Delays in the acknowledgment and reviewing of certain environmental-impact assessment (EIA) applications and reports were expected over the course of this month as the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) moved to its new premises on the corner of Soutpansberg and Steve Biko roads, in Pretoria.

The move to the new, green, premises, boasting energy efficient features, including compact fluorescent lights, environment-friendly construction materials and furniture, ergonometric and ‘’worker friendly’’ work spaces and solar generated power, was scheduled to take place between July 11 to 31.

The DEA said that, until July 24, when EIA documents could be submitted at the new building, the Chief Directorate would not accept documents at a physical address. However, documents could still be posted and queries could be emailed.

“Case officers will [also] not be available telephonically during the period of the move,” the department pointed out.

Meanwhile, the DEA also noted that, until July 23, documents for advertised bids could still be collected from the department’s old building. From July 24 onwards, these documents would have to be collected from the new building.