Universal Destinations & Experiences announced plans to construct Europe’s largest theme park in Bedford, England, marking a landmark £50 billion investment to reshape the UK’s tourism and creative industries.
The project, set to open in 2031, will occupy a 476-acre former industrial site at Kempston Hardwick brickworks, 60 miles northwest of London, with construction slated to begin in 2026 pending government approval.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer hailed the deal as a “multi-billion-pound investment” that positions Bedford as a “global stage” for entertainment. The park is projected to create 28,000 jobs, 20,000 during construction and 8,000 permanent roles in hospitality, AI, and tourism, with 80% of employees sourced locally.
Universal estimates the complex will attract 8.5 million annual visitors, rivalling its Orlando and Hollywood parks, and generate £50 billion (€58 billion) in economic benefits for the UK.
To accommodate the influx of visitors, Universal has pledged infrastructure upgrades, including enhancements to Wixams railway station, a new East West Rail link station, and improved motorway access via the A421. The resort will feature a 500-room hotel, retail and dining complexes, and themed lands drawing from Universal’s iconic franchises such as Jurassic Park, Minions, and Harry Potter.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy emphasised the park’s role in showcasing British creativity alongside American IPs, citing potential themes around James Bond and Paddington Bear.
This is not just about bringing great American creations to Britain, this is also about showcasing great British creations to the world. These are things like James Bond, Paddington Bear, these are things like Harry Potter. We’ve got so much to be proud of.
The Bedford park will be Universal’s first wholly owned European venture, joining its existing sites in the US, Japan, Singapore, and China. Mike Cavanagh, President of Comcast (Universal’s parent company), described the move as a “historic milestone” that expands the brand’s global reach while complementing its US operations.
