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Excitement continues to grow as Bedford Borough remains at the centre of plans for the UK’s first Universal Studios theme park. The proposed resort has the potential to transform the local economy, bring thousands of jobs, and put Bedford on the global map.
From the first rumours to government discussions, here’s everything we know so far from the comprehensive reporting by the team at the Bedford Independent.
How it all started
In December 2023, the theme park news website Orlando Park Stop was the first to report that Universal Destinations & Experiences had acquired land in Bedford Borough for a potential theme park and resort.
Taking this one step further, the Bedford Independent became the first news outlet in the world to confirm the plans directly with Universal, breaking the story that was soon picked up by national and international media.
Read: Universal Studios confirm they are planning a theme park in Bedford Borough
Universal confirmed that it had secured approximately 480 acres of land near Stewartby, choosing Bedford Borough for its central location and strong transport links, allowing over half of the UK population to reach it within two hours.
Plans for the resort include:
- A flagship theme park featuring attractions designed for the European market
- A 500-room hotel
- An entertainment district
- A dedicated train station to improve accessibility
The news sparked huge excitement among Bedford residents, with many seeing the project as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Read: Bedford, “It’s a great place to build a theme park”, says Universal’s new ventures president
Discussions begin
By early 2024, Universal entered into discussions with the UK government and Bedford Borough Council to explore the project’s feasibility.
In April a delegation from Universal Destinations & Experiences, led by their president Page Thompson held public information sessions at Kimberley College and Bedford College to show details of their plans, answer questions and gather public opinion on the idea.
The Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) Bedfordshire issued a “balanced view” on the development in May. While acknowledging environmental concerns, they recognised the significant economic benefits the park could bring to the region.
Read: CPRE has “balanced” view of possible Universal Studios in apparent seal of approval
Around this time, Universal released initial public engagement results from their public sessions and web-based surveys, confirming that 92% of people who took part in early feedback sessions were in favour of the theme park plans.
“We have been blown away by the enthusiasm from local people,” a Universal spokesperson said. “We know that this project could bring huge benefits, and we are excited about the journey ahead.”
Read: Universal says 92% of people gave positive feedback to UK theme park plans
They also revealed the findings of a report that found their resort could generate nearly £50bn for the UK, with £14.1bn in additional tax returns into the Treasury’s coffers during the construction period and first 20 years of operation.
Universal Destinations & Experiences commissioned the Economic Impact Analysis (EIA) to demonstrate the unique opportunity a world-class theme park and resort could bring to the United Kingdom.
Read: New report predicts Universal theme park to generate £50bn for the UK plus thousands of local jobs
By July 2024, local council leaders from across the region had seen all they needed to see and, led by Bedford Borough Council, made their stance clear by writing to the Prime Minister to express their strong support for the project.
Their letter highlighted how the theme park could be transformational for the local economy and urged the government to prioritise its progression.
Read: Local council leaders unite and tell Prime Minister “we strongly support” Universal UK theme park plans
Growing optimism
October 2024, marked the start of a “period of quiet”, with limited updates as negotiations progressed behind the scenes. Bedford Borough Council, however, shared a positive update, confirming there were “no red flags” that would stop them from continuing to support the plans.
Speaking to Bedford Borough Council’s Environment and Sustainable Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee, Sam Fox, a priority projects consultant, said: “Negotiations are ongoing, but at this stage, there are no red flags that would prevent us from backing the project.
“It remains an exciting prospect for Bedfordshire.”
Read: Universal Studios plans enter “period of quiet” as government negotiations continue
He also confirmed that the planning application (if submitted) will be dealt with by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG).
Mr Fox said: “That planning application will be in the form of what’s known as an SDO, a special development order.”
Delays and government silence
By early 2025, speculation grew that the government would soon provide an update on the theme park’s progress.
However, Chancellor Rachel Reeves (Labour) failed to mention Universal Studios UK in a key growth speech, leaving residents and local leaders frustrated. Mid Bedfordshire MP, Blake Stephenson (Conservative), was also disappointed.
Posting on his Facebook page, he wrote, ‘The Universal theme park would not only turbocharge growth in Bedfordshire but also across the country.
‘The Chief Secretary to the Treasury also missed the opportunity to do so in his growth statement to the Commons just hours ago.’
Read: “No update” on Universal project despite growth speech speculation
Despite the lack of public confirmation, behind-the-scenes reports suggested that the final stages of government approval were still progressing, with only the Treasury left to sign off on financial arrangements.
What happens next?
If the project gets final approval, construction could begin very soon, but the park is not expected to open before 2031.
With thousands of jobs, millions of visitors, and a major economic boost at stake, the Universal Studios UK project remains one of the most anticipated developments in Bedford Borough’s history.
As always, the Bedford Independent will continue to bring readers the latest updates as they happen.
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