Universal Announces Update on UK Theme Park in Bedford

    Project Update 26th June 2025

    Universal Destinations & Experiences, a division of Comcast NBCUniversal, has officially advanced plans to build its first-ever Universal-branded theme park and resort in the United Kingdom, selecting Bedford as the proposed location. The project, which was initially revealed in April, is now entering a critical planning phase.

    The company has formally submitted a request to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) to proceed via a Special Development Order (SDO), a unique planning mechanism typically reserved for nationally significant infrastructure projects. The request includes a comprehensive planning submission, featuring an Environmental Statement, Planning Statement, and Design and Access Statement, and is being sponsored by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).

    A £50 Billion Boost to the UK Economy

    If approved, the proposed entertainment resort will feature a world-class theme park with multiple themed lands, extensive visitor accommodations, and a variety of retail, dining, and entertainment offerings. Universal projects the development could deliver nearly £50 billion in economic benefit and create 28,000 jobs, making it a major force for economic growth in the region.

    Upon opening, the park is expected to become one of the largest employers in the region, with an estimated 80% of staff recruited locally from Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton, and Milton Keynes.

    The plan also includes significant infrastructure upgrades, such as:

    • Expansion of Wixams railway station

    • Construction of direct slip roads from the A421

    • A range of local road improvements

    Widespread Community Support

    The project has received overwhelming public backing. During community engagement efforts in April 2024, over 92% of respondents expressed support for the proposal. Universal has credited this enthusiasm as a driving force in moving the project forward.

    What’s Next?

    The MHCLG will now review the submitted request and open a public consultation period. This will allow residents, stakeholders, and environmental bodies to review the accompanying documents and provide feedback. Information on how to access these materials and make representations will be made available by MHCLG in the near future.

    Universal has emphasized that all public comments must be submitted directly to the MHCLG, not to the company itself.