Universal Studios Bedford Enters Primary Construction Phase as SDO Goes Live
Breaking Ground: Universal Studios Bedford Enters “Primary Phase” as SDO Goes Live
Today, Monday, January 12, 2026, marks a historic turning point for the UK entertainment landscape. As of 00:01 AM, the Special Development Order (SDO) for the Universal United Kingdom Resort has officially come into force, granting Universal Destinations & Experiences the full legal authority to begin large-scale construction on its 476-acre site in Kempston Hardwick.
While the site has seen minor “enabling works” over the last few months, today transforms the former Stewartby brickworks from a dormant industrial relic into the most active construction project in Europe.
What’s Happening on Site Today?
Field reports and local updates from the “Project Universal” team indicate that while the Core Zone (the future heart of the theme park) remains relatively quiet for now, critical infrastructure work is intensifying:
The “Wazinator 1000” in Action: The massive concrete crusher, famously dubbed the “Wazinator 1000” by local enthusiasts, is back on-site today. Its mission is to crush existing concrete and brick debris into high-quality sub-base material. This focus on on-site recycling is a pillar of Universal’s sustainability pledge, reusing thousands of tons of material rather than hauling it away.
Establishment of the Construction Village: Surveyors are currently “setting out” the area designated for the construction village. This zone will soon house thousands of contractors, site offices, and heavy equipment staging areas.
Security & Staging: High-security fencing and concrete blocks have been finalized around the perimeter. Staging areas for heavy generators and soil-moving machinery are now fully operational.
The 2026 Roadmap: What’s Next?
With the SDO now active, Universal is working toward an aggressive timeline for the remainder of the year:
| Timeframe | Objective |
| Q1 2026 | Land Grading & Drainage: Massive earth-moving projects to level the site and install the “Water Strategy” drainage network. |
| Q2 2026 | Utility Installation: Deep-trenching for the high-capacity power, water, and waste pipes required for a world-class resort. |
| Late 2026 | Foundation Phase: The first foundational pours for the “Core Zone” attractions and the landmark 500-room hotel. |
Infrastructure: The “Transport Hub” Trigger
The activation of the SDO also triggers the promised £500 million public investment in local infrastructure.
Major work is set to resume on the Wixams Railway Station, which was previously paused to allow for a redesign. The new station will be a four-platform “Super-Hub” designed to handle peak loads of up to 55,000 visitors per day. On the roads, National Highways is finalizing plans for new direct slip roads off the A421, ensuring that park traffic bypasses the residential centers of Wixams and Stewartby.
The 2031 Vision
Universal has reiterated its target of a late 2030 or early 2031 grand opening. With permission granted to build structures up to 115 meters (377 feet) tall, the Bedford skyline is about to change forever as the home of Europe’s tallest rides.
For those looking for work, the recruitment drive for the first of 20,000 construction roles is expected to accelerate throughout this month.
If you are interested in getting a job at the Universal United Kingdom Resort then keep an eye out on the Universal Creative recruitment website: Here.