Multi-billion-pound Universal Theme Park set to be built in UK

A landmark multi-billion-pound investment has been secured for a sprawling new Universal theme park and resort in Bedford, marking a significant endorsement of the UK economy and deepening ties between Britain and the United States.

The deal, struck between Universal Destinations & Experiences, the government, and Bedford Borough Council, promises to deliver one of Europe’s largest and most advanced theme parks by 2031, bringing with it thousands of jobs and billions in economic growth.

The ambitious project is expected to create nearly 20,000 jobs during its construction phase, with an additional 8,000 permanent roles in hospitality, tourism, and creative industries once operational.

Universal has pledged to collaborate with local colleges and universities to train the next generation of workers, offering apprenticeships and internships to bolster skills in these sectors. Approximately 80% of the park’s workforce is anticipated to be recruited from the local area, ensuring tangible benefits for Bedfordshire residents.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer hailed the agreement as a cornerstone of the government’s Plan for Change, aimed at driving economic growth and improving living standards.

“Today we closed the deal on a multi-billion-pound investment that will see Bedford home to one of the biggest entertainment parks in Europe, firmly putting the county on the global stage,” he said. “This is about securing real opportunities for people in our country, creating around 28,000 new jobs across sectors such as construction, AI, and tourism. Together, we are building a brighter future for the UK.”

Spanning 476 acres, the resort will feature a world-class theme park with immersive themed lands, cutting-edge rides, and innovative attractions, all underpinned by Universal’s signature storytelling and advanced technology.

Plans also include a 500-room hotel and a retail, dining, and entertainment hub. Universal forecasts the site will attract 8.5 million visitors in its first year, overtaking current UK leaders to become the nation’s top visitor attraction. By 2055, it is projected to contribute nearly £50 billion to the economy.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves described the investment as a “vote of confidence in Britain as a place to do business.” She added, “Universal’s investment will bring billions to the economy and create thousands of jobs, putting more money in people’s pockets.”

Mike Cavanagh, President of Comcast Corporation, Universal’s parent company, echoed this optimism: “We could not be more excited to take this very important step in our plan to create an incredible Universal theme park and resort in the heart of the United Kingdom.”

The development aligns with the government’s pro-growth agenda, building on recent decisions like the Luton Airport expansion. To ensure the project’s success, ministers have committed to significant infrastructure investment around the site, enhancing connectivity and accessibility. This move supports the Oxford-Cambridge corridor’s revitalisation, a region earmarked for growth and innovation.

Mark Woodbury, Chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences, said, “Bringing a world-class theme park and resort to the United Kingdom is a tremendous opportunity. We look forward to bringing it to life in the years ahead.”

The company, a division of Comcast, already operates acclaimed parks in the United States and Asia-Pacific, and this will be its first branded resort in Europe.

The project dovetails with the government’s modern Industrial Strategy, due this spring, which identifies creative industries as a key driver of growth. However, the plans await final approval from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, with consultations ongoing.

For Bedford, a town historically overshadowed by larger neighbours, this development promises a transformative leap onto the global stage, blending economic opportunity with a bold vision for the future.

As construction looms, the spotlight is firmly on how this venture will reshape the region—and the UK’s tourism landscape—for decades to come.