CAPE TOWN – A group of concerned residents hope the City of Cape Town will hear their concerns regarding the future of the abandoned Gilray site so that the area benefits the youth and Grassy Park community.
On Thursday 20 November, the group known as the Save Gilray Committee (SGC) gave a 10 minute presentation during a subcouncil meeting, held at the Subcouncil 18 building in Lotus River, detailing its plans for the site.
Site history
Scouts operated the camp from the 1950s. It has since become dilapidated particularly after constant targeting by vandals.
SGC are opposed to the prospective sale of the site, Erf 75571, at 1 Klip Road. The City is currently reviewing its options relating to the site, including its possible revamping.
In the meantime, SGC started a petition that attracted nearly 4,000 signatures.
Their concerns include the protection of the heritage of the site which is over 50 years old.
Hopes and plans for the Gilray site
People’s Post spoke with some of the SGC members who say they wish the site can be used for culture/arts, the green economy, sports, youth/entrepreneurship as well as a facility for seniors.
Fellow member, Terence Klassen said: “We want to extend hope at the Gilray site, especially for the youth and our seniors as a safe and inclusive society. We hope to a have another open community meeting early in the new year.”
Ruche Daniels, another SGC member, appealed to the City not to use the site for additional housing.
“You often hear there’s so many pipe bursts and water outages in this whole ward, which includes Lotus River and Parkwood, because our infrastructure cannot carry more people at the moment. The infrastructure either needs to be repaired or replaced. We don’t need more housing here,” added Daniels.
The City confirmed the future use of the site was still under review.
Ward 65 councillor Donovan Nelson issued a letter for the community on the matter on Thursday 20 November.
“Currently, no City department requires Gilray for operational purposes. After extensive consultation with my Ward Committee, we (decided) to request the relevant department to consider a disposal of the property,” the letter read.
If the disposal of the property is granted, it will allow for quicker intervention and offer the private sector an opportunity to bring development to the site, he added in the letter.
“This could include facilities such as: a sports ground, youth hub, or another beneficial public use.The disposal process is expected to take roughly a year and will include an opportunity forpublic participation. Once the process formally begins, I will ensure you are fully informed,” the letter also said.
SGC group say they’ve received support from local civic and religious organisations.
Contact Moira Manuel at 083 305 4007.
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