THE UK is set to become home to Europe’s first Universal theme park, with the announcement of a major new development in Bedfordshire. The park, to be constructed on the site of the former Kempston Hardwick brickworks near Bedford, is expected to create around 28,000 jobs before its anticipated opening in 2031.
Universal Destinations and Experiences, the company behind the plan, has outlined an ambitious vision for a 476-acre entertainment complex that could attract as many as 8.5 million visitors in its first year. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has hailed the multibillion-pound investment as a significant boost to the UK’s economy, stating that it would put Bedford on the global map as the home of one of Europe’s largest entertainment parks.
“This is an incredible opportunity for Bedfordshire,” Starmer said. “This investment will see the area become home to one of the biggest entertainment parks in Europe, firmly placing the county on the global stage.”
The theme park will not only bring major economic benefits but also create local jobs. Universal estimates that 80% of those employed will come from Bedfordshire and surrounding areas, providing a significant employment boost for the region.
Universal, famous for blockbuster franchises like Minions and Wicked, already operates theme parks in Orlando, Los Angeles, Osaka, Sentosa, and Beijing. The Bedfordshire site will be the first in Europe to be fully designed and built by the company, marking a major step in its international expansion.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy welcomed the announcement, describing it as a “landmark investment” that would benefit the entire country. “This is not just about bringing American creations to Britain,” Nandy said in an interview with BBC Breakfast. “It’s about showcasing some of Britain’s finest creations to the world. Think James Bond, Paddington Bear, and Harry Potter — we have so much to be proud of.”
The full planning proposal for the project is set to be submitted to the UK government, with construction expected to begin in 2026. Universal plans to include not only the theme park but also a 500-room hotel and a retail complex. The company has already acquired the initial 476 acres for the development, but it is considering expanding the site to 700 acres to improve transport links.
The announcement has received a largely positive response from local residents, although some have expressed concerns over the impact on infrastructure. Universal conducted a survey involving more than 6,000 local residents and organisations, with 92% expressing support for the project.
In response to concerns about increased traffic, Universal has promised to make significant improvements to local infrastructure, including upgrading the Wixams railway station and building a new station on the East West Rail line. Additionally, new slip roads will be added to the A421, a key route that suffered flooding in October due to heavy rainfall.
Heidi Alexander, the Secretary of State for Transport, recently approved expansion plans for the nearby London Luton Airport, which is expected to further enhance the area’s transport connectivity. Nandy also noted that the government’s commitment to improving local transport infrastructure had played a vital role in securing the deal with Universal.
Mike Cavanagh, president of Comcast Corporation — the parent company of Universal — expressed excitement over the company’s European expansion. “We’re thrilled to bring Universal’s brand of immersive entertainment to the UK and beyond,” Cavanagh said. Universal will work closely with Bedford Borough Council and other local authorities to ensure the success of the project. Councils from Central Bedfordshire, Luton, Milton Keynes, north Northamptonshire, and west Northamptonshire have all voiced support for the plans.
