Cambridge Gala Bingo – Hobson Street

Gala Bingo, Britain’s largest land-based bingo company, has had to close another hall. The only bingo hall in Cambridge, its closure has been blamed on a fall in revenue resulting from the no-smoking ban and increased bingo taxation levels. Located in the former Central Cinema, the site had been operating as a bingo venue since 1972. A club of several big wins over the past few years, public response has shown it will be sorely missed by locals, who include scholars and students from the local university.

By Gareth Whieldon (May 2009)

Gala Bingo Cambridge Update

The premises at Gala’s closed club in Cambridge are still not being used despite a licensing application to develop a cabaret club in the building by No Saints Ltd. The application has been rejected after a heated debate, and objections from several quarters.

The police and local residents objected on the grounds that any current trouble in the area would be worsened, and there would be a distinct rise specifically in alcohol related crime. The local college added that a new club may make the area less safe for its students at night. So, it looks for the moment that the building will remain empty for the near future watch this space.

By Gareth Whieldon (January 2011)

Gala Bingo Cambridge Update

It looks like the cinema could be returned to it’s original purpose of showing films. Local residents have signed a petition opposing the sale of the premises as they do not want a venue which will end up serving alcohol, and leading to late night disturbances. So the potential for the venue reopening as an Art House cinema should keep them happy, and will also mean that the building will be preserved as it is.

By Gareth Whieldon (September 2013)