In a landmark announcement for Bedford Borough, Elected Mayor Tom Wootton shared the exciting news that Universal Destinations & Experiences will establish a world-class theme park and resort on the former brickworks site just south of Bedford. This significant investment, years in the making, positions Bedford as the proud home of Universal in the UK — the country's only park of its kind.
This transformative project will bring 28,000 new direct and indirect jobs, generate billions in economic benefits, and attract millions of visitors to the area annually, a figure expected to rise to 12 million over time. Mayor Tom Wootton expressed his enthusiasm for the development, emphasizing its significance for the local community: “This is a landmark moment for Bedford Borough. Universal’s decision to proceed with its theme park and resort in the UK brings exciting opportunities to our doorstep – thousands of jobs, new training and career paths, and a huge boost for local businesses. Bedford is the perfect place for this investment – well-connected, full of talent, and ready to grow. We’re proud to be chosen as the home of Universal in the UK. I’m delighted that our residents and communities will benefit in the years and decades ahead. I will continue to work closely with Universal and local stakeholders to deliver for them.”
The Universal entertainment resort complex will deliver sustainable, inclusive growth for the region, with high-quality employment, new education and training pathways, and long-term community benefits. It promises to make Bedford a leading destination for visitors and a key hub for business investment, securing its place as a thriving and ambitious community.
Laura Church, Chief Executive of Bedford Borough Council, added: “I am excited about the next phase and the borough’s role in elevating the UK’s profile as a leader in the visitor economy and creative industries. With continued sustainable growth, Bedford Borough is poised to become a must-visit destination and a prime hub for business investment, driving growth for our community.”
According to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the project represents a transformative agreement that will significantly benefit the region. He stated, “Today we closed the deal on a multi-billion-pound investment that will see Bedford home to one of the biggest entertainment parks in Europe, firmly putting the county on the global stage.” Starmer emphasized that this initiative is not just about the numbers; it’s about securing real opportunities for people in the UK, stating, “Together, we are building a brighter future for the UK, getting people into work and ensuring our economy remains strong and competitive.”
The project has received agreement in principle from the Government to move forward, pending planning approval. The Universal theme park and resort is expected to open in 2031, providing immersive storytelling, innovative attractions, exciting entertainment, and opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
Mark Woodbury, Chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences, remarked, “Bringing a world-class theme park and resort to the United Kingdom is a tremendous opportunity and is part of our strategy to introduce the Universal brand and experiences to new audiences around the globe.”
Bedford Borough’s elected mayor, Tom Wootton, expressed pride in the selection of Bedford as the home of Universal in the UK, saying, “We’re proud to be chosen as the home of Universal in the UK. I’m delighted that our residents and communities will benefit in the years and decades ahead.”
The project is expected to create 20,000 jobs during construction and 8,000 permanent roles once the park opens. Approximately 80% of employees are expected to come from Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton, and Milton Keynes. This approach aims to ensure that local communities reap the benefits of this major investment.
Blake Stephenson, MP for Mid Bedfordshire, whose constituency includes the park’s proposed site, agreed that Universal’s decision to invest in Bedfordshire is fantastic news, stating, “This is a particular boost because of the many new local jobs that will be needed in the short and long term.”
Public support for the project has been overwhelmingly positive, with 92% of respondents to Universal’s public consultation backing the resort. A joint letter from all council leaders across the Oxford-Cambridge corridor expressed their “unequivocal support” for the scheme, highlighting it as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver jobs, investment, and long-term prosperity.
The plans for the Universal theme park include multiple themed lands, advanced immersive rides, a hotel, and a leisure complex. A 500-room hotel and dedicated retail and dining zones are also included in early plans. Universal has stated its commitment to working with local colleges and universities to offer apprenticeships, internships, and training, although no formal announcements have been made yet.
The government has pledged infrastructure investment to improve transport links and access to the resort, reinforcing Bedford’s growing role in the UK’s creative and visitor economy. The resort is expected to open in 2031, subject to planning approval from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.
As excitement builds for the new park, social media groups dedicated to the project have attracted thousands of members, sharing updates, ride speculations, and support for the initiative. With its grand vision and potential to transform the local economy, the Universal theme park in Bedford is set to be a game-changer for the region.
