A planning application has been submitted to transform the former Mecca Bingo Hall in Andover into a place of worship and community centre. The building, located on Junction Road, has been unused since Mecca Bingo closed its doors in August 2022 after decades of serving the town’s bingo lovers. The site was sold in 2021 and is now being considered for a new purpose that aims to benefit the wider local community.

The application, submitted by Illias Mustafa, highlights the need for a community-focused space that offers educational and support services, particularly for the Muslim community. Plans include English lessons, health awareness sessions, coffee mornings, school visits, and interfaith events. The building would also be used for daily prayers, with Friday prayers expected to be the busiest time. The use would be staggered throughout the day to avoid disruption or congestion.

The council had originally suggested the site as suitable for this new purpose. More than 150 people have shown support for the project, recognising the benefits it could bring to the area. Only minimal interior changes have been made, and the building's exterior will remain the same. One local resident raised concerns about parking, suggesting residents-only restrictions could help ease any potential issues.

A JustGiving fundraising page has also been set up to support the transformation of the former bingo hall into a fully functioning community centre and place of worship. The aim is to raise funds to help cover renovation costs, improve facilities, and support the many educational and outreach activities planned for the site.