OKHAHLAMBA SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

Transcription

1 OKHAHLAMBA SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 1 22 February 2013

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter 1: Introduction 1.1 Background to the Study 1.2 Terms of Reference and Scope of work 1.3 Approach 1.4 What is a Spatial Development Framework? 1.5 Legal Status and Requirements 1.6 The Study Area Chapter 2: Context 2.1. National Policies National Spatial Development Perspective (NSDP) Comprehensive Rural Development Programme (CRDP)(2009) 2.2 Provincial Policies Provincial Growth and Development Strategy Provincial Spatial Economic Development Strategy (PSEDS) Drakensberg Policy Statement Drakensberg Approaches Policy (DAP) Special Case Area Plan (SCAP) 2.3 Neighbouring planning District Municipal SDF Local Municipalities SDF Alignment with Lesotho Chapter 3: Vision and Principles 3.1 Spatial Vision and Mission 3.2 Key principles to inform the SDF 3.3 Alignment of IDP and SDF Chapter 4: Spatial Analysis and Synthesis 4.1. Bio-Physical Environment Geology Soil Climate Hydrology Topography Agriculture Agrohydrology Vegetation Land Cover 4.2 Environmental Considerations Context Diversity Drakensberg Mountains ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park Maloti-Drakensberg Transfrontier Project Mnweni Valley Community Park Biodiversity 4.3 Socio-Economic Conditions History and Heritage Demographic Profile Population Density 2

3 4.3.4 Poverty Traditional Authority Areas Land Reform Settlements Social Facilities Employment Sectors Employment Income Distribution 4.4 Built Environment Water Sanitation Refuse Removal Energy Transportation Telecommunications Human Settlements Tourism Chapter 5: Spatial Development Proposals 5.1 Spatial Tools Hierarchy of Nodes Identification of Nodes in Okhahlamba Establishment of Markets Urban Edges Guidelines for Land Use Management 5.2 Interventions Agriculture Environment Economic Development Access to Services Drakensberg 5.3 Capital Investment Framework Spatial Development Framework References 3

4 List of Figures: Figure 1: Population Profile Figure 2: Employment Industry Figure 3: Employment Figure 4: Income Category Figure 5: Access to Piped Water Figure 6: Access to Water Figure 7: Type of Dwelling Figure 8: Bergville Figure 9: Winterton Figure 10: Zwelisha Figure 11: Dukuza Complex Figure 12: Emmaus Figure 13: Geluksburg Figure 14: Cathkin Park List of Tables: Table 1: Legislative Context Table 2: NSDP Principles Table 3: CRDP Strategies Table 4: PGDS Strategic Goals Table 5: PSEDS Key Sectors Table 6: uthukela/okhahlamba Alignment Table 7: Emnambithi/Okhahlamba Alignment Table 8: Umtshezi/Okhahlamba Alignment Table 9: Imbabazane/Okhahlamba Alignment Table 10: Maluti a Phofung/Okhahlamba Alignment Table 11: Lesotho/Okhahlamba Alignment Table 12: Objectives Table 13: Climate Definitions Table 14: Land Classifications used in the Transformation Layer Table 15: Biodiversity Priority Areas Table 16: Existing Protected Areas in Okhahlamba Table 17: Population Table 18: Defining the Deprivation Domains Table 19: Income Categories Table 20: Access to Piped Water Table 21: Strategic Functional Road Classification System Table 22: Type of Dwelling Table 23: Housing Projects Table 24: Level of Services/Facilities within each Node Table 25: Primary Node - Bergville Table 26: Secondary Node Winterton Table 27: Capital Projects List of Maps: Map 1: Locality Map 2: Geology Map 3: Soil Potential Map 4: Climate Potential Map 5: Hydrology Map 6: Rainfall Map 7: Topography Map 8: Agricultural Potential Map 9: Vegetation Map 10: Landcover Map 11: MDTP Boundary Map 12: Minset Map 13: KZN Wildlife Protected Areas and Scap Buffer Map 14: Provincial Corridors Map 15: KZN Wildlife Corridors Map 16: Aquatic Corridors Map 17: Population Density Map 18: No. of Households per Grid Map 19: Multiple Deprivation Index Map 20: Traditional Authorities Map 21: Land Reform Map 22: Primary School Buffers Map 23: Secondary School Buffers Map 24: Health Buffers Map 25: Post Office Map 26: Social Facilities Map 27: Electrification Network Map 28: Transportation Map 29: Conceptual Framework Map 30: Capital Investment Framework Map 31: Spatial Development Framework 4

5 CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION 1.1 BACKGROUND TO THE STUDY Section 26 (e) of the Municipal Systems Act, No. 32 of 2000 (the MSA) requires all municipalities to compile Spatial Development Frameworks (SDF) as a core component of their Integrated Development Plan (IDP). Due to a lack of sufficient guidance as to what an SDF should comprise, different approaches to the development of SDF s have been applied across the country, Provinces and even within Districts. In 2010 DRDLR commissioned the development of Comprehensive SDF Guidelines in order to address the above gap and provide sufficient guidance as to the purpose, function and role of an SDF, as well as what should be contained in an SDF in order to make it credible. The guidelines will form part of the Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act Regulations. 1.2 TERMS OF REFERENCE AND SCOPE OF WORK The main objective of the project is to create a credible SDF through the implementation of the Comprehensive SDF Guidelines. The SDF must give effect to the development principles contained in the Draft Spatial Planning & Land Use Management Bill including the principles of: Spatial Justice; Spatial Sustainability; Efficiency; Spatial Resilience; and Good Administration. The ultimate goal of the SDF is to achieve the desired spatial form of the municipality. This form is based on: the vision for the development of the municipality; the principles set out in Chapter 1 of the DFA; other relevant government policy; available financial, environmental and land resources; the social, economic and environmental context of the municipality. In order to achieve this, the SDF s role is to guide all decisions of the municipality that involve the use and development of land (including infrastructure and buildings), or planning for the future use and development of land. These decisions include: Land use management decisions on applications for changes in land use, such as rezoning or subdivision applications; 5

6 Decisions on where and how public funds are invested; Guidance to developers and investors on appropriate locations and forms of development. 1.3 APPROACH The DRDLR Guideline was used as the method to draft the Spatial Development Framework and test its applicability. 1.4 WHAT IS A SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK A Spatial Development Framework (SDF) seeks to guide overall spatial form and identify current and future desirable land uses within a municipality, in order to give physical effect to the vision, goals and objectives of the municipal IDP. The SDF informs development decisions and creates a framework for investment that facilitates both public and private spending. The SDF also provides a basis for land use management. The Spatial Development Framework is indicative of broad land uses within the municipal area of jurisdiction and directions of future development. It reflects key land uses such as major transport routes, future transport links, environmentally important areas and key potentials and constraints. 1.5 LEGAL STATUS AND REQUIREMENTS Table 1: Legislative Context Legislation Relevant Section Constitution S151 (1)(e), 152 and 195 (e) obliges municipalities to encourage involvement of communities in local government matters including policy making. Municipal Systems Act Chapter 5 of the Municipal Systems Act provides for the preparation (32 of 2000) of IDPs. S26(e) states that an SDF is a core component of an IDP and further requires that the SDF provide basic guidelines for a municipal land use management system (LUMS) S24(1) requires that municipalities align their planning with national and provincial planning, as well as with neighbouring municipalities S27 requires a district municipality to adopt a framework for integrated development planning that is binding to the local and district municipality. Local Government: Municipal Planning and Performance The Regulations promulgated in terms of the Municipal System Act (2000) set out the following requirements for the development of a Spatial Development Framework: Management Regulations (GN R796 of 2001) A spatial development framework reflected in a municipality s integrated development plan must: (a) give effect to the principles contained in Chapter 1 of the Development Facilitation Act, 1995 (Act No. 67 of 1995); 6

7 Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Bill (Notice 280 of 2011) SPLUMB (b) set out objectives that reflect the desired spatial form of the municipality; (c) contain strategies and policies regarding the manner in which to achieve the objectives referred to in paragraph (b), which strategies and policies must- (i) indicate desired patterns of land use within the municipality; (ii) address the spatial reconstruction of the municipality; and (iii) provide strategic guidance in respect of the location and nature of development within the municipality. (d) set out basic guidelines for a land use management system in the municipality; (e) set out a capital investment framework for the municipality s development programs; (f) contain a strategic assessment of the environmental impact of the spatial development framework; (g) identify programs and projects for the development of land within the municipality; (h) be aligned with the spatial development frameworks reflected in the integrated development plans of neighbouring municipalities; and (i) provide a visual representation of the desired spatial form of the municipality, which representation - (ii) must indicate where public and private land development and infrastructure investment should take place; (iii) must indicate desired or undesired utilisation of space in a particular area; (iv) may delineate the urban edge; (v) must identify areas where strategic intervention is required; and (vi) must indicate areas where priority spending is required. The SPLUMB will replace the Development Facilitation Act (67 of 1995), Removal of Restrictions Act (84 of 1967), the Physical Planning Act (88 of 1967) and other relevant planning legislation. It aims to rationalise planning by ensuring the following objectives are achieved: (a) (b) (c) (d) provide for a uniform, effective, efficient and integrated regulatory framework for spatial planning, land use and land use management in a manner that promotes the principles of co-operative government and public interest; provide for and determine development principles, compulsory norms and standards for land use management; maintain essential standards for land use management, spatial development and land use; promote- (i) co-operative governance; (ii) socio-economic benefits; and (iii) sustainable and efficient use of land; 7

8 (e) (f) establish planning tribunals; and redress the imbalances of the past and ensure that there is equity in land use and land use management. Spatial Development Frameworks are addressed in Chapter 4 of the Bill. In terms of Section 20 a Municipal Spatial Development Framework must: (a) give effect to the development principles set out in chapter 2; (b) include a written and visual representation of a five year spatial development plan for the spatial form for the municipality; (c) include a longer term spatial development vision statement for the municipal area which indicates a desired spatial growth and development pattern for between ten (10) and twenty (20) years into the future; (d) identify current and future significant structuring and restructuring elements of the spatial form of the municipality, including development corridors, activity spines and economic nodes where public and private investment will be prioritised and facilitated; (e) include population growth estimates over the next five years; (f) include estimates of the demand for housing units across different socio-economic categories and the planned location and densities of future housing developments; (g) include estimates of economic activity and employment trends and locations in the municipal area over the next five years; (h) identify, quantify and provide location requirements of engineering infrastructure and services provision for existing and future development needs over the next five years; (i) identify the designated residential, business, commercial and industrial areas where national or provincial inclusionary housing and inclusionary economy policy or statutory requirements will be applicable; (j) include a strategic assessment of the environmental pressures and opportunities within the municipal area, including the availability of high potential agricultural land where applicable; (k) identify the designation of areas in the municipality where incremental upgrading approaches to development and regulation will be applicable; (I) identify the designation of areas in which: (i) more detailed local plans must be drawn up; and (ii) where shortened land use development procedures may be applicable and land use schemes may be so amended; (m) provide the spatial expression of the co-ordination, alignment and integration of sectoral policies of all municipal departments; (n) determine a capital expenditure framework for the 8

9 National Environmental Management Act No 107 of 1998 municipality's development programmes; (o) determine the purpose, desired impact and structure of the land use management scheme to apply in that municipal area; and (p) include an implementation plan comprising: (i) sectoral requirements including budgets and resources for implementation; (ii) necessary amendments to a Land Use Scheme; (iii) specification of institutional arrangements necessary for implementation; (iv) specification of implementation targets, including dates and monitoring indicators; and (v) specification, where necessary, of any arrangements for partnerships in the implementation process. In terms of NEMA the SDF must promote: (a) sustainable development, which requires the consideration of all relevant factors including the following: that the disturbance of ecosystems and loss of biological diversity be avoided, or, where they cannot be altogether avoided, are minimised and remedied; that pollution and degradation of the environment are avoided, or, where they cannot be altogether avoided, are minimised and remedied; that the disturbance of the nation s cultural heritage is avoided, or where it cannot be altogether avoided, is minimised and remedied; that waste is avoided, minimised and reused or recycled where possible and otherwise disposed of in a responsible manner; that the use and exploitation of renewable and nonrenewable natural resources occurs sustainably; and that negative impacts on the environment be mitigated against. KwaZulu-Natal Planning and Development Act (6 of 2008) (b) Equitable access to environmental resources, benefits and services to meet basic human needs and ensure human wellbeing; (c) The participation of all interested and affected parties in environmental governance must be promoted; (d) Decisions must take into account the interests, needs and values of all interested and affected parties: (e) Sensitive, vulnerable, highly dynamic or stressed ecosystems, such as coastal shores, estuaries, wetlands, and similar systems require specific attention in management and planning procedures, especially where they are subject to significant human resource usage and development pressure. The KwaZulu-Natal Planning and Development Act (PDA) provides for: 9

10 (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) (i) (j) a uniform planning and development system that treats all citizens of the Province equitably; a fair and equitable standard of planning and development to everyone in the Province, while accommodating diversity such as urban and rural needs; the incorporation and building of good practices and approaches to planning and development which have evolved outside of the formal planning and development system; a planning and development system that redresses the historic injustices perpetuated by a fragmented planning and development system; lawful development; clear, practical and certain legislation; timeous action by decision makers; guidance for decision makers; enforcement. 1.6 THE STUDY AREA Okhahlamba Municipality is one of five Local Municipalities within the area of Uthukela District Municipality. The other Local Municipalities are: Emnambithi/Ladysmith Umtshezi Imbabazane Indaka Okhahlamba is the largest municipality covering km² and Imbabazane the smallest with an area of 827 km². Emnambithi covers an area of km², Indaka 992 km², and Umtshezi km². The Uthukela District Municipality therefore covers an area of approximately km². Okhahlamba is located west of Emnambithi/Ladysmith, neighbouring the international boundary with Lesotho and Free State province in the north. The N3 runs along the western boundary of the Municipality exiting at Van Reenen and is the main route between Durban and Gauteng. The R74 which runs from the N3, through Winterton and Bergville and exits the Municipality at Oliviershoek Pass is also an important transportation route through the municipality, providing access to the Drakensberg and serving as an alternate route to the Free State. 10

11 MAP 1 11

12 CHAPTER 2: CONTEXT 2.1. NATIONAL POLICIES National Spatial Development Perspective (NSDP) The National Spatial Development Perspective (NSDP) was an initiative by National Government to provide direction and guidelines for spatial planning in order to ensure the eradication of the spatially segregated growth pattern that still exists today. The NSDP recognises the importance of the space economy in redressing the historical injustices of apartheid and poverty. The key objectives of the NSDP are to: Provide a framework within which to discuss the future development of the national space economy by reflecting the localities of severe deprivation and need, of resource potential, of infrastructure endowment and of current and potential economic activity by describing the key social, economic and natural resource trends and issues shaping the national geography. Act as a common reference point for national, provincial and local government to analyse and debate the comparative development potentials of localities in the country by providing a coarse-grained national mapping of potential. Identify key areas of tension and/or priority in achieving positive spatial outcomes with government infrastructure investment and development spending. Provide national government s strategic response to the above for a given time frame. The NSDP is built on five basic principles to reach the abovementioned goals. These principles are as follows: Table 2: NSDP Principles Principle Principle 1: Rapid economic growth that is sustained and inclusive as a prerequisite for the achievement of poverty alleviation. Principle 2: Government has a constitutional obligation to provide basic services to all citizens (e.g. water, energy, health and educational facilities) wherever they reside. Principle 3: Government spending on fixed investment should be focused on localities of economic growth and / or economic potential in order to gear up private sector investment, stimulate sustainable economic activities and create long-term employment opportunities. Implication for the SDF The SDF will identify areas of poverty and where economic growth can be directed. The SDF will indicate levels of services that exist within the municipality as well as service level gaps. A capital investment plan will be developed as a component of the SDF and will direct where public and private investment should occur. 12

13 Principle 4: Where low economic potential exists investments should be directed at projects and programmes to address poverty and the provision of basic services in order to address past and current social inequalities. Principle 5: In order to overcome the spatial distortions of Apartheid, future settlement and economic development opportunities should be channelled into activity corridors and nodes that are adjacent to or link the main growth centres in order for them to become regional gateways to the global economy. Source: NSDP The SDF will indicate levels of services that exist within the municipality as well as service level gaps. The SDF will identify the primary, secondary and tertiary nodes and corridors in order to redress spatial inefficiencies Comprehensive Rural Development Programme (CRDP)(2009) The Comprehensive Rural Development Programme (CRDP) is an initiative by the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform s (DRDLR), which adopts a fresh approach to rural development by empowering rural communities to utilise existing local resources to boost economic development. The CRDP proposes coordinated and integrated broad-based agrarian transformation as well as strategic investment in socio-economic infrastructure that will benefit the community. Okhahlamba Local Municipality is a rural municipality in KwaZulu-Natal which has been chosen as one of the sites for the CRDP. The Department has adopted a three pronged strategy to ensure that it achieves its objective of rural development: Table 3: CRDP Strategies Strategy Agrarian Transformation includes increasing all types of agricultural production, optimal and sustainable use of natural resources, the use of appropriate technologies, food security, and improving the quality of life for each rural household. Rural Development includes improving economic and social infrastructure. Land Reform including restitution, redistribution and land tenure reform. Implication for the SDF The SDF will identify areas of varying agricultural potential. A capital investment plan will be developed as a component of the SDF and will direct where public and private investment should occur. The SDF will highlight where land reform projects have been identified to determine the impact in terms of service delivery. Source: PROVINCIAL POLICIES Provincial Growth and Development Strategy 13

14 In terms of the 2011 Provincial Growth and Development Strategy, the vision of KwaZulu- Natal (KZN) is to be a Prosperous Province with a healthy, secure and skilled population, acting as a gateway to Africa and the World. The PGDS aims to build this gateway by growing the economy for the development and the improvement of the quality of life of all people living in the Province. The purpose of the 2011 KZN PGDS is to: Be the primary strategy for KwaZulu-Natal that drives growth and development in the Province to 2030; Mobilise and synchronise strategic plans and investment priorities of all spheres of government, state owned entities, business, higher education institutions, labour, civil society and all other social partners towards achieving the desired growth and development goals, objectives and outcomes; Spatially contextualise and prioritise interventions so as to achieve greater spatial equity; Develop clearly defined institutional arrangements ensuring decisive leadership, robust management, implementation and ongoing reviewing of the growth and development plan. To achieve these 7 strategic goals, 30 objectives have been developed as indicated in the table below. These objectives are further supported by implementable targets Table 4: PGDS Strategic Goals Strategic Goals Objectives Implications for the SDF Job Creation 1.1 Unleashing Agricultural Potential The SDF will look at 1.2 Enhance Industrial Development through Trade, Investment & Exports economic opportunities within the municipality in order to improve access to 1.3 Expansion of Government-led Job Creation Programmes employment. 1.4 Promoting SMME, Entrepreneurial and Youth Development 1.5 Enhance the Knowledge Economy Human Resource Development Human And Community Development 2.1 Improve Early Childhood Development, Primary and Secondary Education 2.2 Support Skills alignment to Economic Growth 2.3 Promote Enhance Youth Skills Development & Life-Long Learning 3.1 Poverty Alleviation & Social Welfare 3.2 Enhancing Health of Communities and Citizens 3.3 Safeguard Sustainable Livelihoods & Food Security 3.4 Sustainable Human Settlements 3.5 Enhancing Safety & Security 3.6 Advance Social Cohesion 3.7 Promote Youth, Gender and Disability Advocacy & the Advancement of Women The SDF will identify educational facilities in the municipality. The SDF will look at opportunities for poverty alleviation and improving quality of life through service delivery. 14

15 Strategic Infrastructure 4.1 Development of Ports and Harbours 4.2 Development of Road & Rail Networks 4.3 Development of ICT Infrastructure 4.4 Improve Water Resource Management 4.5 Develop Energy Production Capacity Responses to Climate Change 5.1 Increase Productive Use of Land 5.2 Advance Alternative Energy Generation 5.3 Manage pressures on Biodiversity 5.4 Disaster Management Governance and Policy 6.1 Strengthen Policy, Strategy Coordination and IGR 6.2 Building Government Capacity 6.3 Eradicating Fraud & Corruption 6.4 Promote Participative, Facilitative & Accountable Governance Spatial Equity 7.1 Actively Promoting Spatial Concentration 7.2 Facilitate Integrated Land Management &Spatial Planning Source: PGDS, 2011 The SDF will identify primary and secondary corridors. A capital investment plan will direct where public and private investment should occur. Environmental issues will be addressed in the SDF. The SDF will promote participation and strengthen alignment. The SDF will promote the principles of sustainability, equality, efficiency, integration and fair and good governance Provincial Spatial Economic Development Strategy (PSEDS) The PSEDS is intended as a guide to achieve the goals as set out in ASGI-SA, which is to halve unemployment and poverty by Principles of development and growth underpinning the PSEDS are summarised as follows: Government has a constitutional obligation to provide basic services to all citizens including health, education, housing, transport, etc. All areas of the province require development; Certain areas of the province will drive economic growth; and The PSEDS attempts to indicate where different types of investment should be directed in order to achieve development and/ or economic growth. The PSEDS therefore sets out to: Focus where government directs its investment and development initiatives; Capitalise on complementarities and facilitate consistent and focused decision making; and Bring about strategic co-ordination, interaction and alignment. Four key sectors have been identified as drivers for economic growth in the province, namely: Table 5: PSEDS Key Sectors 15

16 Agricultural Sector The agricultural sector is key to addressing poverty in the province since most areas of poverty are rural. The PSEDS identifies those areas of high agricultural potential in the Province. An area to the north of Okhahlamba around Geluksburg and an area to the south in the foothills of the Drakensberg have been identified as having high agricultural potential within the provincial context. The SDF will highlight how this will impact on poverty alleviation within the municipality. Industrial Sector The potential for industrial development in the province is anchored by the nodes of ethekwini and Umhlatuze. The corridors between these two nodes and extending up to Howick form the primary zone of industrial development in the province. The cities of Newcastle, Ladysmith and Port Shepstone serve as important secondary nodes of industrial development potential. Due to the proximity of Okhahlamba to the Ladysmith secondary industrial node, potential spin-offs will be investigated in the SDF. Tourism Sector The primary tourism potential within the province is in the beach tourism, cultural tourism and eco-tourism markets. The tourism products of provincial importance are: Arts & crafts routes in Midlands Meander and Albert Falls Amble Durban, south coast and north coast beach tourism linked to cultural tourism in the interior Drakensberg region Greater St Lucia & surrounding big five reserves Zulu Heritage & Cultural Trail Battlefields Route Provincially, Okhahlamba has a large area of cultural significance to the east of the municipality related to the Battlefields. A large area along the western boundary has been identified for eco-tourism and this relates to the Drakensberg Mountains which is a World Heritage Site. These tourism assets could provide impetus for further growth in the tourism sector. 16

17 Services Sector The PSEDS builds on the concept of developing a comprehensive network of centres throughout the province which would support the delivery of services. Services delivered would be determined by various nodes according to a hierarchy of places. In identifying the hierarchy of places existing service centres are strengthened but, more importantly, new or emerging service centres are developed. Bergville and Winterton have been identified as Quaternary Nodes which are defined as centres which should provide services to the localised economy. Source: PSEDS An existing corridor (N3) runs along the eastern boundary of the municipality. A Tourism Corridor runs along the foothills of the Drakensberg from southern Drakensberg, in the south to the Free State in the north Drakensberg Policy Statement The 1976 Drakensberg Policy Statement together with the Drakensberg Approaches Policy are the official policy statements for the Drakensberg area. The Drakensberg Policy Statement divided the Drakensberg into four zones, namely, the Wilderness Heart, Landslide Zone, Trail Zone and Drakensberg Threshold. The Wilderness Heart and Landslide Zone are more sensitive and should be strictly protected. The Trail Zone and Drakensberg Threshold are collectively known as the Drakensberg Approaches. The Drakensberg Policy Statement advocated that the Approaches be used primarily for agriculture and forestry. Recreation was seen as a secondary activity where compatible with the primary activities. Planned recreation in the Threshold Zone should be limited to development in designated areas. (Natalia 23 and 24 (1993/94), J. White pp Of Mountains and Money: Bergwatch and threats to the Drakensberg) Drakensberg Approaches Policy (DAP) The Drakensberg Approaches Policy (Martin, B.F. 1990) area of applicability incorporates the mountainous portions of the Kwa-Zulu-Natal Drakensberg which extend from Oliviershoek in the north, to Matatiele in the south. The Kingdom of Lesotho and Eastern Cape borders form the western boundary, while a series of public roads, are linked to form the eastern boundary. The Upper Tugela area (Mnweni) was specifically excluded from the provisions of the DAP when it was drafted as it was not administered by the former Province of Natal. The purpose of the DAP (Martin, 1990) was to provide a comprehensive planning and management strategy throughout the region, to control further development, provide recreation and promote tourism in the national interest. 17

18 The Drakensberg Approaches Policy introduced the concept of high intensity development areas within three nodes of the Drakensberg Approaches of which the first two are located in Okhahlamba: Babangibone in the north near Oliviershoek Pass Cathkin in the central Drakensberg Garden Castle in the south The intention of these nodes was to direct recreational development to planned pockets in order to ensure distribution of recreational development and activities evenly along the Drakensberg, and create a balance between environmental conservation and tourism through the provision of these recreation nodes Special Case Area Plan (SCAP) The Special Case Area Plan for the Drakensberg (Metroplan. 2001) was a project commissioned by the then Town and Regional Planning Commission to determine the balance between promoting co-ordinated development and job creation, while at the same time, protecting the unique natural resources of the area. The DAP was subjected to critical assessment and review during the SCAP process. The SCAP identifies the following zones relevant to Okhahlamba: Resource conservation areas Agricultural areas Buffer areas Buffer settlements Tourism development nodes Settlement nodes (Okhahlamba IDP 2011/12) The Drakensberg SCAP was not formally adopted by the KZN Provincial Administration, but it forms part of the policy framework for the municipalities within the Drakensberg Region. 2.3 NEIGHBOURING PLANNING District Municipal SDF Okhahlamba Municipality falls within the uthukela District Municipality (DC23). uthukela is one of the ten district municipalities in KwaZulu-Natal and is located in the western region of the Province. uthukela District Municipality derives its name from one of the major rivers in the Province namely the Tugela (uthukela) River that originates in the Drakensberg mountain range and supplies water to a large portion of KwaZulu-Natal as well as Gauteng. uthukela district municipality has three district municipalities is bordered by the KwaZulu-Natal District Municipalities of Amajuba, Umzinyathi and umgungundlovu as well as the Free State Province and Lesotho. Two national roads, the N3 and N11 traverse the District, and this has potential for economic development. 18

19 Table 6: uthukela/okhahlamba Alignment Issue Area of Alignment Implication for Okhahlamba SDF Hierarchy of Nodes Van Reenen Corridors Tourism Ladysmith and Estcourt are the two major towns and economic hubs within the uthukela District Municipality. Both Ladysmith and Estcourt are commercial centres for surrounding farming areas and serves as shopping centres for towns such as Bergville, which lacks a strong commercial presence. Van Reenen is divided between the Free State and both Emnambithi and Okhahlamba in KwaZulu-Natal. Corridors The district area is dissected by two major corridors (Primary Corridors) that of the N3 and the N11. Both routes are linkages between KwaZulu-Natal (Durban) and Gauteng (Johannesburg), with the N3 running through the Free State Province and the N11 running through Mpumalanga Province. The N3 has the highest carrying capacity accommodating those who travel for pleasure and those for business, whilst the N11 is mainly for cargo carriers. Other important but smaller routes (Secondary Corridors) that are relevant to Okhahlamba are the R74 and R600. The significance of these routes is that they link the N3 and N11 with Winterton, Bergville and Cathkin Park. The whole of the Berg complex is a major tourist area within uthukela District and a significant portion of this is situated in Okhahlamba. Service levels and the nature of facilities are generally the highest in these hubs. These hubs cover relatively large areas. Ladysmith and Estcourt provide the following functions which can be utilised by the community of Okhahlamba: The entire range of social facilities. A number of primary and secondary facilities as well as the tertiary facilities for the region. The region s hospitals and higher order medical facilities. Large police station, large community centre, and emergency service centre. An integrated and collective approach to service provision for Van Reenen is essential especially in light of the different local and district authorities that it falls under. Alignment is imperative. The transportation network in the form of roads and rail infrastructure plays a critical role in determining the structure of the area while creating opportunities for investment. The transportation network provides linkages between different areas, while influencing the level of access to social and economic opportunities whereby the quality of life for individuals can be enhanced. The access roads within Okhahlamba are of major importance, as community access roads are in poor condition. This limits the level of health and social service that can be delivered to rural communities. Tourism will focus on the Drakensberg and the Battlefields routes. The SDF needs to ensure the sustainable utilisation of environmental, cultural and heritage assets by creating a balance 19

20 This complex is a significant tourist destination nationally and internationally. Significant battlefields from the second Anglo-Boer War identified in the uthukela SDF fall within Okhahlamba including the battlefields of Spioenkop and Vaal Krantz. Source: uthukela IDP 2012/13, uthukela SDF 2008, uthukela Tourism Plan 2007 between conserving the resources and utilising them for tourism purposes. Since both the and Battlefields are cross-cutting issues affecting adjoining countries (Lesotho), Provinces (Free State, Eastern Cape) and Municipalities (Amajuba, umgungundlovu, Sisonke), an integrated and collective approach must be adopted. A Primary Tourism Corridor was identified and runs from Estcourt along the Drakensberg and over Oliviershoek Pass Local Municipalities SDF Emnambithi/Ladysmith Table 7: Emnambithi/Okhahlamba Alignment Issue Area of Alignment Implication for Okhahlamba SDF Nodes Ladysmith has been identified as a Primary Node in the Emnambithi/ Ladysmith SDF and is the Primary Due to Ladysmith s proximity to Okhahlamba, the implications in terms of services and economic spin-offs will be 20

21 Van Reenen Corridors Tourism Administration Centre of the District. It is also the main economic and industrial hub of the District and provides higher order social, commercial and retail services. Van Reenen is divided between the Free State and both Emnambithi and Okhahlamba in KwaZulu-Natal. The N3 and N11 are the Primary transportation routes that traverse Emnambithi Municipality. The corridors are largely movement corridor between the dominant urban cores of Johannesburg and Durban. There are significant battlefield sites in Emnambithi. Source: Emnambithi IDP 2011/12, Emnambithi SDF further investigated. An integrated and collective approach to service provision for Van Reenen is essential especially in light of the different local and district authorities that it falls under. Alignment is imperative. The transportation network plays a critical role in determining the structure of the area while creating opportunities for investment and access to services. An integrated and collective approach to the battlefields must be adopted as significant battlefield sites such as Spioenkop and Vaalkrantz in Okhahlamba originated in the Second Anglo-Boer war related to the Siege of Ladysmith Umtshezi Table 8: Umtshezi/Okhahlamba Alignment Issue Area of Alignment Implication for Okhahlamba SDF Corridors The N3 is identified in the NSDP as a national corridor, and is recognised as such (existing corridor) in the PSEDS. It runs in an east-west direction almost dividing Umtshezi Municipality in two halves. It is a high speed limited access road providing access and inter-nodal connections at a national and provincial level. It carries traffic between Johannesburg and Durban. The N3 is an important linkage running through Umtshezi into Okhahlamba and then continuing through Emnambithi. Its significance will be explored in the SDF. The P11 serves as a major link at a district level knitting together small towns from Bergville through Winterton to Umtshezi Municipality. Nodes The P11 linking Bergville and Winterton to Umshezi is identified as a secondary corridor in the Umtshezi SDF. Estcourt/Wembezi is the second largest urban area in the district. Its threshold extends beyond Umtshezi Municipal boundaries to include almost the whole of Imbabazane Due to Estcourt proximity to Okhahlamba, the implications in terms of services and economic spin-offs will be further investigated. 21

22 Municipality and portions of Okhahlamba Municipality. Source: Umtshezi IDP 2011/ Imbabazane Table 9: Imbabazane/Okhahlamba Alignment Issue Area of Alignment Implication for Okhahlamba SDF Drakensberg Imbabazane Municipality is located at the foothills of Drakensberg (World Heritage Site), and is situated between Okhahlamba, Umtshezi and Mpofana Municipalities. An integrated and collective approach to the Drakensberg must be adopted especially in light of the World Heritage status. Source: Imbabazane IDP 2011/ Maluti a Phofung Table 10: Maluti a Phofung/Okhahlamba Alignment Issue Area of Alignment Implication for Okhahlamba SDF Van Reenen Van Reenen is divided between the Free State and both Emnambithi and Okhahlamba in KwaZulu-Natal. An integrated and collective approach to service provision for Van Reenen is essential especially in light of the different local and district authorities that Tourism The municipality is an important tourism destination due to the Drakensberg and Maluti mountain ranges, as well as the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. it falls under. Alignment is imperative. An integrated and collective approach to the Drakensberg must be adopted especially in light of the World Heritage status and the Maluti-Drakensberg Transfrontier Park. Corridors Tugela-Vaal Water Project The focus on the development of the Maluti-Drakensberg Transfrontier Park also need to be promoted in order to increase the tourism potential in the following areas: QwaQwa National Park; Golden Gate National Park; Sterkfontein Dam. Van Reenens Pass is on the N3 and straddles the border between the Free State and KwaZulu-Natal in the town of Van Reenen. Oliviershoek Pass is on the R74 and straddles the border between the Free State and KwaZulu-Natal just a few kilometres to the south of Sterkfontein Dam Nature Reserve. Water resources are scarce in the Johannesburg area and this has a direct impact on water resources in the Drakensberg area. To address Both Van Reenens Pass and Oliviershoek Pass are important linkages between the two Provinces. Van Reenens Pass is the route predominantly used, however, Oliviershoek Pass is sometimes used as an alternate route between Durban and Johannesburg. Interventions to strengthen these linkages need to be investigated. An integrated and collective approach to the management of water resources must be adopted. 22

23 the scarce resources and supply water to Gauteng, two inter-basin water transfer schemes were developed to operate in the Drakensberg region. The Tugela- Vaal Transfer Scheme and the Lesotho Highlands Water Project rely on these upper catchments and the area is South Africa s most important source of water. Linked to the Tugela-Vaal Scheme is the Drakensberg Pumped Storage System which supplies electricity to Gauteng. Source: Thabo Mofutsanyane District IDP 2010/11, Thabo Mofutsanyane District IDP 2012/13, Maluti a Phofung IDP 2012/13, Wikipedia, Alignment with Lesotho Table 11: Lesotho/Okhahlamba Alignment Issue Area of Alignment Implication for Okhahlamba SDF Drakensberg The Maloti-Drakensberg Transfontier Conservation and Development Project (MDTP) is a collaborative initiative between South Africa and the Kingdom of Lesotho to protect the biodiversity of the Drakensberg and Maloti mountains through conservation, sustainable resource use, and landuse and development planning. An integrated and collective approach to the Drakensberg must be adopted especially in light of the World Heritage status and the Maloti-Drakensberg Transfrontier Park. Source: 23

24 CHAPTER 3: VISION AND PRINCIPLES 3.1 SPATIAL VISION AND MISSION Vision: By 2030, Okhahlamba will be a prosperous area anchored on the preservation of world heritage site with its citizens enjoying a high quality of life Mission: Okhahlamba municipality exists to ensure that its citizens enjoy a high quality of life by driving and facilitating holistic delivery of basic infrastructure, service as well as economic and human development Source: Okhahlamba IDP 2011/ KEY PRINCIPLES TO INFORM THE SDF The following development principles form the basis of sound spatial planning and will be the approach followed in the preparation of the SDF. (a) The principle of sustainability The principle of sustainability requires the sustainable management and use of resources making up the natural and built environment. This is particularly significant in light of the recent COP 17 and focus on climate change. Land use and development decisions must promote a harmonious relationship between the built and the natural environment while ensuring that land development is sustainable in the long term. The principle demands a holistic approach to land development in order to minimise the long-term negative impacts of current land use or development decisions. (b) The principle of equality Ensuring equality requires that everyone affected by spatial planning, land use management and land development actions or decisions enjoy equal protection and benefits, and no unfair discrimination. This involves, inter alia: (c) Public participation in land use planning and development processes; Benefits and opportunities from land development impact positively on previously disadvantaged communities and areas. The principle of efficiency In terms of efficiency, this requires that the desired outcome of land use be produced with the minimum expenditure of resources. This involves: 24

25 (d) Land use planning and development which promotes the development of compact human settlements and combat low intensity urban sprawl; The areas in which people live and work being close to each other; and Plans of neighbouring municipalities and regions be aligned. The principle of integration Integration reflects the need to integrate systems, policies and approaches in land use planning and development. It requires that the planning process is integrated, taking into account the often disparate sectoral concerns, policies and laws and their requirements. This involves integrating: (e) Sectoral policies; Efficient and functional settlements; Appropriate services and infrastructure; social and racial groups; Mixed land-use development. The principle of fair and good governance Land use planning is a centrally important government function, directly affecting the lives of all people. It is therefore particularly important that it is characterised by fairness and transparency and that people are afforded a meaningful right to participate in decisions. When public authorities formulate new plans, they must put in place processes that actively involve citizens, interest groups, stakeholders and others. Also, where land development projects are initiated by the private and non-governmental sectors, there must be procedures that ensure that interested parties have an opportunity to express their views or to object. 3.3 ALIGNMENT OF IDP AND SDF Table 12: Objectives KPA Objective Implication for SDF Basic Service Delivery and To facilitate energy supply Infrastructure Development Social and Local Economic Development To provide portable water To address sanitation backlog by 2014 To facilitate delivery of sustainable human settlements To improve & facilitate access to road networks To increase access to solid waste disposal To increase access to community facilities To promote local economic development To identify existing service levels and facilities and identify off-grid services in order to promote feasible alternatives. Identify areas of potential economic growth such as tourism and agriculture. Identify places where periodic markets should develop. Spatial, Environmental and Rural To develop Rural Service centres The Spatial Development To demarcate areas for grazing 25

26 Development To protect & preserve environment To review Spatial Development Plans Framework must provide a framework within which development must occur within the Municipality and identify a hierarchy of nodes and corridors. The SDF must provide guidelines for a Land Use Management System. The SDF will identify environmentally sensitive areas for preservation and conservation. 26

27 CHAPTER 4: SPATIAL ANALYSIS AND SYNTHESIS 4.1 BIO-PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT Geology The geological nature of an area influences the topography, and alignment of river channels. It also has an influence on soil types and potential for agricuture. Geology in this case looks at rock formation and not rock type. There is generally more than one rock type for each rock formation. For the purposes of the Spatial Development Framework, a broad overview of the geology of the area is given, however, as variations occur development must be subject to geotechnical analysis. (BMA GeoServices,Guideline on Geotechnical Analysis, 2009) (a) Drakensberg and Lebombo Group The Drakensberg was formed during one of only seven large scale outpourings of basaltic lava worldwide. This heralded the start of the breakup of Gondwana about 180 million years ago. The lava stopped flowing about 140-million years ago and since then, erosion has been the dominant force in shaping the mountains, forming imposing peaks and steep-sided valleys. The remains of these lava flows now form the Lesotho highlands and Lebombo mountains. A 1,5 kilometre thick layer of Jurassic age basalt flows can be seen along the Drakensberg Escarpment. The magma (molten rock) made its way to the surface along a complex system of fractures which formed dolerite sills and dykes. (b) Stormberg Group The Stormberg Group is subdivided into three formations. Sandstone of the lowermost Molteno Formation was formed by rivers in a wet environment. These are now exposed as small cliffs in the lower Drakensberg and can be easily recognised by their sparkling appearance. This is due to minute quartz crystals that coat and bind together the sand grains. The Molteno Formation is overlain by red mudstone of the Elliot Formation which contains dinosaur fossils. The overhanging white cliffs of the middle Drakensberg are composed of Clarens Formation sandstone. These sandstones were deposited as large dunes in a desert environment and preserve large internal bedding structures called crossbeds. (c) Beaufort Group 27

28 Beaufort Group mudstones and sandstones form the foothills of the Drakensberg Escarpment. It is characterised by red, green and purple coloured mudstones. Amphitheatre, Drakensberg Mountains Source: Prior to development: Identify areas that present a high risk geotechnically due to their unsuitability due to steep slopes or susceptibility to flooding. Rock types that are found in the area must then be identified. Risks associated with each rock type must be interpreted and categorised. Source: BMA GeoServices Geotechnical Analysis Guideline Soil (a) Soil depth and productivity Soils are shallow on hard or weathered rock. Deep, rich soils are not found on steep slopes and therefore most of the areas with a higher gradient have shallow soils. Deep soil deposits are found along rivers and streams on level to moderate slopes. Soils in the Drakensberg have low agricultural potential, but the majority of the municipality beyond the Drakensberg has good to high agricultural potential. All soils in the area are sensitive to erosion and degradation unless managed properly. (b) Characteristics of the region There is a central band of soil running from the foothills of the Drakensberg towards the eastern boundary of the municipality which has very high soil potential. The towns of Bergville, Geluksburg, Khethani and Dukuza are found within this zone. This is surrounded in the north-east and south-west by high and good quality soil. Cathkin Park is found within this area. Shallow soils and soils of moderate to poor drainage present an erosion hazard if not 28

29 managed correctly. These areas of good and relatively good soil are primarily arable soil and have a limited risk of soil erosion. Poorer soils are found along the Drakensberg Mountain range. Shallow soils, duplex soils and soils of moderate to poor drainage present an erosion hazard if not managed correctly. These areas of poor and very poor soil are primarily non-arable in nature and have a high risk of soil erosion. (Department of Agriculture: Okhahlamba Bioresource Units) 29

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32 4.1.3 Climate In terms of climate, the Department of Agriculture uses the following definitions to distinguish between climate types. See table 12 below: Table 13: Climate definitions Climate Definition category C1 Local climate is favourable for good yields for a wide range of adapted crops throughout the year. C2 Local climate is favourable for a wide range of adapted crops and a year round growing season. Moisture stress and lower temperatures increase risk and decrease yields relative to C1. C3 Slightly restricted growing season due to the occurrence of low temperatures and frost. Good yield potential for a moderate range of adapted crops. C4 Moderately restricted growing season due to low temperatures and severe frost. Good yield potential for a moderate range of adapted crops but planting date options more limited than C3. C5 Moderately restricted growing season due to low temperatures, frost and/or moisture stress. Suitable crops may be grown at risk of some yield loss. C6 Moderately restricted growing season due to low temperatures, frost and/or moisture stress. Limited suitable crops which frequently experience yield loss. C7 Severely restricted choice of crops due to heat, cold and/or moisture stress. C8 Very severely restricted choice of crops due to heat and moisture stress. Suitable crops at high risk of yield loss. Source: Department of Agriculture: Okhahlamba Bioresource Units Climate type Very High Climate High Climate Good Climate Relatively Good Climate Moderately Good Climate Moderately to Poor Climate Poor Climate Very Poor Climate (a) Characteristics of the area The north-western and south-western boundaries which are part of the Drakensberg are characterised by relatively good climate. There are large areas of good climate along the foothills of the Drakensberg. Good Climate is prevalent in particular around Geluksburg in Ward 13, around Mont-Aux-Sources in the north-west and an area stretching from the southeast boundary towards Ward 12, including the Cathkin Park area. There is a very large area which has moderately good climate which extends over the central band from the south-west to the north-eastern boundary. This includes the towns of Bergville, Winterton and Khethani. 32

33 (b) Impact of Climate Change According to the Guideline on Integration of Agrohydrological Issues into Municipal Spatial Planning within KwaZulu-Natal (GroundTruth. 2009) rainfall is expected to increase throughout the province. In addition temperatures will also increase which will result in higher atmospheric demands for water. The increase in precipitation will increase the risk of periodic and extreme flood events. This will have positive effects on water resources in terms of quantity of water in rivers, increased groundwater and filling of dams. There are however, negative impacts in terms of flooding, increased erosion and the effect on water quality. Agricultural planning must take into account the potential high intensity rainfall and associated potential flooding: Healthy riparian buffers must be designated around water courses to cope with increased water and flooding. Fields must be properly planned and contoured with appropriate erosion control. Guideline on Integration of Agrohydrological Issues into Municipal Spatial Planning within KwaZulu-Natal (GroundTruth. 2009) Hydrology The escarpment of the Drakensberg lies between and meters and determines the watershed between the interior catchments of Lesotho that feed into the Orange River and the shorter and steeper catchments of rivers feeding into KwaZulu-Natal such as the Tugela, Mooi and Mkomazi Rivers that flow towards the east coast. The key river arising in the Okhahlamba area is the Tugela River. There are a number of wetland systems distributed throughout the municipality. Wetlands are of major importance for nature conservation, because of the variety of natural communities associated with them. The Afro-alpine and Montane Belts of the Drakensberg are of particular significance for the maintenance of regular stream-flow patterns, and acceptable water quality levels. Protection of the majority of these wetlands is afforded by the ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site (UDPWHS). (Biodiversity Sector Plan for Uthukela District: Technical Report) Water resources are scarce in the Johannesburg area and this has a direct impact on water resources in the Drakensberg area. To address the scarce resources and supply water to Gauteng, two inter-basin water transfer schemes were developed to operate in the Drakensberg region. The Tugela-Vaal Transfer Scheme and the Lesotho Highlands Water Project rely on these upper catchments and the area is South Africa s most important source of water. On the Climate of the Drakensberg: rainfall and surface-temperature attributes, and associated geomorphic effects by Werner Nel (a) Drakensberg Pumped Storage Scheme Construction on the Drakensberg Pumped Storage Scheme started in 1974 and was completed by Four dams are involved in the scheme; the Driekloof Dam (a branch of the Sterkfontein Dam), the Kilburn Dam, the Woodstock Dam and the Driel Barrage. Electricity 33

34 generation equipment is located between Driekloof Dam and Kilburn Dam. The Driekloof Dam and Sterkfontein Dam (located just outside Okhahlamba in the Free State) also forms part of the Tugela-Vaal Water Project so some of the water pumped to Driekloof Dam may flow to the Vaal Dam and not to the Kilburn Dam. The Woodstock Dam and Driel Barrage are used to supply this additional water to Kilburn Dam when required. The scheme provides for up to 27,6 GWh of electricity storage in the form of m³ of water. The water is pumped to Driekloof during times of low national power consumption (generally over weekends) and released back into Kilburn through four 250 MW turbine generators in times of high electricity demand. ( (b) Tugela-Vaal Transfer Scheme The Thukela-Vaal transfer scheme consists of Woodstock Dam, Driel Barrage, Jagersrust Balancing Dam and Kilburn Dam. Woodstock Dam is located 7 km upstream of the Driel Barrage. It is used to regulate storage for the Driel Barrage from where water is transferred to the Vaal River catchment via Eskom s Drakensberg Pumped Storage Scheme. In order to transfer water to the Vaal River Catchment, water is pumped from the Driel Barrage to the start of a trapezoidal canal, from where it gravitates to the Jagersrust Balancing Dam before it is pumped to Kilburn Dam and from there over the escarpment to Sterkfontein Dam. (Thukela Water Management Area) (c) Woodstock Dam Woodstock Dam is located on the upper reaches of the Tugela River, 10 kilometres west of the town of Bergville in the foothills of the Drakensberg Mountains. Woodstock Dam is the main source of water for the Tugela-Vaal Transfer Scheme. The dam was commissioned in 1983, has a storage capacity of m³, and a surface area of 29,129 km². The dam wall is 49 metres high. ( The road from Bergville to the site is tarred all the way, offering visitors easy access. (Uthukela District Municipality Business Plan for Woodstock Dam) The dam has untapped tourism potential due to its easy accessibility, scenic beauty and proximity to the Drakensberg. (d) Kilburn Dam The Kilburn Dam is located 500 metres lower than the Sterkfontein Dam, on the Mnjaneni River, near Bergville. The dam was commissioned in 1981 and has a capacity of 35,577 m³ and a surface area of 1,947 km². The dam wall is 51 metres high. (Wikipedia) 34

35 Kilburn Dam Source: Wikipedia (e) Spioenkop Dam The Spioenkop Dam was commissioned in 1973, has a capacity of m³, and a surface area of 15,314 km². The dam wall is 53 metres high. The dam was built to regulate flow downstream of the Driel Barrage. The dam also supplies water to Ladysmith and supports water requirements for downstream farmers mainly between the dam and Winterton. Occasionally releases are made from Spioenkop Dam to dilute poor quality effluent release by SAPPI (at Mandini) into the lower Tugela River. (Thukela Water Management Area) (f) Lesotho Highlands Water Project The Lesotho Highlands Water Project is one of the largest and most intricate construction projects currently underway in the world. The aim is to transfer 70 m 3 /s from the upper portions of the Lesotho Highlands into the Vaal River basin. Although the project does not directly affect Okhahlamba, the source of the water arises in the Drakensberg Mountains. It is imperative that measures be taken to preserve the environment and ensure the quality and quantity of the water remains high in order to feed both the Lesotho Highlands Water Project and the Tugela-Vaal Transfer Scheme. (g) Tugela River The Tugela is the largest river system in KwaZulu-Natal. The funnel shaped catchment area of the Tugela River lies predominantly in the KwaZulu-Natal. The Tugela River rises in the Drakensberg Mountains near Bergville where peaks rise to over m. The river and its tributaries, meander through central KwaZulu-Natal, draining from the Drakensberg escarpment towards the Indian Ocean. The upper reaches of the Tugela River, upstream of the confluence with the Bushmans River, includes the towns of Bergville, Ladysmith, Colenso and Weenen. The Klip River is the main tributary in this area. This area is the source of water for the Tugela-Vaal Transfer Scheme, which, inter alia, transfers water to the Vaal River System. 35

36 Rivers No development within the 1:100 floodline and where the integrity of a river bank may be compromised. Developments below a dam wall, must take cognisance of the dam failure flood line. No agricultural activity should take place closer than 20 metres from any river bank. Source: Uthukela District Spatial Development Framework, 2008 Wetlands Wetlands are important to environmental sustainability, water retention and filtration and flood mitigation and must be conserved as far as possible. No wetlands are to be converted or drained without approval from the Department of Agriculture and Environmental Affairs. Source: Uthukela District Spatial Development Framework, 2008 Dams No future settlements within the 1:100 year flood line and dam failure flood lines. Existing settlements should be encouraged to relocate outside of these flood lines. No development should be closer that 20m from the high-water mark of any unprotected dam, until such time as the Disaster Management Plan identifies settlements that are at risk of being flooded. Source: Uthukela District Spatial Development Framework, Topography Land-use within the Drakensberg area is largely determined by altitude. The wilderness conservation areas are situated in the escarpment zone (2 200 m to above m) and farmland and small towns are found below m in the foothills. On the Climate of the Drakensberg: rainfall and surface-temperature attributes, and associated geomorphic effects by Werner Nel Topographically, the Drakensberg Mountains have the greatest influence on settlement patterns, followed by the Tugela River, and the transport routes of Van Reenen s Pass and Oliviershoek Pass. (CRDP) Slopes are a useful topographical factor that limits the availability of land for agriculture, in particular for cropping. Croplands require relatively flat land for cultivation especially where complex irrigation systems are utilised (GroundTruth Guideline on Integration of Agrohydrological Issues into Municipal Spatial Planning within KwaZulu-Natal). Areas around Bergville and Winterton are highly suitable for cropping. Slopes are more suitable for grazing and forestry, but must be limited in the Drakensberg in order to preserve the sensitive landscape. The landscape spans a range of altitude from metres on the summit of the Drakensberg in the west to the undulating Bergville tableland at an average altitude of metres. Finally the landscape drops down into the valley bushveld areas of the Tugela River at metres. The morphology of the landscape comprises four terraces ranging from the lowest valley bushveld areas in the east, to the Bergville tableland which rises to the so-called little berg before finally escalating to the summit. (CRDP) 36

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41 4.1.6 Agriculture The majority of the municipality running from north-west to south-east and extending to the north-east boundary has high, good or moderate agricultural potential. The western portion of the municipality consists of steep mountain slopes (Drakensberg) that are only suitable for grazing, forestry and wildlife and have low or restricted agricultural potential. The Landcover map indicates that commercial farming is prevalent within the central band running from northwest to south-east. Rural subsistence agriculture is prevalent to a much smaller extent southwest of this band in the Traditional Authority areas along the foothills of the Drakensberg. In the east there is considerable arable land, which represents some of the highest potential agricultural land in the Province. Bergville and Winterton are both geared towards supporting agriculture. There is a large granary capable of storing sacks of maize, as well as a small soya bean mill and cold storage facility located in Bergville. These represent a market opportunity for farmers. Local cattle sales are held in Bergville on the third Friday of every month. (a) Commercial Agriculture Okhahlamba has a strong agricultural base. The municipality consists of a total of hectares of which hectares are available for arable production (inclusive of afforestation). There is considerable potential for irrigation development due to the extensive water resources available in the area. Commercial farming continues to perform as an important economic sector although it s relative importance is declining. The core agricultural activities are maize, wheat, and soya bean production, the bulk of which are grown under irrigation, with the main product of the district being maize. Semi intensive beef and dairy are still important enterprises and there has also been an increase in broiler (poultry) production. (b) Subsistence Agriculture The traditional settlement areas are characterised by lack of individual ownership of land, high settlement densities in the planned areas and sparse settlement in the remoter areas. The traditional settlement areas have considerable agricultural potential, however, there is limited arable land, stocking levels are uncontrolled and there is a lack of control over animals which results in damage to crops. Subsistence farming is prevalent, with the main agricultural activity within these areas the traditional ranching of cattle, however, over-grazing and stock theft negatively impact on this type of activity. Small holder agriculture also consists of maize, dry bean and vegetable production on a small scale and there is potential to produce a surplus for the market. Although there are opportunities for developing this market and encouraging small scale commercial production, a lack of expertise, skills and knowledge are constraints which must be addressed. 41

42 Despite its illegality, cannabis (dagga) is grown as a cash crop in the inaccessible mountain slopes and constitutes possibly the most important part of the informal sector within the district. (CRDP) A number of positive steps are being taken to improve small holder agriculture in the area, including a programme which has been concentrating on the establishment of community gardens, small irrigation schemes and broiler units; a pilot programme introducing institutional reforms around the rental of arable land; and a project launched by the Department of Land Affairs which should provide opportunities for emerging black farmers. Source : CRDP Agricultural potential Areas with High Agricultural Potential No further development other than commercial agriculture. Department of Agriculture and Environmental Affairs must commit their support to land reform projects within High Agricultural Potential land in order to ensure commercial and environmental sustainability. Development subject to development application. Areas with Good Agricultural Potential Agricultural theme to be continued, possibly in the form of Agri-tourism. Very Limited development in line with the SCAP and DAP. Development subject to development application. Areas with Relatively Good Potential Limited development in line with the SCAP and DAP. Development subject to development application. Areas remaining Development subject to development application. Source : Uthukela Spatial Development Framework, Agrohydrology According to the Guideline on Integration of Agrohydrological Issues into Municipal Spatial Planning within KwaZulu-Natal (GroundTruth. 2009) agricultural production is affected by a number of factors including soil, water, climate and topography. Agrohydology looks at the issue of agricultural potential in relation to water resources. Water for agriculture can be either from rainfall or from catchment runoff that is accessed from surface water resources such as rivers and dams. According to the guideline when looking at agricultural potential for Okhahlamba taking into account factors of soil, water, climate and topography as mentioned above, a larger area is denoted as having high potential for agriculture. Agrohydrological aspects need to be taken into account: Agrohydrological assessments must be conducted at a District level to ensure accurate identification of agricultural resources. Protection of prime agricultural land with emphasis on securing long-term food supply and security. Preservation of areas with the greatest potential for agriculture solely for future agricultural 42

43 developments. Emphasis on developing the subsistence agricultural sector in order to improve rural livelihoods and promote sustainable agricultural practices. Climate change needs to be taken into account in order to negate against negative impacts and capitalise on positive impacts. Guideline on Integration of Agrohydrological Issues into Municipal Spatial Planning within KwaZulu-Natal (GroundTruth. 2009) 43

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45 4.1.8 Vegetation The Drakensberg is characterized by Drakensberg Afro-alpine Heathland on the escarpment, Ukhahlamba Basalt Grassland and Northern Drakensberg Highland Grassland on the slopes and foothills. The central area extending from the foothills of the Drakensberg is primarily Northern KwaZulu-Natal Moist Grassland. The northeastern area is Thukela Thornveld and the north-western area is Drakensberg Montane Shrubland in the upper reaches and Low Escarpment Moist Grassland on the slopes. From the above it can be seen that most of the Okhahlamba area is characterised by grassland although valley bushveld intrudes into the eastern portion of the Thukela Valley. The Drakensberg has great diversity in plant communities with some species only endemic to the Drakensberg Mountain Range. The aesthetic appeal of the Drakensberg is an attraction for tourism. A balance needs to be struck between conservation and tourism in order to ensure the ongoing preservation of the sensitive environment and sustainable management of tourism especially in light of the area being a World Heritage Site Land Cover In terms of land cover, there are large areas of commercial crops primarily in the central band extending to the eastern boundary. Subsistence agriculture occurs along the foothills of the Drakensberg in the Traditional Authority areas. There are pockets of indigenous forests throughout the municipality on the slopes of valleys and on the slopes of the Drakensberg. Commercial forestry is found to the south of the municipality around Cathkin Park and Emmaus. The majority of the municipality including the Drakensberg is grassland with scattered bushland. 45

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48 4.2 Environmental Considerations Context Okhahlamba Local Municipality is located in a very environmentally significant area with the Drakensberg Mountains having outstanding natural beauty, a fascinating and ancient geology, great diversity in plant communities, some of the rarest animals in the world and the largest, richest and most concentrated series of rock art in Africa. The area needs to be managed appropriately in order to ensure a balance between conserving the environment and promoting appropriate tourism in the area Diversity The municipality has a significant Protected Area Network and reasonably intact vegetation which offers a high diversity of habitats which support a large proportion of important faunal and floral species. The majority of Red Data plant species occur predominantly in the higher altitudinal areas of the Drakensberg, which are to the greatest extent protected (with exception of the Mnweni Valley). The Drakensberg Alpine Region is considered a centre of plant diversity and endemism. A total of species of plants have been recorded for the ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site of which 29.5% are endemic and 109 are listed as threatened species. A large proportion of these species are found within the Okhahlamba area (uthukela Biodiversity Sector Plan) Drakensberg Mountains The Drakensberg Mountain Range stretches from the Southern Cape to Mpumalanga Province. In KwaZulu-Natal it comprises two primary components, the High or Main Berg, and the Low Berg running through to Northern KwaZulu-Natal. The High Drakensberg area falls into five valleys, beginning with the Injusuthi valley in the south, Champagne Valley in the Central Berg, through the Cathedral Peak and Didima Valley, then the Royal Natal National Park and Amphitheatre Valley, and finally the Middledale Pass Valley in the Northern Berg. Three fall within the Okhahlamba area. (a) Royal Natal National Park and Amphitheatre Valley The hectare Royal Natal National Park is situated in the northern Drakensberg and managed by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife. The most famous feature is the Amphitheatre which is over 5 kilometres in length and has cliffs rising approximately metres along its entire length. The summit is over metres above sea level. Mont-Aux-Sources peak is important as the source of both the Orange and Tugela rivers. The Tugela Falls is the world s second highest waterfall falling 948 metres from the Amphitheatre s cliff tops. The Royal Natal National Park forms part of the ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site. ( and Wikipedia) 48

49 (b) Cathedral Peak and Didima Valley Cathedral Peak is a m high free standing mountain in the Drakensberg. The mountain is also known as Mponjwana (Little Horn) by the local Amangwane people. Cathedral Peak is part of the Cathedral Ridge which is at right angles to the main range. Other peaks in the spur are the Twins, also known as the Triplets, (2 899 m), the Bell (2 930 m), the Outer (3 006 m) and Inner (3 005 m) Horns, the Chessmen (2 987 m) and Mitre Peak (3 023 m). Cathedral Peak was first climbed by D.W Basset-Smith and R.G. Kingdon in 1917, via the gully. (Wikipedia) The Didima Valley has many examples of San Rock Art and many climbing and hiking routes. The Didima Resort and San Art Centre is an Ezemvela KZN Wildlife Project situated approximately 45 km from Bergville. A 4x4 trail leads from the Amphitheatre in the Northern Drakensberg to Cathedral Peak via the Mnweni Valley. The Mnweni Cultural Centre, which provides accommodation, trails and guides, is also located in this area. Mike's Pass provides a route for vehicles to drive to the top of the Little Berg near the head of Didima Gorge. The Rainbow Gorge offers a relatively flat hiking trail along the Ndumeni River. (Wikipedia, (c) The Cathkin and Champagne Valley Champagne Castle (3 248 m) is a mountain in the central Drakensberg range, and is the second highest peak in South Africa. It contains a series of subsidiary peaks, amongst them, Cathkin Peak (3 149 m), Sterkhorn, Mount Memory, Monk's Cowl (3 234m) and Dragon's Back. These are some of the highest peaks of the Drakensberg Mountains. Cathkin was named after an area around Glasgow, Scotland by the first Scottish settlers in the Drakensberg. The Champagne Peak received its name as a result of the first climber to reach its peak taking a bottle of Champagne to celebrate his achievement and accidently dropping it. Champagne Valley is noted for its many different sporting activities, especially golf, for which there are numerous challenging golf courses. (Wikipedia, ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park The ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park is the largest protected area (World Heritage Site) on the Great Escarpment of the southern Africa. It is located in an inland mountain along the eastern border of Lesotho. It comprises a northern and a significantly larger southern section. The mountainous area between these two sections, known as the Mnweni area, is tribal land. The park can be divided into two distinct physiographic regions: the foothills of the 'Little Berg' are steep-sided spurs, escarpments and valleys occurring below m in elevation, whereas the high main escarpment rises to over m. There is considerable variation in topography, including vast basalt and sandstone cliffs, deep valleys, intervening spurs and extensive plateau areas. This topographical variation 49

50 contributes to the outstanding scenic value. The Drakensberg is one of the best watered, least drought-prone areas of southern Africa, and has particular significance for catchments protection and the provision of high-quality water supplies for surrounding communities. A number of rivers originate from the park. and Critical aspects to consider in the formulation of a framework for the protection and enhancement of the natural resources base: The environmental uniqueness and character of uthukela. Identification of functional ecological systems associated with major rivers and other environmentally sensitive areas. Acknowledging the impact of topographical features and other aspects of the fixed natural environment. Creating a framework for managing growth and development within the municipal areas especially the agriculturally productive areas. Source: uthukela Spatial Development Framework Maloti-Drakensberg Transfrontier Project The Maloti-Drakensberg Transfrontier Project (MDTP) is a joint initiative between the Kingdom of Lesotho and the Republic of South Africa that seeks to establish institutional linkages in order to enhance the conservation and sustainable development for the natural and cultural resources of the Maloti-Drakensberg mountain bioregion. The project area extends from Clarens in the Free State through to Matatiele in the Eastern Cape and encompasses numerous formally protected areas, including the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park that is a World Heritage Site. In addition to this, there are extensive tracts of community and privately owned land that give the initiative the distinctive characteristics of a biosphere reserve. The objectives of the project are: Architectural, archaeological and living heritage conservation and preservation; Historical and cultural research, surveys and mapping; Development of heritage sites by providing the necessary spatial reference framework to aid decision making; Biodiversity conservation and eco-tourism development of the Maloti-Drakensberg Transfrontier Project Mnweni Valley Community Park The Mnweni Wilderness Working Team has proposed a Community Park within the Mnweni Valley area between Royal Natal and Cathedral Peak. The community wilderness area has been determined in conjunction with the community and Traditional Authorities. The Amazizi and Amangwane Traditional Authorities will apply for hectares of their land to be proclaimed as a Wilderness Nature Reserve under the Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Biodiversity Stewardship Programme. (Source: The Witness dated 50

51 8 October 2012). The proposed boundary is indicated on all the maps in the Spatial Development Framework. Over a number of years both Okhahlamba Municipality and uthukela District Municipality have proposed a Cableway in this sensitive area. Extensive research and feasibility studies must be undertaken in order to ensure that this is actually in the best interest of the area. 51

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53 4.2.7 Biodiversity According to the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, No. 10 of 2004, biodiversity means the variability among living organisms from all sources including, terrestrial, marine and other aquatic ecosystems and the ecological complexes of which they are part and also includes diversity within species, between species, and of ecosystems (Biodiversity Sector Plan for Uthukela District: Technical Report). South Africa has ratified the International Convention on Biological Diversity which aims to develop and implement a strategy for the conservation, sustainable use and equitable sharing of biodiversity elements. The Biodiversity Bill requires that a Bioregional Plan be developed for the Province. This must ensure that a minimum area of each bioregion with all its representative ecosystems is protected. Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife are the nature conservation agency for the province and are therefore key in managing biodiversity and ensuring that the bioregional plans are prepared and implemented. The core functions of Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife are: Biodiversity conservation Wise and sustainable use of natural resources Provision of affordable eco-tourism destinations (Biodiversity Sector Plan for Uthukela District: Technical Report) The Biodiversity Sector Plans look at both terrestrial and aquatic features in the landscape that are critical for conserving biodiversity and maintaining ecosystem functioning (Biodiversity Sector Plan for Uthukela District: Technical Report p 11). It is intended to serve as an informant or guideline for multi-sectoral planning and decision making Terrestrial (Minset) Minset identifies a minimum set of planning units that will assist in meeting conservation targets. The Minset map indicates areas that are already protected, areas of transformation, and areas of biodiversity priority. (a) Protected Areas Protected Areas are areas that have been declared or proclaimed as such in terms of either the KwaZulu-Natal Nature Conservation Management Act (No 9 of 1997) or the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act (No 57 of 2003). Protected Areas play a key role in conservation and meeting biodiversity targets. 53

54 (b) Transformation The latest Land Cover data (2005) is intended to be utilised to demarcate areas of transformation. Map 10 shows transformed and untransformed land. Table 13 below gives an indication of the rationale used to determine transformation. Areas of transformation are areas that have already changed to such an extent that biodiversity is of little significance. Table 14: Land Classifications used in the Transformation Layer Category Cultivation, commercial, annual crops, dryland Cultivation, commercial, annual crops, irrigated Cultivation, subsistence, dryland Dams Erosion Golf courses KZN Main & District Roads KZN National Roads Mines & Quarries Old Fields (previously bushland) Old Fields (previously grassland) Orchards -permanent, irrigated, banana s and citrus Orchards -permanent, dryland, cashew nuts Orchards -permanent, dryland, pineapples Plantation Plantation -clearfelled Rural dwellings Smallholdings -grassland Sugarcane, commercial, irrigated & dryland Notes These areas are considered transformed. These areas are considered transformed. Rural dwellings were also buffered by 600m. The impact of goats, cattle, wood harvesting, hunting and disturbance around rural settlements has a significant negative impact on biodiversity. Sugarcane, semi-commercial, emerging farmer, irrigated & dryland These areas are considered transformed. Urban / Built-up Dams Additional areas of transformation (from aerial photographs) Known approved developments. Areas that are immediately obvious from spot imagery. These areas are considered transformed. Source: Biodiversity Sector Plan for Uthukela District: Technical Report (c) Biodiversity Priority Areas Table 15: Biodiversity Priority Areas Biodiversity Priority Area 1: The BPA1 designated planning units contain one or more features within an irreplaceability = 1. This means that there are no other localities which we have been able to identify as alternates to try and meet the conservation target for this 54

55 feature(s). The distribution of this/these features is not always applicable to the entire extent of the Planning Unit however (except in the case of certain grassland vegetation types), but is more often than not confined to a specific niche habitat e.g. a forest or wetland. Should this be the case, and special mitigation measures have been considered to safeguard this feature, then the potential for development (dependant on its nature of course) could be permitted in the area. Obviously this is dependent on a site by site, case by case basis. This distribution dynamics outlined above are the same for all 3 BPA's indicated in the Minset. Biodiversity Priority 2: BPA2 indicate the presence of one (or more) features with a very high irreplaceability score. In practical terms, this means that there are alternate sites within which the targets can be met, but there aren't many. This site was chosen because it represents the most optimal area for choice in the systematic planning process, meeting both the target goals for the features concerned, as well as a number of other guiding criteria such as high agricultural potential area avoidance, falls within a macro-ecological corridor etc. Whilst the targets could be met elsewhere, the revised reserve design (derived through Minset) would more often than not be slightly more 'land-hungry' in an effort to meet its conservation objectives. The scarcity of the Biodiversity features contained within is, however, still the primary driver for this Planning Units selection in Minset. Biodiversity Priority 3: BPA3 indicate the presence of one (or more) features with a low irreplaceability score. Derived in the same way as outlined for BPA2 described above, the determination vision of these Planning Units is driven primarily by the guiding layers. Source: Draft Terrestrial Systematic Conservation Plan, July 2011 (d) Applicability for Okhahlamba Maps 11 and 12 give an indication of existing protected areas in the municipality. The majority of the protected areas relate to the Drakensberg, however, there is a reserve located around the Spioenkop Dam. Table 16: Existing Protected Areas in Okhahlamba Protected Area Category Area (ha) Poccolan Nature Reserve Provincial Nature Reserve Robinson s Bush Nature Reserve Provincial Nature Reserve 165 Cathedral Peak (UDPWHS) State Forest Rugged Glen (UDPWHS) Provincial Nature Reserve 416 Royal Natal (UDPWHS) Provincial Nature Reserve Monks Cowl (UDPWHS) State Forest Spioenkop Nature Reserve Provincial Nature Reserve Source: Biodiversity Sector Plan for Uthukela District: Technical Report In terms of Biodiversity Priority Area 1, these are concentrated primarily along the Drakensberg covering the areas that have not been designated as existing Protected Areas. It includes the Mnweni Valley area located between Royal Natal National Park and the Cathedral Peak Reserve. It also includes the area between Royal Natal National Park and Poccolan/Robinsons Bush Nature Reserve and north-east of these reserves to Van Reenen in the north-eastern corner of the municipality. As these areas have high biodiversity value they need to be protected as far as possible. The majority of the municipality not mentioned above, falls into an area identified as 100% transformed and have low biodiversity importance. 55

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58 Ecological Corridors The maintenance of connectivity is essential to a number of movement-related ecological processes, including species migrations, seasonal and altitudinal dispersal, and range displacement in response to climate change. Okhahlamba plays a key role in regional ecological connectivity. The Alpine corridor occurs along the ridgeline of the Drakensberg and the Berg Corridor runs along the western and northern borders forming an integral part of a national ecological corridor identified along the Drakensberg axis. The ecological corridor along the Drakensberg also serves to protect healthy high altitude grasslands that are vital for catchment integrity, and water provision and regulation. The north-south axis has a high degree of corridor integrity whereas the east-west linkages along the northern border of the municipality are incomplete and fragmented. Ridge line corridors are reasonably intact whilst riparian corridors are fragmented due to agricultural practices and rural and urban settlement along rivers. The proposed Babangibone Development Node (identified in the Special Case Area Plan and Drakensberg Approaches Policy) represents a potential threat to connectivity. (Biodiversity Sector Plan for Uthukela District: Technical Report) MAP 14 58

59 Aquatic Aquatic systems such as rivers, wetlands, dams and lakes are dealt with and mapped separately to the terrestrial system. Minset criteria do not apply to aquatic systems. Map 14 (Aquatic Corridors) shows areas of importance in terms of aquatic systems. The Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife aquatic conservation plan for the District is shown by the Earmarked areas. In this context Earmarked is a term used to show irreplaceable areas. The aquatic conservation plan identifies those portions of land that should be protected from a biodiversity point of view. 59

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62 4.3 SOCIO-ECONOMIC CONDITIONS History and Heritage The cultural heritage and history of the municipality is an important factor to take into account in spatial structuring. The Cultural Heritage Interpretation for Spatial Planning guideline (ethembeni Cultural Heritage, 2009) looks at the importance of cultural heritage and ways to mainstream it in order link it with the biophysical landscape and local economic development. Firstly, heritage sites need to be identified and thereafter it needs to be determined whether they need to be protected or whether tourism is feasible. Issues of good road infrastructure and safety and security need to be considered. Okhahlamba is a tourism destination with important historical and heritage sites. The most known heritage resources in Okhahlamba are the structures, landscapes and battlefields associated with the Anglo-Boer War, San rock paintings and ukhahlamba Drakensberg World Heritage Site. Below are some of the key historical and heritage sites within Okhahlamba. (a) Drakensberg The ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park is a hectare World Heritage Site, stretching from Royal Natal in the north to Garden Castle in the south. It has exceptional natural beauty in its soaring basaltic buttresses, incisive dramatic cutbacks, and golden sandstone ramparts. Rolling high altitude grasslands, the pristine steep-sided river valleys and rocky gorges also contribute to the beauty of the site. The site s diversity of habitats protects a high level of endemic and globally threatened species, especially birds and plants. The Drakensberg region is one of the most important archaeological areas in southern Africa. It contains many caves and rock-shelters with the largest and most concentrated group of paintings in Africa south of the Sahara, made by the San people over a period of years. The rock paintings are outstanding in quality and diversity of subject and in their depiction of animals and human beings. They represent the spiritual life of the now extinct San people. and (b) Bergville The small town of Bergville is the gateway to the Northern Drakensberg. Bergville is equidistant from Johannesburg and Durban and lies on Route 74 which is a more scenic alternative to the N3 Toll Road. This route takes one via the Oliviershoek Pass, traditionally used to access the Drakensberg, from Johannesburg and through Winterton from Durban. (Wikipedia). Bergville is situated less than 50km from the towering Amphitheatre of the Royal Natal National Park and functions as an agricultural and trading centre. Bergville was laid out in 1897 by a retired sea captain and known as Bergville Mountain village. British forces built a blockhouse in the settlement two years later at the onset of the Anglo-Boer War. The blockhouse stands in the grounds of the 62

63 Courthouse and is the only surviving blockhouse in KwaZulu-Natal. (c) Winterton Winterton is a small town situated on the banks of the Tugela River in the foothills of the Drakensberg Mountains. It was founded in 1905 as Springfield when the Natal government built a weir to stem the flow of the Little Tugela River. The town later changed its name to Winterton in honour the secretary for agriculture, H.D. Winter. The town is situated on the R74 between Bergville and the N3, as well as the R600 between Ladysmith and the Central Drakensberg. Winterton is close to the Second Boer War battle sites of Battle of Vaal Krantz and Spioenkop. Winterton also serves as an entry point to the Champagne Valley as well as the Cathedral area of the central Drakensberg, boasting well known mountain peaks such as Champagne Castle and Cathedral Peak respectively. (Wikipedia) (d) Spioenkop Nature Reserve The Spioenkop Nature reserve is a hectare reserve run by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife. It consists mainly of bushveld and grasslands. The Spioenkop Dam is located within the nature reserve which is situated 13 km from Winterton and 35 km from Ladysmith. _09.htm (e) Battlefields The Battle of Spion Kop was fought about 38 km west-south-west of Ladysmith on the hilltop of Spioenkop from January It was fought between the South African Republic and the Orange Free State on the one hand and British forces 63

64 during the Second Boer War during the campaign to relieve Ladysmith and resulted in a British defeat. Source: Wikipedia The Battle of Vaal Krantz (5 February to 7 February 1900) was the third failed attempt by General Redvers Buller's British army to fight its way past Louis Botha's army of Boer irregulars and lift the Siege of Ladysmith during the Second Boer War. Vaal Krantz was a ridge of kopjes (small hills) a few miles east of Spioenkop. (Wikipedia) Source: Wikipedia 64

65 Age Groups Demographic Profile Although the 2011 Census has been conducted the results are not yet available. The 2001 Census and 2007 Community Survey data will be utilised as the official statistics for the area. The Community Survey of 2007 indicates that the total population in Okhahlamba Municipality is , with 28,508 households. Okhahlamba has a large number of children (79 937) under the age of 19 which is more than 50% of the population. Table 17: Population Age Male Female Total Source: Stats SA: Community Survey 2007 Figure 1: Population Profile Okhahlamba Municipality Population Profile CS Female Male Population Density The majority of the municipality in particular the northern area and the north-western and south-western boundaries (Drakensberg) is primarily sparsely populated with a population density of less than 10 people per square kilometre. Higher concentrations of people are found surrounding the towns of Bergville and Winterton and in the Traditional Authority areas along the foothills of the Drakensberg. (Stats SA). In terms of service delivery, the provision of services will be more cost effective in the established nodes which are more densely populated and where economic opportunities could be enhanced. 65

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68 4.3.4 Poverty The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) and University of Oxford utilised components of the 2001 census data from Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) to determine different levels of deprivation. The Multiple Deprivation Index is a multi-dimensional approach. Five domains of deprivation were identified and utilised to form an index of multiple deprivation for each province. The domains are as follows: Income and Material Deprivation, Employment Deprivation, Health Deprivation, Education Deprivation, and Living Environment Deprivation. Two key elements underpin the Multiple Deprivation Index. Firstly deprivation refers to peoples unmet needs, whereas poverty refers to the lack of resources required to meet those needs. Secondly, multiple deprivation as an accumulation of single deprivations (The Provincial Indices of Multiple Deprivation for South Africa 2001, 2006 report). The Multiple Deprivation Index therefore looks at issues of poverty from a broader perspective than just low income and low expenditure. It provides a more realistic view of poverty in terms of lack of access to services and opportunities. It also enables comparison between wards within a municipality, between municipalities and between provinces. Table 18: Defining the Deprivation Domains Income and material deprivation looks at two key elements, firstly in terms of income, two thresholds were utilised: a low income of less than R4 800 per annum and a very low income of less than R1 488 per annum. With regards to material deprivation, three household durables were utilised to indicate deprivation - a refrigerator, radio and television. The employment domain looks at unemployment within the economically active population (15 65 year age group). The health deprivation domain identifies areas with relatively high rates of people who die prematurely. Education deprivation looks at levels of education. Deprivation is measured in terms of lack of education qualifications in the 18 to 65 year age group, in particular no schooling at a secondary level or above. Living environment deprivation looks at deprivation relating to the poor quality of the living environment. This domain considers factors such as piped water to the dwelling or within 200 metres; access to high levels of sanitation, ie: a pit latrine with ventilation or flush toilet; access to electricity for lighting; access to a telephone; number of people living in a household that is a shack; and households with two or more people per room. Source: The Provincial Indices of Multiple Deprivation for South Africa

69 Map 19 shows areas of deprivation in Okhahlamba based on the above criteria. The most deprived areas in Okhahlamba fall under the Traditional Authority Areas, and also cover the central and northern Drakensberg. 69

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71 4.3.5 Traditional Authority Areas There are two Traditional Authority areas within the Okhahlamba Municipality. The Amazizi Traditional Authority is located to the west of the municipality at the foothills of the Drakensberg. The Amangwane is a larger Traditional Authority area is located from the western boundary towards the eastern boundary along the foothills of the Drakensberg. It incorporates the Mnweni Valley which is the only area of the Drakensberg that is not under regulation by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Land Reform The land reform programme, which is made up of restitution, redistribution and tenure reform, is rooted in the national Constitution. Its aim is to redress inequities in land access and use policies, which previously applied. The Okhahlamba Local Municipality has a number of Land Reform and Restitution projects operating or under consideration in its area. Since the Land Reform projects have been running for some years, a number of communities, NGO s and government departments are actively involved in the area and have staff familiar with the dynamics of the region. Constraints to the success of these projects include the conflicts over land and land administration in the past, which included political, Traditional Authority and labour tenant/farmer conflicts. Further, the capacity of the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform is limited and there is a lack of clarity with regard to how Ingonyama Trust land should be dealt with in the Land Reform programme. (CRDP) Gazetted Land Restitution claims are located along the north-west boundary in Ward 10, in the north-east in Wards 11, 13 and 1 and in the south straddling Wards 3 and 14. Labour Tenant Claims are located along the central band and there are scattered transferred projects in the north and central areas Settlements The settlement pattern is primarily within the central band, with a concentration in the south-west along the foothills of the Drakensberg. Settlements are predominantly along transport routes and in the Traditional Authority areas. There is an accumulation of settlements around Emmaus and around Woodford Dam. Settlements LUMS should aim to increase the density of rural and urban settlements. LUMS should aim to address spatial segregation, particularly in housing delivery by identifying suitable areas for low-income housing. LUMS should identify the need for expansion of towns and indicate areas for future growth. Settlement service provision should followed RSS guidelines. Source: Uthukela District Spatial Development Framework,

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74 4.3.8 Social facilities The social facilities follow the settlement patterns. Okhahlamba Municipality identifies the improvement of economic and social infrastructure, access to quality education, and improved health care as priority issues. The development and maintenance of essential public infrastructure is an important ingredient for sustained economic growth and poverty reduction. Poor infrastructure is considered one of the most binding constraints to growth throughout the municipality. Reasonable access to social infrastructure in remote, rural environments where 80 per cent of the population live mostly without electricity and roads is essential. Infrastructure investment would contribute to economic growth and support social objectives. Access to social services is limited in terms of clinics and schools. Whilst there are schools in towns and settlements, they are in a dilapidated state without proper sanitation and potable water for both learners and educators (Okhahlamba IDP 2011/12). (a) Education Education is a key factor in poverty alleviation and the upliftment of rural communities and is especially significant in Okhahlamba Municipality due to the large number of children under the age of 19. In terms of primary schools the municipality is very well serviced as all settlements and towns have a primary school within 5 km of the community. Primary schools are located in all the towns and around all key settlement areas including Emmaus and Woodford. In terms of high schools the municipality has adequate coverage. Most settlements and towns have a high school within 5 km of the community. The condition of the schools, as well as access to water and sanitation at the schools is an area of concern. Access to tertiary education is lacking. Source: Okhahlamba IDP 2011/12 74

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76 (b) Health The most important health facility in the Okhahlamba is Emmaus Hospital, situated 15 kilometres from Winterton, which supports 4 clinics and 22 mobile clinic points located mostly in the southern part of the municipal area. Most of the health issues dealt with at Emmaus Hospital relate to Preventative Tuberculosis and HIV-AIDS, while the greatest causes of death amongst children are respiratory disease and Gastro Enteritis. The municipality has 3 mobile clinics and 6 fixed clinics which are located at Oliviershoek, Dukuza, Cathkin Park, Emmaus, Bergville and in the Woodstock Dam area. MAP 24 76

77 (c) Post Office Three post offices are located in the municipality. There are post offices in Winterton, Bergville and at Jagers Rust in the north-west which service the entire municipal area. The Okhahlamba IDP (2011/12) raises a concern regarding the non- existence of commercial lifeline services such as shops, post offices and petrol filling stations in the remote areas. Map 25 (d) Police Stations Police Stations are located in Winterton, Bergville, Oliviershoek and Upper Tugela. 77

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79 4.3.9 Employment Sectors The key employment sectors within Okhahlamba relate to agriculture and forestry, manufacturing, community services, trade and construction. Figure 2: Employment Industry (15 65 year age group) Source: Stats SA Community Survey Employment According to the Community Survey (2007), people are employed, are unemployed and are not economically active in Okhahlamba Municipality. This excludes children and people over 65. Figure 3: Employment Employed Unemployed Not Economically Active Source: Stats SA Community Survey

80 Income Distribution According to the Community Survey 2007, levels of income within Okhahlamba are very low, with the majority of the population having either no income or earning less than R1 600 per month. This is an area of concern particularly in the traditional authority areas. Table 19: Income Category Figure 4: Income Category Income Category Gender Total Male Female No income Less than R R1 601 R R6 401 R R R R upwards Response not given Source: Stats SA - Community Survey 2007 Stats SA: Community Survey

81 4.4 BUILT ENVIRONMENT Water (a) Piped Water In terms of water, a suitable standard of water supply is to have access to piped water either to the dwelling or at least within 200 metres of the dwelling. According to the 2007 Community Survey, 47.2% of the households of Okhahlamba have access to piped water. This is a slight decrease from the 2001 Census data which indicated 51,8% of households had access to piped water. Access to piped water is one of the key indicators utilised in the Multiple Deprivation Index. Table 20: Access to Piped Water Figure 5: Access to Piped Water Access to water 2001 Census: Total (%) CS 2007: Total (%) Piped water inside the dwelling Piped water inside the yard Piped water from access point outside the yard No piped water Stats SA: Census 2001, Community Survey 2007 Figure 6: Access to piped water 2001 and 2007 Stats SA: Census 2001, Community Survey

82 (b) Alternative water supply In the absence of piped water, communities and settlements do make use of alternative water supplies, for instance boreholes, rivers and springs. In some instances even if piped water is available at a standpipe, significant distances have to be walked to access that water. The Assessment of the Scope for Alternative Technologies and Potential for Expanding the Resource Base guideline (PPT, 2009) looks at alternative technology to ensure a sustainable supply of water to households that do not have piped water. Rainwater harvesting can be effectively utilised in both residential households and public facilities. The Okhahlamba Municipality is well endowed with water resources in terms of rivers and has an above average rainfall which makes rainwater harvesting a viable and sustainable option Sanitation In terms of sanitation, Okhahlamba has high levels of inadequate sanitation. According to the Community Survey 2007, 52% of households utilise a pit latrine and 14,5% have no toilet facilities. This means that effectively 66,5% of households do not have adequate sanitation facilities Refuse Removal According to the Community Survey 2007, 6,8% of households have refuse removed by the local authority and only 5,7% of households have no refuse removal at all Energy (a) Formal electricity supply The Multiple Deprivation Index utilises the supply of electricity for lighting purpose as a key indicator. It is not used as an indicator for cooking or heating as households may have a preference for another mode of energy supply. In terms of the Community Survey 2007, 62,3% of households use electricity for lighting which is an improvement on the 2001 Census which recorded 38,8% of households using electricity for lighting. Approximately 33,7% of households use electricity for cooking and 17% for heating. Existing bulk electricity supply in the area is limited. A program of installation of electricity is required. Street lighting should be addressed in order to fight crime in most areas, especially low cost housing and dense settlements. There is a huge electricity backlog, about households are using candles as their source of energy for lighting. (Okhahlamba Local Municipality Draft IDP Review 2011/2012) 82

83 (b) Alternative Energy The Assessment of the Scope for Alternative Technologies and Potential for Expanding the Resource Base guideline (PPT, 2009) looks at the utilisation of alternative technology to help address basic needs of the poor and marginalised. In terms of Okhahlamba this primarily relates to the dispersed rural settlements. Although the Eskom electrification network is extensive and appears to cover the entire municipality it does not impact on the disadvantaged rural settlements. Recommended technologies include safer and more efficient cookers such as gas fuel and more efficient and sustainable use of woodfuel at a household level. At a social facility level, such as at schools or community halls, solar water heaters, solar power and biogas are viable options. There are huge disparities in provision of services and major service backlogs Maintenance of existing infrastructure is poor. Alternative technologies must be further investigated in order to address access to basic services. Source: CRDP, The Assessment of the Scope for Alternative Technologies and Potential for Expanding the Resource Base guideline 83

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85 4.4.5 Transportation Okhahlamba Municipality has a well established road network servicing all settlements. The N3 runs along the eastern boundary of the municipality and provides linkages between Durban and Johannesberg. There are also a number of key provincial roads which service the area. The R74 is the main road providing linkages to Pietermaritzburg and the Free State and R616 provides linkages to Ladysmith, the N3 and the N11. The R600 links Cathkin Park to Winterton and the N3. The P10 creates a loop around the R74 providing access to areas such as Cathkin Park. The main roads within Okhahlamba, as mentioned above are surfaced, however there are many unsurfaced roads running throughout the municipality. (uthukela Public Transport Plan) Roads Settlement service provision should followed RSS guidelines. Upgrade of the gravel road between Emmaus and Loskop to accommodate tourism developments. Maintenance of a good standard of roads to tourism nodes. LUMS to investigate tarring of the P294 from the N3 to Winterton as it may have positive spinoffs for tourism. Source: Uthukela District Spatial Development Framework, 2008 (a) Road Classification Four types of road classes have been identified according to the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport database. This classification is as follows: National Roads These roads denoted with the prefix N e.g. N11 and are primarily the responsibility of the Department of Transport and are maintained through the South African National Roads Agency. Provincial Main Roads These are higher order provincial roads all with the prefix P e.g. P47-3. There is a further breakdown of this class into types of main roads, each type meeting certain requirements pertaining to traffic volumes, freight requirements and so forth and hence not all main roads are surfaced roads. The Department of Transport also uses another classification system and therefore some provincial roads are also referred to as Routes (R). In the case of Okhahlamba, the R74 is also referred to as the P11 and P340, the R616 is the P30, and R600 is the P181 and P

86 Provincial District Roads All these roads are the responsibility of the Department of Transport and the majority are not surfaced. Again there is a further breakdown into types of district roads, each allocated different design and maintenance specifications. These roads normally have a prefix D e.g. D373. Provincial Local Roads Formerly, these were known as Community Access Roads and are classified as third order roads with minimum design requirements. In this class there is a further breakdown into two types, namely gravel and earth roads (tracks). These roads generally have a prefix A. Table 21: Strategic Functional Road Classification System Class Strategic Function Nature of Roads Implications for Okhahlamba SDF 1 Primary distributor 2 Regional distributor High mobility roads with limited access for rapid movement of large volumes of people, raw materials, manufactured goods and agricultural produce of national importance. Relatively high mobility roads with lower levels of access for the movement of large volumes of people, raw materials, manufactured goods, and agricultural produce of regional importance in rural and urban areas. Public roads: between, through and within regions of national importance. between, through and within provincial capitals and key cities. between, through and within major city nodes, which have significant economic or social road traffic. between South Africa and adjoining countries which have significant national economic or social transport interaction. providing access to major freight and passenger terminals including major ports and airports. Public roads: between, through and within centres of provincial importance. between, through and within provincial capitals, large towns and municipal administration centres. between class 1 roads and key centres which have a significant economic, social, tourism or recreational role. between South Africa and adjoining countries which carry limited economic or social road traffic. providing access to The N3 is the Primary distributor within the uthukela District Municipality. The N3 runs along the eastern boundary of Okhahlamba and is important for providing access the area. It also has implications in terms of economic and social interaction. There are three regional distributors within Okhahlamba Municipality, namely the R74, R600 and R616. The R74 and R616 serve as the Primary Corridors for the municipality providing access to Bergville and Winterton and linking on to the N3. The R600 is identified as a Secondary Corridor for the municipality providing 86

87 3 District distributor Moderate mobility with controlled higher levels of access for the movement of people, raw materials, manufactured goods, agricultural produce in rural and urban areas of regional importance. 4 District Collector High levels of access and lower levels of mobility for lower traffic volumes of people, raw materials, manufactured goods, agricultural produce in rural and urban areas of local importance. 5 Access roads High access and very low mobility routes for the movement of people and goods within urban and rural areas. economic and transport hubs of regional importance, including specific networks such as the Strategic Secondary Road Network and the Strategic Public Transport Network. Public roads: through and within centres and towns and linking with rural residential areas and villages. through and within centres and town and linking with industrial/farming areas. between residential areas and local industrial/ commercial areas. between, through and within large residential areas. that provide linkages between Class 2 and/or Class 1 routes. that provide linkages between centres, towns, rural residential, industrial/ farming areas, and Class 2 or Class 1 routes including specific networks such as the Strategic Secondary Road Network and the Strategic Public Transport Network. Public roads: between, through and within villages, farming areas and scattered rural settlements, which provide access to social services and markets. within commercial, residential and industrial areas. linking Class 3 roads. with limited direct access to property in an urban context. Public roads: within a residential area. Between Class 3 or 4 type roads and residential areas. that provide direct access to industries and businesses. that provide access to specific destinations such as heritage sites, national parks, mines, forests, etc. access to Cathkin Park and linking on to the N3. Within Okhahlamba, District distributor roads would include: R74 which links Bergville and Winterton. R600 which links Winterton and Cathkin Park. R616 leading to Bergville and joining the R74. Within Okhahlamba, District collector roads would include: P30, P341 and D443 which provide linkages between Bergville and Geluksburg. P180 which links Winterton and Emmaus. This includes public access roads within the urban and rural centres of Bergville, Winterton and Cathkin Park. Interventions will be addressed during the LUMS process. 87

88 6 Non-Motorised access ways Public rights of way for non-motorised transport providing basic and dedicated movement. that accommodate safe mobility of pedestrians and other non-motorised transport systems. Public right of way: that provides safe dedicated access and mobility for pedestrians, cyclists and animal drawn transport. that provides dedicated access to social, recreational and economic areas. Source: Road Infrastructure Strategic Framework for South Africa (2006) In terms of Okhahlamba this aspect has not been addressed. Further investigation should be undertaken during the preparation of the Land Use Management System. (b) Accessibility A country s road network has an important role to play in economic and social development. Areas with inadequate transports systems limit access to economic and social opportunities. Without the means to generate income and improve the quality of life, such communities remain poverty stricken. Rural poverty, in particular has been linked to the isolation of communities from economic centres. There is thus a relationship between poverty and the lack of adequate transportation systems. The effect of the topography on the operation of public transport is especially restrictive in the Okhahlamba area where the foothills of the Drakensberg are predominant features with roads having steep inclines and grades, and roads crossing rivers at low level crossings. Rainfall also has an effect on the operation of public transport due to flooding of these river crossings in summer. (uthukela Public Transport Plan ) (c) Public Transport As many of the community do not have their own motor vehicles, public transport is essential in providing mobility and accessibility of these communities to socio-economic facilities. Transportation within the Municipality is almost exclusively achieved through the use of road vehicles. Categories of transport are as follows: Public Transport Buses Public Transport Taxis Private Transport Passenger Vehicles Private Transport Trucks There are 2 public transport facilities catering for minibus taxis within Okhahlamba located in Bergville and Emmaus. There are no facilities for buses, with the nearest bus rank being located in Ladysmith. The uthukela Public Transport Plan ( ) identifies that investigations are required with regard to the upgrading of existing minibus-taxi facilities in Bergville and Emmaus. A new minibus-taxi facility is also being considered for Winterton. 88

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90 4.4.6 Telecommunications Telecommunications includes access to radio, television, telephone, cell phone and internet. Access to radio and television are key indicators in the Multiple Deprivation Index in order to show quality of life. (a) Access to Telephone/Cellphone/Internet: There has been a downward trend in the use of landline telephones since The CS 2007 data shows that households out of the total of have a landline (3.6%), which is a decrease from the households that had one in In contrast, households have a cellphone as at 2007 (76,3%), which is a significant increase from the households which had a cellphone in Access to the internet is related in part to owning a computer and also to having a functioning landline. Only households have a computer as at 2007 and only 607 households have access to the internet. (b) Access to Radio/Television Access to a radio for communication has increased by approximately 9%, with households having access in 2001 and having access in Access to a television has also increased from in 2001 to in 2007 (42,6%) Human Settlements In terms of housing, more than 50% of the population reside in traditional dwellings and 31% reside in free standing house or brick structures. According to the Okhahlamba Integrated Development Plan 2011/12 the majority of community members occupy traditional housing which varies significantly in character and quality. There is a huge housing backlog in the rural areas. Land ownership also needs to be promoted in the rural areas. 90

91 Table 22: Type of Dwelling (per household) Type of Dwelling Total Figure 7: Type of Dwelling House or brick structure on a separate stand or yard Traditional dwelling/ hut/ structure Flat in block of flats 460 Town / cluster/ semi-detached 4 house House/ flat/ room in back yard 461 Informal dwelling/ shack in 196 back yard Informal dwelling/ shack not in 214 back yard (eg in informal/ squatter settlement) Room/ flatlet not in back yard 134 but on a shared property Workers Hostel 289 Stats SA: Community Survey 2007 There are a number of housing projects which are of significance for the next 3-5 years. These are indicated in the table below and included in the Capital Investment Framework. Investigations are also being done by the Municipality with regard to the feasibility of utilising the Nondela Resort which is a tourism facility, for housing. Table 23: Housing Projects Project No. of Status Funding Timeframe for Implementation units Emmaus Housing 1000 Prep funding stage R years Project Bethany Housing 1000 New project R years Project Moyeni Housing 1000 New project R years Project Landkloof Housing 1000 Prep funding stage R years Project Dukuza Housing 1000 Prep funding stage R years Project Emagangangozi 250 New project R years Housing Project Ngoba Housing Project 250 New project R years Source: Okhahlamba IDP

92 4.4.8 Tourism Tourism is a key sector in the local economy of Okhahlamba, with the wide asset base including a range of accommodation facilities, outdoor sporting and recreational activities. The main tourism destinations are Cathkin Park, Cathedral Peak, Royal Natal National Park and Spioenkop, which includes the historical site, dam and lakeside resort run by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife. Locations of growing significance for tourism include the Mnweni Valley area. (Integrated Local Economic Development Programme ) (a) Drakensberg Bergville is described as the gateway to the tourism mecca of the Drakensberg which has been declared a World Heritage Site. Some of the most picturesque holiday resorts, like Cathkin Peak, Cathedral Peak, Champagne Castle, Oliviershoek, and Rugged Glen Nature Reserve, Spioenkop s historical site, lakeside resort and dam run by Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife are all situated close to the town. Approximately half a million tourists are attracted to the Drakensberg annually from as far afield as the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Holland and North America, as well as domestic tourists primarily from Gauteng and KwaZulu- Natal. In addition, a considerable number of day visitors and hikers pass through the area. As such, it is one of the major sources of income generation within the tourism industry as the foreign spending in the area contributes significantly to the economy. It also plays a significant role regarding where people have settled. The Royal Natal National Park and the Rugged Glen Nature Reserve boast one of South Africa s most beautiful mountain landscapes, which includes the magnificent peaks of Mont- Aux-Sources. The pinnacle is m high and the flat summit can be reached by means of a chain ladder. (b) Arts and Crafts There are numerous places where arts and crafts can be bought in the Okhahlamba Municipality. Arts and crafts can be found at hotels and lodges in the municipal area as well as in established arts and craft/curio centres, including the undermentioned: Thandanani Curio Centre Thokazisa KwaZulu-Weavers and Candles Ardmore Zimisela Curios centre ( (c) Battlefields The uthukela District has many battlefields destinations. The Vaalkrantz Battlefield, and Spioenkop Battlefield and Dam Resort as well as the Rangeworthy Cemetery that holds the graves of those killed in the battles of Spioenkop and Bastion Hill, are located close to Bergville. 92

93 (d) Places of interest Van Reenen is located at the border between KwaZulu-Natal and the Orange Free State on the main N3. The little village is famous for having the Llandaff Oratory, the smallest church in the world - capable of a full house of 8 people. The church was built by a father in memory of his son who died in a mining accident. (CRDP) 93

94 CHAPTER 5: SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS 5.1 SPATIAL TOOLS Hierarchy of nodes The approach adopted is similar to the Rural Service System concept. The Rural Service System concept entails the identification of a hierarchy of nodes and different levels of services and facilities within each type of node. There are three types of nodes: Primary Node: Administrative and Economic Centre Secondary Node: Distribution and co-ordination point Tertiary Node: Supplementary services The primary node has a threshold of 10 km and the secondary and tertiary nodes have thresholds of 5 km each. These thresholds indicate the communities/settlements serviced by the nodes. Table 24: Level of services/facilities within each node Primary Node Secondary Node Tertiary Node Municipal Offices Hospital Welfare Offices Primary High Schools Tertiary Training Facility Permanent Information Centre Post Office + Post Boxes Banks Bus and Taxi Terminals Police Station Magistrates Court Home Affairs Offices Municipal Hall Wholesalers/Stores/Shops Source: Okhahlamba SDF 2011 Satellite Police Station Clinic Primary School High School Tribal Court (where applicable) Rural Service Information Centre Post Boxes Regular Bus Service Community Halls Stores/Shops Routine Police Patrol Weekly Mobile Clinic Primary secondary schools Weekly Mobile Welfare Services Regular Bus Service Post Boxes Meeting Places Shops According to the Public Capital Investment and Settlement Growth guideline (Dewer, D and Iyer, N 2009) capital investment should aim to develop support facilities and formalise the current activities in terms of the above level of services. This would involve the establishment of a formal market, taxi rank and the development of a multi-purpose hall as a first step. The development of a library and resource centre is another social facility that would complement 94

95 the existing facilities at the next level of development. This should be easily accessible to the existing schools In terms of roads, there are three levels of road network which differentiate between the higher order and lower order roads as well as the functions of the different levels of roads: Primary Transportation Routes (N3) Primary Corridor Secondary Corridor Minor Linkages/Corridor Identification of Nodes in Okhahlamba Bergville has been identified as the Primary Node. Winterton has been identified as a Secondary Node. Tertiary Nodes have been identified in Zwelisha, Dukuza Complex, Emmaus and Geluksburg. Cathkin Park and Babangibone have been identified as Tourism Nodes. 95

96 Primary Node: Bergville Table 25: Primary Node - Bergville Town/Settlement Existing level of services/ facilities Bergville Municipal Offices Clinic Welfare Offices Primary School Permanent Information Centre Post Office Banks Library Taxi Terminals Police Station Magistrates Court Jail Home Affairs Offices Community Hall Wholesalers/Stores/Shops Worship Source: Okhahlamba IDP 2011/12 Comments/requirements to ensure feasibility of node Bergville is most suited for a primary node in Okhahlamba Municipality. It has adequate facilities and meets most of the requirements in terms of level of services/ facilities for a primary node. It does not have a hospital but does have a clinic. Emmaus hospital is approximately 15 km away and fulfills this function. No High School, in the node but there are High schools in close proximity, including at Winterton. Another gap is a Tertiary Training Facility. Bergville forms the primary node and commercial and administrative hub of the Municipality. Located within this area are the municipal offices, provincial government offices, schools, 96

97 police station, magistrate s court and various stores and shops. (Okhahlamba IDP 2011/12). Bergville has an existing Town Planning Scheme which guides land use and development within the town. Bergville is highly accessible with the R74 (Primary Corridor) running through the town and the R616 also providing access to the town. Figure 8: Bergville Secondary Node: Winterton Table 26: Secondary Node - Winterton Town/Settlement Existing level of services/ facilities Winterton and Khetani Clinic Primary School High School Stores/Shops Community Hall Rural Service Information Centre Police Station Post Office Source: Okhahlamba IDP 2011/12 Comments/requirements to ensure feasibility of node Winterton is a suitable secondary node as it has a number of facilities/ services. A minibus taxi rank is being investigated for the town. 97

98 Figure 9: Winterton Winterton is a low-key service, housing and administrative centre within the Municipality. It is relatively well established with a range of services and facilities. Small-scale tourism development around this area should be encouraged. It is also a key agricultural area. Winterton has an existing Town Planning Scheme which guides land use and development within the town. Winterton is highly accessible with the R74 (Primary Corridor) running through the town and the R600 also providing access to the town. It is linked to Bergville by the R74 and to Cathkin Park via the R Tertiary Nodes Tertiary Nodes have been identified in Zwelisha, Dukuza Complex, Emmaus and Geluksburg. Services at these nodes are at a low level and include mobile clinics, shops, and primary and secondary Schools. The only hospital in the municipality is located in Emmaus. These nodes play a role in servicing the densely populated rural communities that surround them. 98

99 Figure 10: Zwelisha 99

100 Figure 11: Dukuza Complex Figure 12: Emmaus 100

101 Figure 13: Geluksburg Tourism Nodes Cathkin Park has been identified as a Tourism Node in the Drakensberg Approaches Policy, and are to be located within areas which are attractive, provide good views, a feeling of being in the mountains and have potential for resource orientated activities. Nodes should also have ready access to the wilderness / natural areas through controlled points. Cathkin Park has a Town Planning Scheme to control development. Figure 14: Cathkin Park 101

102 5.1.3 Establishment of Markets A key factor in ensuring sustainability of a node is ensuring that it has a viable economic base. The establishment of markets is important in facilitating this. The Spatial Planning Guideline for Promoting Local Income Circulation (Stratplan, 2009) recommends that the LED Plan looks at issues relating to local income circulation and the development of periodic markets based on one or more of the following criteria: Pension payout points; Mobile clinic stopover points; Existing markets; Settlements with potential for market place establishment. In the case of Okhahlamba, it makes sense to establish or enhance markets within the identified tertiary nodes. More intense investigation needs to be done with regard to placement of the markets and ensuring that adequate facilities and services are provided to the site such as access to water, sanitation, trees or shelters for shade and flat concrete surfaces Urban Edges Okhahlamba is a predominantly rural area albeit with a number of identified town and villages which serve an urban purpose. Bergville is an established urban centre and the primary hub of the municipality. It has an existing town planning scheme and an urban edge has been delineated. Winterton and Cathkin Park also have town planning schemes and delineated urban edges. The guideline on Defining Limits on Settlement Expansion: The Issue of the Urban Edge (Dewar, D. and Louw, P. 2009) looks at the importance of defining the urban edge. This is important in order to eradicate sprawl and promote urban compaction. Having the settlement contained within a predetermined or demarcated area promotes greater efficiency in terms of land use and service delivery. It will assist in achieving greater urban efficiency as community facilities and schools can be contained within an area of higher density which makes them more accessible to the community. Bulk infrastructure and community services can be better placed in order to supply greater numbers of households Guidelines for Land Use Management In terms of Land Use Management, the following guidelines will apply in order to encourage orderly use of land. The following broad zones are identified, however, the Municipality must develop a formal Land Use Management System which takes the Spatial Development Framework into account. 102

103 Urban This zone relates to the developed urban/nodal areas identified, that is, Primary, Secondary and Tertiary nodes. It is intended to make provision for the range of urban land uses and services identified per node including educational, industrial, commercial, community, government and residential Agriculture and Tourism The primary use of this zone is agriculture. However, non-agricultural uses within the municipality also need to be encouraged to create employment and generate economic development. A wide range of tourism activities and facilities should be permitted that do not negatively impact on the agricultural potential. The aim of this zone is to encourage ruralbased tourism land uses in association with agriculture. However, subdivision of agricultural land should only be supported if the agricultural viability of the existing farming operations can be shown to be maintained or enhanced Conservation The conservation zone includes all land which has special environmental status and economic value due to its function in providing an environmental service which contributes to the overall open space system through water courses, wetlands, grasslands, open spaces and other natural habitats. This zone provides for the protection and conservation of ecologically sensitive, culturally and historically important sites and the natural habitats of animals, birds, or reptile species, in accordance with national laws and policies, provincial and local guidelines, strategies and programmes. It reserves land as part of a sustainable living environment by virtue of its importance in terms of biodiversity Traditional Settlements These areas fall within Traditional Authority areas under the authority of the Ingonyama Trust and the AmaKhosi and comprise land used predominantly for agricultural purposes and traditional settlement. 103

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105 5.2 INTERVENTIONS Agriculture Alignment Issue How addressed in SDF Agriculture CRDP PGDS PSEDS SDF Analysis Interventions: Agrarian Transformation includes increasing all types of agricultural production, optimal and sustainable use of natural resources, the use of appropriate technologies, food security, and improving the quality of life for each rural household. Increase Productive Use of Land Job creation through unleashing agricultural potential. Safeguard Sustainable Livelihoods & Food Security through community development. The agricultural sector is key to addressing poverty in the province since most areas of poverty are rural. The PSEDS identifies those areas of high agricultural potential in the Province. Identification of areas of good agriculture and soil potential. Map 8 identifies areas of agricultural potential. Areas of High and Good Agriculture are highlighted. Map 8 identifies areas of agricultural potential. An area to the north of Okhahlamba around Geluksburg and an area to the south in the foothills of the Drakensberg have been identified as having high agricultural potential within the provincial context. The SDF l highlights the impact of agricultural development on poverty alleviation within the municipality Map 3 identified soil potential for agriculture Agricultural planning must take into account the following: Areas with High Agricultural Potential No further development other than commercial agriculture. Department of Agriculture and Environmental Affairs must commit their support to land reform projects within High Agricultural Potential land in order to ensure commercial and environmental sustainability. Development subject to development application. Areas with Good Agricultural Potential Agricultural theme to be continued, possibly in the form of Agri-tourism. Very Limited development in line with the SCAP and DAP. Development subject to development application. Areas with Relatively Good Potential Limited development in line with the SCAP and DAP. Development subject to development application. Areas remaining Development subject to development application. Agrohydrological aspects need to be taken into account: Agrohydrological assessments must be conducted at a District level to ensure 105

106 accurate identification of agricultural resources. Protection of prime agricultural land with emphasis on securing long-term food supply and security. Preservation of areas with the greatest potential for agriculture solely for future agricultural developments. Emphasis on developing the subsistence agricultural sector in order to improve rural livelihoods and promote sustainable agricultural practices. Climate change needs to be taken into account in order to negate against negative impacts and capitalise on positive impacts Environment Alignment Issue How addressed in SDF Environment PGDS Okhahlamba IDP Protection of water resources Interventions: Environment Responses to climate change through: Increased Productive Use of Land Advanced Alternative Energy Generation Managing pressures on Biodiversity Disaster Management To protect & preserve environment Water resources are scarce and this has a direct impact on water resources in the Drakensberg area. The Tugela-Vaal Transfer Scheme and the Lesotho Highlands Water Project rely on the Drakenberg upper catchments Maps identify areas of environmental significance. The Spatial Development Framework provides a framework within which development must occur within the Municipality. The SDF provides guidelines for a Land Use Management System. Map 12 identifies environmentally sensitive areas for preservation and conservation. The SDF investigates the issue of water resources in the Municipality. Map 5 and Table 20. Avoid development within sensitive areas and utilise appropriate buffer zones in order to limit the impact of development. The SDF provides a framework within which development must occur. It identifies areas for continued agricultural activities, areas that require protection from an environmental point of view and nodes where development must be encouraged. Environmental sustainability in environmentally sensitive areas which have already 106

107 been developed require careful management of existing land use activities with strong discouragement of additional growth or intensification of development. Limit grazing in environmentally sensitive areas. Limit development in environmentally sensitive areas to complementary activities such as tourism and conservation. Delineation of an urban edge in settlements to ensure protection of highly sensitive environmental areas. Wetlands Wetlands are important to environmental sustainability, water retention and filtration and flood mitigation and must be conserved as far as possible. No wetlands are to be converted or drained without approval from the Department of Agriculture and Environmental Affairs. Where not zoned for development, wetlands must be given conservation status Dams No future settlements within the 1:100 year flood line and dam failure flood lines. Existing settlements should be encouraged to relocate outside of these flood lines. No development should be closer that 20m from the high-water mark of any unprotected dam, until such time as the Disaster Management Plan identifies settlements that are at risk of being flooded. Critical aspects to consider in the formulation of a framework for the protection and enhancement of the natural resources base: The environmental uniqueness and character of Okhahlamba. Identification of functional ecological systems associated with major rivers and other environmentally sensitive areas. Acknowledging the impact of topographical features and other aspects of the fixed natural environment. Creating a framework for managing growth and development within the municipal areas especially the agriculturally productive areas. An integrated and collective approach to the management of resources must be adopted Economic Development Alignment Issue How addressed in SDF Economic Development NSDP Rapid economic growth that is sustained and inclusive as a prerequisite for the achievement of poverty alleviation. Map 19 highlighted areas of poverty and the SDF advocates that economic growth be directed at the identified nodes. Government spending on fixed investment should be focused on localities of economic growth and / or economic potential in order to gear up private sector investment, stimulate sustainable economic activities and create long-term The capital investment plan directs where public and private investment should occur. 107

108 employment opportunities. CRDP PGDS PSEDS Alignment with uthukela District/ Emnambithi Where low economic potential exists investments should be directed at projects and programmes to address poverty and the provision of basic services in order to address past and current social inequalities. In order to overcome the spatial distortions of Apartheid, future settlement and economic development opportunities should be channelled into activity corridors and nodes that are adjacent to or link the main growth centres in order for them to become regional gateways to the global economy. Rural Development includes improving economic and social infrastructure. The PGDS focuses on job creation through: Unleashing Agricultural Potential Enhancing Industrial Development through Trade, Investment & Exports Expansion of Government-led Job Creation Programmes Promoting SMME, Entrepreneurial and Youth Development Enhancing the Knowledge Economy The primary tourism potential within the province is in the beach tourism, cultural tourism and ecotourism markets. The tourism products of provincial importance are: Arts & crafts routes in Midlands Meander and Albert Falls Amble Durban, south coast and north coast beach tourism linked to cultural tourism in the interior Drakensberg region Greater St Lucia & surrounding big five reserves Zulu Heritage & Cultural Trail Battlefields Route In terms of Battlefield route Okhahlamba is aligned with uthukela District and Emnambithi Section 5.1 of the SDF indicates levels of services that exist within the municipality as well as service level gaps. Section 5.1 of the SDF identifies the primary, secondary and tertiary nodes and corridors in order to redress spatial inefficiencies. The capital investment plan directs where public and private investment should occur. The SDF identifies economic opportunities within the municipality in order to improve access to employment. Provincially, Okhahlamba has a large area of cultural significance to the east of the municipality related to the Battlefields. A large area along the western boundary has been identified for eco-tourism and this relates to the Drakensberg Mountains which is a World Heritage Site. The impact of tourism on the local economy of Okhahlamba has been highlighted in above. Significant battlefields from the second Anglo-Boer War identified in the uthukela SDF fall within both Okhahlamba and Emnambithi. The 108

109 Alignment with uthukela DM/ Imbabazane/ Maluti a Phofung/ Lesotho Okhahlamba IDP Interventions: The Maloti-Drakensberg Transfontier Conservation and Development Project (MDTP) is a collaborative initiative between South Africa and the Kingdom of Lesotho to protect the biodiversity of the Drakensberg and Maloti mountains through conservation, sustainable resource use, and landuse and development planning. To promote local economic development impact of tourism on the local economy of Okhahlamba has been highlighted in above. The whole of the Berg complex is a major tourist area within uthukela District and a significant portion of this is situated in Okhahlamba. The impact of Drakensberg on the local economy and wider management implications are highlighted in above. Various economic and tourism interventions are identified. Reinforce the Primary, Secondary and Tertiary Corridors in order to strengthen economic linkages between nodes and adjacent municipalities. Promote tourism through: Improved access to areas with environmental, cultural and heritage significance in order to benefit from optimal use of the resources. Investing in human capital in line with the requirements of the PGDS. Marketing of tourism initiatives. Generate economies of scale in terms of market opportunities to encourage local entrepreneurship and consequently local communities to spend their income locally. Investigation needs to be done with regard to placement of the markets and ensuring that adequate facilities and services are provided to the site such as access to water, sanitation, trees or shelters for shade and flat concrete surfaces. Promote local income circulation and reduce leakages of income to other areas through the establishment of periodic markets at identified nodes. In terms of the levels of services at the nodes, where gaps exist, capital investment must focus on addressing these deficiencies. An integrated and collective approach must be adopted for the Battlefields Route and the Drakensberg as these are areas of international and national significance Access to Services Alignment Issue How addressed in SDF Access to Services NSDP PGDS Government has a constitutional obligation to provide basic services to all citizens (e.g. water, energy, health and educational facilities) wherever they reside. Focus on human resource development through: Improved Early Childhood The SDF indicates levels of services that exist within the municipality as well as service level gaps. The SDF identifies educational facilities in the municipality. 109

110 uthukela IDP/ Emnambithi IDP Interventions: Development, Primary and Secondary Education Supporting Skills alignment to Economic Growth Promoting Enhanced Youth Skills Development & Life-Long Learning Human And Community Development through: Poverty Alleviation & Social Welfare Enhancing Health of Communities and Citizens Safeguarding Sustainable Livelihoods & Food Security Sustainable Human Settlements Enhancing Safety & Security Advancing Social Cohesion Promoting Youth, Gender and Disability Advocacy & the Advancement of Women Van Reenen is divided between the Free State and both Emnambithi and Okhahlamba in KwaZulu-Natal. The SDF highlights areas of poverty and directs investment at key nodes in order to improve quality of life through service delivery. It also directs spending at improving human capital through access to health, education and social welfare. An integrated and collective approach to service provision for Van Reenen is essential especially in light of the different local, district and provincial authorities that it falls under. Alignment is imperative. Ensure investment is directed towards nodes in order to strengthen their sustainability and impact rather than in areas where less of an impact will be made. Ensure that settlement is contained within urban edges to reduce the cost of services and optimise capital investment. Infrastructure and services within the identified nodes should be primarily grid services and alternative technologies will need to be investigated for settlements outside the nodes, such as: Solar heating Rainwater harvesting Hierarchy of nodes and corridors must direct investment in order to improve human capital through access to health, education and social welfare. An intervention is required to address the management of Van Reenen holistically Drakensberg Alignment Issue How addressed in SDF Drakensberg Serious problems that are currently facing the Drakensberg mountains, include : Overgrazing as a result of poor range management; 110

111 Interventions: Uncontrolled burning; Encroachment of human settlements; Accelerated Soil erosion; Alien and invasive species; Destruction of Cultural/National heritage sites; Overexploitation of biological resources and destruction of wetlands; Cross border stock theft; and Acute poverty in the rural areas; Drakensberg is a World Heritage Site. Focus future development within identified nodes Protection of cultural heritage and historical sites, and protected areas. Initiatives to benefit local communities, for example: ecotourism and conservation projects. Any development or initiative in the Drakensberg must ensure community involvement and capacity building at all levels to ensure sustainability. The unnatural disturbance of ecosystems and loss of biological diversity are avoided, or, where they cannot be avoided, are mitigated; Pollution and degradation of the environment are avoided, or, where they cannot be avoided, are mitigated; The unnatural disturbance of landscapes and sites that constitute the cultural and natural heritage South Africa are avoided, or, where it cannot be avoided, is mitigated, and that the cultural and natural heritage of the country must be enhanced; Waste is avoided, or where it cannot be avoided, minimized and re-used or recycled where possible and otherwise disposed of in a responsible manner; The use and exploitation of non-renewable natural resources is responsible and equitable, and takes into account the consequence of the depletion of the resource; The development, use and exploitation of renewable resources and the ecosystems of which they are part do not exceed the level beyond which their integrity is jeopardised; A risk-averse and cautious approach is applied, which takes into account the limits of current knowledge about the consequences of decisions and actions; Negative impacts on the environment and on the environmental rights of the people must be anticipated and prevented, and where they cannot be prevented, must be mitigated; Souce: maloti.org & Guideline on Cultural Heritage Interpretation for Spatial Planning 111

112 5.3 CAPITAL INVESTMENT FRAMEWORK Table 27: Capital Projects Project Capital Projects Ward Funding 12/13 13/14 14/15 Number 1 Maswazini 1 MIG Community Centre 2 Bellpark 1 MIG Footbridge 3 Mzolo Road 2 MIG 4 Ngebhezi Road 3 MIG 5 Sibeko Road 4 MIG 6 Tabhane Road 4 MIG 7 Dukuza 4 MIG Stadium 8 Sandlwana 5 MIG Community Centre 9 Manyazini Road 5 MIG 10 Ntumbane Foot 5 MIG Bridge 11 Egangeni Road 6 MIG 12 Ezimbokodweni 6 MIG Creche 13 Nsukangihlale 7 MIG Creche 14 Dlamini Road 8 MIG 15 Reserve B 8 MIG Vehicle Bridge 16 Ngubhela 9 MIG Bridge 17 Shiyabazali 9 MIG Sport Ground 18 Rookdale 10 MIG Community Centre 19 Nkomfeni Road 10 MIG 20 Rookdale Sport Ground 21 Emhlambozini Creche 22 Acton Homes Community 10 MIG 11 MIG 12 MIG 112

113 Centre 23 Zondo Road 12 MIG (Acton Homes) 24 Geluksburg 13 MIG Community Centre 25 Rooihoek 13 MIG Community Centre 26 Mdunge Road 13 MIG 27 Bergville Roads R Winterton Taxi R Rank 29 Landfill Site R R Cemetery Site R R Nokopela Hall 2 MIG R Nkwazini Road 3 MIG R Nsukangihlale Hall R Maswazini 1 R Road 35 Magangangozi 3 MIG R Hall 36 Morathaba 6 MIG R Road 37 Kwa-Sgubhu 7 MIG R Bridge 38 Emafusini Road 7 MIG R Sithebe Road 8 MIG R Mahambehlala 11 MIG R Road 41 Kwaluseni Road 11 MIG R Ntabeni Road 12 MIG R Reserve C Road 9 MIG R Geluksburg Road R Regeneration Plant Bergville & Winterton R Emmaus R Housing Project 47 Bethany R Housing Project 48 Moyeni Housing R Project 49 Landkloof R Housing Project 50 Dukuza R

114 Housing Project 51 Emagangangozi Housing Project 52 Ngoba Housing Project Source: Okhahlamba IDP 2012 & Council Resolution dated 25 March 2011 R R Notes: Note 1: Projects 1-26 are approved MIG funded projects as per Council Resolution dated 25 March Funding amount and year of implementation not provided. Note 2: Housing Projects are spread over a 3-5 year period. 114

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