WATER USE AUTHORISATION APPLICATION - IDM Consultants...The development footprint is located approximately 95m to the north of the wetland (from an aerial perspective) and thus no

WATER USE AUTHORISATION APPLICATION

IN TERMS OF SECTION 40 OF THE

NATIONAL WATER ACT, 1998 (ACT 36 of 1998) for SECTION 21(c), SECTION (g) and SECTION 21(i) WATER USES

THE PROPOSED HAMMARSDALE INDUSTRIAL

ESTATE DEVELOPMENT ON PORTION 4 OF THE

FARM LOT A, STERK SPRUIT NO. 2627

KWAZULU NATAL

Prepared for:

Catchway Properties (Pty) Ltd

Prepared by:

Louise Zdanow Of

EnviroSwift KZN SACNASP Reg. no. 114072

Date: October 2019 (Updated)

EnviroSwift KZN Page 1

Hammersdale Industrial Estate: Water Use Autorisation Application

Specialist Details and Experience

Ms. Louise Zdanow Louise is the Managing Director of EnviroSwift KZN (Pty) Ltd. She has a BSc Honours degree in Botany from the University of Cape Town. She began working as an environmental specialist in 2012 and has since gained extensive experience in conducting freshwater as well as botanical assessments in the residential, mining and infrastructure development industries. Louise is a registered Professional Natural Scientist (Pr. Sci. Nat.) with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP, Reg. no. 114072), and is an accredited SASS5 practitioner. She is a member of the South African Wetland Society and the International Association of Impact Assessments South Africa. She has received a certificate of competence for the Tools for Wetland Assessments course attended at Rhodes University, and has attended a soil classification course presented by Jon Atkinson of the KZN Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

I, Louise Zdanow confirm:

The correctness of all information within this technical document;

All I&AP comments and inputs will be included into this Report;

The inclusion of inputs and recommendations from the specialist reports where relevant; and

I do not have and will not have any vested interest (either business, financial, personal or other) in

the proposed activity proceeding other than remuneration for work performed in terms of the

Regulations.

NB: Please note this Report was updated by Mr. Justin Pietro Ellero of IDM Consultants to include the water

uses associated with the proposed external road upgrade and the installation of the sewage pipeline from

the development to the Hammarsdale Waste Water Treatment Works. The Report was further updated to

include the water use for the temporary storage of sewage in honeysuckers until such a time that the

Hammarsdale Waste Water Treatment Works is duly authorised and upgraded.

Mr. Justin Pietro Ellero

Mr. Justin Ellero is an Environmental Assessment Practitioner with four and a half years’ experience in

conducting Environmental Impact Assessments, Water Use License Applications, Mining applications and

Waste Management Licensing. His project experience list includes municipal pipelines, Eskom powerlines,

Eco-Lodge developments, residential estates, industrial parks, mining permits and development at the King

Shaka International Airport.

I, Justin Ellero confirm:

The correctness of all information within this technical document;

All I&AP comments and inputs will be included into this Report;

The inclusion of inputs and recommendations from the specialist reports where relevant; and

I do not have and will not have any vested interest (either business, financial, personal or other) in

the proposed activity proceeding other than remuneration for work performed in terms of the

Regulations.



TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................ 4

2. APPLICANT DETAILS .................................................................................................................................. 7

3. LOCATION OF PROJECT ............................................................................................................................ 8

4. PROJECT DESCRIPTION ............................................................................................................................. 9

5. WATER SUPPLY ........................................................................................................................................... 12

6. DOMESTIC WASTE HANDLING .............................................................................................................. 12

7. SEWAGE TREATMENT FACILITIES ...................................................................................................... 13

8. REHABILITATION ...................................................................................................................................... 13

9. INFRASTRUCTURE ON THE SITE ........................................................................................................... 14

10. STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PLAN ................................................................................................ 14

11. WATER USES APPLIED FOR .................................................................................................................. 15

12. AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT ................................................................................................................... 16

13. IMPACTS OF ACTIVITIES ON WATER RESOURCES AND MITIGATION MEASURES ........... 20

14. IMPACTS ON WATERCOURSE FROM CONSERVANCY TANKS ................................................... 24

15. CORRESPONDENCE ................................................................................................................................. 25

15.1 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ................................................................................................................ 25 15.2 REGISTER OF INTERESTED AND AFFECTED PARTIES ............................................................ 26 15.3 PUBLIC MEETINGS.......................................................................................................................... 27 15.4 COMMENTS RECEIVED FROM INTERESTED AND AFFECTED PARTIES .............................. 27

16. MOTIVATION IN TERMS OF SECTION 27 (1) OF THE NWA .......................................................... 27

17. CHECKLIST OF REQUIRED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION ................................................... 29

18. CONCLUSION ............................................................................................................................................. 30

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1: Location of the proposed Hammarsdale Industrial Estate (indicated in red) ..................... 4 Figure 2: Regional view of the proposed Hammarsdale Industrial Estate (indicated in red) ............. 4 Figure 3: Development footprint in relation to the 1:100 year floodline as indicated by DMOSS (small

area in which development footprint extends into floodline indicated by yellow circle). ..... 5 Figure 4: Development footprint in relation to the 1:100 year floodline as indicated by DMOSS (small

area in which development footprint extends into floodline indicated by yellow circle). ..... 6 Figure 5: Portion of the proposed development footprint (as indicated in Figure 4 above) located

adjacent to the riparian habitat associated with the Sterkspruit River................................. 6 Figure 6: Channelled valley bottom wetland within 500m of the proposed development footprint. ... 7 Figure 7: Delineation of wetland features within the 500m regulated area which are located

downslope of the proposed sewage line and external road upgrade. ................................. 7 Figure 8: Expansion of development into the DMOSS layer (Yellow highlighted areas). The red line

represents the boundary of the former poultry farm that the proposed Hammarsdale Industrial Estate will be built in .......................................................................................... 10

Figure 9: Building regulations for the platforms ................................................................................ 12 Figure 10: Proposed Hammarsdale Industrial Park Layout ............................................................... 12 Figure 11: Critical Biodiversity Areas and Biodiversity Areas indicated by the KZN TSCP and the KZN

BSP .................................................................................................................................... 18



Figure 12: Developed areas indicated as an irreplaceable CBA in Figure 9 (Located in green circles) ............................................................................................................................... 18

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1: Applicant and property information ...................................................................................... 7 Table 2: Summary of property details for the Hammarsdale Industrial Estate ................................. 8 Table 3: Water uses applied for the Hammarsdale Industrial Estate Development. ....................... 15 Table 4: Impacts of Section 21 C and I activities applied for.......................................................... 21 Table 5: Impacts of Section 21 G activities applied for ................................................................... 27 Table 6: Registered Interested and Affected Parties ....................................................................... 27 Table 7: Details on the anticipated socio-economic values associated with the proposed project . 27 Table 8: Checklist of required information ....................................................................................... 30



1. INTRODUCTION

EnviroSwift KZN (Pty) Ltd has been appointed by Catchway Properties (Pty) Ltd in order to conduct a

Freshwater Impact Assessment and Water Use License Application for the proposed Hammarsdale

Industrial Estate on Portion 4 of the Farm Lot A, Sterkspruit 2627 within Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal

(hereafter referred to as the development footprint).

Figure 1: Location of the proposed Hammarsdale Industrial Estate (indicated in red)

Figure 2: Regional view of the proposed Hammarsdale Industrial Estate (indicated in red)

The proposed development is for a Mini Sub Industrial Park (light-industrial) comprising of single and multi-

story structures developed on 30 platforms on the property and the connection of certain municipal services



to each of these individual platforms. The total platform area to be developed on is 149 457m2 and currently

consists of derelict buildings, foundations and lawns from former poultry operations.

The following activities require authorisation in terms of Section 21 (c), (g) and (i) of the National

Water Act:

The proposed upgrading of an existing internal access road within a small portion of the 1:100

year floodline of the Sterkspruit River (as indicated by the Durban Metropolitan Open Space

Systems (D’MOSS) layer)1. However, no riparian habitat will be removed or damaged due to the

fact that the road is already established (Figure 3, 4 and 5).

The proposed Hammarsdale Industrial Estate will be located within 500m of a channelled valley

bottom wetland. The development footprint is located approximately 95m to the north of the

wetland (from an aerial perspective) and thus no development will take place within the wetland

itself (Figure 6).In addition, the wetland exists in an area at the bottom of a cliff, approximately 95

meters across and over 100 meters below the development site.

A proposed external sewer line will be installed along Kelly Road from the Development to the tie

in chamber at the Hammarsdale Waste Water Treatment Works. This external sewer line will be

within 500m of four watercourses (downstream watercourses – possible impact). The proposed

sewer line will be installed once the Hammarsadale Waste Water Treatment Works is upgraded

and is duly authorised by the Department of Water and Sanitation. The watercourses are all located

adjacent to the Waste Water Treatment Works (Figure 7).

The temporary storage of sewage onsite by way of a series of conservancy tanks located on

each proposed development platform, and the disposal will take place off site via a registered

wastewater disposal company utilising honeysuckers. This is a short-term measure until such a

time that the Hammarsdale Waste Water Treatment Works is authorised and upgraded.

The upgrading of the existing external access road (Kelly Road) will be located within 500m of

four watercourses (downstream watercourses – possible impact).

Figure 3: Development footprint in relation to the 1:100 year floodline as indicated by DMOSS (small

area in which development footprint extends into floodline indicated by yellow circle).

1 According to Dr S. Saroop (additional engineering comments in APPENDIX 22), the development and proposed road upgrade are

generally around 30m above the river level. The road level is therefore well above the 1:100 year flood level. It has therefore been

advised that the DMOSS indicated 1: 100 year floodline is incorrect (Saroop, 2018).



Figure 4: Development footprint in relation to the 1:100 year floodline as indicated by DMOSS (small

area in which development footprint extends into floodline indicated by yellow circle).

Figure 5: Portion of the proposed development footprint (as indicated in Figure 4 above) located

adjacent to the riparian habitat associated with the Sterkspruit River.

Existing road to be upgraded



Figure 6: Channelled valley bottom wetland within 500m of the proposed development footprint.

Figure 7: Delineation of wetland features within the 500m regulated area which are located

downslope of the proposed sewage line and external road upgrade

2. APPLICANT DETAILS

Table 1: Applicant and property information

Applicant details

Name of applicant (Company) Catchway Properties (Pty) Ltd

Business registration number 2015/114873/07

Contact details of applicant

Contact Person Mr. Kelvin Paul Kotze



Email [email protected]

Postal address 73 Villiers Drive

Clarendon

Pietermaritzburg

KwaZulu Natal

3206

Phone number 087 802 1191

Property details

Water management area Mvoti to Umzimkulu

Sub water management area Mgeni

Quaternary catchment U60C

Property name Portion 4 of Lot A Sterspruit 2627

3. LOCATION OF PROJECT

Note: The description below has been extracted from the Basic Assessment Report (APPENDIX 11,

Sections 1.2, 4.3 and 4.6).

The proposed Hammarsdale Industrial Estate is situated south of the Hammarsdale industrial area (Figure

1 and 2) in the outer western region of the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality. A detailed sketch plan of

the proposed industrial site is located in Appendix 7, below contains a summary of the property of the site.

Table 2: Summary of property details for the Hammarsdale Industrial Estate

Farm Name Portion 4 of Lot A Sterkspruit no.2627

Application Area Total Development area = 33ha

Magisterial District eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality

Direction to nearest town 1,1km South from the Hammarsdale Industrial Area

SG 21 Code N0FT00000000262700004

The proposed site for the development was previously utilised as a Rainbow Chicken poultry farm as

evidenced by the existing structures, many of which are derelict or have been demolished leaving only

foundations / floor slabs and builders rubble. Minor existing earthworks are evident in the central hilltop

portions in the form of small terraced cut to fill platforms (< 3m high), some of which accommodate existing

dwelling structures or car park / truck yards. Lawn gardens are also evident on site.

The development footprint falls within the North Eastern Coastal Belt Ecoregion, within the Mvoti to

Umzimkulu Water Management Area (WMA) and within the Mgeni sub-Water Management Area (sub-

WMA) as defined by the National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas project (NFEPA, 2011). The

quaternary catchment indicated for the development footprint is U60C.

The proposed development footprint is located on a hilltop on the inner bend of the Sterkspruit River, with

its western boundary located directly adjacent to the river (Figure 6). The portion of the Sterkspruit River

associated with the proposed development footprint can be classified as an upper foothill river characterised

by a moderately steep, cobble-bed and mixed bedrock-cobble bed channel, with plane bed, pool-riffle and

pool-rapid reach types.

A channelled valley bottom wetland has developed on the banks of the Sterkspruit River (Figure 6). This

wetland is fed by water inputs from the river as well as from the adjacent valley side slopes. The wetland is

dominated by obligate and facultative wetland species including Cyperus dives (Giant Sedge), Sporobolus

pyramidalis (Cats-tail dropseed), Cyperus esculentus (Yellow Nutsedge), Centella asiatica (Asiatic

Pennywort), Stenotaphrum secundatum (Buffalo Grass), Pycreus polystachyos (Bunchy Flat Sedge),

Kylinga sp. and Miscanthus capensis (Daba Grass).



4. PROJECT DESCRIPTION


Section 2.1).

Planning:

Before construction can commence, the site must be prepared/established for the construction phase. This

includes:

Ensuring all necessary permits, approvals and authorisations have been received;

Environmental training and awareness for all managers, workers, contractors or sub-contractors;

The demarcating of the construction boundary and strict no go areas (DMOSS/watercourses);

Determining the location of the construction offices/camp;

The erecting of Construction signage and fences. The existing fence must be extended to include

the two DMOSS areas to be incorporated into the development;

The placement of a portable toilets, bins, spill kits and first aid kits (where necessary);

Determining the need and location for temporary services such as electricity and water;

Implementing of security and safety measures;

The removal and storage of topsoil that will be kept for the rehabilitation phase;

Preparing all the internal roads;

Preparing equipment and vehicles for operation;

Ensuring that there are no protected trees or fauna on site. The protected aloes must be clearly

marked and be rescued and relocated; and

Implementing of erosion and stormwater control on site.

Construction:

The construction phase involves the decommissioning of existing buildings, parking lots, lawns and

foundations from the former poultry farm and the development of a series of platforms for businesses to

develop upon. Platforms are to be cut/filled with a minimum of 95% Mod AASHTO. Cut embankments are

to be terraced in 1: 1.5 and fill embankments are to be terraced in 1:75. A balanced cut to fill platform model

will be achieved to eliminate haulage costs. The structure types are anticipated to vary from lightly loaded

to heavily loaded warehouse / industrial type structures. In light of the sloping ground requiring a cut to fill

platform, and the presence of potentially collapsible and compressible soil types, the foundation type will

vary from:

Cut portions - structures founded on deep pad footings or deep reinforced strip footings in soils

(taken down to bedrock for heavier structures), to

Fill portions - structures founded on rafts or reinforced ground beams supported on Continuous

Flight Auger (CFA) end bearing piles socketed into competent sandstone bedrock, especially for

heavier structures.

Development will extend into two small sections (7715m2 in total) of DMOSS to the North and North Western

sections of the property (Figure 8). The proposed expansion into the DMOSS areas are located directly

adjacent to the abandoned and derelict poultry farm infrastructure and as a result has been significantly

impacted on from the ‘edge effect’. This has resulted in the significant encroachment of alien and invasive

species into these DMOSS sections at the expense of indigenous vegetation.

In order to compensate for the small loss of DMOSS, the Applicant has proposed converting the greater

portion of the property that contains a higher quality DMOSS to a non-useable conservation zone. This will

further entail rehabilitation of this proposed conservation area and removing rubble and invasive alien

species. Lastly, two platforms containing derelict buildings and lawn will be rehabilitated and indigenous

vegetation planted in order to return these areas to a natural state. This to further compensate for the loss

of DMOSS vegetation.

A Master Layout Plan of the proposed development is provided in APPENDIX 9.



Figure 8: Expansion of development into the DMOSS layer (Yellow highlighted areas). The red line

represents the boundary of the former poultry farm that the proposed Hammarsdale Industrial

Estate will be built in

Operation:

The proposed development is for a Mini Sub Industrial Park comprising of single and multi-story structures

developed on 30 platforms on the property and the connection of certain municipal services to each of

these individual platforms (Figure 10). The property currently falls outside of the town-planning scheme

and is to be zoned as Light Industrial 3 in order to accommodate the development. The Light Industrial 3

zoning classification will enable owners to build up to 6 stories high with a 70% coverage and a Floor Area

Ratio (FAR) of 1.4. The Industrial Park’s target market will be for small/medium light industries, warehousing

and Logistics companies seeking more affordable development space than those provided in

Durban/Pinetown. A summary of potential types of businesses that may develop upon the platforms as well

as building regulations are provided in Figure 9 below.

The proposed development of the Hammarsdale Industrial Estate will consist of two phases. The first phase

will offer 149 457m2 of fully serviced, un-platformed freehold subdivisions for sale, with investors needing

to enter into a construction contract with the Applicant for the subdivision platform, with commencement of

construction within 12 months of taking transfer of the property.

The Applicant has further committed to ensuring that the proposed Hammarsdale Industrial Estate

embodies sustainable development principals due to the sensitive environment surrounding the proposed

site. Businesses/tenants will be encouraged to adopt an eco-approach to not only the development of their

new facilities, but also in terms of broader Park commitments. This will manifest itself through:

providing ongoing preservation contributions to the upkeep of the surrounding conservancy;

Internal green areas and verges per indigenous planting protocol;

Energy efficient building designs;

Storm water storage and recycling;

Solar power and hot water;

Efficient, recycling orientated waste management protocols and systems; and

Eco friendly building designs and material usage where practical.



Figure 9: Building regulations for the platforms

Figure 9: Building regulations for the different platforms

Decommissioning:

It is unlikely that the development would be decommissioned.



Figure 10: Proposed Hammarsdale Industrial Park Layout

5. WATER SUPPLY

Note: The description below has been extracted from the Engineering Services Report (APPENDIX

22, Section 3.1 and 4.1) and the Basic Assessment (APPENDIX 11, Section 2.2.1)

Bulk water will be supplied by the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality. An existing 100mmØ watermain is

located to the north of the development along Kelly Road. According to the Engineering Report, the

Hammarsdale Reservoir has sufficient capacity to support the proposed development. Initial calculations

estimate that the operation of the Industrial Park will require 247 053 litres per day. The water main will run

along the road reserve of Kelly road to the tie-in chamber at the entrance of the Sterkspruit property.

Rainwater harvesting will be recommended to the different platform owners to ensure that the Industry Park

embodies sustainable principals. This will help to decrease the demand of water from the Reservoir and

aid in stormwater management.

6. DOMESTIC WASTE HANDLING


22, Section 4.5).

The eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality will supply the service of removing refuse from the project area.

The Hammarsdale Transfer Station has sufficient bulk solid waste disposal capacity to service the

development. Platform owners will be encouraged to implement a basic recycling system.



7. SEWAGE TREATMENT FACILITIES


22, Section 3.2 and 4.2) and the Basic Assessment (APPENDIX 11, Section 2.2.2)

Currently, there is no bulk sewer reticulation on site; however plans are for the development to tie into the

existing Hammarsdale Waste Water Treatment Works to the north of the site. The eThekwini Metropolitan

Municipality has confirmed that there is adequate capacity at the works, once upgrades to the Works have

been completed. The Department of Water and Sanitation has further indicated that no sewage may be

disposed of at the Works until such a time that the Works is duly authorised by the Department. Thus until

such a time that the Hammarsdale Waste Water Treatment Works is authorised and upgrades have been

completed, the Development will temporarily store waste water in conservancy tanks to be collected and

disposed of offsite by a registered waste water disposal company.

Temporary sewage disposal – Conservancy Tanks and Honeysuckers

Sewage disposal in the short term will take place through the storage of waste in a series of conservancy

tanks located on each individual platform and the disposal of this waste on a regulated periodic basis

through the usage of an external service provider utilising honeysuckers. The conservancy tank on site will

be fully enclosed and will either be precast concrete, plastic, or a reinforced concrete tank. The slab would

have cast iron manhole covers for personal access. The tank will also be constructed with Derbigum

waterproofing and coated with a Polybron layer. Polybron ensures that the structure is resistant to corrosion,

chemicals, abrasion impact and weather permeability – sewer will be contained at all times. Each tank will

be emptied every two weeks and have been designed to only reach capacity after 3.6 weeks. Thus sufficient

storage capacity has been calculated into the design in the event of emergencies occurring.

Permeant sewage disposal in the medium/long term – tie in to the municipal system

Once the Hammarsdale Waste Water Treatment Works is authorised and upgrades to the Plant have been

completed, the development plans to tie into the municipal system. There is no municipal sewer reticulation

onsite and thus a new pipeline will be developed, from the development to the Hammarsdale Waste Water

Treatment Works, which is located along Kelly Road. The proposed external sewer line from the

Hammarsdale Treatment Works to the tie-in chamber at the entrance of the Sterkspruit property will run

along the road reserve of Kelly Road (Kelly Road will be upgraded to accommodate increase traffic flow).

The pipe from the Works to the property will thus not encroach into any DMOSS or watercourses. As per

the sewer layout map in APPENDIX 22, there are future municipal plans to extend the sewer line through

DMOSS to the south of the property. A pump-station is further proposed. It must be noted that this future

expansion of the sewer pipeline is part of municipal plans to extend services to the surrounding community.

Thus, the Municipality will undertake the necessary environmental application processes for this expansion.

The Internal sewer line layout is reflected in APPENDIX 22. Other than the two DMOSS areas agreed upon

with eThekwini that the development footprint may encroach upon, the sewer line may not run through any

further DMOSS. Careful planning must take place during the construction phase to ensure this further

encroachment does not occur (this especially with the section of the pipeline running to the south of the

property), as the internal sewer pipeline runs on the boundary of the development footprint and thus

adjacent to the DMOSS. Furthermore, pipe failure detection measures will be in place as well as plans in

case of Draft Basic Assessment Report: Proposed Hammarsdale Industrial Estate: Outer Western Region:

eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality emergencies or spillages. Measures have been included in the EMP

(Appendix 13). A pump-station will further have to be created at the west of the property in due course.

8. REHABILITATION

Note: The description below has been extracted from the Freshwater Specialist Assessment Report

(APPENDIX 14, Section 5.1.1) and the Basic Assessment Report (APPENDIX 11, Section 2.1.7)



Development will not take place within wetland or riparian habitat and a detailed wetland/riparian

rehabilitation plan is therefore not required. However, the following mitigation measure has been

recommended within the Freshwater Specialist Assessment Report:

Immediately rehabilitate any accidental disturbance to portions of riparian habitat located adjacent to

the development footprint. This can be achieved through the ripping of compacted soils to a depth of

300mm and through the reprofiling of areas to pre-disturbance conditions. Reprofiled areas must

then be revegetated with riparian species indigenous to the vegetation type.

The Basic Assessment report (APPENDIX 11) also makes the following reference to rehabilitation

measures:

Rehabilitation must be viewed as an on-going process and must not be confined to one specific

phase of the project life cycle. Rehabilitation will include the re-vegetation of any disturbed area and

the creation of a stable land surface that is not subject to erosion or inundation of water. Re-

vegetation must aim to accelerate the natural succession processes so that a healthy plant/riparian

community develops. Rehabilitation measures have been proposed in the Environmental

Management Programme (EMP) (APPENDIX 13) and must be strictly adhered to. Rehabilitation of

the surrounding DMOSS layer will occur and this area will be converted into a non-useable

conservation zone. Two platform areas in its entirety will be revegetated and returned to its natural

state in order to compensate for the DMOSS loss.

9. INFRASTRUCTURE ON THE SITE


Section 2.1.4 and 2.1.5)

The construction phase involves the decommissioning of existing buildings, parking lots, lawns and

foundations from the former poultry farm and the development of a series of platforms for businesses to

develop upon. Platforms are to be cut/filled with a minimum of 95% Mod AASHTO. Cut embankments are

to be terraced in 1: 1.5 and fill embankments are to be terraced in 1:75. A balanced cut to fill platform model

will be achieved to eliminate haulage costs. The structure types are anticipated to vary from lightly loaded

to heavily loaded warehouse / industrial type structures. In light of the sloping ground requiring a cut to fill

platform, and the presence of potentially collapsible and compressible soil types, the foundation type will

vary from:

Cut portions - structures founded on deep pad footings or deep reinforced strip footings in soils

(taken down to bedrock for heavier structures), to

Fill portions - structures founded on rafts or reinforced ground beams supported on Continuous

Flight Auger (CFA) end bearing piles socketed into competent sandstone bedrock, especially for

heavier structures.

The proposed development is for a Mini Sub Industrial Park comprising of single and multi-story structures

developed on 30 platforms on the property and the connection of certain municipal services to each of

these individual platforms. The property currently falls outside of the town planning scheme and is to be

zoned as Light Industrial 3 in order to accommodate the development. The Light Industrial 3 zoning

classification will enable owners to build up to 6 stories high with a 70% coverage and a Floor Area Ratio

(FAR) of 1.4. The Industrial Park’s target market will be for small/medium light industries, warehousing and

Logistics companies seeking more affordable development space than those provided in Durban/Pinetown.

An existing access road will be upgraded within a very small portion of the 1: 100 year floodline of the

Sterkspruit River (as indicated by the D’MOSS layer). However, no riparian habitat will be removed as a

result.

10. STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PLAN

A comprehensive Stormwater Management Plan is contained in APPENDIX 21.



The stormwater management for this development will attenuate the increased flow due to development

from a 1: 50 year post development runoff down to a 1:10 year pre development flow. Where stormwater is

collected from the roadways it will be piped to the valleys attenuation chambers (please see master layout

plan in APPENDIX 9 for the location of these chambers). Attenuation consists of the temporary storage of

surface water in a suitable chamber below ground level. This chamber needs to be of sufficient size to

accommodate the calculated run-off during peak periods of rainfall. The stored water is then gradually

released in a controlled manner into surface water or combined drainage system or watercourse,

subsequently effectively reducing the risk of flooding. Erosion protection will be provided at all discharge

points. The development has proposed adequate stormwater drainage infrastructure to each site and is

based on the Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) approach to reduce the rate and volume of surface

water runoff, to restrict surface water runoff from development lands to pre-development rates, to manage

surface water and minimise flood risk and to integrate with open space and recreation provision.

11. WATER USES APPLIED FOR

The table below provides a list of the water uses applicable to the proposed development.

Table 3: Water uses applied for the Hammarsdale Industrial Estate Development:

Water uses Purpose Volume/ Dimensions

Property description as per Title Deeds

Co-ordinates Property Owner

Section 21 (c) and (i)

The proposed Hammarsdale Industrial Estate will be located within 500m of a Channelled Valley Bottom Wetland. No development will take place within the wetland itself or Specialist buffer. The development footprint is located approximately 95m to the north of the wetland.

N/a Portion 4 of Lot A Sterkspruit No 2627

29°49'4.30"S 30°39'53.55"E To 29°48'45.39"S 30°39'25.52"E



A portion of the existing internal road that is to be upgraded will be located within a small section of the 1:100 year floodline of the Sterkspruit River. No development will take place within the River itself. A motivation for the development within the 1:100 floodline is provided in Appendix 14.

Length – 1,5km total Width – widened by 1m

Portion 4 of Lot A Sterkspruit No 2627

29°48'47.27"S 30°39'57.67"E



Upgrading of the existing external access road is located within 500m of four watercourses.

Length – Kelly Road will not be lengthened. The existing road is 2,4km long. Width – the widening of Kelly Road to a minimum 7m in certain areas

Portion 6 Of Lot A Sterk Spruit, 2627/Ft And Remainder of the Farm Lot 12 No. 5761

29°48'39.17"S 30°40'4.92"E To 29°47'46.60"S 30°39'19.60"E

eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality


The proposed external sewer line is within 500m of a channelled valley

A Class 34, heavy duty pipeline.

Portion 6 Of Lot A

29°48'19.2"S 30°39'48.9"E

eThekwini Metropolit



bottom wetland at the Hammarsdale Waste Water Treatment Works.

160cm in diameter.

1.2km in length

Sterk Spruit, 2627/Ft

To 29°48'21.7"S 30°39'48.1"E

an Municipality


The proposed external sewer line is within 500m of an artificial drain at the Hammarsdale Waste Water Treatment Works.


160cm in diameter.

1.2km in length

Remainder of the Farm Lot 12 No. 5761 And Remainder of the Farm Lot 11 No. 1609

29°48'10.7"S 30°39'42.7"E To 29°48'08.2"S 30°39'54.1"E



The proposed external sewer line is within 500m of the Hammarsdale Dam at the Hammarsdale Waste Water Treatment Works.


160cm in diameter.

1.2km in length

Remainder of the Farm Lot 12 No. 5761 And Remainder of the Farm Lot 11 No. 1609

29°48'10.70"S 30°39'42.7"E To 29°48'18.9"S 30°39'52.5"E


Section 21 (g) The temporary storage of sewage onsite in a series of conservancy tanks located on each platform and disposal off site via a registered wastewater disposal company utilising honeysuckers.

Sewage volume per week = 13.5m3

Volume of Conservancy Tanks = 49m3

Portion 4 of Lot A Sterkspruit No 2627

29°48'39.9"S 30°40'04.8"E To 29°48'07.3"S 30°39'49.4"E


12. AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT


Section 4.1, 4.4 and 4.5)

Climate

The climate in the eThekwini region can be described as subtropical with humid warm summers and

relatively mild winters. The region lies within the southern subtropical high-pressure belt, coming under the

influence of eastward migrating high-pressure systems. The regional mean temperature is 25ºC in summer

and 20ºC in winter. The mean annual rainfall is approximately 1000 mm, ranging from some 900 mm to

1050 mm, mostly falling during September to April, with only about 150 mm falling in the period May to

August.

Topography and Geology

The site layout and topography comprises of a convex shape gently sloping hilltop area +5-10 ̊, which

steepens considerably +30-60 ̊ progressing down to the watercourse and site boundary on all sides. Only



the gently sloping central hilltop area which slopes at less than 1 in 3 (18 ̊) is suitable for development as

the remainder of the surrounding slopes are too steep for practical cost effective development.

The site is underlain by Natal Group Sandstone bedrock as depicted in the geological map Durban 2930

and evidenced in cutting exposures on the site. Minor Dolerite intrusions are to be expected, however none

were observed during the field reconnaissance. Regarding the gently sloping hilltop portion, there is no on-

site evidence of slope instability and slopes are generally deemed stable provided instability is not

introduced during the earthworks phase.

Geohydrological

Hand augering and infiltration tests revealed that there is no shallow groundwater or perched water table

up to a depth of 1.2mbgl. A hydraulic conductivity (average K-value) of 0. m/d was found for the soil in and

around the site. The top soil profile ranged from a depth of 0.25mbgl to 1.2mbgl and consisted of a light

brown fine-grained silty soil with low clay percentage (10-15% clay) with brown fine-grained sandy soil

underneath this profile. This layer transitioned to a more competent Red-brown medium grained sandy soil

that is situated on the bedrock

Vegetation

The development footprint and adjacent areas are located within the Grassland Biome (Mucina and

Rutherford, 2006), and according to the vegetation type map for KZN, are located within the Dry Coast

Hinterland Grassland vegetation type (Scott-Shaw and Escott, 2011) which is listed as Vulnerable within

the province (Jewitt, 2011). The Vulnerable status of the vegetation type is supported by the National List

of Threatened Terrestrial Ecosystems (2011) which also lists the study area as Vulnerable due to the

presence of Ngongoni Veld.

The eastern portion of the development footprint has been indicated as a Mandatory CBA and the western

portion, including the two small expansion areas, has been indicated as a Biodiversity Area by the KZN

TSCP (Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, 2010). However, the majority of the development footprint has not been

indicated as a CBA or as an ESA by the more recent KZN BSP (Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, 2016). This is

likely as a result of the transformation of vegetation within the development footprint boundary due to

historical development. The KZN BSP (Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, 2016) does indicate areas on the eastern

boundary of the development footprint as falling within an Irreplaceable CBA, however, these areas have

already been developed and no longer contain natural vegetation. Areas indicated as CBAs within the

development footprint are therefore not considered to be representative of areas of conservation

significance.



Figure 11: Critical Biodiversity Areas and Biodiversity Areas indicated by the KZN TSCP and the

KZN BSP

Figure 12: Developed areas indicated as an irreplaceable CBA in Figure 10 (Located in green circles)

The majority of the development footprint has already been developed (buildings, infrastructure and lawns),

however, the proponent wishes to expand the development into two small areas of D’MOSS containing

natural woodland vegetation (<1 ha). The two proposed expansion areas are located directly adjacent to

the North Western and Western boundary of the existing development footprint and have been impacted

on as a result of the edge effects of historical development related activities as well as by current

anthropogenic activities including dumping. This has resulted in the significant encroachment of alien and



invasive species into the areas at the expense of indigenous vegetation. The vegetation associated with

the proposed expansion areas is therefore not considered representative of intact Vulnerable Dry Coast

Hinterland Grassland at present; and the loss of a small area (<1ha) of significantly disturbed DMOSS area

is not likely to significantly impact on provincial biodiversity conservation targets. There were however, two

species of Aloe including Aloe marlothii and Aloe maculata encountered within the areas proposed for

expansion are listed as protected indigenous plants under the KwaZulu-Natal Nature Conservation

Ordinance (15 of 1994). Should these protected species be removed, a permit application will need to be

made to the relevant authority.

There is the possibility that the edge effects/construction creep of the proposed development may extend

into surrounding, more natural areas associated with the D’MOSS. Therefore mitigation measures must be

employed to ensure the remainder of the DMOSS vegetation is protected.

Freshwater Features adjacent to the proposed development site (Note: The section below should

be read in conjunction with the Freshwater Specialist Assessment Report (APPENDIX 14, Section

5.1)).

The proposed development footprint is located on a hilltop on the inner bend of the Sterkspruit River, with

its western boundary located directly adjacent to the river. The portion of the Sterkspruit River associated

with the proposed development footprint can be classified as an upper foothill river characterised by a

moderately steep, cobble-bed or mixed bedrock-cobble bed channel, with plane bed, pool-riffle and pool-

rapid reach types.

A channelled valley bottom wetland has developed on the banks of the Sterkspruit River. This wetland is

fed by water inputs from the river as well as from the adjacent valley side slopes. The wetland is dominated

by obligate2 and facultative3 wetland species including Cyperus dives (Giant Sedge), Sporobolus

pyramidalis (Cats-tail dropseed), Cyperus esculentus (Yellow Nutsedge), Centella asiatica (Asiatic

Pennywort), Stenotaphrum secundatum (Buffalo Grass), Pycreus polystachyos (Bunchy Flat Sedge),

Kylinga sp. and Miscanthus capensis (Daba Grass).

Both the Sterkspruit River and the channelled valley bottom wetland have been impacted on as a result of

industrial and urban activities within the catchment. The release of return flows from the Hammarsdale

Waste Water Treatment Works and the runoff of contaminants in stormwater runoff from the catchment has

impacted on the hydrology and water quality of the features. Disturbance of the features has also resulted

in the proliferation of alien and invasive species.

The River Index of Habitat Integrity Assessment (IHIA) was used to assess the PES of the portions of the

Sterkspruit River associated with the development footprint. The overall PES score calculated for the

Sterkspruit River falls within Category C (moderately modified - A loss and change of natural habitat and

biota has occurred but the basic ecosystem functions are still predominantly unchanged).

The WET-Health tool4 was used to assess the PES of the channelled valley bottom wetland. The overall

PES score calculated falls within Category D (largely modified: a large change in ecosystem processes and

loss of natural habitat and biota has occurred).

The Sterkspruit River is considered to be of a high Ecological Importance and Sensitivity (EIS) (delineations

that are considered to be unique on a national scale due to biodiversity. These rivers may be sensitive to

flow modifications but in some cases, may have a substantial capacity for use); and the channelled valley

bottom wetland is considered to be of a moderate EIS (wetlands that are considered to be ecologically

important and sensitive on a provincial or local scale. The biodiversity of these systems is not usually

sensitive to flow and habitat modifications. They play a small role in moderating the quantity and quality of

water of major rivers).

2 Almost always grow in wetlands (> 99% of occurrences). 3 Usually grow in wetlands (67-99% of occurrences) but occasionally are found in non-wetland areas 4 Macfarlane et. al. 2010



For the Recommended Ecological Category (REC) it is recommended that the PES categories of the

Sterkspruit River and the channelled valley bottom wetlands is maintained. This can be achieved through

the strict implementation of the mitigation measures as listed within Section 5 of this report. The

implementation of these mitigation measures will reduce the disturbance of the habitat associated with the

river and wetland as a result of the direct impacts identified.

The Buffer Zone Guidelines for Rivers, Wetlands and Estuaries5 was utilised in order to determine an

appropriate buffer area for the river and wetland. Factors such as the type of development as well as the

PES and EIS were considered during the calculation of the buffer. A buffer area of 23m was calculated for

the Sterkspruit River for the construction phase of the development and was applied from the edge of the

riparian zone of the river. A buffer of 20m was calculated for the channelled valley bottom wetland for the

construction phase of the development, however, this buffer area is covered by the 23m riparian buffer

zone. A small portion of the 23m buffer zone falls within the development footprint area. However, it should

be noted that this portion of the buffer is already significantly disturbed as a result of the removal of natural

vegetation for the historical development of the existing internal access road, and as a result of alien

invasive vegetation proliferation.

Freshwater features along the proposed sewage pipeline and road upgrade route

A number of artificial drains, presumably carrying stormwater from the WWTW, exit into the dam. One of

these artificial drains was characterized by the dominance of hydrophytic8 species including Paspalum cf.

dilatatum. and Cyperus sp. In addition, saturated, gleyed soils were encountered within the feature. The

drain is significantly incised as a result of erosion and the incised channel could therefore be utilized in

combination with wetland vegetation and hydromorphic soils in order to determine the boundary of the

feature.

A channelled valley bottom wetland was encountered directly downstream of the Hammarsdale Dam wall.

This wetland is fed by the overflow of water from the Sterkspruit River. The channelled valley bottom has

been significantly impacted as a result of the upstream dam and as a result of anthropogenic activity. The

wetland vegetation was dominated the hydrophytic species Paspalum cf dilatatum with small stands of

Cyperus sp. also encountered. The presence of these wetland species in combination with the presence of

hydomorphic soils could be used to delineate the boundary of the wetland.

The overall wetland health score calculated for the channelled valley bottom wetland falls within PES

Category D (Largely modified - A large change in ecosystem processes and loss of natural habitat and

biota has occurred).

The Hammarsdale Dam and the artificial drain were calculated to be of a low EIS (wetlands that are not

ecologically important and sensitive at any scale. The biodiversity of these wetlands is ubiquitous and not

sensitive to flow and habitat modifications. They play an insignificant role in moderating the quantity and

quality of water of major rivers). The channelled valley bottom wetland was calculated to be of a moderate

EIS (wetlands that are considered to be ecologically important and sensitive on a provincial or local scale.

The biodiversity of these systems is not usually sensitive to flow and habitat modifications. They play a

small role in moderating the quantity and quality of water of major rivers).

13. IMPACTS OF ACTIVITIES ON WATER RESOURCES AND MITIGATION MEASURES

Note: The section below should be read in conjunction with the Freshwater Specialist Assessment

Report (APPENDIX 14, Section 5.1).

Table 4: Impacts of Section 21 C and I activities applied for

5 Macfarlane and Bredin, 2016



Water use Activity Construction Operation

Impacts Mitigation measures



Upgrading of an existing access road within a very small portion of the 1: 100 year floodline. The proposed Hammarsdale Industrial Estate will be located within 500m of a channelled valley bottom wetland but no development will take place within the wetland. The development footprint is located approximately 95m to the north of the wetland

1. Disturbance of riparian habitat.

2. Increased runoff, erosion and sedimentation of riparian and wetland habitat.

3. Water quality impairment within the Sterkspruit River and the channelled valley bottom wetland.

Mitigation measures listed below.

1. Increased runoff from hardened surfaces resulting in the erosion and sedimentation of riparian and wetland habitat.

2. Water quality impairment within the Sterkspruit River and the channelled valley bottom wetland



The proposed external sewer line is within 500m of three watercoureses.

Same as the above.


Same as the above.



The upgrading of the existing external access road is located within 500m of three watercourses.

Same as the above.


Same as the above.


Construction Phase Mitigation Measures:

Impact 1: Disturbance of riparian habitat

The riparian habitat located directly adjacent to the western boundary of the development footprint

must be designated as a no-go area and any activities within the no-go area must be strictly

prohibited.

Demarcate the construction footprint and strictly prohibit any activities outside of the demarcated

footprint area.

Access into the development footprint must be limited to designated access roads only, access roads

must not traverse riparian habitat.

Road widening within the buffer area must occur to the south-east of the existing access road.

Widening of the road into the riparian habitat located to the north-west of the existing road must be

prohibited.

Turning circles for construction vehicles must be located outside of the buffer area.

As far as possible, limit the removal of vegetation cover from portions of the buffer area that do not

fall within the direct construction footprint area.

Prohibit the dumping of excavated material or building material within the riparian area or within the

buffer area. Building material must be stored at designated areas outside of the riparian and wetland

areas and outside of the associated buffer areas, preferably within central portions of the

development footprint where there is little chance of runoff. Spoil material must be appropriately

disposed of at a registered waste disposal facility.

An environmental control officer (ECO) (or similar) must inspect the development footprint on a

weekly basis and must take measures to address unforeseen disturbances to riparian and wetland

habitat.



Immediately rehabilitate any accidental disturbance to portions of riparian habitat located adjacent to

the development footprint. This can be achieved through the ripping of compacted soils to a depth of

300mm and through the reprofiling of areas to pre-disturbance conditions. Reprofiled areas must

then be revegetated with riparian species indigenous to the vegetation type.

Once construction has been completed all construction waste, rubble, and equipment must be

removed from the development footprint.

Alien and Invasive species control:

o The development footprint and immediately adjacent areas must be checked by the ECO for

alien and invasive species on the completion of construction and alien species noted must be

removed.

o Alien species removal is to take place manually, by hand or with the use of chainsaws and

similar equipment. The use of herbicides must be avoided. However, if necessary, only

herbicides which have been certified safe for use in wetlands/aquatic environments by an

independent testing authority may be considered. Aerial spraying of herbicides must be strictly

prohibited. The DWS/ECO must be consulted in this regard.

o Dispose of removed alien plant material at a registered waste disposal site or burn on a bunded

surface where no stormwater runoff is expected.

o Remove vegetation before seed is set and released.

o Cover removed alien plant material properly when transported, to prevent it from being blown

from vehicles.

Impact 2: Increased runoff, erosion and sedimentation of riparian and wetland habitat

Implement erosion control measures where required (e.g. covering steep, erosion prone banks of

the Sterkspruit River which are in close proximity to the construction footprint with geotextiles;

stabilizing areas susceptible to erosion with sandbags; covering areas prone to erosion with brush

packing, straw bales, mulch; diverting stormwater away from areas susceptible to erosion etc). Care

must be taken to prevent additional disturbance to the banks of the river during the implementation

of erosion control measures.

Direct runoff from disturbed areas within the construction footprint area to silt traps (silt fences,

sandbags etc.) to remove sediment.

Locate silt traps on the western boundary of the development footprint in order to trap sediment

before it reaches the riparian habitat which is located directly adjacent to the footprint.

All sediment trapping devices must be checked weekly by the appointed ECO and cleared or repaired

as needed.

Erosion and sediment control measures must be installed before earthworks are initiated.

Schedule construction activities to minimize the total amount of soil exposed at any given time.

Locate stockpile areas in designated areas outside of the buffer areas of the riparian and wetland

areas. Stockpile areas must preferably be located on level ground within the centre of the

development footprint where they are at the greatest distance from freshwater habitat.

Protect stockpiles, if required, from erosion using tarp or erosion blankets.

Divert stormwater away from the construction footprint area. Stormwater must not be discharged into

the riparian or wetland areas and their associated buffer areas. Stormwater must rather be

discharged as diffuse flow into well vegetated areas outside of the buffer. Energy dissipaters must

be constructed where stormwater is released in order to reduce the water velocity and therefore

erosion.

A method statement must be developed indicating how the contractor will minimise the erosion and

sedimentation of the portion of the riparian habitat located directly adjacent to the western boundary

of the development footprint.

The contractor/ECO must check the riparian area, banks and channel of the portion of the river

directly adjacent to the western boundary of the development footprint for erosion and sedimentation

on a weekly basis during the construction phase of the development. The ECO must also check the

development footprint, remaining areas of the river channel, banks and riparian areas, as well as the

wetland for erosion damage and sedimentation after every heavy rainfall event. Should erosion or

sedimentation be noted, immediate corrective measures must be undertaken. Rehabilitation



measures may include the removal of accumulated sediment by hand, the filling of erosion gullies

and rills, the stabilization of gullies with silt fences and the stabilization of river banks with sand bags.

Care must be taken to prevent additional disturbance to the river and wetland during the

implementation of these measures.

Impact 3: Water quality impairment within the Sterkspruit River and the channelled valley bottom

wetland.

Locate topsoil stockpiles, construction material, equipment storage areas, concrete batching areas

as well as vehicle parking areas, bunded vehicle servicing and re-fuelling areas and equipment

cleaning areas in designated areas outside of the buffer areas of the riparian and wetland areas.

These areas must preferably be located on level ground within the centre of the development footprint

where they are at the greatest distance from freshwater habitat.

Fuel, chemicals and other hazardous substances must preferably be stored offsite, or as far away

as possible from the riparian and wetland areas as possible. These substances must be stored in

suitable secure weather-proof containers with impermeable and bunded floors to limit pilferage,

spillage into the environment, flooding or storm damage.

Inspect all storage facilities and vehicles daily for the early detection of deterioration or leaks.

Dispose of used oils, wash water from cement and other pollutants at an appropriate licensed landfill

site.

Dispose of concrete and cement-related mortars in an environmental sensitive manner (can be toxic

to aquatic life). Washout must not be discharged into the riparian or wetland areas. A washout area

should be designated, and wash water must be treated on-site.

Clean up any spillages immediately and dispose of contaminated material at an appropriately

registered facility.

Restrict the construction of areas on the western boundary of the development footprint that are

located directly adjacent to the riparian area of the Sterkspruit River to the dry season. This will limit

runoff of contaminants into the river with stormwater runoff.

Provide portable toilets where work is being undertaken. These toilets must be located within an area

designated by the ECO outside of the buffer areas of the riparian and wetland areas and must

preferably be located on level ground within the centre of the development footprint where they are

at the greatest distance from freshwater habitat. Portable toilets must be serviced regularly in order

to prevent leakage/spillage.

A method statement must be developed and approved indicating how the contractor will minimise

the passage of contaminants such as fuel and cement into the portion of the riparian habitat located

directly adjacent to the western boundary of the development footprint.

Operational Phase Mitigation Measures

Impact 1: Increased runoff from hardened surfaces resulting in erosion and sedimentation of

riparian and wetland habitat

Design a stormwater management plan in order to control stormwater runoff from hardened surfaces

and prevent the erosion and sedimentation of the Sterkspruit River and channelled valley bottom

wetland downslope of the development footprint.

Use porous/permeable paving around buildings.

Install rainwater harvesting tanks to collect runoff from rooftops.

Intercept stormwater runoff from the upgraded access road and the platform within the buffer area

with vegetated swales.

Intercept sheet runoff from the platform areas and promote the treatment and infiltration of runoff.

This can be achieved through the incorporation of one or more of the following stormwater control

measures into the layout of the development:

o Grassed/vegetated filter strips;

o Grassed/vegetated swales;

o Stormwater soakaways;

o Stormwater retention/detention ponds;



o Bioretention ruts; and

o Infiltration trenches.

The disposal of polluted stormwater directly into the riparian or wetland areas and their associated

buffer areas, or into natural areas surrounding the development footprint must be strictly prohibited.

Adequately treated stormwater must be discharged at multiple points, as diffuse flow into well

vegetated areas outside of the buffer. These areas must preferably already be disturbed or degraded

areas in the development footprints surroundings. Energy dissipaters (such as linings of stones,

concrete, grass or gabions) must be constructed where stormwater is released in order to reduce the

water velocity and therefore erosion.

Impact 2: Water quality impairment within the Sterkspruit River and the channelled valley bottom

wetland.

Strict measures are currently being developed by an unaffiliated party to ensure that the quality of

stormwater leaving the development footprint is of an acceptable quality. These can be provided if required.

Additional measures to be implemented for the external sewage pipeline

The sewer pipeline is located in the road reserve, within a 100m of the treatment works, so in the

unlikely event of a pipe burst, municipal staff will be on hand to take immediate action.

The internal and external sewer pipeline will be regularly monitored and maintained.

During the operation phase, the sewage infrastructure will be regular checked for leaks in

accordance with the Monitoring Plan

A minimum cover level of 1 meter will be maintained.

All cover levels will be above the 1:100 year flood level.

Manhole rings within the "wetland buffer" will be sealed with a bitumen sealer to further prevent

pollution.

In the unlikely event of a spill, immediate action must take place to prevent any further damage to

the environment.

14. IMPACTS ON WATERCOURSE FROM CONSERVANCY TANKS

A Geohydrological Study and Risk Assessment (APPENDIX 17) was conducted by specialist

consultants (GCS) to determine whether the Geohydrological conditions support the temporary usage

of conservancy tanks as a method of waste disposal.

Table 5: Impacts of Section 21 G activities applied for

Water use Activity Construction Operation



Section 21 (g)

The temporary storage of sewage onsite through a series of conservancy tanks located on each platform and disposal off site via a registered wastewater disposal company utilising honeysuckers.

1. Groundwater contamination during fuel spillages from heavy machinery and vehicle movement


1. Groundwater contamination due to spillages or overflow from the conservancy tanks

2. Groundwater contamination due to leakages/spillages


Construction Phase Mitigation Measures:



Impact 1: Groundwater contamination during fuel spillages from heavy machinery and vehicle movement

The mitigation measures include containment for all fuel stored on site and implementing a groundwater

monitoring programme. This allows for the early detection of water quality deterioration associated with

the site. Accurate oil records will be kept (purchased, disposal and recycled). Ensure that clean-up

protocols are in place and adhered to.

Operational Phase Mitigation Measures

Impact 1: Groundwater contamination due to spillages or overflow from the conservancy tanks.

Impact 2: Groundwater contamination due to leakages/spillages.

The mitigation measures will include:

Installing surface water runoff drains;

The conservancy tank must be regularly emptied by a registered waste company and disposed

of at a registered facility;

A list of back up service providers must be available in the event of the primary service provider

being unable to remove the waste;

Consideration must be given during holiday periods when many workers are on leave. A

service provider must be available;

The service provider must be available on short notice;

Waste levels must be regularly monitored in the conservancy tank;

The conservancy tank and aprons must be maintained and kept in good working order;

The conservancy tank must be monitored during adverse weather conditions such as heavy

rain and flooding;

The conservancy tank on site will be fully enclosed and will either be precast concrete, plastic,

or a reinforced concrete tank;

The slab would have cast iron manhole covers for personal access. The tank will also be

constructed with Derbigum waterproofing and coated with a Polybron layer; and

Polybron ensures that the structure is resistant to corrosion, chemicals, abrasion impact and

weather permeability – sewer will be contained at all times.

Based on the impact assessment determined from a hydrogeological perspective it can be concluded

that all impacts identified have a low negative significance. Provided diligent and sound on-site

management of infrastructure is implemented and monitored, the risk to the surrounding environment

and possible receptors is considered low.

15. CORRESPONDENCE

15.1 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

Copies of the PPP and meeting notice, draft BAR; BID and Specialist Report were made available to the following Departments for comment:

Department of Water and Sanitation (National – KZN Region);

Department of Rural Development and Land reform (National);

Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (National);

KZN Department of Economic Development, Tourism & Environmental Affairs;

KZN Department of Agriculture and Rural Development;

KZN Department of Transport;

KZN Department of Co-Operative Governance and Traditional Affairs;

KZN Department of Health;

eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality;

The Local councillor;



South African National Roads Agency;

Transnet;

Eskom; and

Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife.

15.2 REGISTER OF INTERESTED AND AFFECTED PARTIES

According to the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations of 2014 (as amended), a register of

interested and affected parties must be kept during the EIA process. The Table below contain details on all

of the I&Aps contacted.

Table 6: Registered Interested and Affected Parties

Name of Department Contact person Address

Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Ms. Nerissa Pillay

Mr. Dominic Wieners

P.O. BOX 13053

Cascades

3200

Amafa N/A N/A

Department of Water & Sanitation Ms. Krishnee Naidoo

Ms. Colleen Moonsamy

P.O BOX 1018

Durban

4000

Department of Agriculture, Forestry

and Fisheries

Ms. Nandipha Sontangane (Forestry)

Mr. A Goba and Ms. Robin Baca (Land Use and

Soil Management)

Private Bag X9029

Pietermaritzburg

3200

Department of Cooperative

Governance and Traditional Affairs

Mr. Thulani Bhengu

Mr. Vhutshilo Gelebe

330 Langalibalele

Street

Pietermaritzburg, 3201

Department of Transport Ms. Judy Reddy

Ms. Michelle Smidt

Private Bag X9043,

Pietermaritzburg

3200

Department of Human Settlements N/A N/A

Department of Health Mr. Eric Ngema

Mr. Samuel Mkhwanazi

P/Bag X9051

Pietermaritzburg

3200

KZN Department of Agriculture &

Rural Development

Mr/Ms. Nonhlanhla Myeni Private Bag X9059

Pietermaritzburg

3200

National Department of Rural

Development and Land Reform

Mr. Walter Silaule Private Bay X3120

Pietermaritzburg

3200




and Local Councillor

Ms. Diane Van Rensburg PO Box 680,

Durban,

4001

15.3 PUBLIC MEETINGS

IDM Environmental hosted a public meeting at the Cato Ridge Library on the 16th of April 2018 at 14h00.

The meeting was advertised in two local papers, on site notices and the local councillor was informed about

the PPP event. No public attended the meeting.

15.4 COMMENTS RECEIVED FROM INTERESTED AND AFFECTED PARTIES The comments received from the various Departments and stakeholders has been included in Section 8 of the Public Participation Report (APPENDIX 25).

16. MOTIVATION IN TERMS OF SECTION 27 (1) OF THE NWA

S27 (a) Existing Lawful Water Uses

There are no existing water uses on the property wherein development is to take place.

S27 (b) The need to redress the results of past racial and gender discrimination

The proposed Hammarsdale Industrial Estate will have numerous positive impacts on the surrounding

communities in terms of employment, skills training and local economic development. This will help to

address the high levels of poverty, unemployment and inequality facing the Hammarsdale community which

have been amplified in recent times due to the closure of numerous poultry farms in the region which

provided substantial employment.

S27 (c) Provide information to support efficient and beneficial use of water in the public interest

Society in general and the local community would benefit from job creation (temporary employment during

the construction phase) and full time employment during the operational phase.

The water used on site will not be obtained from the Sterkspruit River or any other nature source.

Taking the above into consideration it is considered highly unlikely that the water use, if granted, would

result in any negative impact to society.

S27 (d) The socio-economic impact of:

The water use(s) if authorised:

The proposed Hammarsdale Industrial Estate will have numerous positive impacts on the surrounding

communities in terms of employment, skills training and local economic development. This will help to

address the high levels of poverty, unemployment and inequality facing the Hammarsdale community which

have been amplified in recent times due to the closure of numerous poultry farms in the region which

provided substantial employment.

Table 7: Details on the anticipated socio-economic values associated with the proposed project

Anticipated CAPEX value of the project on completion R450m including top structure

What is the expected annual turnover to be generated by or as a result of the project?

30 businesses x R20m average annual turnover = R600m/annum



New skilled employment opportunities created in the construction phase of the project 10 (site foreman and up)

New skilled employment opportunities created in the operational phase of the project 150 (30 businesses x 5 skilled employees)

New un-skilled employment opportunities created in the construction phase of the project 500 workers

New un-skilled employment opportunities created in the operational phase of the project 600 (30 businesses x 20 employees each)

What is the expected value of the employment opportunities during the operational and construction phase?

750 x R20k average = R15m per month

Recent research into economic trends of the Hammarsdale region has further indicated that there is a high

demand for small industry, logistics and warehousing space. These industries prefer the Light Industry

zoning as opposed to the General Industry as the latter allows for bigger industries which will have greater

impact on smaller operations and warehousing. The Hammarsdale Industrial Estate will further offer Durban

and Pinetown based manufacturing, warehousing and logistics businesses a more affordable and attractive

location to consider expanding into or relocating to. The proposed Industrial Park is located on the N3

Corridor which is fast becoming the location of choice for businesses needing to be close to the N3 “corridor

to Africa”. Major upgrading of services to meet this growing demand have been taking place including the

upgrading of the Hammarsdale interchange and further road and bulk infrastructure upgrades planned for

the foreseeable future.

The property itself is highly desirable as the majority of the site that will be developed on consists of old and

derelict buildings and foundations infested with invasive alien plants. Thus the development site itself has

been significantly disturbed and contains little conservation value. Municipal services are readily available

to the property and one has easy access to the N3 highway and a large employment pool. The light industry

zoning will also have less of an impact on the surrounding DMOSS which will be rehabilitated and converted

into a non-useable conservation zone.

The failure to authorise the water use(s)

Should the water use not be authorised, there will be no socio-economic benefits i.e. no job creation and

no local economic development. The site will continue to remain unutilized and therefore no rehabilitation

of the surrounding DMOSS vegetation or the creation of a conservation area will occur.

S27 (e) Catchment management strategies and local government planning frameworks relevant to

the proposed water use

Classification of water resources and determination of the comprehensive reserve and resource quality

objectives in the Mvoti to Umzimkulu Water Management Area (Report Number:

RDM/WMA11/00/CON/CLA/0113).

Overview of Water Resources Availability and Utilisation: Mvoti to Umzimkulu (DWA, 2003).

S27 (f) The likely effect of the water use to be authorised on the water resource and other water

users

Should the mitigation measures as listed above be strictly implemented, the overall impact to the PES of

the Sterkspruit River and associated riparian/wetland habitat is considered to be very low. Impacts to other

water users as a result of the proposed development are considered to be insignificant.

S27(g) Class and resource quality objectives of the watercourse

(The description below has been extracted from the Freshwater Specialist Assessment Report

(APPENDIX 14))

Both the Sterkspruit River and the channelled valley bottom wetland have been impacted on as a result of

industrial and urban activities within the catchment. The release of return flows from the Hammarsdale



Waste Water Treatment Works and the runoff of contaminants in stormwater runoff from the catchment has

impacted on the hydrology and water quality of the features. Disturbance of the features has also resulted

in the proliferation of alien and invasive species.

The River Index of Habitat Integrity Assessment (IHIA) was used to assess the PES of the portions of the

Sterkspruit River associated with the development footprint. The overall PES score calculated for the

Sterkspruit River falls within Category C (moderately modified - A loss and change of natural habitat and

biota has occurred but the basic ecosystem functions are still predominantly unchanged).

The WET-Health tool6 was used to assess the PES of the channelled valley bottom wetland. The overall

PES score calculated falls within Category D (largely modified: a large change in ecosystem processes and

loss of natural habitat and biota has occurred).

The Sterkspruit River is considered to be of a high Ecological Importance and Sensitivity (EIS) (delineations

that are considered to be unique on a national scale due to biodiversity. These rivers may be sensitive to

flow modifications but in some cases, may have a substantial capacity for use); and the channelled valley

bottom wetland is considered to be of a moderate EIS (wetlands that are considered to be ecologically

important and sensitive on a provincial or local scale. The biodiversity of these systems is not usually

sensitive to flow and habitat modifications. They play a small role in moderating the quantity and quality of

water of major rivers).

S27 (h) Investments already made and to be made by the water user in respect of the water use in

question

A team of consultants have been appointed for the project. The layout and design of the development has

been workshopped with involvement of specialists in order to attain the most environmentally sensitive

layout which could also accommodate the proposed development. A Basic Assessment has been

undertaken for the project.

S27 (i) The strategic importance of the water use to be authorised

The creation of economic opportunities in an area characterised by high levels of unemployment and

poverty.

S27 (j) The quality of water in the water resource which may be required for the Reserve and for

meeting international obligations

N/A

S27 (k) Probable duration of any undertaking for which a water use is to be authorised

The proposed development will be permanent.

17. CHECKLIST OF REQUIRED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION

Table 8: Checklist of required information

Description Applicable/Available Appendix

Yes No

Certified copy of ID of applicant and company registration certificate X 1

Copy of property's title deed where water use occurs X 2

Lease Agreements, if any. Also, certified copy of ID of landowner (if different from

Applicant)

X 3

Copy of Property Zoning Documents where water use occurs X 4

Clearance letter from the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform indicating

that the property where the water uses are taking place are not under land claims

X 5

Proof of BBEEE Status (not required for Government) X 6

6 Macfarlane et. al. 2010



License application forms: Fully and correctly completed

-Application for Water Use License (DW 755)

-Registration as a user (DW 758),

-Property on which water use occurs (DW 901),

-Property owner form (DW 902, & Guideline)

-Section 21(c) and (i) forms (DW 763 and DW 768)

-Water uses supplementary forms

-Section 21 (g) form (DW 767 and DW 905)

X 7

A copy of 1:50 000 topographic map / 1:10 000 indicating map name number of farm

boundaries including subdivision

X 8

Master Layout Plan: Must clearly indicate the delineated sensitive areas, including 1:100yr

floodline, riparian areas, buffer areas, and flow direction in relation to the proposed

development, contours, property demarcation for properties on which water uses occur and

the proposed water uses. Include access control to PCDS. If there are both surface and

groundwater issues, there must be two Master Layout Plans – one showing surface flows,

whilst the other will show groundwater flows. The water uses as labelled in the map must be

consistent with the IWWMP and Specialist Report labelling.

X 9

Alternatives Report. X 10

Basic Assessment Report X 11

Record of Decision. X 12

Environmental Management Plan X 13

Wetland Studies: Wetland Delineation,

Functional Assessment,

Risk Assessment and Motivation Letter

X 14

Geotechnical Studies X 15

Aquatic Assessment – must tabulate PES & EIS

Assessment to include wet and dry seasons and nocturnal surveys

X 16

Geohydrological Studies, including hydrocensus of a 5km radius X 17

Hydrological Studies (by a qualified Hydrologist). Non-exhaustive requirement:

Understanding of the FULL hydrological cycle of the catchment, upstream and

downstream users, impact of the proposed activity on the cycle. Cycle will include surface

water, groundwater, wetlands, etc.

X 18

Water Balance X 19

Method Statements X 20

Stormwater Management Plans X 21

Civil design and Engineering Services Report X 22

Monitoring programme X 23

Contingency Plans X 24

Public Participation X 25

Financial provision: Must be in the form of a signed letter by the designated authority

indicating that funds would be available for incidents such as clean-up operations following

pollution and emergency incidents, and rehabilitation

X 26

Mining Permit, Prospecting Right, Signed Social and Labour Plan X 27

Exemption from Mining X 28

Service Level Agreements X 29

18. CONCLUSION

The proposed development of the Hammarsdale Industrial Estate is likely to have minimal negative impacts

on the Sterkspruit River and associated riparian and wetland habitat should the mitigation measures as

listed within the Freshwater Specialist Assessment Report (APPENDIX 14) and the EMP (APPENDIX 13)

be strictly implemented. This was supported by the results of the risk assessment matrix in which an overall

low risk was calculated (APPENDIX 14). Furthermore, according to Dr S. Saroop (additional engineering

comments in APPENDIX 22), the development and proposed road upgrade are generally around 30m

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above the river level. The road level is therefore well above the 1:100 year flood level. It has therefore been

advised that the DMOSS indicated 1: 100 year floodline is incorrect (Saroop, 2018).

It is therefore recommended that the WULA be approved by the Department of Water and Sanitation

pending the implementation of the strict mitigation measures.

Regards

Louise Zdanow

[email protected]

076 725 5657

mailto:[email protected]