Universal Planning U.K. Theme Park and Resort in Bedford, England in Expansion to Europe

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NBCUniversal and the British government have announced proposals for an enormous Universal theme park and resort in Bedford, England, expected to be the country’s biggest tourist destination and one of the largest and most innovative theme parks in Europe. Expected to open in 2031, this project will generate approximately 20,000 jobs during construction, with an additional 8,000 positions in the hospitality and creative sectors upon its debut, as stated in a joint announcement.

According to Universal, the upcoming attraction is projected to contribute approximately £50 billion ($64 billion) to the economy by the year 2055. In its inaugural year, it’s anticipated that around 8.5 million visitors will flock to this new destination, making it the U.K.’s largest tourist attraction. This development marks the debut of a Universal-branded theme park and resort in Europe. It’s part of a more extensive 476-acre entertainment complex.

Mike Cavanagh, President of Comcast, expressed immense enthusiasm about moving forward with a significant milestone in our vision to build an exceptional Universal theme park and resort right in the UK. This expansion will strengthen our existing U.S. parks business by extending our global reach to Europe. He guaranteed that this project would result in a remarkable new landmark destination.

Comcast’s Universal Destinations & Experiences team has unveiled preliminary plans for a theme park, offering multiple themed areas that blend captivating storytelling with exhilarating rides, state-of-the-art attractions, and enthralling entertainment, all powered by cutting-edge technology. The initial blueprint also encompasses a 500-room hotel and a shopping, dining, and entertainment district.

NBCUniversal, owner of the rights for Harry Potter theme park attractions, could consider transporting its Wizarding World to the nation that catapulted the franchise into a blockbuster hit. Currently, Warner Bros. Studio Tour in London provides a movie-themed Harry Potter experience.

Mark Woodbury, the head of NBCUniversal’s Universal Destinations & Experiences division, stated that creating a top-notch theme park and resort in the UK is a significant chance for us. This move aligns with our plan to showcase the Universal brand and its unique experiences to people worldwide.

The proposed development of the theme park has received approval from Universal, the national government of the Labour Party, and the Bedford Borough Council. This decision is seen as a significant endorsement of the strength of the U.K. economy and the collaboration between the U.S. and the U.K. “This move signifies a major show of faith in the U.K.’s economic future and partnerships with America,” they stated. Universal has pledged to back the government’s growth strategy by creating jobs in the creative, technology, tourism, and hospitality sectors. To train the upcoming workforce for its hospitality sector, Universal plans to collaborate with local educational institutions, offering apprenticeships and internships among other opportunities.

Approximately 80% of the workforce at the new theme park is anticipated to be sourced locally. The government under Prime Minister Keir Starmer believes that this park will stimulate growth, rejuvenate infrastructure, and create additional employment opportunities within the Oxford-Cambridge region, thereby unlocking its hidden potential.

UK culture secretary Lisa Nandy stated: “Universal is responsible for some of the most successful blockbusters in recent times, including ‘Wicked’ and ‘Minions’. This significant investment is terrific news for our economy, UK tourism, and the British public, who will have easy access to Europe’s largest theme park right on their doorstep.

Starmer praised the establishment of numerous jobs in fields like AI, tourism, and construction by saying: “Today we finalized a massive multi-billion-pound investment that will make Bedford home to one of Europe’s largest entertainment parks. This move undeniably places the county on the international stage.” He further commented: “It’s not just about figures; it’s about creating genuine chances for our nation’s people. Together, we are constructing a brighter future for the U.K., helping people find employment and maintaining a robust and competitive economy.”

In addition, Rachel Reeves, the U.K.’s chancellor of the exchequer (similar to other countries’ treasury secretary or finance minister) stated: “At this time of global transformation, this investment serves as a show of faith in Britain as a favorable business destination. Universal’s investment will bring billions into the economy and create thousands of jobs within the U.K., increasing the amount of money people can earn.

The plans for building a Universal theme park within the U.K. are still pending approval by the Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government.

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2025-04-09 02:25