourism due
to the site not being highly visible or directly adjacent to
tourist establishments. Construction activities may
however disrupt proposed filming activities along the
road.
The Van Schoorsdrift community are involved in a wide variety of
activities that have a tourist element. These include a quad bike track,
microlite airfield, horse riding school, Cape Town Polo club, Horse trail
riding and eventing, Havana Hills and Capaia wineries, Vasco cheese
factory and restaurant, scratch patch, off road motor cycle track, ostrich
ranch and restaurant. The area is also used as a location for film shoots
(Cape Town North Destination Marketing Association, 2010).
The
perception of the local community is that the presence of the Vissershok
community is incompatible with the tourist activities. None of the
tourist activities are directly dependant on the site that would be used
for the Vissershok residents. The site would be intermittently visible from
the Old Malmesbury road but it is proposed that there would be a 30 –
35 m buffer between the settlement and the Old Malmesbury Road and
around the rest of the site. The site would be fenced with a concrete
palisade fence. There would however be more human and vehicular
activity in the area – making it less rural in nature. There would also be
greater potential for accidents (particularly pedestrian). If the area is not
properly cleaned, presence of litter may compromise the aesthetic
quality of the area as well as pose a risk to horse riders. The livelihood
and tourist related activities potentially most directly affected are those
related to horse riding as it is unlikely that the forested areas
surrounding the settlement could be used for outrides due to safety
concerns. According to letters received from objectors, there are many
women involved in the horse industry and they would be a particularly
vulnerable group. Other tourist activities further from the site, and
which are not making use of the site, are not likely to experience direct
impacts. The film industry makes use of the Old Malmesbury road, but
other sections of the road could potentially be used. Perceptions about
reduced personal safety and security may however make people less
keen to continue with their tourist and filming activities.
Limited to the site area and immediate surrounds and The most direct impacts will be on the neighbouring properties. It is not
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
36
of short term duration (6 months).
Probability of Occurence
Reversability
Highly probable
Impact is temporary and can be partially mitigated
Degree to which the Minimal. Only removal of some of the Bluegum trees.
impact
may
cause
irreplaceable loss of
resources
Cumulative impact prior No cumulative impacts anticipated.
to mitigation
Significance rating of
impact
prior
to
mitigation
(Low,
Medium, Medium-High,
High or Very High)
Degree to which impact
can be mitigated
Proposed mitigation
known to what extent tourists use these horse riding establishments.
Effects on the viability and quality of other tourist establishments is likely
to be minimal.
Neighbouring properties: Probable. Other establishments: Improbable
Impact is permanent (until the site is closed) and cannot be reversed.
Over time, the impact may be felt less as people become accustomed to
the new community.
Minimal.
Neighbouring properties: Medium-High
Tourist establishments further away: Low – Medium.
There is a local perception that this new settlement will have a negative
cumulative impact on tourism in the area, but this is dependent on many
factors (see mitigation)
Neighbouring properties: Medium-High
Tourist establishments further away: Low to medium
Low - Medium
Low - Medium
Construction hours limited to daylight hours agreed
with neighbours
• Dust suppression in windy conditions
• Proper waste management and sanitary
arrangements
• Correct contractor staff management (e.g.
containment in site work area)
• Security arrangements
Signficance rating of Neighbouring properties: Low – medium
impact after mitigation
Other tourist establishments - Low
•
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
•
•
•
•
•
•
Buffer zone around resettlement site as proposed
Palisade fence that must be well maintained
Proper well marked access off the Malmesbury road, with a taxi drop
off and collect area provided on the site – not next to the road.
Retention of as many trees as possible
Proper service provision and maintenance
Maximisation of social support networks
Neighbouring properties: Medium – High
Other tourist establishments - Low
37
Nature of Impact
11.3.2 Impacts on quality of life, safety, security and livelihoods of people currently living on the boundaries of Vanschoorsdrift
site or nearby environs
During the construction period, there is not likely to be Submissions by members of the local community (including single
any threat to security and safety providing the women) have raised concerns with regard to personal safety, particularly
recommended mitigation actions are implemented. while on outrides, as well as concern for their properties and livestock,
There is unlikely to be any decrease in quality of life due particularly horses. Other livestock (e.g. sheep, chickens) which are an
to the noise of the construction activities as there is no- integral part of subsistence and agricultural activities are also perceived
one living close to the site. The nearest residences are to be under threat from both the settlers and their dogs. The Van
more than 400 m away.
Schoorsdrift Road is used to transport straw to the Milnerton Horse
Stables on a daily basis and concern has been expressed about the
impacts of illegal electricity connections, fire risk, and risks associated
with protest actions by the settlers. There are already apparently
incidences of theft as well as attacks on residents. One farmer is
employing security firms to patrol his property. These fears are not
unjustified in South Africa’s current socio-economic climate.
Extent and duration
Restricted to site area and immediate environs and The neighbours in closest proximity to the settlement would be most
access road and temporary in duration (6 months).
vulnerable due to the potential for opportunistic as well as planned
crime. Duration is likely to be permanent (until site is closed).
Probability of Occurence Noise and quality of life impacts: probable: Safety, Probable
security and livelihood impacts: unlikely
Reversability
Not reversible
Preventable to some extent, but only with significant effort and
resources
Degree to which the Minimal
Minimal
impact
may
cause
irreplaceable loss of
resources
Cumulative impact prior No cumulative impact expected.
If local communities feel or experience a high level of threat to their
to mitigation
safety and livelihoods, and a significant decrease in quality of life, some
of them may choose to leave. Others may be forced into increasing their
security arrangements at significant personal cost.
There may be
cumulative effects, albeit at a local scale, on the economy of the area.
Significance rating of
Low to Medium
High (but very difficult to predict)
impact prior to
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
38
mitigation (Low,
Medium, Medium-High,
High or Very High)
Degree to which impact Potential impacts can be prevented or mitigated
can be mitigated
Proposed mitigation
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Site clearly demarcated and fenced off as soon as
possible in the construction period
All contractor staff to wear identification tags and
not be permitted outside the boundaries of the
demarcated construction areas
No staff on site overnight other than security staff
for equipment and materials
No employment of casual labour at the site or
immediate environs. Other employment venues
should be utilized. Announcement of this in local
newspapers.
Arrangements made for reduction of fire risk (see
EMP) and proper waste management
Specified working hours (e.g. 7.30 am – 5.30 pm)
Notification of neighbors of nature and timing of
activities on site.
Signficance rating of Low
impact after mitigation
Nature of Impact
Some mitigation possible, but unlikely to be able to mitigate to extent
that neighbours do not feel threatened by the presence of the
settlement.
• Palisade fencing of site
• Creation of a fire break between the road and the IDA/TRA
• Creation of a visual impact minimisation buffer between the road
and the IDA/TRA
• Regular patrols by local police
• Maximisation of social support by Ngo’s and other community
groups
• Integration of settler community into local population as much as
possible
• Provision of work opportunities and a reasonable standard of
services
• Control of numbers of dogs.
Uncertain – possibly Medium
11.3.3 Impact on the Vissershok settlers (health, wellbeing, safety and quality of life)
No impact during construction period
The Vissershok residents will benefit from the move to another property
in that they will be provided with shelter and basic services (shelter,
water, electricity, toilet). The Van Schoorsdrift site has some advantage
for them as it is relatively close to their current location but it is
disadvantageous in that they become a more isolated community with no
possibility of tenure. At present, Vissershok children are picked up by
bus and taken to either the Vaatjie, Philadelphia or DuNoon schools. A
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
39
Extent and duration
Probability of Occurence
Reversability
Degree to which the
impact
may
cause
irreplaceable loss of
resources
Cumulative impact prior
to mitigation
Significance
rating
Not applicable
Not applicable
Not applicable
Not applicable
Not applicable
of Not applicable
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
mobile clinic visits the site once per week. Other clinics are located at
Melkbos, Albow Gardens and DuNoon. The site is more difficult to reach
as the N7 has to be crossed and the Vissershok residents are likely to be
more at risk of pedestrian accidents.
A large proportion of the
Skandaalkamp occupants appear to be unemployed whereas many of the
Rooidakkies occupants are either employed or on pension or disability
grants. Some of the people from both camps work in the area – some in
the Morningstar area and others in the Van Schoorsdrift area. The move
is likely to bring them closer to their work. Those that work at
Morningstar or the Brickworks north of the Vissershok landfill site will
have to cross the N7 on a daily basis, either on foot or in a taxi. There
also appears to be a proportion of people who work and sleep in Cape
Town and just come back to the camp for the weekends. Their living
conditions will however, likely improve in that they will have a zinc
house, toilet (one per house) and water (one tap per house) as well as
electricity.
Permanent beneficial impact for the Vissershok residents.
Highly probable
Not applicable
No irreplaceable loss of resources anticipated
The use of the Van Schoorsdrift site for the Vissershok residents may
have cumulative impacts on the City’s resources in that the site is not in
the City’s planned growth path. Provision of services here will be
challenging and outside of existing and planned service areas. This fact,
together with the relative isolation of the site is likely to make it more
difficult for the Vissershok residents to improve their situation in life –
which also may have cumulative impacts – particularly on their
dependants. They would also be more of a burden on surrounding
communities.
Impacts are largely beneficial, and of Medium significance for the
40
impact
prior
to
mitigation
(Low,
Medium, Medium-High,
High or Very High)
Degree to which impact “”
can be mitigated
Proposed mitigation
“”
Signficance rating of “”
impact after mitigation
Vissershok residents. Safety issues will however need to be addressed.
The negative aspects of having to cross the N7 are of Medium
significance.
Benefits to the Vissershok residents can be maximized through the
provision of the desired services (shelter, water, toilets and electricity).
• Provision of services as indicated.
• Identification of the safest crossing points on the N7 and erection of
warning signs and or road markings for traffic coming from both
directions. Consultation with the relevant road authorities will be
necessary.
• Education of the Vissershok residents about safety issues (road and
fire)
• Creation of and maintenance of a 5m firebreak around the outside
perimeter of the fence.
• External walls of the structures are to provide a minimum fire
resistance rating of 30 minutes or are to be cladded on the inside
with an approved product that will provide the integrity and stability
requirement, as per a Type F wall, in accordance with SABS 0177,
Part 2.
• Individual structures are to built at a minimum of 1 meter from any
lateral boundary of the site or 3 meters from any adjacent structure
subject to relative area of the elevation façade
• The access roads are to accommodate the minimum width (4m) and
turning circle for emergency vehicles. Turning facilities should be
provided in any dead end access road that is more than 20 m long.
(The above fire safety requirements are to be discussed with the City
of Cape Town Fire & Safety Department).
Resettlement: Medium – High Benefit
Safety impacts: Low to Medium significance (dependant on effectiveness
of safety measures)
11.3.4 Impact on economy, employment and City planning and resources
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
41
Vissershok residents: Most of the Rooidakkies occupants (approximately
23 individuals) are either employed or living on pensioner or disability
grants. Providing taxi services will travel to Van Schoorsdrift, their
situation is unlikely to change. The situation of the Skandaalkamp
occupants (approximately 800 people), most of which appear to be
unemployed is also unlikely to change. Information about this community
is however incomplete. Those that are employed in the area should still
be able to get to their work, assuming that taxi services continue to
operate in the area. In several cases, they are likely to be closer to their
places of employment. The Van Schoorsdrift site does not offer any
economic or employment benefits to the Vissershok residents.
Impact of Vissershok residents on local economy: It is difficult to
determine the impact of the Vissershok residents on the local economy.
They will be a source of labour, but there is very little need for more
labour in the area than already exists. The economic situation is thus
unlikely to change significantly. It cannot be predicted whether current
farming and tourism activities will choose to shut down or change their
operations because of the perceived threat of the Vissershok community.
If they do, there will be negative impacts on employment and the local
economy.
Impact on City of Cape Town Planning and Resources: This site is not a
planned or existing service area. Withdrawal of resources away from
other areas where expansion has been planned, may have unintended
consequences. There may also be effects on the proposed future R300
interchange and extension.
Limited local effect of permanent duration (for as long as the settlement
is present).
Unknown
All construction Limited effects on economy and employment.
Nature of Impact
The clearing and construction of the settlement will be
undertaken by a contractor who will employ staff
(locally or from the broader Cape Town) on a short term
basis. Some related downstream economic activity may
also be stimulated (e.g. mobile take aways; supporting
local mechanical technicians/suppliers). There is a
possibility that the contractor may hire additional
casual staff from people in the area, but this would
benefit relatively few people on a temporary basis.
Extent and duration
Local
Probability of Occurence
Reversability
Definite
No need to reverse impacts.
employment beneficial.
Degree to which the Not applicable
impact
may
cause
irreplaceable loss of
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
Not applicable
42
resources
Cumulative impact prior No cumulative impact.
to mitigation
Significance rating of Low - Medium
impact
prior
to
mitigation
(Low,
Medium, Medium-High,
High or Very High)
Degree to which impact
can be mitigated
There is unlikely to be any cumulative impact on the regional economy.
Individual businesses that are adjacent to the site may be compromised
(see livelihoods and wellbeing assessment).
Overall economy of the region: Low impact.
Individual businesses adjacent to site: Medium – High impact
Impact on adjacent businesses will be difficult to mitigate due to the fact
that it is possible they use the surrounding area for outrides. The land is
however City owned, therefore riders or other users of the site have no
right of access.
Proposed mitigation
Employment of additional labour if this is justified. Any
casual labour appointments must not be done at the
site. Any additional appointments must be sourced
from people living in the area.
Signficance rating of Medium (benefit)
Overall economy: Low
impact after mitigation
Medium – high (individual businesses adjacent to site)
Nature of Impact
11.3.5 Potential impacts on Cultural-historical aspects
As the site itself has no archaeological remains or any
traces of the Outspan (see adjacent description), there
should be no impact during the construction phase.
The Bluegum tree avenue will be retained.
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
The portion of Cape Farm 153 is located east of the N7 adjacent to the
Bluegum tree avenue which is an extension of the old Malmesbury road.
The farm was originally named Lot U and a 1901 map of the Cape Division
indicates that it used to be the Visschers Hok outspan. A 2004 EIA report
for the extension of the Vissershok landfill site included a brief Heritage
impact assessment for the property. The report, compiled by SRK
Consulting, found that very little in the way of archaeological remains
were left due to the highly disturbed state of the site. No significant
archaeological remains were found on the eastern portion of the
property and no material evidence of the Outspan was located. The
Bluegum tree avenue is however culturally significant. There will be a
buffer area and a fire break around the site so there should be no impact
43
Extent and duration
Probability of Occurence
Reversability
Degree to which the
impact
may
cause
irreplaceable loss of
resources
Cumulative impact prior
to mitigation
Significance rating of
impact
prior
to
mitigation
(Low,
Medium, Medium-High,
High or Very High)
Degree to which impact
can be mitigated
Proposed mitigation
Signficance rating
impact after mitigation
Nature of Impact
Not applicable
Not applicable
Not applicable
Not applicable
on the Bluegum avenue. There is, however, a possibility that residents
will use the trees on the site for fuel, particularly if electricity is not
provided. If there is a major fire which cannot be controlled in time, the
tree avenue might also be damaged or destroyed.
There should be no impact
No impact on tree avenue anticipated
Not applicable
No irreplaceable loss of resources
Not applicable
No cumulative impact on tree avenue.
Not applicable.
Impact of removal of trees on the site: Low
If there was a major fire, loss of a section of the tree avenue would be of
Medium impact significance.
Not applicable
Impact can be prevented / mitigated.
Design site layout to minimise loss of trees on the • Raise awareness of the settlers of the dangers of fire and the need to
site itself and
protect the trees – particularly those along the avenue.
• Ensure construction staff do not damage the tree • Include a fire break on the site side of the tree avenue as well as
avenue (EMP requirement).
other fire safety requirements as indicated in 11.3.3 above.
• Access point to site to be selected to minimise loss
of trees (but also meeting safety requirements).
of Low
Low
•
11.3.6 Potential noise and visual impacts
There will be noise from tree felling and general It is proposed that there be a 30 – 35m buffer between the settlement
construction (e.g. grading of roads, erection of the and the Malmesbury road and a 10 - 20 m buffer around the rest of the
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
44
Extent and duration
6 – 12 months
Probability of Occurence
Reversability
Degree to which the
impact
may
cause
irreplaceable loss of
resources
Cumulative impact prior
to mitigation
Significance rating of
impact
prior
to
mitigation
(Low,
Medium, Medium-High,
High or Very High)
Degree to which impact
can be mitigated
Proposed mitigation
High
Impact cannot be reversed
No irreplaceable loss of resources.
site. Visual impact should therefore be significantly reduced. Noise from
the site is unlikely to be heard by neighbouring residents due to their
distance from the site (> 400 m), the proposed buffer and the
background noise from the trees in the vicinity. Noise levels (e.g. from
parties or protests) may be heard if there is no wind or there are only
light winds blowing in the direction of the nearest residences.
Noise: Local extent and of intermittent and infrequent duration. Visual –
it is unlikely that the site will be visible unless people in vehicles stop to
look for it. It may be visible from the turnoff from the Old Malmesbury
Site to the site (i.e. the access point).
Medium
Impact can only be mitigated, not reversed
No irreplaceable loss of resources.
No cumulative impact
There should be no cumulative impact.
Medium
Low
houses). Other than some dust in the immediate area
and the presence of construction vehicles and
equipment – there should be no visual impact during
construction. The buffer areas around the site will have
a mitigating effect.
Can be partially mitigated
Visual impact: can be mitigated
Noise impact: uncertain
Visual impacts:
Visual impacts:
• 30 – 35m buffer zone between settlement and road – a proportion of
• Buffer zone between settlement and road
which will be a fire break (5 m wide)
• Construction equipment to be stored out of sight of
Old Malmesbury road
• Correct waste management (see EMP)
• Retention of tree avenue and remaining trees on and around site
• Correct waste management practices (see EMP)
• Construction camp located out of sight of Old
Noise impacts:
Malmesbury road on the resettlement site.
• Retention of as many trees as possible around and • Awareness raising of Vissershok residents of environmental, noise
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
45
Signficance rating
impact after mitigation
within site
and aesthetic issues
• Complete clearing up of site following construction
period
• Use of brick floors (as opposed to concrete), which
can be removed more easily when the site is
decommissioned.
Noise impacts:
• Construction hours limited to daylight hours agreed
with immediate neighbours e.g. 07:30 to 17:30 pm.
• Notification of neighbours of any deviations from
agreed hours timeously
• All equipment to be in good working order and
working within noise specifications
of Low
Low to Medium
Note: As this site is considered to be temporary, there may be a decommissiong phase. This would involve moving the site residents to another site and removing
all the structures and infrastructure provided to the site (unless these are to be used for other purposes). There would be some temporary noise and dust
impacts associated with the removal of people and structures from the site, but no other impacts are anticipated. Unless the site is used for other
purposes, vegetation is likely to grow back (trees and scattered fynbos).
12.
INVESTIGATION AND FORMULATION OF ARRANGEMENTS FOR MONITORING AND MANAGEMENT OF CONSEQUENCES OF IMPACTS ON THE
ENVIRONMENT, AND THE ASSESSMENT OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF SUCH ARRANGEMENTS AFTER THEIR IMPLEMENTATION. PROVIDE OTHER
MANAGEMENT, MITIGATION AND MONITORING MEASURES AND A DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME.
Impacts to be
managed/monitored
Responsibility for mitgation implementation
IMPACTS ASSOCIATED WITH SITE
CLEARING, LEVELLING AND THEN
Construction
Operation
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
Expected
effectiveness in
mitigating impacts
Responsibility for monitoring
Construction
Operation
46
OCCUPATION
Noise control (limited hours, Contractor
notification of neighbours,
staff management, equipment
upkeep, buffer zone around
site)
Dust control (use of mulch or Contractor
water for dust control)
Drainage/runoff control
Contractor
Solid Waste management
Contractor
IMPACTS ON
ENVIRONMENT
THE
Complaints will be responded Construction:
to by local police
Effective
Operation: Not
applicable
Contractor
No monitoring
anticipated
Construction:
Effective
Operation:
Unpredictable
Maintenance: City of Cape Construction:
Town, Roads and Stormwater Effective
and Water & Sanitation Operation: Effective
Departments
City of Cape Town : Solid Waste Construction:
Department
Effective
Operation:Effective
Contractor
No monitoring
anticipated
Contractor
City of Cape Town :
Roads & Stormwater and
Water & Sanitation
Departments
City of Cape Town : Solid
Waste Department
Settlement residents
Contractor
BIOLOGICAL
Retention of trees (for Contractor
biological, shelter, aesthetic
and cultural / historic reasons)
No mitigation anticipated.
Prevention of hunting / Contractor
snaring of remaining game or
animals via periodic patrols
No mitigation anticipated.
The Biodiversity Management
Branch Law Enforcement
section may provide some
education on the legal
consequences of
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
Construction:
Effective
Operation: No
mitigation.
Construction:
Effective
Operation: Not
effective
Contractor
No monitoring
anticipated.
Contractor
No monitoring
anticipated. The
Biodiversity
Management Branch
Law Enforcement section
may provide some
47
hunting/snaring and undertake
periodic checks, but there are
capacity constraints.
IMPACTS ON THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC
ENVIRONMENT
Above actions +
Containment of construction
staff in defined work area for
specified working hours only.
Construction staff to wear
identification
tags
or
uniform/overall.
No employment of casual
labour at site (only to be done
off site at specified formal
venue)
Provision of Security on site
during construction
Construction of palisade fence
around site and maintenance
thereof
education on the legal
consequences of
hunting/snaring and
undertake periodic
checks, but there are
capacity constraints.
Impacts to be
Responsibility for mitgation
managed/monitored implementation
Expected
effectiveness in
mitigating impacts
Responsibility
for
monitoring
Contractor
Not applicabe
Construction:
Effective
Contractor
Contractor and City Not applicable
of
Cape
Town
Housing Department
Construction:
Effective
City of Cape Not applicable
Town
Housing
Department
Contractor
Not applicable
Contractor
Contractor
Provision of taxi rank/drop Contractor
off/pick up place on the site
Not applicable
Construction:
Effective
City of Cape Town Housing Construction:
Contractor
City of Cape Town
Department
Effective
Housing Department
Operation:
Effective
City of Cape Town Housing Construction
and CCT Housing CCT Housing Department
Department
operation: effective
Department
Not applicable
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
48
but off the Old Malmesbury
road and enforcement of this
Maximisation of social support Not applicable
networks and services
Continuation of social support
as at present by various CCT
departments
(e.g.
Environmental Health)
Proper
maintenance
of Not applicable
City of Cape Town service
services provided
departments e.g. Roads and
Stormwater, Solid Waste,
Water & Sanitation
Reduction of fire risk through
Contractor and City City Health
clearance of alien vegetation,
of
Cape
Town CCT Housing Department
banning of open fires,
Housing Department Working on Fire
maintenance of fire break,
Emergency Services : Fire &
including trimming of
Safety
Bluegums
Control number of dogs
Not applicable
City of Cape Town Housing
Department in conjunction
with SPCA
Maximisation of social support Not applicable
This settlement is not likely to
by
NGO’s
and
other
receive any more attention
community groups as well as
than
other
informal
provision
of
work
settlements or TRAs from
opportunities
whenever
NGO’s or social support groups.
possible
Existing CCT support would
continue.
Operation: Effective
Not
applicable
Not applicable
CCT Housing CCT Housing Department
Department
No monitoring
anticipated.
Construction
and Contractor
operation: effective
CCT Housing Department
Operation:
Unpredictable
Not
applicable
No monitoring
anticipated.
Operation:
Uncertain
Not
applicable
No monitoring
anticipated.
IMPACTS ON THE CULTURAL AND
HERITAGE ENVIRONMENT
Retention of tree avenue and Contractor
No mitigation anticipated.
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
Construction:
Contractor
No monitoring
49
as many trees on site as is
feasible
effective
Operation:
No monitoring
anticipated.
anticipated.
NOISE AND VISUAL IMPACTS
(these are addressed in the various
mitigation actions recommended
above)
13. INVESTIGATION, ASSESSMENT AND EVALUATION OF THE IMPACT OF ANY PROPOSED LISTED ACTIVITY OR SPECIFIED ACTIVITY ON ANY NATIONAL
ESTATE REFERED TO IN SECTION 3 (2) OF THE NATIONAL HERITAGE RESOURCE ACT, 1999.
The impacts on heritage and culture have been noted above. A heritage report is attached as Appendix 6. A Notice of Intent to Develop was submitted to
Heritage Western Cape on Wednesday 2nd March 2011.
14. SPECIALIST INPUTS/STUDIES, FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The specialist input to this report may be considered to have come from the City of Cape Town biophysical specialist and the heritage specialist for District
B. Their inputs are reflected in the impact statements and evaluations. All other input has come from consultation with staff in the various City
Departments as well as input from the public via the public involvement process.
15. IMPACT SUMMARY
IMPACT SUMMARY:
Impact
Impact on the Geographical and
Physical Environment
Compaction, levelling, alteration of
IMPACT SUMMARY TABLE: VAN SCHOORSDRIFT: OPERATION PHASE.
Significance
before
mitigation
Significance after
mitigation
Affected Parties
Likelihood of effective mitigation
Low
Low
No directly affected parties but the Vissershok
Good: impacts can be prevented or
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
50
runoff patterns, dust, soil pollution
Impacts on the Biophysical
Environment
Loss of a CBA 1 site consisting of Cape
Flats Sand Fynbos
Medium –
High
Medium – High or
residents will benefit from a prepared livable site.
Correct site preparation will facilitate
maintenance for CCT staff
mitigated
S A citizens (particularly Western Cape citizens)
and natural environment
Mitigation possible if the rest of the site is
cleared of alien vegetation and managed.
Likelihood of mitigation being carried out
is uncertain.
Medium if
mitigation
implemented.
Impacts on the Socio-Economic
Environment
Tourism: Impacts on rural and scenic
character of the area and use of area for
a variety of tourist and filming activities
Impacts on quality of life, safety,
security and livelihoods of people
currently living on the boundaries of Van
Schoorsdrift site and nearby environs:
Impacts on personal safety, quality of
life impacts due to noise and change in
character of area, perceived threats to
personal property.
Impacts on the Vissershok residents:
health, wellbeing and quality of life:
Improved living environment and
services.
Impacts on the economy and
employment: Effects on equestrian
activities and personal finances and
property values:
Neighbouring
properties:
Medium –
High.
Tourist
establishments
further away:
Low - Medium
High
Neighbouring
properties:
Medium – High.
Tourist
establishments
further away: Low
High
Adjacent neighbours and people making use of
the Old Malmesbury Road that goes past the site.
Unknown
Medium
benefit
Medium - High
benefit
Vissershok residents
Overall
economy of
the region:
Low impact.
Overall economy
of the region:
Low impact.
Individual
Maximisation of benefits possible through
provision of services and site layout that
provides for creche, playground, sports
field.
Minimal mitigation options and
effectiveness uncertain
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
Owners of and visitors to properties adjacent to
the resettlement site.
Low – Medium: Mitigation most needed
for adjacent properties. Effectiveness
uncertain.
Tourists, tourist establishments and film crews
that regularly use the road adjacent to the site.
Businesses adjacent to the site.
Industries that use this area for filming purposes
City of Cape Town
51
Impacts on the wider local economy and
employment as well as the City of Cape
Town’s finances/resources.
Impacts on Cultural and Historical
Environment
Noise and Visual Impacts
Individual
businesses
adjacent to
the site:
Medium –
High impact
Low
If the Bluegum
tree avenue
was affected,
significance
would be
Medium
Medium
businesses
adjacent to the
site: Medium –
High impact
Low
Low - Medium
S A citizens (parcticularly western cape citizens),
with an interest in culture and heritage
Adjacent property owners, users of the Old
Malmesbury road
Mitigation should be effective. Risk of fire
and use of trees for firewood is however
permanent.
Mitigation should be effective.
Overall evaluation in terms of Efficiency, Equity and Sustainability criteria
Definitions
Efficiency: The options and strategies chosen to make the most efficient use of resources and reduce material and energy demands on physical, social and
ecological systems.
Equity: The distribution of the effects of impacts (positive and negative) across different members of society, particularly the poorest and most vulnerable,
now and in future generations
Sustainability: The choice of options and strategies that are most likely to preserve or enhance the ability of future generations to live sustainably.
The following factors about the Van Schoorsdrift site are favourable in terms of the above 3 criteria:
•
The site is close enough for the Vissershok residents to continue participating in the social and employment opportunities they have found in the area.
•
The site has trees for shelter (but these can also be a risk due to falling branches and/or fire).
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment
52
The following factors about the Van Schoorsdrift site are unfavourable in terms of the above 3 criteria:
•
The site is outside the urban edge and not in the growth path of the City. Resources invested here will not be well placed and may have indirect
impacts on the need for resources in other parts of the City (efficiency criteria).
•
The site may have long term impacts on the plans to extend the R300.
•
The site has little potential for development of the site into a fully developed and integrated town or suburb. A settlement here is more likely to be
temporary (efficiency and sustainability criteria). Negative impacts are likely to continue for longer periods.
•
The site is not sustainable in terms of biodiversity criteria (loss of opportunity to consolidate CBA 1 sites).
16. ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGIES AND CRITERIA, GAPS IN KNOWLEDGE, UNDERLAYING ASSUMPTIONS AND UNCERTAINTIES.
Assessment methodology: The assessment was undertaken using the assessment criteria and methodology as indicated in the requirements for a Basic
Assessment report, using the criteria as indicated in the assessment tables given in section 11.
Knowledge gaps:
•
There is little recent information on the socio-economic status (e.g. employment, sources of income) of the Skandaalkamp residents in particular. They
have been reluctant to provide information in previous surveys. The survey information that has been obtained is just over 2 years old (2008), but
according to the informal settlements manager, there has been no noticeable growth in the number of residents.
•
The precise number of familiies and individuals to be moved from Vissershok is unclear.
•
Assessment of possible impacts on the socio-economic environment has been based largely on inputs received from interested and affected parties as
well as personal observation. No detailed socio-economic studies have been undertaken.
17. LFTEA DOCUMENTATION (TO BE SUBMITTED SEPERATELY).
Van Schoorsdrift Draft EA March 2011 For Public comment