£50 billion theme park coming to Bedford

Universal has unveiled plans for a multi-billion-pound investment in a major new theme park and resort in Bedford, set to open in 2031. 

The development will be located on the former Kempston Hardwick brickworks site and is poised to become one of the largest entertainment destinations in Europe.

Officials at Universal, which has theme parks in Orlando and Los Angeles in the US, as well as in Japan, Singapore and China, say the 476-acre development will create 28,000 jobs, with 20,000 positions during construction and 8000 additional jobs in hospitality and creative industries once the park opens, making “Bedford home to one of the biggest entertainment parks in Europe” and “firmly putting the county on the global stage”. 

Mark Woodbury, chairman and chief executive 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.”

The theme park is expected to generate £50 billion for the UK economy by 2055, with an anticipated 8.5 million visitors in its first year.

It will feature immersive storytelling, rides, attractions and a 500-room hotel, with Universal pledging to source 80 per cent of the staff from Bedford, central Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes.

Universal Destinations & Experiences, the theme park unit of NBCUniversal and a subsidiary of Comcast, are already working closely with local colleges and universities to provide training and apprenticeships for future employees. 

The park’s development will also see significant infrastructure upgrades, including improvements to Wixams railway station, currently under construction, and the expansion of London Luton Airport.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves added: “At a time of global change, this investment is a vote of confidence in Britain as a place to do business. 

“Universal’s investment will bring billions to the economy and create thousands of jobs to the UK, putting more money in people’s pockets.”

A full planning proposal will be submitted to the Government, with construction expected to start in 2026.

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →