Proposed Development of a Filling Station at Kwanonqaba, Mossel Bay
Specialist Study
Sharples Environmental Services
Consultants:
Apex Conservation Services
Associate:
Conservation Management Services
Kwanonqaba (Erf 13996), Mossel Bay, Western Cape, South Africa
Year: 2021
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An environmental sensitivity assessment was previously undertaken using the National Web-Based Environmental Screening Tool (Screening Tool) for a site proposed for the development of a filling station. In accordance with the National Environmental Management Act (Act 107 of 1998, as amended) Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations of 2014, a site sensitivity verification should be undertaken to confirm the current land use and environmental sensitivity of the proposed project area.
This study therefore aimed to investigate the Terrestrial Plant Species Sensitivity of the proposed project site and further aimed to verify the Terrestrial Plant Species Sensitivity, as identified by the Screening Tool, with that found on the actual site during the site verification assessment.
This specialist study used historical and recent imagery to investigate change in vegetation over time, as well as a site visit to identify all plant and animal species present. Ecological impacts, disturbances and other relevant information that affect the site were also collected and analysed across 10 sample sites using transects. These findings were compared to that obtained by the Screening Tool.
The Screening Tool identified the site as having High Plant Sensitivity, however, this site sensitivity verification differed, with the proposed development site found to be completely transformed, with a Low Terrestrial Plant Species Sensitivity and no Species of Conservation Concern (SCC). Three plant species identified as Plant Species Theme Sensitivity Features predicted to occur on the site by the screening tool were absent from the site. The site was found to be small, isolated and completely surrounded by urban development and busy roads, and it was established that there was no opportunity for ecological connectivity to exist. A Terrestrial Plant Species Compliance Statement was prepared and submitted, confirming the study area’s low sensitivity and lack of SCC. The site was therefore found to be well suited for the proposed development, and no mitigation measures were suggested.
This study provided specialist botanical input which was used to assess the sensitivity of terrestrial plant species sensitivity within the study site and make recommendations as to whether the proposed development of a filling station would be appropriate within that site. This study helps ensures that the development of this project is compliant with all necessary regulations and does not endanger any sensitive species or land.