As at 2006, the showgrounds occupied approximately 22 hectares, some five by way of freehold title and the balance on long lease from the City. In August of that year and following an extended period of negotiation, the Society obtained ownership of all land; this by way of a R6 million cash payment and by agreeing to relinquish all rights to the four hectares occupied to the west of Chatterton Road. Whilst the constraints of contraction proved a little vexing – especially with regard to the loss of stables - this win-win arrangement has finally given ‘The Royal’ control of its own destiny. This together with the City of Pietermaritzburg being formally declared the capital of KwaZulu-Natal, augurs well for the future.
