Universal’s first UK theme park, owned by Comcast’s subsidiary Universal Destinations & Experiences, has announced new details for its upcoming location near Bedford. The company has purchased land for the park, which will be the largest in Europe and open 365 days a year, along with a 500-room hotel and dining area.
According to Universal’s economic impact analysis, the project is expected to generate nearly £50 billion in economic benefits for the UK, with a net economic contribution of £35.1 billion over the construction period and first 20 years of operation. Additionally, the project is forecasted to create 20,000 jobs during the construction phase and an initial 8,000 jobs once operational. The company has also committed to paying the living wage to its employees.
President of New Ventures Page Thompson stated, “We’ve spent the last decade looking all over Europe and the United Kingdom for locations, and we think this is the best location we’ve ever seen.” The site, which spans almost 500 acres, was once home to the Kempston Hardwick brickworks, the world’s largest brickworks in terms of output, before it closed in 2008 and was demolished in September 2021.
Thompson also revealed that the park will offer a variety of experiences based on popular films, video games, and stories, with plans for special events like Halloween Horror Nights and carnival parties.
Universal currently operates five theme parks around the world and aims to make this new site a world-class destination. The investment, which will take several years to pay off, is not without risks. The UK already has four of Europe’s most visited theme parks, and there is plenty of competition from local attractions like the Harry Potter Experience and Woburn Safari Park.
Another potential challenge is the weather, which can affect visitor numbers at theme parks in northern Europe. However, Universal is confident in its ability to attract visitors throughout the year, citing its successful operations in China and Japan.
Transport links and the planning process are also potential challenges for the project. The site’s location near Luton Airport and its rail and road links to London make it an attractive choice, but the M1 and local roads may need improvements to handle the expected influx of visitors.
Universal Destinations & Experiences is seeking planning permission through a special development order, which would give the final decision to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities instead of local authorities. Despite the risks, Universal is excited about the opportunity to bring something new to the UK and Europe with its first European venue. The company’s name change last year reflects its plans to offer a variety of experiences beyond traditional theme parks and resorts, making for an exciting and innovative future for Universal in the UK.