Why are you closing 60 year old Bingo Hall without looking at all options?
Exeter's MP has put questions to the boss of Mecca Bingo - based on comments from the staff losing their jobs
Exeter's MP has written to the boss of Mecca Bingo 'expressing serious concern' over plans to close the city’s branch - which has served residents since 1963.
Steve Race has written to the Chief Executive of Rank Group to emphasise that the Exeter site is more than a leisure venue', describing it as a 'community hub that supports a wide cross-section of residents', something the MP says he has seen firsthand when visiting the hall.
He said: "These include older people seeking social interaction, disabled customers. Mecca Bingo has cited financial challenges as the reason for the proposed closure, including the cost of essential repairs such as installing a new disabled lift and replacing flooring."
Mr Race met with staff this week who believe that viable alternative options to closure have not been fully explored, adding: "Twenty-two staff members are currently at risk of redundancy, with limited opportunities for redeployment due to the absence of other bingo halls in the area.
"If the closure proceeds, there will be no bingo halls remaining in Exeter, with the nearest located in Torquay and the closest Mecca Bingo venue in Swansea."
In the letter, Mr Race says, “I am concerned that within two months of plans being announced, Exeter residents will be out of a job and without a clear path back into a role where they could utilise their skills and experience.
“Moving bingo out of Exeter would not just cost local jobs, it would also hit loyal customers at risk of social isolation – older residents and those with disabilities – the hardest.”
Mr Race has requested a meeting with Mecca Bingo leadership to discuss the proposed closure, explore potential alternatives, and seek clarity on support for affected employees. He has also been in touch with Community Union to discuss the proposed closure and its impact on employees.
The proposed closure, announced by Mecca Bingo leadership, is scheduled for 7th June 2026,
A Mecca Bingo spokesperson said: “It is with a heavy heart that we are proposing the closure of our Exeter club. The end of our lease here is imminent and the building requires considerable repairs and maintenance which make it challenging for the venue to remain in operation. Therefore, we are proposing that Sunday 7th June will be Mecca Exeter’s final day of trading.
"This proposal is not one we have put forward lightly. We are now in conversation with Steve Race MP as we take our colleagues through the consultation. It’s a difficult process, so we are offering full support to our colleagues affected and will advise them - and our customers – as soon as a final decision is reached.”