SiteRecordings

In addition to modern structures including a large shed and three “labourers” cottages, a few interesting historic structures were recorded in the vicinity of waypoint 74. These include a small cooler room (‘fridge”) and two structures in partial and near total ruins. The latter two structures are made of calcrete blocks and nodules and are bound together by an old mortar sourced from local sediments. The presence of metal as well as modern cement in parts of these structures shows that they were mended or modified in more recent times. The size of the structures suggests that they were used for human habitation, though the one in a more advanced state of ruin might have served as a shelter for small domestic stock. These structures were not recorded in detail as it was assumed that Mr Stefan de Kock would deal with the built environment and conduct his own site visit. This area was subsequently excluded from the development footprint, however, and will not be impacted by the proposed solar facility. Consequently, there was no need for further investigation. A few pieces of glass and metal were identified on the ground in near proximity to these structures, but no refuse heap or midden was seen. No items identifiable to a specific historic period were seen. Interestingly, there is virtually no plastic associated with these structures while plastic and other modern refuse litters the area around the new “labourers” cottages to the south.