Sites

Site N6-4.S1, situated on the property Hazelmere / Hans Donsies Kraal 182,stretches for approximately 600m (from S31Å30’28.4”; E26Å41’17.1” to S31Å30’16.9”; E26Å41’29.5”) along the western side of the proposed alignment. The site is characterized by a number of small exposures on which what seems like a low density of Middle Stone Age (MSA) artefacts are present. Exposures are concentrated in a narrow strip around 2 small wetlands. At least 6 of the exposures visible from the study site contained artefacts, with relevant exposures measuring roughly between 9- 25mÑ in size. (The Stone Age occurrence, situated on private property, was only observed through the fence; a more specific site description including an artefact ratio with a more in depth typological and technological interpretation is not possible). A limited number of Stone Age artefacts were identified within the existing road reserve, concentrated towards the southern extent of the Site N6-4.S1 occurrence, indicating that the current road alignment did impact in part on the occurrence. Artefact numbers within the road reserve are however particularly low, only 12 were counted in total, indicating that current impact may well be limited to the very perimeter of the occurrence. No Stone Age artefacts were observed on the opposite side of the road, neither within the road reserve nor within the adjoining farmland. Proposed upgrading will impact on the perimeter of the occurrence or the limited number of artefacts observed within the road reserve, but the occurrence proper will be conserved. 

Site N6-4.S1, the Middle Stone Age (MSA) occurrence situated on the property Hazelmere / Hans Donsies Kraal 182, comprises of an archaeological site formally protected by the NHRA 1999. The occurrence is ascribed a SAHRA Low Significance with a Generally Protected C Field Rating. The proposed development will impact on the perimeter of the occurrence (the portion situated within the road reserve), but the occurrence proper will be conserved. Proximity of the development to the Site N6-4.S1 MSA Stone Age occurrence does call for caution: Construction Phase: It is recommended that limited impact on the occurrence perimeter proceeds without the developer having to apply for a SAHRA Site Destruction Permit. Temporary conservation measures should be put in place at the time of construction impact, including clear visual demarcation (danger tape or netting) along the road reserve fence as well as temporary signage indicating the area as a ‘No-Entry: Heritage / Archaeological Sensitive Area’. Post-construction Phase: In addition to temporary conservation measures the site should be permanently sign posted.