Camp 30

Rehabilitation & reconstruction cafeteria building

Construction Begins this Summer 2026. But we need your help.

The historic Cafeteria Building at Camp 30 is the centerpiece of one of Canada’s most significant WWII sites. With your support, we can revitalize and protect this landmark so it can be restored, shared, and experienced by future generations.

Why this building matters

The Cafeteria Building is central to Camp 30’s wartime story, including the historic Battle of Bowmanville. It is also historically designated for its reform school history and is a rare example of Prairie Style architecture.

Preserving it means preserving a place where Canadian history happened and where that history can continue to be told.

the plan

A Professional Plan Is Already in Motion

Meet the Project Lead

JJ MacLellan
Senior Project Manager, Manorville Homes

Manorville Homes completed an updated structural assessment and confirmed the Cafeteria Building can be preserved. Based on their professional budget proposal:

Approximately $1.6 million must be raised to complete Phase 1 reconstruction work.
Council has given the Jury Lands Foundation until December 31, 2026 to raise the remaining funds needed for this first phase.

Phase 1 Reconstruction Includes

  • Site preparation and environmental abatement

  • Removal of asbestos and hazardous materials

  • Structural repairs to walls, roofs, and floors

  • Securing doors and windows against weather and vandalism

  • Bringing basic heat and hydro into the building 

Phase 1 Preserves history and prepares the building for its future rehabilitation and transformation into a community hub.

Meet the Project Lead

JJ MacLellan
Senior Project Manager, Manorville Homes

Expert Insight

Video: Chris Borgal, President, GBCA Architects

“The restoration should be no more than the cost of building a new building. But you maximize the gains by actually creating something that people will be interested in going to and learning from.”

the plan

what comes next

Phase 1 repairs the main structure. Then we have time to work with partners to determine the best long-term use for the space. Interest has already come from:

  • youth organizations

  • seniors groups

  • musicians and artists

  • community organizations

  • small businesses

The vision is a vibrant community destination that honours history while serving today’s needs.

A Site Already Serving the Community

Even before restoration, Camp 30 is active:

  • outdoor film nights
  • summer festival events
  • free public tours attended by hundreds
  • a community garden supporting the local food bank
  • public art installations

The Cafeteria Building provides the defining backdrop for this growing community space.

support the campaign

Capital Fundraising Campaign 2026

We are currently raising funds to cover major structural restoration components such as:

  • roof
  • walls
  • floors
  • windows

Specific sponsorship opportunities will be announced soon.

Please make out cheques out to the Jury Lands Foundation  Charitable Foundation #839747789 RR0002.

Registered Charity Address/Mailing Address
Jury Lands Foundation
62 Temperance St
Bowmanville, On
L1C 1V8

For major gifts and recognition opportunities, please contact us directly so we can properly acknowledge your contribution. 

Help us Restore Camp 30

Make a Donation

The Jury Lands Foundation is a registered charitable organization.