Case Decision - 381718

Interim Comment:

The SAHRA Development Applications Unit (DAU) is making the following comments in terms of section 38(8) of the National Heritage Resources Act as contemplated by the EIA process in terms of section 24(4)b(ii) of NEMA:

• The SAHRA DAU acknowledges receipt of the HIA report and Letter of Exemption for PIA specialist studies. 
• Given the high Palaeosensitivity of the area based on the SAHRIS Palaeosensitivity Map and Prof. Bamford's letter, the SAHRA DAU deems it necessary for the PIA field-based study to be undertaken. 
• The SAHRA DAU is therefore requesting a field-based Palaeontological Impact Assessment report for the proposed developments in terms of section 38(8) of the NHRA.
• The 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 field-based assessment should the Letter of Recommendation not provide ample information to make an informed comment.
• Further comments will be issued upon receipt of the desktop PIA report.