A family run business has applied to Fenland District Council to re-open the Empire in Wisbech for bingo. The Blackfriars Road bingo hall has been closed since July with owners – Winners Bingo of Thetford – blaming declining attendances.
But applications before Fenland Council for licenses from an Essex company suggest it may be set for a new lease of life.
Rio Leisure And Social Ltd – trading as Rio Bingo – hope to re-open the Blackfriars Road former theatre and bingo hall.
On its Canvey Island bingo club website, it describes itself as a “family-run venue that brings back the heart of community entertainment” to its customers.
It also says that makes the Rio special is:
- Traditional Paper Tickets: Enjoy a classic bingo experience with paper-only tickets, capturing the nostalgic feel of traditional bingo
- Family-Owned: Run by local Paul Austin-Roberts, who brings over ten years of bingo industry experience.
- Community Focus: A welcoming space that serves as a vital social hub for locals, especially the older generation
The news will be welcome by Donna Wright who began a petition to bring bingo back to Wisbech.
On her petition she wrote: “Our local community needs our bingo hall,” she said. “The Empire has long hosted the bingo and for a lot of people it is literally a lifeline. It’s not just bingo it’s a social hub. Amazing staff and great atmosphere. It needs sponsors, local support and council backing.
“Our town needs this. Don’t let another Wisbech staple go.
“I would like to add that I have no vested interest in the business but am simply showing support for the staff, the business and the town.”
As of today 359, people had signed in support.
