The iconic Universal Grove at the entrance to Universal Studios Orlando – similar branding is expected in 2031 at a new British resort near Bedford. Credits: Shutterstock, Vival Tour
Major new Universal Studios theme parks are officially coming to the UK. It is scheduled to open in 2031, just outside Bedford in north London.
The much-anticipated project marks the first resort of Universal in Europe, creating 28,000 jobs and brings an estimated £50 billion boost to the UK economy by 2055.
The plan, announced this week by Prime Minister Kiel Starmer, has signed a deal between the UK government, Universal’s parent company Comcast, and Bedfordshire Council. Priorities welcomed the move as a “transformative investment” and a “voting for confidence in the UK’s future as a hub for global entertainment.”
The 200 hectares site, a former Brickworks south of Bedford, is expected to welcome more than 8.5 million visitors in its first year. The project also includes 500 hotels, immersive land, cutting-edge attractions and rapid transport links. There is a new station and easy access to Luton Airport and the Eurostar route from St. Pancras London.
Universal Studios brings top-notch attractions to the UK
Universal has yet to confirm any particular attractions, but expectations are high. Fans want experience based on franchises such as Jurassic World, Minion, Fast & Furious, and Harry Potter. All of these have been featured in other Universal parks in the US, Asia and Singapore.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandi praised the project as “great news for tourism and UK families,” adding that it would also provide training and work to young people in the hospitality and creative industries.
Bedford residents have mixed feelings in response to the Universal Studios project
The government says about 80% of future staff will be hired from the surrounding area. Universal has been working to work with local universities to help develop employees. However, planning requires final planning permission.
Many Bedford residents are excited and call the development the “lifeline” of the local economy. However, some have expressed concern about rising traffic, infrastructure and rents.
Once everything goes as expected, Universal Studios’ Bedford can quickly run to Disneyland Paris for that money. And they have re-maped the UK as a world-class theme park destination.
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