Bantamsklip has been named as a possible site for South Africa’s next nuclear power station and Eskom has begun a formal environmental assessment, reports Cape {town} Etc.
The site lies close to Dyer Island and a marine system that supports African penguins, whales, seals and other species. Researchers estimate about 1 000 breeding pairs of African penguins in the area, raising strong conservation concern (Mongabay News).
Eskom plans a plant with about 5 200 megawatts of capacity in its proposals for a third nuclear station. The utility has held public briefings and appointed independent consultants to lead specialist studies.
Cape {town} Etc Discount Alert! Unlock Cape Town’s best experiences for half the price! From unforgettable adventures to hidden gems and mouthwatering restaurants, these limited-time deals won’t last long. Snag your discount before they’re gone!
Conservationists spoke at the meeting and urged caution. ‘Our main concern still is that Dyer Island is a RAMSAR site, critically important for many marine species,’ said Wilfred Chivell of the Dyer Island Conservation Trust.
He added that the landscape is sensitive and needs more research (GroundUp News).
At a pre-application meeting, project managers said the process is a pre-application step and that statutory timelines are tight.
Local groups say they will register as interested and affected parties and seek full assessments of marine, heritage and social impacts.
Be the first to know – Join our WhatsApp Channel for content worth tapping into! Click here to join!
Also read:
Borer beetle infestation confirmed in Cape Town CBD and Hout Bay
Picture: Fungai Tichawangana/ Unsplash
