The closure of Mecca Bingo in Exeter last month marked the end of an institution that had been part of our city since 1963.
For many residents, Mecca was much more than a bingo hall. It was a place where friendships were formed, communities came together, and people who might otherwise have felt isolated found company and connection. That’s why I got involved to try to find an alternative solution. Unfortunately, the company decided to go ahead, and I know the closure has been deeply disappointing for many people across Exeter.
Concerns for staff
From the moment I learned of the planned closure, my immediate concern was for the staff whose jobs were at risk.
Twenty-two employees faced redundancy as a result of the closure, and a number of staff contacted me to share their concerns about what would happen next. Given that there are no other bingo halls nearby, opportunities for redeployment within the industry were limited.
After speaking with staff, I wrote to Rank Group, which owns Mecca Bingo, to raise concerns about the impact of the closure and to seek assurances about the support being offered to employees.
I was pleased to meet with representatives from Rank Group and discuss their plans directly. During those discussions, they outlined a redundancy package that goes beyond the statutory minimum requirements. I also suggested that additional support should be made available for any staff who had not yet secured new employment, and I am pleased that the company agreed to provide an additional training budget to help people develop new skills and improve their employment prospects.
Rank Group also agreed to share details of the support available to former employees, helping ensure that staff were aware of the assistance on offer.
I also contacted a range of organisations to see what further support could be provided locally. I am grateful to Exeter College, the National Careers Service, Devon County Council’s Employment Hub, the Department for Work and Pensions Rapid Response Service, Community Union, and Jobcentre Plus, all of whom were keen to help.
I would also like to acknowledge Rank Group’s constructive engagement throughout this process. While the decision to close Mecca was disappointing, I appreciate the company’s willingness to meet, discuss concerns openly, and work with me to improve the support available to staff during what has been a difficult period for everyone involved.
The future of bingo in Exeter
Looking ahead, I still hope to see bingo return to Exeter in some form.
Many people have spoken to me about the important role Mecca played in tackling social isolation and providing a welcoming social space for residents. Those benefits should not be underestimated.
I’ve also heard from a number of individuals and organisations interested in the future of the listed building that housed Mecca Bingo. There is clear enthusiasm to see the building remain a vibrant part of the city, and I have offered my support to those exploring possible new uses for the site.
I will continue to facilitate conversations between interested parties and keep an eye out for opportunities that could benefit both the building and the wider community.
