Historic Trafford lido that became Mecca Bingo hall slated for demolition under developers' plans

The building has had a number of reincarnations over the decades since, including as a ballroom and, most recently, a Mecca Bingo hall. However, that closed in 2023, and the venue has stood empty since.

Now, plans have been submitted jointly by McCarthy Stone and Built Development Ltd which, if approved, would see most of the building demolished. The developers claimed Mecca had pulled out of the site due to its “state of disrepair”, adding “water ingress” has affected the building’s structure.

Just the lido’s facade would remain under the scheme proposed by the two companies. Two new blocks of flats would be constructed on the land instead.

One of the blocks would be managed by McCarthy Stone as retirement living. Some 40 flats would be created in the building, which would sit to the rear of the L-shaped site, facing Hunters Mews. Of these, 26 would be one-beds and 14 would be two-beds.

The second block would be built behind the existing lido facade, fronting Washway Road, and would comprise 39 affordable housing apartments – 27 one-beds and 12 two-beds. Four retail units would also be provided on the ground floor.

Specialist housing for older people and affordable housing are both “much-needed” in the local area, the developers have said.