Universal Studios created some serious waves with their recent announcement. Their first theme park on this side of the pond? On an enormous 476-acre site in the UK no less! The area that was selected was previously the site of the Kempston Hardwick brickworks. It’s scheduled to become a huge new entertainment precinct just outside of Bedford, with construction beginning in 2026 and projected to be done by 2031.
Universal has already purchased the first property and has the option to grow the footprint to about 700 acres. This highly ambitious project aims to develop one of Europe’s largest and most futuristic theme parks. It will be home to an entertainment complex anchored by a world-class, excitement-packed theme park, a 500-room posh hotel and an energetic shopping district.
The proposed theme park would attract an estimated 8.5 million tourists in its first year of operation. As a result, the project will pull tourists from across the globe. Even before it opens, it’s expected to generate approximately 28,000 jobs, 80% of which will be filled by Bedford, central Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes residents.
Universal’s commitment to the local community can be seen through its deep and wide outreach efforts. The company commissioned a survey with more than 6,000 people and businesses in the region. An amazing 92% of them voiced their unequivocal support for the project.
“This is not just about bringing great American creations to Britain, this is also about showcasing great British creations to the world,” – Chancellor Rachel Reeves
The importance of this announcement goes beyond sweet gaming enjoyment, the development is set to dramatically strengthen the local economy. Local leaders have spelled out just how transformative they believe the project could be for Bedfordshire.
Tom Wootton commented on the initiative’s potential impact:
“Some of the brightest and most fantastic people at Universal are working on [the infrastructure].”
The theme park’s advantageous location close to Bedford will be served by quick rail connections to London and London Luton Airport. A national and international gateway. State and local infrastructure are ripe for exciting improvements! We’re going to improve the Wixams railway station and build an entirely new station on the East West Rail line.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves described the project’s cultural importance. Further, she believes it can provide a unique opportunity to present British creativity to the world. She emphasized the role of iconic British characters and franchises. Illustrative ideas such as these she outlined included bringing James Bond, Paddington Bear, or Harry Potter to the park.
“These are things like James Bond, Paddington Bear, these are things like Harry Potter. We’ve got so much to be proud of,” – Chancellor Rachel Reeves
Moreover, she emphasized that this investment aligns with other significant infrastructure projects in the UK, such as HS2 and Heathrow.
“This is good for the economy, for the town, and for the people. People will invest more,” stated local resident Maria Perez, underscoring community optimism about the park’s prospects.
Universal Studios is clearly doubling down on their plans. They will work closely with Bedford Borough Council to make sure local concerns are front and centre through the long development process. The intention of the collaboration is to find a better equilibrium between improving regional infrastructure and serving the needs and desires of the people that live there.
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