The UK government has announced plans to construct the first Universal theme park in Europe.
A new attraction is set to rise on the grounds of the former Kempston Hardwick brickworks near Bedford. Projections indicate that it will create approximately 28,000 jobs before its anticipated opening in 2031.
Universal has projected that the expansive 476-acre complex could draw in approximately 8.5 million visitors during its inaugural year.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced that the company’s multibillion-pound investment will establish Bedford as the site of one of Europe’s most extensive entertainment parks, effectively positioning the county on the international map.
Universal Destinations and Experience announced that 80% of the new job positions would be filled by individuals from Bedfordshire and its neighboring regions.
A prominent production company known for its films, such as Minions and Wicked, operates theme parks in several locations, including Orlando and Los Angeles in the United States, as well as in Osaka, Japan, Sentosa, Singapore, and Beijing, China.
The company has announced that, upon completion, the Bedfordshire site will become “one of the largest and most advanced” theme parks in Europe.
Universal previously lent its name to the PortAventura resort in Spain. However, sources indicate that the upcoming UK attraction will mark the company’s first venture in Europe, designed and constructed entirely from the ground up.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy emphasized its significance, describing the “landmark investment” as “fantastic news” for the economy.
“This initiative goes beyond merely introducing remarkable American innovations to Britain; it also aims to highlight exceptional British creations on a global stage,” she stated during her interview with BBC Breakfast.
Examples include James Bond, Paddington Bear, and Harry Potter. There is an abundance of achievements to celebrate.
The UK government is set to receive a comprehensive planning proposal, with construction anticipated to commence in 2026.
As detailed in the Theme Index Report, Universal’s Orlando resort in Florida attracted 9.75 million visitors in 2023, while its Hollywood counterpart recorded 9.66 million.
In 2016, NBCUniversal entered into a seven-year agreement with Warner Bros. The agreement granted the network the television rights to broadcast the Harry Potter films and the Fantastic Beasts franchise.
The prime minister announced that the theme park will generate employment opportunities in construction, artificial intelligence, and tourism.
“We are collectively working towards a more promising future for the UK, facilitating employment opportunities and maintaining the strength and competitiveness of our economy,” he stated.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves stated, “Amid global change, this investment represents a vote of confidence in Britain as a business destination.”
Universal Destinations & Experiences has unveiled plans for a UK site featuring a theme park, a 500-room hotel, and a retail complex.
Universal has acquired 476 acres for the project, with the potential to purchase additional land to expand the total area to approximately 700 acres, which could enhance transportation connections.
Residents from nearby villages have expressed a generally favorable outlook on the proposed plans; however, there are concerns regarding whether the existing infrastructure can adequately accommodate the anticipated influx of visitors.
Universal reported that it conducted a survey involving over 6,000 residents and organizations, revealing that 92% of respondents expressed support for the project.
Universal announced plans to enhance the Wixams railway station and construct a new station near the resort along the East West Rail line.
The proposal includes adding dedicated slip roads to the A421, which experienced significant flooding in October due to heavy rainfall.
On Thursday, Secretary of State for Transport Heidi Alexander approved expansion plans at London Luton Airport, a development that is set to reshape the region’s travel landscape.
Universal has characterized the Bedford site as “an ideal location with convenient, fast rail links to London and London Luton Airport.”
Nandy stated that the government’s dedication to enhancing local transport infrastructure was crucial in finalizing the agreement with Universal. Mike Cavanagh, president of Comcast Corporation, Universal’s parent company, expressed enthusiasm about expanding the parks brand into Europe.
The company announced its collaboration with Bedford Borough Council on the project.
Last year, the local authority backed the proposed plans by backing five other councils—Central Bedfordshire, Luton, Milton Keynes, north Northamptonshire, and West Northamptonshire.
In an interview with BBC Breakfast, Mayor Tom Wootton of Bedford expressed that the recent announcement represents the “best news” for the town in “a very long time.”
“A number of the most talented and exceptional individuals at Universal are currently engaged in [the infrastructure],” he stated.
On Wednesday, Bedford residents expressed various opinions regarding the proposed plans.
Margaret Wilson, an 85-year-old resident of Elstow, expressed her reluctance to visit the theme park herself. However, she is confident that her grandsons, aged 19 and 16, would find it enjoyable.
However, she stated, “It will be four years until anything is built.” The uncertainty of the next four years looms, leaving many to ponder the potential outcomes.
Maria Perez, a warehouse worker from the local community, expressed her enthusiasm for the proposed theme park, stating it would be “really great” for families and young individuals.
“This development promises to benefit the economy, the town, and residents.” There is an expectation that investment levels will increase.
She expressed concerns that it could negatively impact rent prices yet maintained that the overall effect would benefit Bedford.
At 36 years old, Jagdeep Singh is a business change analyst hailing from Kempston.
He expressed optimism that the theme park would stimulate local businesses and create jobs; however, he also voiced concerns that the influx of visitors might lead to adverse effects.
“I have some concerns regarding traffic on the bypass—what implications could accidents have for our hospitals?” he remarked.
The proposals await a planning decision from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.
