Universal Studios to Open First European Theme Park in the UK.
The UK is set to welcome the first Universal theme park in Europe, as confirmed by the government.
This exciting new attraction will rise on the grounds of the old Kempston Hardwick brickworks near Bedford, creating around 28,000 jobs ahead of its anticipated opening in 2031.
Universal predicts that the sprawling 476-acre park could draw in 8.5 million visitors during its inaugural year.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer highlighted that this multibillion-pound investment will establish Bedford as home to one of Europe's largest entertainment parks, putting the region on the global map.
According to Universal Destinations and Experience, 80% of the new jobs will be filled by residents from Bedfordshire and nearby areas.
The production company, known for hits like Minions and Wicked, already operates theme parks in Orlando and Los Angeles, as well as in Osaka, Japan, Sentosa, Singapore, and Beijing, China.
Once completed, the Bedfordshire park is expected to be "one of the largest and most advanced" theme parks in Europe, according to the company.
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Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy hailed the "landmark investment" as "fantastic news" for the economy.
"This is not just about bringing great American creations to Britain, this is also about showcasing great British creations to the world," she told the BBC Breakfast.
"These are things like James Bond, Paddington Bear, these are things like Harry Potter. We've got so much to be proud of."
A comprehensive planning proposal will be presented to the UK government, with construction anticipated to kick off in 2026.
In 2023, Universal's Orlando resort in Florida attracted 9.75 million guests, while its Hollywood counterpart welcomed 9.66 million visitors, as reported by the external Theme Index Report.
Back in 2016, NBCUniversal struck a seven-year agreement with Warner Bros., granting it the television rights to air the Harry Potter movies and the Fantastic Beasts series.
The prime minister mentioned that the theme park would generate employment opportunities in construction, artificial intelligence, and tourism.
"Together, we are building a brighter future for the UK, getting people into work and ensuring our economy remains strong and competitive," he added.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves said: "At a time of global change, this investment is a vote of confidence in Britain as a place to do business."
Universal Destinations & Experiences has plans for a site in the UK that will feature a theme park, a 500-room hotel, and a shopping complex.
They've already acquired 476 acres for the development but are considering purchasing additional land to expand the area to around 700 acres, which would enhance transportation access.
Residents in nearby villages have generally reacted positively to the proposal, although some worry that the current infrastructure may not be sufficient to handle the anticipated influx of visitors.
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Universal conducted a survey involving over 6,000 local residents and organizations, with 92% expressing support for the project.
The company also mentioned plans to upgrade the Wixams railway station and construct a new station on the East West Rail line close to the resort.
Additionally, they plan to create dedicated slip roads to the A421, which experienced flooding in October due to heavy rains.
On Thursday, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander gave the green light for expansion plans at the nearby London Luton Airport.
Universal has previously referred to the Bedford site as "an ideal location with quick and convenient rail connections to London and London Luton Airport."
Nandy noted that the government's commitment to enhancing local transport infrastructure played a key role in securing the agreement with Universal.
Mike Cavanagh, the president of Comcast Corporation, which owns Universal, expressed his enthusiasm for bringing the parks brand to Europe.
The company announced it will collaborate with Bedford Borough Council on this initiative.
Last year, the local authority was among six councils that backed the plans, joining forces with Central Bedfordshire, Luton, Milton Keynes, north Northamptonshire, and west Northamptonshire councils.
Mayor of Bedford Tom Wootton told BBC Breakfast it was the "best news" for the town in "a very long time".
"Some of the brightest and most fantastic people at Universal are working on [the infrastructure]," he said.
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Bedford locals had varied opinions about the plans when surveyed on Wednesday.
Margaret Wilson, 85, from Elstow, mentioned that she wouldn't go to the theme park herself, but she thought her grandsons, who are 19 and 16, would have a great time there.
But she said: "It will be four years until anything is built. Who knows what will happen in four years?"
Maria Perez, a warehouse worker in the area, said the theme park would be "really great" for families and young people.
"It will be good for the economy, for the town and for the people. People will invest more."
She said it would not be good for rent prices, but overall felt it would be positive for Bedford.
Jagdeep Singh, a 36-year-old business change analyst hailing from Kempston, thought that the theme park would boost local businesses and create job opportunities. However, he was concerned that the influx of visitors might lead to some negative consequences.
"I worried a bit about traffic on the bypass - what's going to happen to our hospitals if there's any accidents?" he added.
The proposals are still waiting for a planning decision from the Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government.
In conclusion, the arrival of Europe’s first Universal theme park in Bedfordshire marks an exciting new chapter for the local area. With thousands of jobs, improved infrastructure, and a major boost to tourism and local businesses, this multibillion-pound investment promises lasting economic growth and global recognition.
The project will breathe new life into the region, transforming it into a world-class entertainment destination while showcasing both British and international creativity. The overwhelming support from residents reflects the positive impact this park is expected to have. With so much to look forward to, I honestly can’t wait to visit and experience the magic myself!
