Case Decision - 198062

The South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) would like to thank you for submitting the Background Information Document (BID) for the Port of Richards Bay Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) report. 
The BID outlines the scope of the Port of Richards Bay Master Plan 2021-2035 that was compiled by the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA). It serves to provide an overview of the Strategic Environmental Assessment that is being undertaken for the Port of Richards Bay and the steps involved in the assessment. 
The National Heritage Resources Act (No25 of 1999) legislates the protection of South Africa’s heritage resources and stipulates that the identification and protection of these sites must be considered during the developmental framework. SAHRA’s Maritime and Underwater Cultural Heritage (MUCH) Unit is responsible for protecting and managing all underwater cultural heritage below the high-water mark along South Africa’s approximately 3000km of coastline, this includes harbours and maritime infrastructure. 
It is imperative that heritage is considered as part of the SEA and therefore the MUCH unit at SAHRA recommends that a Heritage Impact Assessment be undertaken as part of the project. This will identify areas within the Port of Richards Bay where heritage resources are present and develop a better understanding of what the legislative requirements may be, it should also recommend mitigation measures that may be needed during future proposed developments. 
It is worth noting that a permit will be required from the MUCH unit if any historic wrecks older than 60 years of age are to be damaged or disturbed or for any work undertaken on any maritime infrastructure, such as wharfs or berths, over 60 years of age.