The future of the long-standing Gilray Scout Campsite in Klip Road, Grassy Park, remains uncertain following the official termination of the lease held by Scouts South African on 31 December 2024. The property, which served the movement since the 1950s, has been returned to the City of Cape Town’s Property Management Department for further administrative action.
Community Advocacy For Public Space
A grassroots initiative known as the Save Gilray! committee has emerged to lobby for the land to be repurposed as a community asset, heritage site, and recreational zone. Residents are actively campaigning to ensure the site is protected from sale, proposing it instead be utilised for youth development and sports facilities.
Save Gilray! has brought our community together. I’m proud to support such an important initiative for our children & grandchildren.
Official Stance And Next Steps
Ward 65 Councillor Donovan Nelson confirmed that the local government is currently reviewing all available options for the vacant property. The City of Cape Town has yet to release a definitive development plan or confirm the long-term status of the site following the conclusion of the scouting lease.
While the Save Gilray! committee continues to present proposals for a multi-purpose centre, official municipal policy on the land’s final designation is still pending. The site’s transition remains subject to ongoing inter-departmental review by the City, with residents awaiting communication on when public engagement will take place.