Universal UK theme park ‘to generate £50bn for economy’

Local politicians have welcomed government backing for a multi-billion-pound investment in a major new Universal theme park and resort on a former brickworks in Bedford.

 

The theme park, which is set to be one of the largest and most advanced in Europe, will bring nearly 20,000 jobs during the construction period, with a further 8,000 new jobs across the hospitality and creative industries when it opens in 2031. 

 

Universal expects the site to generate nearly £50 billion for the economy by 2055, with 8.5 million visitors expected in its first year – becoming the largest visitor attraction in the UK. 

 

The development, working with Bedford Borough Council, will be the first Universal-branded theme park and resort destination in Europe and be part of a larger 476-acre entertainment resort complex.

 

Proposed plans from Universal Destinations & Experiences, a business unit of Comcast, include a world-class theme park with several themed lands, rides, innovative attractions and exciting entertainment, all utilising sophisticated and advanced technology, according to the government. 

 

Initial resort plans also feature a 500-room hotel and a retail, dining and entertainment complex.

 

The US entertainment’s giant has committed to working with local colleges and universities to train the next generation of its hospitality workforce, including through a range of apprenticeships and internships.  

 

The new theme park and resort will bring “significant local benefits” – with about 80% of employees expected to come from local areas – and support ongoing work to tap the potential of the Oxford-Cambridge corridor through growth, infrastructure revitalisation and further job opportunities.

 

Universal said: "The site in Bedford is in an ideal location with convenient, fast rail links to London and London Luton airport. In addition, the site and Bedford are well-connected for travel from all parts of the UK and Europe.

 

"The east-west rail project also plans to deliver additional transport improvements for the region, specifically to the existing railway between Bletchley and Bedford.

 

"The site has been identified by Bedford Borough Council for development for some time and it has the size and flat topography that is important for a large-scale theme park resort."

 

The proposals remain subject to a planning decision from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, to be considered at “a later date”.

 

Universal said it was focused on submitting a planning proposal to government with a projected construction start date in 2026, subject to the relevant planning consent approvals.

 

Universal Destinations & Experiences chairman and chief executive Mark Woodbury said: “Bringing a world-class theme park and resort to the United Kingdom is a tremendous opportunity and is part of our strategy to introduce the Universal brand and experiences to new audiences around the globe.  

 

“We appreciate the incredible support for our proposed project and look forward to bringing it to life in the years ahead.”

 

Prime minister Sir Keir Starmer said: “Today we closed the deal on a multi-billion-pound investment that will see Bedford home to one of the biggest entertainment parks in Europe, firmly putting the county on the global stage.

 

“This is our Plan for Change in action, combining local and national growth with creating around 28,000 new jobs across sectors such as construction, AI and tourism.”

 

Local mayor Tom Wootton expressed his enthusiasm for the development, emphasising its significance for the local community. 

 

“This is a landmark moment for Bedford Borough. Universal’s decision to proceed with its theme park and resort in the UK brings exciting opportunities to our doorstep – thousands of jobs, new training and career paths, and a huge boost for local businesses,” he said.

 

“Bedford is the perfect place for this investment – well-connected, full of talent, and ready to grow. We’re proud to be chosen as the home of Universal in the UK. I’m delighted that our residents and communities will benefit in the years and decades ahead.”

 

Bedford Borough Council chief executive Laura Church added: “I am excited about the next phase and the borough’s role in elevating the UK’s profile as a leader in the visitor economy and creative industries. 

 

“With continued sustainable growth, Bedford Borough is poised to become a must-visit destination and a prime hub for business investment, driving growth for our community.  

 

“At opening, Universal will be one of the largest employers in the region, and it is expected that approximately 80% of employees will come from Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes. 

 

“We have been working closely with Universal Destinations & Experiences for over two years, in partnership with national government and regional stakeholders, and it’s great to see the progress made today.”

 

Tourism Alliance executive director Richard Toomer said: "This is a demonstration of the importance that tourism has and will continue to play in delivering economic growth, and of the value such a global leader as Comcast NBCUniversal see in the UK as a place to invest.

 

“The whole tourism ecosystem in Bedfordshire and far beyond will benefit from this new and exciting project.

 

"Visitors to the park will hopefully also get a chance to see our stunning historic houses, beautiful landscapes, amazing coastline, vibrant cities, and cultural sites, along with the world-class exhilarating rides and attractions they’ll experience at Universal.”