Universal has unveiled plans for its first UK theme park near Bedford, set to open year-round. Universal Destinations & Experiences, owned by Comcast, aims to develop Europe’s largest theme park, including a 500-room hotel and dining area.
The economic impact analysis suggests the project will bring nearly £50 billion in benefits to the UK, with £35.1 billion in net economic contribution over its construction and first 20 years, plus £14.1 billion in extra taxes.
The project will create 20,000 construction jobs and 8,000 operational jobs, with Universal committing to pay the living wage.
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The park, located on nearly 500 acres south of Bedford on the former Kempston Hardwick brickworks site, is expected to feature attractions based on popular films, video games, and stories.
Page Thompson, Universal’s president of new ventures, highlighted the location as ideal after a decade of searching.
Phase one includes a theme park, hotel, and dining area, with plans to operate 365 days a year and host special events. Universal expects the park to support an additional 20,000 jobs in the local economy.
Despite significant competition from UK and European theme parks and concerns about weather and transportation infrastructure, Universal remains confident.
The company seeks government support for transport improvements and planning permission via a special development order.
The investment, costing billions, is anticipated to take many years to pay off, with the park unlikely to open before the decade’s end.
Universal aims to offer innovative entertainment experiences, extending beyond traditional theme park offerings, promising a unique addition to the UK and Europe.
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