BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
(For official use only)
Application Number:
Date Received:
Basic assessment report in terms of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2010,
promulgated in terms of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998), as
amended.
Kindly note that:
1.
This basic assessment report is a standard report that may be required by a competent authority in terms of the EIA
Regulations, 2010 and is meant to streamline applications. Please make sure that it is the report used by the particular
competent authority for the activity that is being applied for.
2.
The report must be typed within the spaces provided in the form. The size of the spaces provided is not necessarily
indicative of the amount of information to be provided. The report is in the form of a table that can extend itself as each
space is filled with typing.
3.
Where applicable tick the boxes that are applicable in the report.
4.
An incomplete report may be returned to the applicant for revision.
5.
The use of “not applicable” in the report must be done with circumspection because if it is used in respect of material
information that is required by the competent authority for assessing the application, it may result in the rejection of the
application as provided for in the regulations.
6.
This report must be handed in at offices of the relevant competent authority as determined by each authority.
7.
No faxed or e-mailed reports will be accepted.
8.
The report must be compiled by an independent environmental assessment practitioner.
9.
Unless protected by law, all information in the report will become public information on receipt by the competent
authority. Any interested and affected party should be provided with the information contained in this report on request,
during any stage of the application process.
10. A competent authority may require that for specified types of activities in defined situations only parts of this report
need to be completed.
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BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
SECTION A: ACTIVITY INFORMATION
Has a specialist been consulted to assist with the completion of this YES
section?
If YES, please complete the form entitled “Details of specialist and declaration of interest”
for appointment of a specialist for each specialist thus appointed:
Any specialist reports must be contained in Appendix D.
1.
ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION
Describe the activity, which is being applied for, in detail1:
The proposed Roodepoort Strengthening Project involves the construction of 2 x 400kV power
lines of approximately 30km long from existing Apollo-Pluto 400kV power line to a new
400/88kV Demeter Main Transmission Station (MTS).
The scheme is required in order to increase the security and reliability of electricity supply to
meet the increasing needs for existing Eskom customers and to make provision for the
projected increasing demand in the coming years,
In addition to the construction of the lines themselves, Eskom Holdings SoC Limited (Eskom)
(“the applicant”) proposes to construct a 400/88kV substation and associated infrastructure.
The study area is currently fed by Lulamisa grid system which is currently under pressure as a
result of demand growth. The new substation and transmission line is needed to strengthen the
network in the Load Centre including Cosmo City and the surrounding area. The strengthening
project is considered to be vital infrastructure in the context of priority growth plans in this area
that include township projects and extensions, industrial expansion and employment growth as
well as increased demand from existing occupiers and landowners.
In summary, the proposed project will consists of the following:
The total area studied as part of this BAR is 132km².
As notes previously this includes 6 corridor options as follows:

Option 1- 14.54km2

Option 2- 20.99km2

Option 3- 14.83km2

Option 4- 17.57km2

Option 5- 15.05km2

Option 6 – 14.93km2
Servitude size
Please note that this description should not be a verbatim repetition of the listed activity as contained in the relevant
Government Notice, but should be a brief description of activities to be undertaken as per the project description.
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BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
Although the study area has included a 1km wide corridor for the full length of the
proposed infrastructure, the actual width of the servitude will only be 110m (55m either
side of the centre of the power line). The study has been carried out in this way to ensure
thoroughness of study as well as allowing the flexibility to define the precise location of
towers in consultation with landowners as well as taking into account any mitigation
measures recommended in this BAR.
Transmission Power Line Specifications
 2x400kV Transmission power lines looping in and out from the existing
400kV Pluto – Apollo transmission power line.
 Double or single circuit power lines.
 Span form pylon to pylon is 300 to 350m.
 Pylon design is based on the use of cross rope type towers with self
supporting structures on bends.
Six substation options have been assessed.
 Substation A is located on Portion 2 of the farm Nietgedacht 535 JQ and
Portion 4 & RE 36 of Zandspruit 191 IQ
 Substation B is located on Portions 42, 56, 67, 105 and 121 of the farm
Zandspruit 191 IQ
 Substation C is located on Portion 49 and 305 of the farm Rietfontein 189
IQ and on Portion R and 3 of farm Whitestones 188 IQ
 Substation D is located on Portions 22, 68 and 69 of Farm Nietgedacht
535JQ
 Substation E is located on Portion 58, 59 and the remainder of the Farm
Bulfontein 533 JQ
Transmission Substation Specifications
 3x 315 MVA; 400/88 KV Demeter Substation.
 Substation size = 500m x 500m (25ha)
 1x Telecommunication tower
 1x Oil dam
 1x Access road to the proposed substation
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BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
2.
FEASIBLE AND REASONABLE ALTERNATIVES
“alternatives”, in relation to a proposed activity, means different means of meeting the general
purpose and requirements of the activity, which may include alternatives to—
(a)
the property on which or location where it is proposed to undertake the activity;
(b)
the type of activity to be undertaken;
(c)
the design or layout of the activity;
(d)
the technology to be used in the activity;
(e)
the operational aspects of the activity; and
(f)
the option of not implementing the activity.
Describe alternatives that are considered in this application. Alternatives should include a consideration
of all possible means by which the purpose and need of the proposed activity could be accomplished in
the specific instance taking account of the interest of the applicant in the activity. The no-go alternative
must in all cases be included in the assessment phase as the baseline against which the impacts of the
other alternatives are assessed. The determination of whether site or activity (including different
processes etc.) or both is appropriate needs to be informed by the specific circumstances of the activity
and its environment. After receipt of this report the competent authority may also request the applicant
to assess additional alternatives that could possibly accomplish the purpose and need of the proposed
activity if it is clear that realistic alternatives have not been considered to a reasonable extent.
2(a) Substation Site alternatives:
Describe site alternative A (S1), for the activity described above, or for any other activity
alternative:
Substation A is located on Portion 2 of the farm Nietgedacht 535 JQ and Portion 4 & RE 36 of
Zandspruit 191 IQ. The proposed substation site is currently part of the existing Lion Park,
approximately 1.8 km east of the N14 adjacent to two main roads namely Malibongwe Dr and
the R114. It’s positioned between smallholdings at Nooitgedacht to the west, Cosmo City to the
south, Farmall agricultural holding on the east and Millgate and Chartwell to the North. It is
approximately 2.8 km west of the nearest water course, the Klein-JukskeiRivier. It is expected
that the access road to the substation would be off either Malibongwe Drive or the R114.
Describe site alternative B (S2), if any, for the activity described above, or for any other activity
alternative:
Substation B is located on Portions 42, 56, 67, 105 and 121 of the farm Zandspruit 191 IQ. The
proposed substation is near Zandspruit informal settlement in Mogale City and is approximately
1.5 km east of Beyers Naude Drive and 1km south of the Dalkeith 88/11kV distribution
substation. The proposed substation is positioned south of Cosmo City, north of Zandspruit,
3.5km west of Northgate. Access to the substation would be from Marina Street.
Describe site alternative C (S3), if any, for the activity described above, or for any other activity
alternative:
Substation C is located on Portion 49 and 305 of the farm Rietfontein 189 IQ and on Portion R
and 3 of farm Nooitgedacht 534 IQ. The proposed substation is situated 1.8km south of the
N14 and it is approximately 1km east of an existing main road (Beyers Naude Drive), adjacent
to a planned Demeter 88kV substation in Mogale City Local MunicipalityThe proposed
substation is located approx 3km west of Cosmo City and 4km west of Muldersdrif se loop
river. Access to the substation would be via Beyers Naude Drive.
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BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
Describe site alternative D (S4), if any, for the activity described above, or for any other activity
alternative:
Substation D is located on Portions 22, 68 and 69 of Farm Nietgedacht 535JQ. The proposed
substation is surrounded by a number of main roads including next to Cedar/6th road with the
N14 to the north and R114 on its south. It in the centre of two distribution substation; approx
1.5 west the planned Ithuba 88kv and 3.5km east of the Charwell 88/11kv substations. The
nearest water courses lies approx 2.5km north (Jukskei River) and 1.5 km east (KleinJukskeirivier) of the proposed substation. The access road would come off either Cedar Road
or the R114.
Describe site alternative E (S4), if any, for the activity described above, or for any other activity
alternative:
Substation E is located on Portion 58, 59 and the remainder of the Farm Bulfontein 533 JQ.
The proposed substation next to the planned Ithuba 88kv distribution substation, about 5km
north of the Load Centre (Cosmo City and surroundings) and approx 3km south of the Lanseria
Airport. It is also situated less than 1km east of the R512 (Malibogwe dr) adjacent to an existing
main road (6th/Cedar rd) from which the access road would be constructed.
Route alternatives
Describe route alternative 1 (R1), for the activity described above, or for any other activity
alternative:
Route alternative 1 is approximately 1km long connecting from the existing 400kV Apollo-Pluto
heads southerly on farm Rietfontein 532 JQ (Diepsloop Nature Reserve) following the existing
Klevebank/Lomond 88kV distribution line, crossing the N14 highway and the R144 main road
then the Jukskei River. The proposed line then turns west following the existing 88kV
distribution line on the northern boundary of the Chartwell Agricultural Holdings, then turns
south following the Klein-Jukskei River and the existing 88kV distribution line. It then heads
south-west still following the existing distribution line, it eventually runs over the northern
boundaries of both portion 22 and 23 of Nietgedacht 535 JQ to join the R144 main road. It
follows this road southerly up to R512 (Malibongwe Drive) into the proposed substation A at the
Lion Park. This route can terminate at either substation D or A however for assessment
purposes the longer of the two options (terminating at substation A) has been used to ensure
the assessment of a ‘worst case scenario’.
Describe route alternative 2 (R2), if any, for the activity described above, or for any other
activity alternative:
Route alternative 2 is approximately 20km long connecting from the existing 400kV ApolloPluto line. It runs south on the eastern boundary of the farm Rietfontein 532 JQ following the
existing 400kV transmission line then it crosses the N14 highway following a westerly turn to
join the R144. It then turns south crossing the Jukskei River following the existing
Klevebank/Lomond 88kV distribution line. The proposed line then turns west following the
existing 88kV distribution line on the northern boundary of the Chartwell Agricultural Holdings,
then makes a southerly turn following the Klein-Jukskei River and the exising 88kV distribution
line., It then heads south-west still following the existing distribution line past the easterly
boundary of Millgate and western boundary of Farmall agricultural holdings. The proposed line
can terminate at the proposed substation D, A or continue following the existing distribution line
southerly on western boundary of Cosmo City into the proposed substation B. For assessment
purposes, the longest route terminating at substation B has been used.
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Describe route alternative 3 (R3), if any, for the activity described above, or for any other
activity alternative:
Route alternative 3 line is approximately 15km long connecting from the existing 400kV ApolloPluto on the southern side of the farm Tweefontein 523 JQ running south-westerly in the middle
of farm Zwartkop 525JQ crossing the Crocodile River then a 88kv distribution line
(Crocodile/Lanseria). It then joins a main road (Beyers Naude Drive) running in a southerly
direction for approx 2.5 km. The proposed line then turn west towards the eastern boundary of
the farm Driefontein 179 IQ, follows the boundary for 1km before turning in a south-easterly
direction back onto Beyer Naude Drive for 1.2km then making a easterly turn into the proposed
substation C.
Describe route alternative 4 (R4), if any, for the activity described above, or for any other
activity alternative:
Route alternative 4 is approximately 17km long connecting from the existing 400kV ApolloPluto on the western area of the farm Rietfontein 532 JQ heading in a south-easterly direction
crossing an existing 88kV distribution line (Lanseria/Tee). At the southern boundary of the
Reitfontein farm the line then turns south west, crossing the N14 and running to the east of
R144. The line then crosses over to the west of R114 (to avoid Thabo Mbeki Informal
Settlement) running parallel to the N14 for approximately 7km. This alternative coul;d use either
substation option D or C however for assessment purposes the longer of the two has been
used, thus connecting with substation option C.
Describe route alternative 5 (R5), if any, for the activity described above, or for any other
activity alternative:
Proposed route 5 is approx 15km in length; it will connect to the Apollo – Pluto 400KV lines on
the farm Lindley 528JQ. The lines will run underground though the farms Lindley 528JQ,
Bultfontein 533 JQ. At 6th Road the lines will emerge on the farm Bultfontein 533LQ. The lines
will then loop in/out at substation E on the farm Bultfontein 533JQ. Alternatively the overhead
lines can proceed south-westerly through Nooitgedaght 524 IQ to substation C on Rietfontein
189 IQ portion 49 and 305 and portion 3 & remainder of Whitestone 188 IQ connecting with
substation option C which has been used for assessment purposes.
Describe route alternative 6 (R6), if any, for the activity described above, or for any other
activity alternative:
Route alternative 6 power lines is approx 15km long, it will connect to the Apollo – Pluto 400kV
lines on Lindley 528JQ following an existing main road (Beyers Naude Drive) in a southerly
direction crossing an existing 88kV distribution line and the N14 highway, 2km after the
highway it eventually turns east into substation C on Rietfontein 189 IQ portion 49 and 305 and
portion 3 & remainder of Whitestone 188 IQ. This route would terminate at substation option C.
(2)(b) Activity alternatives:
Describe activity alternative 2 (a), if any, for any or all of the site alternatives as appropriate:
There are no feasible or viable alternatives to the proposed activities that would deliver the
necessary upgrade/strengthening in this area.
Describe activity alternative 2 (A2), if any, for any or all of the site alternatives as appropriate:
N/A
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BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
Describe activity alternative 2 (A2), if any, for any or all of the site alternatives as appropriate:
N/A
Paragraphs 3 – 13 below should be completed for each alternative.
3.
ACTIVITY POSITION
Indicate the position of the activity using the latitude and longitude of the centre point of the site for
each alternative site. The co-ordinates should be in degrees and decimal minutes. The minutes should
have at least three decimals to ensure adequate accuracy. The projection that must be used in all
cases is the WGS84 spheroid in a national or local projection.
List alternative sites, if applicable.
Alternative:
Alternative S12 (Substation A)
Alternative S2 (Substation B)
Alternative S3 (Substation C)
Alternative S4 (Substation D)
Alternative S5 (Substation E)
Latitude (S):
Longitude (E):
25 o
26 o
26 o
25 o
25 o
27 o
27 o
27 o
27 o
27 o
59.928‘
2.709‘
1.556‘
58.324‘
57.899‘
56.054‘
54.608‘
52.928‘
56.805‘
55.582‘
In the case of linear activities:
Latitude (S):
Alternative Route 1
 Starting point of the activity
 Middle/Additional point of the activity
 End point of the activity
Alternative Route 2
 Starting point of the activity
 Middle/Additional point of the activity
 End point of the activity
Alternative Route 3
 Starting point of the activity
 Middle/Additional point of the activity
 End point of the activity
Alternative Route 4
 Starting point of the activity
 Middle/Additional point of the activity
 End point of the activity
Alternative Route 5
 Starting point of the activity
 Middle/Additional point of the activity
 End point of the activity
Alternative Route 6
2
Longitude (E):
25 o
25 o
25 o
54. 608‘
58.103’
59.831’
27 o
27 o
27 o
57.525‘
57.717‘
55.503’
25o
25o
26o
54.202’
58.299’
2.717’
27o
27o
27o
58.998’
57.346’
54.641’
25o
25o
26o
55.905‘
59.717’
1.794’
27o
27o
27o
50.998‘
51.394’
52.849’
25 o
25 o
26o
54.849‘
58.762’
1.494’
27 o
27 o
27o
56.633‘
55.758‘
53.065’
25o
25o
26o
55.242’
58.600’
1.494’
27o
27o
27o
53.927’
55.489’
53.065’
“Alternative S..” refer to site alternatives.
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


Starting point of the activity
Middle/Additional point of the activity
End point of the activity
25o
25o
26o
55.428‘
58.996’
1.794’
27o
27o
27o
53.017‘
51.602’
52.849’
For route alternatives that are longer than 500m, please provide an addendum with co-ordinates taken
every 250 meters along the route for each alternative alignment. Please see Appendix G-1
4.
PHYSICAL SIZE OF THE ACTIVITY
Indicate the physical size of the preferred activity/technology as well as alternative
activities/technologies (footprints):
Alternative:
Size of the
activity (approx
ha):
Alternative A13(Substation A)
287
Alternative A2 (Substation B)
25
Alternative A3 (Substation C)
25
Alternative A3 (Substation D)
25
Alternative A3 (Substation E)
25
or, for linear activities:
Length of the
activity(approx
km):
Alternative:
Alternative A1 (Route 1)
19
Alternative A2 (Route 2)
20
Alternative A3 (Route 3)
14
Alternative A3 (Route 4)
16
Alternative A3 (Route 5)
14
Alternative A3 (Route 6)
14
Indicate the size of the alternative sites or servitudes (within which the above footprints will occur):
Size of the
Alternative:
site/servitude:
Alternative A1 (Route 1)
110m
Alternative A2 (Route 2)
110m
Alternative A3 (Route 3)
110m
Alternative A3 (Route 4)
110m
Alternative A3 (Route 5)
110m
Alternative A3 (Route 6)
110m
5.
SITE ACCESS
Final locations and specifications of all access routes will be determined during design phase of
the project. Descriptions below are only a guide and are subject to change.
3
“Alternative A..” refer to activity, process, technology or other alternatives .
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BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
Substation A
Does ready access to the site exist?
If NO, what is the distance over which a new access road will be built
YES
m
NO
Describe the type of access road planned:
Malibongwe Drive passes through Site A in a West-East direction. This site can also be accessed
via R512, which passes approximately 130m west of Site A.
Substation B
Does ready access to the site exist?
If NO, what is the distance over which a new access road will be built
YES
m
NO
Describe the type of access road planned:
Marina Street passes a few meters (approximately 15m) west of Site B. This tar road can be used
to access the site. There is also a secondary road that passes through the site that can be used
for this purpose. The secondary road would need to be upgraded to a tar road approximately 6m
wide.
Substation C
Does ready access to the site exist?
If NO, what is the distance over which a new access road will be built
NO
~600m
Describe the type of access road planned:
Marina Street passes a few meters (approximately 15m) west of Site B. This tar road can be used
to access the site. There is also a secondary road that passes through the site that can be used
for this purpose. The secondary road would need to be upgraded to a tar road approximately 6m
wide. Beyers Naude passes approximately 600m west of Site C. An access road approximately
600m long and 6m wide will need to be build from Beyers Naude to Site C. Alternatively, College
Road, which passes through the site, can be upgraded to tar road.
Substation D
Does ready access to the site exist?
If NO, what is the distance over which a new access road will be built
YES
m
NO
Describe the type of access road planned:
6th/Cedar Rd passes next to the site and could be used for access to the site.
Substation E
Does ready access to the site exist?
If NO, what is the distance over which a new access road will be built
YES
Describe the type of access road planned:
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6th/Cedar Rd passes approximately 10m south of Site E. This route could be used for access.
There are several other routes around the site and another cutting through the site that could be
upgraded for access.
Include the position of the access road on the site plan and required map, as well as an indication of the
road in relation to the site. (Please see Appendix A)
6.
SITE OR ROUTE PLAN
A detailed site or route plan(s) must be prepared for each alternative site or alternative activity. It must
be attached as Appendix A to this document.
The site or route plans must indicate the following:
6.1 the scale of the plan which must be at least a scale of 1:500;
6.2 the property boundaries and numbers of all the properties within 50 metres of the site;
6.3 the current land use as well as the land use zoning of each of the properties adjoining the site or
sites;
6.4 the exact position of each element of the application as well as any other structures on the site;
6.5 the position of services, including electricity supply cables (indicate above or underground), water
supply pipelines, boreholes, street lights, sewage pipelines, storm water infrastructure and
telecommunication infrastructure;
6.6 all trees and shrubs taller than 1.8 metres;
6.7 walls and fencing including details of the height and construction material;
6.8 servitudes indicating the purpose of the servitude;
6.9 sensitive environmental elements within 100 metres of the site or sites including (but not limited
thereto):
 rivers;
 the 1:100 year flood line (where available or where it is required by DWA);
 ridges;
 cultural and historical features;
 areas with indigenous vegetation (even if it is degraded or invested with alien species);
6.10 for gentle slopes the 1 metre contour intervals must be indicated on the plan and whenever the
slope of the site exceeds 1:10, the 500mm contours must be indicated on the plan; and
6.11 the positions from where photographs of the site were taken.
(Please see Appendix A)
7.
SITE PHOTOGRAPHS
Colour photographs from the centre of the site must be taken in at least the eight major compass
directions with a description of each photograph. Photographs must be attached under Appendix B to
this form. It must be supplemented with additional photographs of relevant features on the site, if
applicable.
(Please see Appendix B)
8.
FACILITY ILLUSTRATION
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A detailed illustration of the activity must be provided at a scale of 1:200 as Appendix C for activities
that include structures. The illustrations must be to scale and must represent a realistic image of the
planned activity. The illustration must give a representative view of the activity.
(Please see Appendix C)
9.
ACTIVITY MOTIVATION
9(a)
Socio-economic value of the activity
RXXX
What is the expected capital value of the activity on completion?
What is the expected yearly income that will be generated by or as a result of the R – Not yet known
activity?
Will the activity contribute to service infrastructure?
YES
Is the activity a public amenity?
How many new employment opportunities will be created in the development
phase of the activity?
What is the expected value of the employment opportunities during the Unknown.
development phase?
What percentage of this will accrue to previously disadvantaged individuals?
How many permanent new employment opportunities will be created during the
operational phase of the activity?
What is the expected current value of the employment opportunities during the
first 10 years?
What percentage of this will accrue to previously disadvantaged individuals?
9(b)
Need and desirability of the activity
Motivate and explain the need and desirability of the activity (including demand for the activity):
NEED:
1.
2.
3.
Was the relevant provincial planning department involved in the
YES
application?
Does the proposed land use fall within the relevant provincial planning
YES
framework?
If the answer to questions 1 and / or 2 was NO, please provide further motivation /
explanation:
N/A
DESIRABILITY:
1.
Does the proposed land use / development fit the surrounding area?
YES
2.
Does the proposed land use / development conform to the relevant
YES
structure plans, SDF and planning visions for the area?
3.
Will the benefits of the proposed land use / development outweigh the
YES
negative impacts of it?
4.
If the answer to any of the questions 1-3 was NO, please provide further motivation /
explanation:
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BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
N/A
Will the proposed land use / development impact on the sense of place? YES
Will the proposed land use / development set a precedent?
NO
Will any person’s rights be affected by the proposed land use /
YES
development?
Will the proposed land use / development compromise the “urban edge”? YES
If the answer to any of the question 5-8 was YES, please provide further motivation /
explanation.
(5) A visual impact assessment which includes the concept of impacts on a ‘sense of
place is included at Appendix D. It is noted in particular that part two of the proposed
option encroach into the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site and therefore have
the potential to significantly impact the sense of place associated with this
internationally recognised heritage resource. Furthermore, parts of a number of the
route options are characterised by game farms, nature conservation, agricultural
activities (chicken, horse and vegetable farming), tourism industries, businesses and
residential areas.
Corridor 1 has the lowest overall visual sensitivity since it traverses mostly built-up and
residential landscapes, while Corridor 3 is likely to have the highest since it traverses
the largest areas of natural looking landscapes in the Cradle of Humankind. Corridor 3
should therefore be considered the ‘no-go’ option within the context of the study and
the visual and cultural landscape. Substation site D is likely to have the highest overall
visual sensitivity due to the surrounding landscape (which consists of a fair number of
smallholdings with grassy areas in between them) while substation site A is likely to
have the lowest as it is positioned close to industrial activities.
Many residents refer to a ‘country feel’ and it must be acknowledged that sensitive
design and location of the proposed lines will be required to mitigate the impacts on
these resources. With essential infrastructure such as that proposed there must be a
balance between the perspectives of individuals and the national interest and for this
reason the best possible alternative has been recommended, taking into account
existing infrastructure and landscape character as well as the visual absorbtion
capacity of given areas. It should however be acknowledged that the construction of
transmission lines will have an impact on the sense of place in certain locations
regardless of the mitigation measures employed.
(6) From an environmental perspective, it is usually preferable that new infrastructure
should be placed close to existing infrastructure thereby limiting the impact of the new
power lines to an area already disturbed by such developments. The study area has
already been altered due to the existing infrastructure and the extent of the impact of
the new infrastructure will be limited or absorbed to some degree by the existing
impacts. Areas that are devoid of infrastructure should be avoided where possible.
Experience has shown that routing power lines in this manner generally achieves the
least impact solution. With this in mind, the construction of transmission lines will set a
precedent for the development of future linear infrastructure in the area, such as roads,
railway lines, other transmission line projects, or pipelines.
(7) The proposed transmission line will be mostly located on privately owned land, thus
impacting on the rights of certain individuals owning the land in the area. Eskom will
have to reach agreements with all affected land owners to decide upon appropriate
compensation measures.
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12
BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
(9) Parts of the proposed development fall outside the urban edge, into the urban-rural
transition zone. According to Mogale SDF 2011, these areas typically comprise low
density urban development, low intensity, extensive land uses and semi-rural activities
such as nurseries. The urban edge should therefore not denote a clear divide
between urban and rural, but rather include management zones along the edge that
make provision for a gradual transition from an urban to a rural environment. The area
directly inside the urban edge should look at lower urban intensities, while the areas
directly outside the urban edge should make provision for semi-rural and rural
residential activities.
In this regard, the area that presents the most meaningful opportunity for future
development is the area to the east of the N14, between Hendrik Potgieter Road in the
south and the R512 in the north. This section of the N14 is seen as one of the next
major provincial development corridors, spurred on by the development proposals
currently taking shape around Lanseria Airport.
BENEFITS:
1.
Will the land use / development have any benefits for society in general? YES
2.
Explain:
Ensuring adequate future electricity supply and ensuring reliability of demand form the
cornerstones of Eskom’s corporate objectives as well as those of government. The
proposed development will be a factor on delivering against these key aims. Without
such upgrades related projects such as the provision of low cost housing and the
growth of local and regional industry cannot go forward. Therefore there are both direct
and indirect benefits to society as a whole resulting from the proposed development
and developments like it.
3.
4.
Will the land use / development have any benefits for the local
YES
communities where it will be located?
Explain:
At a local level, the upgrade will provide greater reliability of supply as well as provision
for future needs thereby reducing stress on the network. The development will support
the provision of low cost housing for local residents as well as growth and growth
potential for local industry. Job creation and improved housing is a key factor in societal
uplift for local communities and therefore such schemes provide a directly attributable
benefit for local communities.
10. APPLICABLE LEGISLATION, POLICIES AND/OR GUIDELINES
List all legislation, policies and/or guidelines of any sphere of government that are applicable to the
application as contemplated in the EIA regulations, if applicable:
Title of legislation, policy or guideline:
Administering authority:
National Environmental Management Act, 1998 Provincial & National
(Act 107 of 1998) (NEMA)
National Environmental management Act,
Provincial and National
Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations
(as amended) 2010 (including listing notices)
Document1
Date:
27 November 1998
18th June 2010
(corrected
10th
December 2010)
13
BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
National Water Act 36 of 1998
National Environmental Management: Air
Quality Act 39 of 2004
National Environmental Management:
Biodiversity Act 10 of 2004
National Environmental Management: Waste
Act 59 of 2008
National Heritage Resources Act 25 of 1999
11.
Provincial & National
Local
1998
February 2005
Provincial & National
June 2004
Provincial & National
April 2009
Provincial & National
April 1999
WASTE, EFFLUENT, EMISSION AND NOISE MANAGEMENT
11(a) Solid waste management
Will the activity produce solid construction waste
construction/initiation phase?
If yes, what estimated quantity will be produced per month?
during
the YES
Estimated 15600Kg
per month)
How will the construction solid waste be disposed of (describe)?
The construction waste will be transported via waste dump truck to a registered landfill site. The
exact quantity of waste produced is not known at this stage.
Where will the construction solid waste be disposed of (describe)?
The construction waste will be disposed at the nearest landfill site i.e. Marie Louise landfill site in the
Roodepoort area.
Will the activity produce solid waste during its operational phase?
YES
If yes, what estimated quantity will be produced per month?
300kg/month
How will the solid waste be disposed of (describe)?
Municipal Waste Stream
Where will the solid waste be disposed if it does not feed into a municipal waste stream (describe)?
N/A
If the solid waste (construction or operational phases) will not be disposed of in a registered landfill
site or be taken up in a municipal waste stream, then the applicant should consult with the
competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and
EIA.
Can any part of the solid waste be classified as hazardous in terms of the
NO
relevant legislation?
If yes, inform the competent authority and request a change to an application for scoping and EIA.
Is the activity that is being applied for a solid waste handling or treatment
NO
facility?
If yes, then the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is
necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA.
11(b)
Liquid effluent
Will the activity produce effluent, other than normal sewage, that will be
disposed of in a municipal sewage system?
If yes, what estimated quantity will be produced per month?
Will the activity produce any effluent that will be treated and/or disposed of on
site?
Document1
NO
NO
14
BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
If yes, the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary
to change to an application for scoping and EIA.
Will the activity produce effluent that will be treated and/or disposed of at
NO
another facility?
If yes, provide the particulars of the facility:
Facility name: N/A
Contact
person:
Postal
address:
Postal code:
Telephone:
Cell:
E-mail:
Fax:
Describe the measures that will be taken to ensure the optimal reuse or recycling of waste water, if
any:
11(c)
Emissions into the atmosphere
Will the activity release emissions into the atmosphere?
YES
If yes, is it controlled by any legislation of any sphere of government?
NO
If yes, the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine
whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA.
If no, describe the emissions in terms of type and concentration:
During the construction phase, it is expected that there will be short term dust generation and
emissions from vehicles and machinery. However the dust and emissions will have a medium
to short term duration and have a limited impact on the very immediate surrounding rural areas.
Where appropriate dust suppression measures will be implemented to reduce the impacts. It is
recommended that construction vehicles be serviced and kept in good mechanical condition to
minimise possible exhaust emission.
11(d)
Generation of noise
Will the activity generate noise?
YES
If yes, is it controlled by any legislation of any sphere of government?
NO
If yes, the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine
whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA.
If no, describe the noise in terms of type and level:
Short term noise impacts are anticipated during the construction phase of the project. It is
however anticipated that the noise will be localised and contained within the construction site.
In order to minimise the impacts of noise during the construction phase, construction activities
should be restricted to between 07H00 and 17H00 Monday to Friday, and 8h00-13h00 on
Saturdays. This is required to avoid noise disturbances outside normal working hours. All
construction equipment must be maintained and kept in good working order to minimise
associated noise impacts. The applicant must adhere to the relevant provincial noise control
legislation (if any) as well as SANS 10103.
12.
WATER USE
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15
BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
Please indicate the source(s) of water that will be used for the activity by ticking the appropriate box(es)
municipal
If water is to be extracted from groundwater, river, stream, dam, lake or any other natural
feature, please indicate
the volume that will be extracted per month:
Unknown
(limited
quantities)
Does the activity require a water use permit from the Department of Water
NO
Affairs?
If yes, please submit the necessary application to the Department of Water Affairs and attach
proof thereof to this application if it has been submitted.
13.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Describe the design measures, if any, that have been taken to ensure that the activity is energy
efficient:
N/A
Describe how alternative energy sources have been taken into account or been built into the
design of the activity, if any:
N/A
SECTION B: SITE/AREA/PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
Important notes:
1. For linear activities (pipelines, etc) as well as activities that cover very large sites, it may be
necessary to complete this section for each part of the site that has a significantly different
environment. In such cases please complete copies of Section C and indicate the area, which
is covered by each copy No. on the Site Plan.
Section C Copy No.
(e.g. A):
2. Paragraphs 1 - 6 below must be completed for each alternative.
3. Has a specialist been consulted to assist with the completion of YES
this section?
If YES, please complete the form entitled “Details of specialist and declaration of interest”
for each specialist thus appointed:
All specialist reports must be contained in Appendix D.
Property
description/physical
address:
As noted above the primary transmission activity involved six route options.
In summary terms these options fall within three Local Municipalities namely;
the City of Johannesburg, Mogale City and the City of Tshwane within the
Gauteng Province Appendix A provides plans and further details on the
precise locations and the farm and portions that will potentially be affected
by these routes.
(Farm name, portion etc.) Where a large number of properties are involved (e.g.
linear activities), please attach a full list to this application.
Please refer to Appendix G
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16
BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
In instances where there is more than one town or district involved, please attach a
list of towns or districts to this application.
Current land-use zoning:
Please refer to Appendix G
In instances where there is more than one current land-use zoning, please attach a
list of current land use zonings that also indicate which portions each use pertains
to , to this application.
YES
Is a change of land-use or a consent use application required?
Must a building plan be submitted to the local authority?
Locality map:
NO
NO
An A3 locality map must be attached to the back of this document, as Appendix A.
The scale of the locality map must be relevant to the size of the development (at
least 1:50 000. For linear activities of more than 25 kilometres, a smaller scale e.g.
1:250 000 can be used. The scale must be indicated on the map.) The map must
indicate the following:
 an indication of the project site position as well as the positions of the
alternative sites, if any;
 road access from all major roads in the area;
 road names or numbers of all major roads as well as the roads that provide
access to the site(s);
 all roads within a 1km radius of the site or alternative sites; and
 a north arrow;
 a legend; and
 locality GPS co-ordinates (Indicate the position of the activity using the latitude
and longitude of the centre point of the site for each alternative site. The coordinates should be in degrees and decimal minutes. The minutes should
have at least three decimals to ensure adequate accuracy. The projection that
must be used in all cases is the WGS84 spheroid in a national or local
projection)
Please see Appendix A
1.
GRADIENT OF THE SITE
Indicate the general gradient of the site.
Alternative SS A:
Flat
1:50 – 1:20
Alternative SS B:
Flat
1:50 – 1:20
Alternative SS C:
Flat
1:50 – 1:20
Alternative SS D:
Flat
1:50 – 1:20
Alternative SS E:
Flat
1:50 – 1:20
1:20 – 1:15
1:15 – 1:10
1:10 – 1:7,5
1:7,5 – 1:5
Steeper than 1:5
1:20 – 1:15
1:15 – 1:10
1:10 – 1:7,5
1:7,5 – 1:5
Steeper than 1:5
1:20 – 1:15
1:15 – 1:10
1:10 – 1:7,5
1:7,5 – 1:5
Steeper than 1:5
1:20 – 1:15
1:15 – 1:10
1:10 – 1:7,5
1:7,5 – 1:5
Steeper than 1:5
1:20 – 1:15
1:15 – 1:10
1:10 – 1:7,5
1:7,5 – 1:5
Steeper than 1:5
Alternative Route Option 1:
Flat
1:50 – 1:20 1:20 – 1:15
Alternative Route Option 2:
1:15 – 1:10
1:10 – 1:7,5
1:7,5 – 1:5
Steeper than 1:5
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17
BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
Flat
1:50 – 1:20 1:20 – 1:15
Alternative Route Option 3:
Flat
1:50 – 1:20 1:20 – 1:15
Alternative Route Option 4:
Flat
1:50 – 1:20 1:20 – 1:15
Alternative Route Option 5:
Flat
1:50 – 1:20 1:20 – 1:15
Alternative Route Option 6:
Flat
1:50 – 1:20 1:20 – 1:15
2.
1:15 – 1:10
1:10 – 1:7,5
1:7,5 – 1:5
Steeper than 1:5
1:15 – 1:10
1:10 – 1:7,5
1:7,5 – 1:5
Steeper than 1:5
1:15 – 1:10
1:10 – 1:7,5
1:7,5 – 1:5
Steeper than 1:5
1:15 – 1:10
1:10 – 1:7,5
1:7,5 – 1:5
Steeper than 1:5
1:15 – 1:10
1:10 – 1:7,5
1:7,5 – 1:5
Steeper than 1:5
LOCATION IN LANDSCAPE
Indicate the landform(s) that best describes the site:
Alternative SS A:
Ridgeline
Plateau
Side slope of
hill/mountain
Closed
valley
Open
valley
Plain
Undulating plain/low
hills
Dune
Sea-front
Side slope of
hill/mountain
Closed
valley
Open
valley
Plain
Undulating plain/low
hills
Dune
Seafront
Side slope of
hill/mountain
Closed
valley
Open
valley
Plain
Undulating plain/low
hills
Dune
Sea-front
Side slope of
hill/mountain
Closed
valley
Open
valley
Plain
Undulating plain/low
hills
Dune
Sea-front
Side slope of
hill/mountain
Closed
valley
Open
valley
Plain
Undulating plain/low
hills
Dune
Sea-front
Side slope of
hill/mountain
Closed
valley
Open
valley
Plain
Undulating
plain/low hills
Dune
Sea-front
Side slope of
hill/mountain
Closed
valley
Open
valley
Plain
Undulating
plain/low hills
Dune
Sea-front
Side slope of
hill/mountain
Closed
valley
Open
valley
Plain
Undulating
plain/low hills
Dune
Sea-front
Side slope of
hill/mountain
Closed
valley
Open
valley
Plain
Undulating
plain/low hills
Dune
Sea-front
Side slope of
hill/mountain
Closed
valley
Open
valley
Plain
Undulating
plain/low hills
Dune
Sea-front
Side slope of
hill/mountain
Closed
valley
Open
valley
Plain
Undulating
plain/low hills
Dune
Sea-front
Alternative SS B:
Ridgeline
Plateau
Alternative SS C:
Ridgeline
Plateau
Alternative SS D:
Ridgeline
Plateau
Alternative SS E:
Ridgeline
Plateau
Alternative Route 1:
Ridgeline
Plateau
Alternative Route 2:
Ridgeline
Plateau
Alternative Route 3:
Ridgeline
Plateau
Alternative Route 4:
Ridgeline
Plateau
Alternative Route 5:
Ridgeline
Plateau
Alternative Route 6:
Ridgeline
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Plateau
18
BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
3.
GROUNDWATER, SOIL AND GEOLOGICAL STABILITY OF THE SITE
Is the site(s) located on any of the following (tick the appropriate boxes)?
SubstationShallow water table (less
than 1.5m deep)
Dolomite, sinkhole or
doline areas
Seasonally wet soils (often
close to water bodies)
Unstable rocky slopes or
steep slopes with loose
soil
Dispersive soils (soils that
dissolve in water)
Soils with high clay
content (clay fraction more
than 40%)
Any other unstable soil or
geological feature
An area sensitive to
erosion
SubstationShallow water table (less
than 1.5m deep)
Dolomite, sinkhole or
doline areas
Seasonally wet soils (often
close to water bodies)
Unstable rocky slopes or
steep slopes with loose
soil
Dispersive soils (soils that
dissolve in water)
Soils with high clay
content (clay fraction more
than 40%)
Any other unstable soil or
geological feature
An area sensitive to
erosion
Document1
Alternative A:
Alternative B:
Alternative C:
Alternative D:
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
Alternative
E:
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
19
BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
Route
Shallow water table (less
than 1.5m deep)
Dolomite, sinkhole or
doline areas
Seasonally wet soils (often
close to water bodies)
Unstable rocky slopes or
steep slopes with loose
soil
Dispersive soils (soils that
dissolve in water)
Soils with high clay
content (clay fraction more
than 40%)
Any other unstable soil or
geological feature
An area sensitive to
erosion
Alternative 1:
Alternative 2:
Alternative 3:
Alternative 4:
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
Route
Shallow water table (less
than 1.5m deep)
Dolomite, sinkhole or
doline areas
Seasonally wet soils (often
close to water bodies)
Unstable rocky slopes or
steep slopes with loose
soil
Dispersive soils (soils that
dissolve in water)
Soils with high clay
content (clay fraction more
than 40%)
Any other unstable soil or
geological feature
An area sensitive to
erosion
Alternative 5:
Alternative 6:
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
If you are unsure about any of the above or if you are concerned that any of the above aspects may be
an issue of concern in the application, an appropriate specialist should be appointed to assist in the
completion of this section. (Information in respect of the above will often be available as part of the
project information or at the planning sections of local authorities. Where it exists, the 1:50 000 scale
Regional Geotechnical Maps prepared by the Council for Geo Science may also be consulted).
A GEOTECH SPECIALIST WILL BE APPOINTED BY ESKOM TO CARRY OUT DETAILED
GEOTECHNICAL ASSESSMENT OF THE PROJECT AREA.
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20
BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
4.
GROUNDCOVER
Indicate the types of groundcover present on the site:
The location of all identified rare or endangered species or other elements should be accurately
indicated on the site plan(s).
Substation Alternatives:
A
Natural veld - Natural veld
good conditionE with
scattered
aliensE
B
Natural veld - Natural veld
good conditionE with
scattered
aliensE
C
Natural veld - Natural veld
good conditionE with
scattered
aliensE
D
Natural veld - Natural veld
good conditionE with
scattered
aliensE
E
Natural veld - Natural veld
good conditionE with
scattered
aliensE
Natural veld
with
heavy
alien
infestationE
Natural veld
with
heavy
alien
infestationE
Natural veld
with
heavy
alien
infestationE
Natural veld
with
heavy
alien
infestationE
Natural veld
with
heavy
alien
infestationE
Route Alternatives:
1
Natural veld - Natural veld
good conditionE with
scattered
aliensE
2
Natural veld - Natural veld
good conditionE with
scattered
aliensE
3
Natural veld - Natural veld
good conditionE with
scattered
aliensE
4
Natural veld - Natural veld
good conditionE with
scattered
aliensE
5
Natural veld - Natural veld
good conditionE with
scattered
aliensE
6
Natural veld - Natural veld
good conditionE with
scattered
Natural veld
with heavy
alien
infestationE
Natural veld
with heavy
alien
infestationE
Natural veld
with heavy
alien
infestationE
Natural veld
with heavy
alien
infestationE
Natural veld
with heavy
alien
infestationE
Natural veld
with heavy
alien
Document1
Veld
Gardens
dominated by
alien speciesE
Sport
field
Cultivated
land
Paved
surface
Building
or other
structure
Veld
dominated
alien
speciesE
Veld
dominated
alien
speciesE
Veld
dominated
alien
speciesE
Veld
dominated
alien
speciesE
Gardens
Sport
field
Cultivated
land
Paved
surface
Building
or other
structure
Gardens
Sport
field
Cultivated
land
Paved
surface
Building
or other
structure
Gardens
Sport
field
Cultivated
land
Paved
surface
Building
or other
structure
Gardens
Sport
field
Cultivated
land
Paved
surface
Building
or other
structure
Veld
dominated
alien
speciesE
Veld
dominated
alien
speciesE
Veld
dominated
alien
speciesE
Veld
dominated
alien
speciesE
Veld
dominated
alien
speciesE
Veld
dominated
alien
by
by
by
by
by
by
by
Gardens
Sport Cultivated Paved Building
field land
surface or other
structure
Gardens
Sport Cultivated Paved Building
field land
surface or other
structure
Gardens
Sport
field
Cultivated Paved Building
land
surface or other
structure
Gardens
Sport
field
Cultivated Paved Building
land
surface or other
structure
Gardens
Sport
field
Cultivated Paved Building
land
surface or other
structure
Gardens
Sport
field
Cultivated Paved Building
land
surface or other
structure
by
by
by
21
BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
aliensE
infestationE
speciesE
“E
If any of the boxes marked with an “is ticked, please consult an appropriate specialist to assist in the
completion of this section if the environmental assessment practitioner doesn’t have the necessary
expertise.
5.
LAND USE CHARACTER OF SURROUNDING AREA
Indicate land uses and/or prominent features that does currently occur within a 500m radius of the site
and give description of how this influences the application or may be impacted upon by the application:
Substation A
Natural area
Retail
Medium density residential
Commercial & warehousing
Medium density residential
Light industrial
Military or police
base/station/compound
Spoil heap or slimes dam
Tertiary education facility
High density residential
Medium industrialAN
Casino/entertainment
complex
Quarry, sand or borrow pit
Church
Railway lineN
Major road (4 lanes or more)N
AirportN
Sport facilities
Golf course
Polo fields
Filling station
Plantation
Museum
Agriculture
Historical building
River, stream or wetland
Graveyard
Low density residential
Commercial & warehousing
Medium density residential
Light industrial
Military or police
base/station/compound
Spoil heap or slimes dam
Tertiary education facility
High density residential
Medium industrialAN
Casino/entertainment
complex
Quarry, sand or borrow pit
Church
Railway lineN
Major road (4 lanes or more)N
AirportN
Sport facilities
Golf course
Polo fields
Filling stationH
Plantation
Museum
Agriculture
Historical building
River, stream or wetland
Graveyard
Low density residential
Commercial & warehousing
Medium density residential
Light industrial
Military or police
base/station/compound
Spoil heap or slimes dam
Tertiary education facility
High density residential
Medium industrialAN
Casino/entertainment
complex
Quarry, sand or borrow pit
Church
Railway lineN
Major road (4 lanes or more)N
AirportN
Golf course
Polo fields
Filling stationH
Agriculture
Historical building
River, stream or wetland
Graveyard
Power stationA
Office/consulting room
Open cast mine
Hospital/medical center
Underground mine
School
Train station or shunting
yardN
Sewage treatment plantA
Harbour
Landfill or waste treatment siteA
Mountain, koppie or ridge
Other land uses (describe):
Substation B
Natural area
Retail
Power stationA
Office/consulting room
Open cast mine
Hospital/medical center
Underground mine
School
Train station or shunting
yardN
Sewage treatment plantA
Harbour
Landfill or waste treatment siteA
Mountain, koppie or ridge
Other land uses (describe):
Substation C
Natural area
Retail
Power stationA
Office/consulting room
Open cast mine
Hospital/medical center
Underground mine
School
Train station or shunting
yardN
Sewage treatment plantA
Harbour
Landfill or waste treatment siteA
Mountain, koppie or ridge
Other land uses (describe):
Document1
Sport facilities
Plantation
Museum
Microlight Airstrip
22
Informal resident
Heavy industria
Hospitality facili
Dam or reservo
Old age home
Nature conservatio
Archaeological s
Informal resident
Heavy industria
Hospitality facili
Dam or reservo
Old age home
Nature conservatio
Archaeological s
Informal resident
Heavy industria
Hospitality facili
Dam or reservo
Old age home
Nature conservatio
Archaeological s
BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
Substation D
Natural area
Retail
Low density residential
Commercial & warehousing
Medium density residential
Light industrial
Military or police
base/station/compound
Spoil heap or slimes dam
Tertiary education facility
High density residential
Medium industrialAN
Casino/entertainment
complex
Quarry, sand or borrow pit
Church
Railway lineN
Major road (4 lanes or more)N
AirportN
Golf course
Polo fields
Filling stationH
Agriculture
Historical building
River, stream or wetland
Graveyard
Medium density residential
Light industrial
Military or police
base/station/compound
Spoil heap or slimes dam
Tertiary education facility
High density residential
Medium industrialAN
Casino/entertainment
complex
Quarry, sand or borrow pit
Church
Railway lineN
Major road (4 lanes or more)N
AirportN
Sport facilities
Golf course
Polo fields
Filling stationH
Plantation
Museum
Agriculture
Historical building
River, stream or wetland
Graveyard
Natural area
Retail
Low density residential
Commercial & warehousing
Power stationA
Office/consulting room
Open cast mine
Hospital/medical center
Underground mine
School
Train station or shunting
yardN
Medium density residential
Light industrial
Military or police
base/station/compound
Spoil heap or slimes dam
Tertiary education facility
High density residential
Medium industrialAN
Casino/entertainment
complex
Quarry, sand or borrow pit
Church
Railway lineN
Major road (4 lanes or more)N
AirportN
Sport facilities
Golf course
Polo fields
Filling station
Landfill or waste treatment siteA
Plantation
Agriculture
River, stream or wetland
Mountain, koppie or ridge
Other land uses (describe):
Museum
Historical building
Graveyard
Natural area
Retail
Low density residential
Commercial & warehousing
Power stationA
Office/consulting room
Open cast mine
Hospital/medical center
Underground mine
School
Medium density residential
Light industrial
Military or police
base/station/compound
Spoil heap or slimes dam
Tertiary education facility
High density residential
Medium industrialAN
Casino/entertainment
complex
Quarry, sand or borrow pit
Church
Power stationA
Office/consulting room
Open cast mine
Hospital/medical center
Underground mine
School
Train station or shunting
yardN
Sewage treatment plantA
Harbour
Landfill or waste treatment siteA
Mountain, koppie or ridge
Other land uses (describe):
Substation E
Natural area
Retail
Sport facilities
Plantation
Museum
Microlight Airstrip
Low density residential
Commercial & warehousing
Power stationA
Office/consulting room
Open cast mine
Hospital/medical center
Underground mine
School
Train station or shunting
yardN
Sewage treatment plantA
Harbour
Landfill or waste treatment siteA
Mountain, koppie or ridge
Other land uses (describe):
Informal resident
Heavy industria
Hospitality facili
Dam or reservo
Old age home
Nature conservatio
Archaeological s
Informal resident
Heavy industria
Hospitality facili
Dam or reservo
Old age home
Nature conservatio
Archaeological s
Route 1
Sewage treatment plantA
Harbour
Informal resident
Heavy industria
Hospitality facility
Dam or reservo
Old age home
Nature conserva
area
Archaeological s
Route 2
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Informal residen
Heavy industria
Hospitality facili
Dam or reservo
Old age home
BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
Train station or shunting
yardN
Railway lineN
Major road (4 lanes or more)N
AirportN
Sport facilities
Golf course
Polo fields
Filling stationH
Landfill or waste treatment siteA
Plantation
Agriculture
River, stream or wetland
Mountain, koppie or ridge
Other land uses (describe):
Museum
Historical building
Graveyard
Natural area
Retail
Low density residential
Commercial & warehousing
Power stationA
Office/consulting room
Open cast mine
Hospital/medical center
Underground mine
School
Train station or shunting
yardN
Medium density residential
Light industrial
Military or police
base/station/compound
Spoil heap or slimes dam
Tertiary education facility
High density residential
Medium industrialAN
Casino/entertainment
complex
Quarry, sand or borrow pit
Church
Railway lineN
Major road (4 lanes or more)N
AirportN
Golf course
Polo fields
Filling stationH
Agriculture
Historical building
River, stream or wetland
Graveyard
Nature conservatio
Archaeological
Medium density residential
Light industrial
Military or police
base/station/compound
Spoil heap or slimes dam
Tertiary education facility
High density residential
Medium industrialAN
Casino/entertainment
complex
Quarry, sand or borrow pit
Church
Informal resident
Heavy industria
Railway lineN
Major road (4 lanes or more)N
AirportN
Sport facilities
Golf course
Polo fields
Filling station
Landfill or waste treatment siteA
Plantation
Agriculture
River, stream or wetland
Mountain, koppie or ridge
Other land uses (describe):
Museum
Historical building
Graveyard
Natural area
Retail
Low density residential
Commercial & warehousing
Power stationA
Office/consulting room
Open cast mine
Hospital/medical center
Underground mine
School
Train station or shunting
yardN
Medium density residential
Light industrial
Military or police
base/station/compound
Spoil heap or slimes dam
Tertiary education facility
High density residential
Medium industrialAN
Casino/entertainment
complex
Quarry, sand or borrow pit
Church
Railway lineN
Major road (4 lanes or more)N
AirportN
Sport facilities
Golf course
Polo fields
Filling station
Plantation
Museum
Agriculture
Historical building
River, stream or wetland
Graveyard
Sewage treatment plantA
Harbour
Nature conserva
area
Archaeological s
Route 3
Sewage treatment plantA
Harbour
Landfill or waste treatment siteA
Mountain, koppie or ridge
Other land uses (describe):
Sport facilities
Plantation
Museum
Microlight Airstrip
Informal residen
Heavy industria
Hospitality facil
Dam or reservo
Old age home
Route 4
Natural area
Retail
Low density residential
Commercial & warehousing
Power stationA
Office/consulting room
Open cast mine
Hospital/medical center
Underground mine
School
Train station or shunting
yardN
Sewage treatment plantA
Harbour
Hospitality facili
Dam or reservo
Old age home
Nature conserva
area
Archaeological s
Route 5
Sewage treatment plantA
Harbour
Landfill or waste treatment siteA
Mountain, koppie or ridge
Other land uses (describe):
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Informal resident
Heavy industria
Hospitality facil
Dam or reservo
Old age home
Nature conservatio
Archaeological
BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
Route 6
Natural area
Retail
Low density residential
Commercial & warehousing
Power stationA
Office/consulting room
Open cast mine
Hospital/medical center
Underground mine
School
Train station or shunting
yardN
Sewage treatment plantA
Harbour
Landfill or waste treatment siteA
Mountain, koppie or ridge
Other land uses (describe):
Medium density residential
Light industrial
Military or police
base/station/compound
Spoil heap or slimes dam
Tertiary education facility
High density residential
Medium industrialAN
Casino/entertainment
complex
Quarry, sand or borrow pit
Church
Railway lineN
Major road (4 lanes or more)N
AirportN
Sport facilities
Golf course
Polo fields
Filling stationH
Plantation
Agriculture
River, stream or wetland
Historical building
Graveyard
Museum
Microlight Airstrip
Informal resident
Heavy industria
Hospitality facil
Dam or reservo
Old age home
Nature conserva
area
Archaeological
If any of the boxes marked with an “N “are ticked, how will this impact / be impacted upon by the
proposed activity?
Route5 runs along Malibongwe Dr right approximately 300m from Lanseria Runway. Should
this option be taken forward, the proposed infrastructure would need to be undergrounded.
Please refer to Appendix G for Civil Aviation Report which analysis impacts of the proposed
development on the flight path around Lanseria Airport.
If any of the boxes marked with an "An" are ticked, how will this impact / be impacted upon by the
proposed activity?
If YES, specify and explain: N/A
If any of the boxes marked with an "H" are ticked, how will this impact / be impacted upon by the
proposed activity.
If YES, specify and explain:
Both route 4 and route 5 run in close proximity to filling stations, it is proposed that appropriate
mitigation measures are implemented to minimise risk to the filling stations. These may include
undergrounding, as is the case with Route 5. A minimum distance of 100m should be preserved
from the filling station.
6.
CULTURAL/HISTORICAL FEATURES
Are there any signs of culturally or historically significant elements, as
defined in section 2 of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999, (Act
No. 25 of 1999), including
Archaeological or palaeontological sites, on or close (within 20m) to the Yes
site?
If
YES, See specialist report (Appendix D) and summary below.
explain:
If uncertain, conduct a specialist investigation by a recognised specialist in the field to establish whether there is such
a feature(s) present on or close to the site.
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BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
Briefly
During the background research for the Heritage Statement, 22 heritage resources were identified
explain the within the project area. In addition, eight heritage resources were identified during the site survey.
findings
of They consist of the following:
the specialist:
 Graveyards;

Iron Age Stone walled sites;

Stone Age sites; and

Historical sites; and

The Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site).
Areas and sites of potential heritage value were identified during the site visit such as undisturbed
fields, river banks, rocky outcrops and historical dwellings. A sensitivity map was produced depicting
each route and substation option with identified heritage resources.
Will any building or structure older than 60 years be affected in any way?
NO
Is it necessary to apply for a permit in terms of the National Heritage
NO
Resources Act, 1999 (Act 25 of 1999)?
If yes, please submit or, make sure that the applicant or a specialist submits the necessary application to SAHRA or
the relevant provincial heritage agency and attach proof thereof to this application if such application has been made.
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BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
SECTION C: PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
1.
ADVERTISEMENT
The person conducting a public participation process must take into account any guidelines applicable
to public participation as contemplated in section 24J of the Act and must give notice to all potential
interested and affected parties of the application which is subjected to public participation by—
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
2.
fixing a notice board (of a size at least 60cm by 42cm; and must display the required
information in lettering and in a format as may be determined by the competent authority) at a
place conspicuous to the public at the boundary or on the fence of—
(i)
the site where the activity to which the application relates is or is to be undertaken; and
(ii)
any alternative site mentioned in the application;
giving written notice to—
(i)
the owner or person in control of that land if the applicant is not the owner or person in
control of the land;
(ii)
the occupiers of the site where the activity is or is to be undertaken or to any alternative
site where the activity is to be undertaken;
(iii)
owners and occupiers of land adjacent to the site where the activity is or is to be
undertaken or to any alternative site where the activity is to be undertaken;
(iv)
the municipal councillor of the ward in which the site or alternative site is situated and
any organisation of ratepayers that represent the community in the area;
(v)
the municipality which has jurisdiction in the area;
(vi)
any organ of state having jurisdiction in respect of any aspect of the activity; and
(vii)
any other party as required by the competent authority;
placing an advertisement in—
(i)
one local newspaper; or
(ii)
any official Gazette that is published specifically for the purpose of providing public
notice of applications or other submissions made in terms of these Regulations;
placing an advertisement in at least one provincial newspaper or national newspaper, if the
activity has or may have an impact that extends beyond the boundaries of the metropolitan or
local municipality in which it is or will be undertaken: Provided that this paragraph need
not
be complied with if an advertisement has been placed in an official Gazette referred to in
subregulation 54(c)(ii); and
using reasonable alternative methods, as agreed to by the competent authority, in those
instances where a person is desiring of but unable to participate in the process due to—
(i)
illiteracy;
(ii)
disability; or
(iii)
any other disadvantage.
CONTENT OF ADVERTISEMENTS AND NOTICES
A notice board, advertisement or notices must:
(a)
(b)
indicate the details of the application which is subjected to public participation;
and
state—
(i)
that the application has been submitted to the competent authority in terms of these
Regulations, as the case may be;
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BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
(ii)
whether basic assessment or scoping procedures are beingapplied to the
application, in the case of an application for environmental
authorisation;
(iii)
the nature and location of the activity to which the application relates;
(iv)
where further information on the application or activity can be obtained; and
(iv)
the manner in which and the person to whom representations in respect of the
application may be made.
3.
PLACEMENT OF ADVERTISEMENTS AND NOTICES
Where the proposed activity may have impacts that extend beyond the municipal area where it is
located, a notice must be placed in at least one provincial newspaper or national newspaper, indicating
that an application will be submitted to the competent authority in terms of these regulations, the nature
and location of the activity, where further information on the proposed activity can be obtained and the
manner in which representations in respect of the application can be made, unless a notice has been
placed in any Gazette that is published specifically for the purpose of providing notice to the public of
applications made in terms of the EIA regulations.
Advertisements and notices must make provision for all alternatives.
4.
DETERMINATION OF APPROPRIATE MEASURES
The practitioner must ensure that the public participation is adequate and must determine whether a
public meeting or any other additional measure is appropriate or not based on the particular nature of
each case. Special attention should be given to the involvement of local community structures such as
Ward Committees, ratepayers associations and traditional authorities where appropriate. Please note
that public concerns that emerge at a later stage that should have been addressed may cause the
competent authority to withdraw any authorisation it may have issued if it becomes apparent that the
public participation process was inadequate.
5.
COMMENTS AND RESPONSE REPORT
The practitioner must record all comments and respond to each comment of the public before the
application is submitted. The comments and responses must be captured in a comments and response
report as prescribed in the EIA regulations and be attached to this application. The comments and
response report must be attached under Appendix E.
6.
AUTHORITY PARTICIPATION
Please note that a complete list of all organs of state and or any other applicable authority with
their contact details must be appended to the basic assessment report or scoping report,
whichever is applicable.
Authorities are key interested and affected parties in each application and no decision on any
application will be made before the relevant local authority is provided with the opportunity to give input.
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BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
List of authorities informed:
1. National Departments:
o Civil Aviation Authority-CAA
o Department of Forestry and Fisheries
o Department of Co-operate Governance and Traditional Affairs
o Department of Arts and Culture
o Department of Economics Development
o Department of Human Settlement
o Department of Mineral Resources-DMR
o Department of Tourism
o Department of Water Affairs
o South Africa Heritage Resources-SAHRA
o SANPARK
o SANRAL
2. Provincial Governments:
o Gauteng Department of Economic Development
o Gauteng Dept.Tourism (Cradle of Humankind)
o Gauteng Department of Health
o Gauteng Dept. of Human Settlements
o Gauteng Dept. of Agriculture and Rural Development-GDARD
o Gauteng dept. of road and transport- GDRT
3. Local Governments:
o City of Johannesburg (planning, electrical and environmental departments)
o Mogale City(planning and electrical departments)
o City of Tshwane(planning department)
o Ward Councillors
 Ward 23:
 Ward 48
 Ward 96
 Ward 100
 Ward 114
o Codevco
o CDW Dept. of Housing and Local Government
o ANCYL
o Rhema Hands of Compassion
List of authorities from whom comments have been received:
1. National Departments:
o South Africa Heritage Resources-SAHRA
2. Provincial Governments:
o Gauteng Dept. of Agriculture and Rural Development-GDARD
3. Local Governments:
o Ward Councillors-100
(Please see Appendix E for these comments)
7.
CONSULTATION WITH OTHER STAKEHOLDERS
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Note that, for linear activities, or where deviation from the public participation requirements may be
appropriate, the person conducting the public participation process may deviate from the requirements
of that subregulation to the extent and in the manner as may be agreed to by the competent authority.
Proof of any such agreement must be provided, where applicable.
Has any comment been received from stakeholders?
YES
If “YES”, briefly describe the feedback below (also attach copies of any correspondence to and
from the stakeholders to this application):
A separate comments and response report has been attached to this report and comments from
stakeholders have been considered within the specialist reports. In summary the process is as
follows.
Application to the DEA
The following documents were signed and submitted to the DEA on 31 May 2011 as required:
 Application to undertake a listed activity
 EAP Declaration
 Specialists declaration form
 Acknowledgement letter was received from the DEA 07 June 2011
Stakeholder Consultation
Adverts
 Invitation to register as I&APs on 31 August 2011
 Circulate BID to registered I&APs on 16 September 2011
 Circulate BID, with new sites to registered I&APs on 15 March 2012
 Project was advertised on newspaper on 13 October 2011 on the Star, Beeld and Sowetan
 Additional routes and sites were advertised on 09 March 2012 on the Star, Beeld and Sowetan
 New BIDs, Comment forms, invitation letters to participate and registration forms have been
sent to Landowners on New Routes were circulated to registered I&APs on 19 March 2012
Meetings
Focus Group Meetings – landowners who are directly affected by the power line (1km area) and
substation.
 Zwartkops – 03 August 2011 affected by 3 and 6 and substation C. Route 6 was not yet part of
the study during this meeting.
 Rietfontein - 04 August 2011 affected by Route 3 and substation C
 Driefontein and Rietfontein Landowners – 04 August 2011 affected by all six routes Chartwell
North – 08 June 2011 land owners directly affected by routes 1 and 2 as well as substations A
and B.
 North Champagne - 08 June 2011 affected by routes 1 and 2 and substation A and B.
 and substation sites, although at the time of this meeting, route 4,5 and 6 and substation E
were not yet part of the study.
 Nooitgedacht - 12 April 2012 all six routes and substations
Key Stakeholder Workshop – Government Departments, Utilities, NGO’s, Tourism Operators,
Developers, Rate Payers Associations, CoHKWHS (Cradle) and SAHRA. Meetings was held at
Ekudeni on 01 November 2011
 Presentation was done by Lynette Groenewald (Urban Dynamics) on the development at Lion
Park and surrounding areas.
 Mr Anton Lotter (Croc City) gave presentation on the tourist and agricultural impact that the
lines will have in the area.
Public Meetings – Registered Interested and Affected Parties
 Hebron College 18 October 2011 – Eastern Section of the study area
 Ekudeni 19 October 2011 – Western Section of the study area
Authorities – Meetings with Municipalities and Ward Councillors
 Consultation with Community Leaders and Councillors – Zandspruit and Cosmo City 24 June
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BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
2011
 Consultation with Community Leaders and Councillors – Muldersdrift and Lanseria 29 June
2011
 Meeting with Mogale City – 01 April 2011
 Meeting with City of Johannesburg – 13 May 2011
 Meeting with City of Tshwane – 26 July 2011
One-on-One Meetings – Meetings affected landowners to explain the project.
 487 (89.7%) landowners were consulted using various consultation methods
 8 (1.5%) were sent information
 48 (8.8%) did not have contact details and were therefore not consulted
SECTION D: IMPACT ASSESSMENT
The assessment of impacts must adhere to the minimum requirements in the EIA Regulations, 2010,
and should take applicable official guidelines into account. The issues raised by interested and affected
parties should also be addressed in the assessment of impacts.
1.
ISSUES RAISED BY INTERESTED AND AFFECTED PARTIES
List the main issues raised by interested and affected parties.
Comments made by I&AP’s are contained within the Comments and Response Report at
Appendix E. Those listed below are the primary concerns identified:
 Visual Impact of Power Lines- see Visual Impact Specialist Report
 Changes to landscape character- see See Visual Impact Specialist Report
 Risks associated with Electro-magnetic fields- see Appendix X addressing tower type
and EMF profiles.
 Loss/change to business- See Economic Impact Report and Visual Impact Report
 Desires that the line should be undergrounded- see BAR summary at Appendix X and
Appendix X describing costs and constraints associated with underground options.
 Comments on Biodiversity- see specialist reports on Avifauna, Flora and Fauna and
Wetlands.
 Potential loss of agricultural land (mainly smallholdings)- see Economic Impact
Assessment.
 Comments offering land to Eskom for the servitude
 Concerns regarding disruption during construction- considered by all specialists and in
the BAR.
 Concerns regarding reductions in property value- see Economic Impact Report
Response from the practitioner to the issues raised by the interested and affected parties (A full
response must be given in the Comments and Response Report that must be attached to this report as
Annexure E):
See comments and response report at Appendix X
2.
IMPACTS THAT MAY RESULT FROM THE PLANNING AND DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION,
OPERATIONAL, DECOMMISSIONING AND CLOSURE PHASES AS WELL AS PROPOSED
MANAGEMENT OF IDENTIFIED IMPACTS AND PROPOSED MITIGATION MEASURES
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List the potential direct, indirect and cumulative property/activity/design/technology/operational
alternative related impacts (as appropriate) that are likely to occur as a result of the planning and
design phase, construction phase, operational phase, decommissioning and closure phase, including
impacts relating to the choice of site/activity/technology alternatives as well as the mitigation measures
that may eliminate or reduce the potential impacts listed.
Alternative (preferred alternative)
Direct impacts:
Please see Specialist Report in Appendix D and Supplementary Report in Appendix G
Indirect impacts:
Please see Specialist Report in Appendix D and Supplementary Report in Appendix G
Cumulative impacts:
Please see Specialist Report in Appendix D and Supplementary Report in Appendix G
3.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT
Taking the assessment of potential impacts into account, please provide an environmental impact
statement that summarises the impact that the proposed activity and its alternatives may have on the
environment after the management and mitigation of impacts have been taken into account, with
specific reference to types of impact, duration of impacts, likelihood of potential impacts actually
occurring and the significance of impacts.
Our findings suggest that, although it is likely that the undergrounding option using Malibongwe
Drive (Option 5a) will be preferred by the public and may result in a lower overall impact at a
corridor level, this option is not considered feasible or reasonable based on the available
knowledge. Furthermore, when examined at a servitude level it is less clear that such an option
would result in significantly lower environmental impacts (it would need to run along the
western side of Malibongwe Drive which is more sensitive than the eastern edge) than
overhead lines, the impact of which can often be mitigated through placement and design
considerations.. Given the cost of taking forward this option (up to 20 x the cost of an overhead
line) it is our view that there is too much uncertainty regarding feasibility and insufficient
environmental benefit to justify the cost of such a proposal thereby passing the test of
reasonableness. Thus, taking into account all of the factors identified through extensive study,
Route Corridor Option 1 and Substation Option A are recommended.
Alternative A (preferred alternative)
Route Corridor 1 and Substation A are the preferred Alternatives. Though there are a number
of potentially unavoidable impacts resulting from the selection of Route Corridor 1, these are
generally limited to visual impact. The route is able to follow existing infrastructure for the
majority of its length and furthermore can be sited in the most part in such a way that it only
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passes through areas of low to medium sensitivity. The mitigation measures outlined in
specialist reports and the Environmental Management Plan appended to this document will
need to be implemented as part of the proposed development.
Within Route options 1, 2 and 4, there is some scope to select a servitude which further
minimises the impact of the proposed development. The servitude can be selected which
affects only areas of low sensitivity and can be further modified to minimise land take and
integrate with existing infrastructure such as roads and existing power lines. Detailed servitude
selection will take place after further, more detailed surveys and a site walkover.
No-go alternative (compulsory)
The “No Go” alternative is assumed to mean no development on the site, and the maintenance
of the current status quo. This will not be in the best interest of the client and public, as
infrastructural upgrades and development in relation to governing service delivery bodies within
this region has already invested their trust into this development becoming realised.
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SECTION E.
RECOMMENDATION OF PRACTITIONER
Is the information contained in this report and the documentation attached YES
hereto sufficient to make a decision in respect of the activity applied for (in the
view of the environmental assessment practitioner)?
NO
If “NO”, indicate the aspects that should be assessed further as part of a Scoping and EIA process
before a decision can be made (list the aspects that require further assessment):
If “YES”, please list any recommended conditions, including mitigation measures that should be
considered for inclusion in any authorisation that may be granted by the competent authority in respect
of the application:
Mitigation measures for the impacts identified for this project are outlined in the the Specialist
Report in Appendix D and Supplementary Report in Appendix G and there is also an
Environmental Management Plan in Appendix F
Is an EMPr attached?
YES NO
The EMPr must be attached as Appendix F.
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SECTION F: APPENDIXES
The following appendixes must be attached as appropriate:
Appendix A: Site plan(s)
Appendix B: Photographs
Appendix C: Facility illustration(s)
Appendix D: Specialist reports
Appendix E: Comments and responses report
Appendix F: Environmental Management Programme (EMPr)
Appendix G: Other information
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