After Mecca Bingo axed eight clubs last month, there is some better bingo news from the Rank Group-owned bingo operator to report.
Mecca Bingo’s popular bingo venue on Aylsham Road in Norwich is set to receive a noticeable makeover after redevelopment plans were approved by Norwich City Council.
The approved proposals focus on modernising the exterior of the club with updated branding rather than altering the building itself. Visitors can expect new illuminated signage, colourful window graphics facing Aylsham Road and replacement exterior panels designed to give the venue a more contemporary appearance.
Planning documents submitted earlier this year outlined the changes, with the local authority now granting permission for the improvements to proceed.
No major structural alterations have been proposed, meaning the improvements are primarily cosmetic.
Mecca continues investing in its smaller estate
Mecca Bingo has refurbished several locations across the UK to improve the customer experience, with updated interiors, digital gaming facilities, and refreshed branding.
However, the UK bingo company has also closed a number of clubs where trading conditions proved more difficult, losing around 10% of its venues just last month.
The planned improvements in Norwich are expected to help keep the venue competitive as the British bingo industry continues to evolve.
History of Mecca Bingo Norwich
The building that is now home to Mecca Bingo Norwich has a history stretching back more than 90 years and has served the city in several different roles.
1932 – The Capitol Cinema opens
The venue began life as the Capitol Cinema, opening on 26 December 1932 on Aylsham Road in Upper Hellesdon. Built for local cinema operator Victor Harrison, the Art Deco-style picture house seated around 800 people and opened with a screening of Tarzan the Ape Man starring Johnny Weissmuller. The neighbouring Lido Swimming Pool also opened in 1932, creating a popular leisure destination for local residents.
1960 – From cinema to ballroom
Following declining cinema audiences during the 1950s, the Capitol closed in April 1960. Rather than being demolished, the building was converted into the Lido Ballroom, later becoming known as the Norwood Rooms, which hosted dances, social events and community functions for many years.
1980s – Conversion to Mecca Bingo
As bingo grew in popularity across Britain, the former ballroom underwent another transformation during the late 1980s, becoming a Mecca Bingo Club. During the conversion, the front of the building was remodelled and the club expanded into the adjoining former swimming pool building, creating the larger venue that customers recognise today.
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