Universal Destinations & Experiences' long-rumoured park in Bedford has been confirmed by NBCUniversal and the UK Government today, which PM Keir Starmer said "is not just about numbers; it’s about securing real opportunities for people in our country... firmly putting [Bedford] on the global stage"
The park will be Universal's first in the UK and Europe, and has been confirmed to open in 2031.
Alongside the theme park, which is expected to live up to its existing parks in Orlando and Pacific Asia, it will also host a 500-room hotel and a retail, dining, and entertainment complex.
The 476-acre site, in Bedford, is 35 minutes north of London by train. Around half of the UK population lives within two hours of the park by rail or road.
Mike Cavanagh, president of Universal's parent company Comcast Corporation, described the announcement as "a special and historic milestone moment for our company as we continue to accelerate the growth trajectory of our theme parks business and delight audiences around the world."
PM Starmer added, "Together, we are building a brighter future for the UK, getting people into work and ensuring our economy remains strong and competitive."
8,000 jobs are expected to be created when the park opens in 2031, following 20,000 jobs created in its construction phase. Opening year projections expect over six million visitors, with £50 billion generated for the UK economy by 2050.
