Universal’s Shocking Omission From New UK Theme Park

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The freshly painted Universal’s Epic Universe isn’t fully completed, but construction continues on two additional entertainment sites. Despite this, Universal Destinations and Experiences show no signs of slowing down. Towards the end of 2023, it was first revealed that Universal acquired land in the UK for a possible new theme park, and this week, we learned that the Universal UK project is officially moving forward.

The construction for this park is yet to start and it’s not scheduled to open until 2031, but the buzz about it continues unabated. Although specific details about the lands or attractions included in the new park haven’t been disclosed officially, the BBC claims to have insider information, and even more surprisingly, what elements will be excluded.

James Bond, Lord of The Rings, And More May Be Coming To Universal Great Britain

Despite the park being several years from completion, it remained uncertain if the sites for the upcoming Universal UK had been definitively chosen. Nevertheless, according to a confidential source, contracts have allegedly been sealed for specific zones themed around James Bond, Paddington, The Lord of the Rings, Back to the Future, Jurassic Park, and Minions.

The artwork unveiled so far, although not very detailed, does lend credence to some of these theories. It seems that one location, boasting a roller coaster, could possibly be the town square from “Back to the Future”, featuring the iconic clock tower building. Moreover, it appears there will be a stunt show in this area, which might serve as the James Bond zone.

Certain regions, such as the precise location of Middle-Earth, may not be immediately clear, but it’s feasible, even probable, that the artwork is not fully complete. Regardless, this development is thrilling! If all goes according to plan, we’ll witness a fantastic blend of U.K.-based franchises with international intellectual properties.

Of course, if this is how the park turns out, it will be missing something quite shocking.

The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter Is Conspicuously Absent From The List

The magical realm of Harry Potter has played a significant role in elevating Universal’s theme parks to major players within the themed entertainment industry. Now, Universal Orlando Resort is set to debut its third theme park, featuring its third Wizarding World land, underscoring the immense impact that Harry Potter has had on these parks.

Contrary to some speculations, it seems there won’t be a Wizarding World in the upcoming British park, which is where J.K. Rowling’s beloved character Harry Potter was born. The BBC has clarified that they have no plans for Harry Potter attractions in this new park.

It turns out that the cause stems from licensing issues. The company responsible for the “Harry Potter” films, Warner Bros., holds the rights to the theme park franchises. Interestingly, Warner Bros. doesn’t have any competing U.S. theme parks, making it easier for them to part with these rights. However, it’s worth noting that the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in England, which showcases the “Harry Potter” franchise, is just a short 40-minute drive from where the new theme park will be built.

According to the report, Universal tried to negotiate with Warner Bros about a partnership, but they couldn’t come to an agreement. Yet, there’s always the possibility that things might change in the future. Therefore, it’s possible that a Wizarding World land could be added during a future expansion.

Even though the new theme park may not be a direct adaptation of “The Lord of the Rings”, given its source material is a highly acclaimed book series, it’s reasonable to expect that the park will create a unique fantasy realm of its own and should thrive as a result.

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2025-04-11 00:37