Location

Vlakfontein, District Belfast

Scope

Construction of dams/chalets for trout fishing and accommodation of tourists, holidaymakers and fishermen.

Risk Factor

Low risk due to low density and activity( “footprints”), maximum of 24 people over weekends, and low occupancy mid-weeks.

1. Families living in the central business area of the farm, will be resettled, and their unattractive structures leveled and rehabilitated.
2. A site development  and building plan will be drawn up and submitted to Highlands Municipality for approval.
3. Construction will comply with National Building Regulations.
4. SABS materials will be used.
5. To facilitate blending with the environment, natural stone from the farm will be used similar to existing buildings.
6. The dams will be constructed in the lower stream along the valley.
7. The chalets will be erected along the lower horizon.
8. The existing water and electrical reticulation will be expanded.
9. The existing entrance and road to the farm will be used, and precautions made to minimize erosion.
10. The existing small borrow pit planned for rehabilitation will be used for back-filling and to prepare it for filling with water as a pool.
11. The existing old irrigation canals will divert stormwater and prevent erosion.
12. Physical refuse will be sorted and dumped at the Belfast municipal refuse dump.
13. Sewage will be pumped and removed.
14. Waste during the construction phase will be reduced to the minimum, and stored for planned disposal.
15. Construction material, e.g. sand, stone, bricks, concrete aggregate, etc. will be stock-piled safely and away from the watercourse.
16. Sement and building material will be stored in the farm shed.
17. Construction personnel will be educated to limit waste to the minimum, and to adhere to safety regulations.
18. Construction personnel will be accommodated in existing sleeping, cooking, and sanitation facilities.
19. Activity will occur on a steep slope in excess of 30 meters from the edge of the wet zone of the watercourse. Occasional low risk fast flowing stormwater of short duration occurs.
20. Dams will be registered with the Department of Water Affairs.
21. Appropriate monitoring and inspection measures will be implemented in regard to stormwater control, erosion, safety, and groundwater pollution. Bacteriological analysis of drinking water will be done periodically.
22. Indigenous growth are preserved, and wild life protected.
23. Littering by workers and visitors is strictly prohibited and controlled.
24. Fire breaks and fire prevention form part of the management of the farm.
25. A post-construction audit will be carried out to identify shortcomings to be rectified.
26. The owner will take personal responsibility for the supervision, monitoring and maintenance of the development.