The first Universal theme park in Europe is set to break ground in the UK, with the government confirming plans for the ambitious project on the site of a former brickworks near Bedford. Expected to open in 2031, the landmark attraction could create an estimated 28,000 jobs and is projected to draw 8.5 million visitors in its opening year.
The 476-acre site potentially expandable to 700 acres will form part of a larger 476-acre entertainment resort complex, designed to combine immersive themed attractions, a 500-room hotel, and a retail and dining area. The project is positioned as one of the biggest and most advanced theme parks on the continent, promising to reshape the UK's leisure and tourism landscape.
During a visit to Kimberley College in nearby Stewartby, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer underscored the economic potential of the development, stating it would “see Bedford home to one of the biggest entertainment parks in Europe, firmly putting the county on the global stage.” Starmer even noted that his children, unusually interested in political announcements, found this project particularly exciting.
The theme park project is backed by Universal Destinations & Experiences, a business unit of Comcast, which is working closely with Bedford Borough Council. Mark Woodbury, Chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences, expressed enthusiasm about the potential to bring the Universal brand to Europe through an attraction that offers a unique blend of technology and entertainment.
Local councils from Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton, Milton Keynes, and neighboring areas have thrown their support behind the project, with 92% of surveyed local stakeholders in favor of the initiative. The plan also includes planned upgrades to local infrastructure such as Wixams railway station and enhanced connectivity via the East West Rail line and nearby London Luton Airport, ensuring the attraction is easily accessible.
In addition to drawing international tourists, the new park is intended to serve as a showcase for British cultural achievements. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy hailed the investment as “fantastic news” for the economy, emphasizing that it would not only introduce world-class American entertainment to Britain but also shine a spotlight on Britain’s own creative legacy from iconic characters like James Bond and Paddington Bear to timeless literary heroes like Harry Potter.
Universal projects a significant economic uplift from the theme park, estimating nearly £50 billion in economic benefits by 2055. The development is a cornerstone of the government’s broader economic strategy, known as the Plan for Change, which seeks to drive growth across the UK by creating jobs in construction, technology, and tourism sectors. Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed the use of British steel on the project, reinforcing the commitment to domestic industry and quality.
While the full planning proposal for the site will be submitted to the UK government soon, with construction expected to commence in 2026, the project has already captured significant public and political attention. Amid a backdrop of ongoing infrastructure investment, including recent upgrades at Luton Airport, the new Universal theme park is poised to become a major beacon of innovation and economic renewal in Europe.
