Plans for a landmark Universal theme park and resort in Bedford have received a major boost, with government support confirmed for the multi-billion-pound project. Local politicians and business leaders have welcomed the announcement, hailing it as a transformative step for the region.
The ambitious development, which will occupy a former brickworks site, is set to become one of the most advanced theme parks in Europe. It is anticipated that the construction phase alone will create close to 20,000 jobs, with a further 8,000 roles to be filled across the hospitality and creative sectors upon its opening in 2031.
Universal has forecast that the site will contribute nearly £50 billion to the UK economy by 2055, with expectations of 8.5 million visitors in its inaugural year, making it the UK’s largest visitor attraction.
First Universal-Branded Resort in Europe
The resort will mark Universal’s debut theme park and resort destination in Europe and will be developed in collaboration with Bedford Borough Council.
Spread across a 476-acre site, the complex will include a world-class theme park, multiple themed areas, state-of-the-art rides, and a variety of innovative entertainment offerings. These attractions will leverage cutting-edge technology to deliver immersive experiences for visitors.
Plans submitted by Universal Destinations & Experiences, a subsidiary of Comcast, also feature a 500-room hotel, alongside a comprehensive retail, dining and entertainment district. In addition to leisure facilities, the resort promises wide-reaching benefits for the local economy.
A major commitment has been made by Universal to support workforce development. The company has pledged to partner with regional colleges and universities to offer apprenticeships, internships and specialised training programmes aimed at nurturing talent in the hospitality sector.
Local Impact and National Growth Strategy
The project is expected to deliver significant long-term value for Bedford and the surrounding areas. Approximately 80% of resort employees are projected to be sourced locally, spanning Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton, and Milton Keynes.
The development also aligns with the broader ambitions for the Oxford-Cambridge corridor, with plans to drive growth, rejuvenate infrastructure, and foster sustainable job creation.
Universal highlighted the site’s strengths, stating: “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 statement continued: “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.”
While the final go-ahead remains subject to approval from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Universal has expressed a clear intention to submit a formal planning proposal. Construction is projected to begin in 2026, contingent on the successful completion of the planning process.
Mark Woodbury, Chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences, 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.”
Government and Local Leaders Applaud Investment
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer welcomed the announcement, calling it a prime example of the government’s economic growth plan: “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.”
Bedford’s mayor, Tom Wootton, celebrated the decision, stating: “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.
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.”
Laura Church, Chief Executive of Bedford Borough Council, 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.”
