Case Decision - 351648

Interim Comment

The SAHRA Development Applications Unit (DAU) requests that an assessment of the impact to heritage resources that complies with section 38(3) of the NHRA as required by section 38(8) of the NHRA must be conducted as part of the EA process. The HIA must include an archaeological and palaeontological component. 

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

A desktop Palaeontological Impact Assessment (PIA) must be undertaken by a qualified palaeontologist. (See https://www.palaeosa.org/heritage-practitioners.html for a list of qualified palaeontologists). The report must comply with the 2012 Minimum Standards: Palaeontological Components of Heritage Impact Assessments. The Minimum Standards refer to a Letter of Recommendation for Exemption for further studies should the specialist deem it appropriate. SAHRA reserves the right to insist on a full desktop assessment should the Letter of Recommendation not provide ample information to make an informed comment.

Further comments will be issued upon receipt of the above requested reports and draft EIA inclusive of appendices.