Thousands of jobs are set to be created in the UK hospitality sector with emerging news that Universal is to build a Universal Studios theme park in southern England.
Universal said the location, on a 200-hectare former brickworks site, will be based outside the town of Bedford and will be its first in Europe.
It is due to open by 2031, with the creation of to 28,000 jobs and bolster the economy by as much as £50 billion economic boost by the turn of 2055.
The theme park will include a 500-room hotel, while a new train station will be constructed. However, Universal has yet to provide more specific details on the themed zones and attractions.
The UK’s Culture Minister Lisa Nandy said the project was ‘fantastic news for tourism and for British families.’ Around 80% of the workforce will come from the local area, including Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton & Milton Keynes.
Universal’s website stated: “The proposed plans include an entertainment resort complex with a world-class theme park with several themed lands featuring Universal’s distinct brand of immersive storytelling, thrilling rides, innovative attractions and exciting entertainment.”
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer commented: “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.
“This is our Plan for Change in action, combining local and national growth with creating around 28,000 new jobs across sectors such as construction, AI, and tourism.
“It is not just about numbers; it’s about securing real opportunities for people in our country. Together, we are building a brighter future for the UK, getting people into work and ensuring our economy remains strong and competitive.”
Mike Cavanagh, President of Comcast Corporation, said: “We could not be more excited to take this very important step in our plan to create and deliver an incredible Universal theme park and resort in the heart of the United Kingdom, which complements our growing US-based parks business by expanding our global footprint to Europe.
“We appreciate the leadership and support of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Chancellor Rachel Reeves, Minister for Investment Poppy Gustafsson, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy and their teams, as we work together to create and deliver a fantastic new landmark destination.”
Mark Woodbury, Chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences, said: “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.
“We appreciate the incredible support for our proposed project and look forward to bringing it to life in the years ahead.”
The site, between the towns and villages of Stewartby, Wooton, Wixams and Kempston, lies about 55 miles north of London and 20 miles from Luton Airport.
Andy Probert is an independent journalist who writes about global travel news, airlines, airports, and business. His work has appeared globally on the BBC, and in many national newspapers and magazines.
