In a landmark announcement, Universal Destinations & Experiences has confirmed plans to build its first UK theme park in Kempston Hardwick, just south of Bedford. This ambitious project is expected to attract 8.5 million visitors in its opening year alone, and it promises to be a game-changer for the local economy.
The new Universal Studios theme park, set to occupy a 476-acre site formerly used for brickworks, will not only bring entertainment but also significant economic benefits, including an estimated £50 billion boost to the economy by 2055. The project is projected to create approximately 28,000 jobs, a promise echoed by the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, during a recent visit to the area.
Starmer, who visited Kimberley College in Stewartby, assured students that they could have job opportunities at the park once it opens in 2031. "These are going to be the jobs of you and your colleagues for years to come," he said, highlighting the potential for long-term employment in various sectors.
Local residents have expressed overwhelming enthusiasm for the development. Libby Lionetti, who runs La Piazza Cafe in Bedford, shared his excitement, stating he was "over the moon" about Universal's decision to move in. Lionetti remarked, "It's the only thing we're talking about in the town," reflecting the palpable buzz among locals. His cafe, which has been a fixture in Bedford since 1986, struggled during the pandemic, but he sees this project as a revitalization for local businesses.
Residents like Jamie Ham and his wife Caitlin are also optimistic about the park's potential. Jamie noted, "It will bring growth to the area," especially with upgrades to the Wixams train station, which will connect to the park. Caitlin, meanwhile, is hoping for attractions themed around the beloved Harry Potter franchise, saying, "We've not been [to a Universal park] before, but it will be something that will be on the doorstep, easy to get to, so we're looking forward to it."
The park's president of new ventures, Page Thompson, praised Bedford for its unprecedented support during the planning stages. "From the very first time we visited in 2022, the welcome has been incredible," he said. Universal's consultation received a record 6,000 responses, with 92% of the community showing support for the project. Thompson noted, "That support from Bedford made a huge difference when we spoke to central government. It helped get this over the line."
Thompson also emphasized the importance of local transport connections, stating that more than half of the UK’s population lives within a two-hour travel radius of Bedford. To facilitate access, a direct slip road from the A421 is planned, funded by the government, along with upgrades to Bedford Station, Wixams Station, and Luton Airport. This infrastructure enhancement aims to alleviate potential congestion and ensure smooth access for visitors.
As the community anticipates the park's opening, students are already eyeing potential employment opportunities. Lenka Stevens, a horticulture student from Shuttleworth College, expressed hope for a job designing gardens around the park. "I could be a gardener. I could be a garden designer and design perhaps the planting scheme surrounding the area of Universal Studios," she said, highlighting the diverse job prospects the park could offer.
Utsharja Bhandari, a 21-year-old performing arts student at Bedford College, echoed similar sentiments, stating, "Bringing Universal to Bedford is going to put Bedford on the map." She expressed gratitude for the opportunities that the new park could bring to the community, noting that it could help reshape Bedford's identity as a vibrant place for entertainment and culture.
The park is expected to feature several themed lands, advanced immersive rides, and a 500-room hotel, providing not just jobs but also a new destination for leisure and tourism. As the designs are finalized, Thompson hinted that elements reflecting Bedford's local culture and history would be incorporated into the park, ensuring that it resonates with both residents and visitors.
However, the project is not without its concerns. Some locals worry about the potential rise in living costs and the impact on the community's character. Maria Perez, a warehouse worker, voiced her concerns, stating, "If you're a family or you're a young person in the area, there's nothing to do. I think the theme park will be really great. It will be good for the economy, for the town and for the people. People will invest more. Prices will go up for rent, which is not good, but it's a good thing for the town and will be for the people in the area."
Despite these concerns, the overall sentiment in Bedford leans towards optimism. Nicola Harlow, a lifelong resident, expressed hope for her teenage son, stating, "So many of our young men don't have jobs. I hope this might bring some benefits for him, for his future." Her mother, Janet, reminisced about the past when there were more entertainment options, emphasizing the need for new attractions for the younger generation.
As construction is set to begin in the coming months, the excitement continues to build in Bedford. This once-in-a-generation project is poised to transform the area, creating a vibrant hub for entertainment and employment, while also marking a significant milestone in Universal's global expansion. With the park expected to open in 2031, the community is eager to welcome visitors and showcase what Bedford has to offer.
