Universal Destinations & Experiences has officially confirmed plans to build a major new theme park and resort in Bedfordshire, marking the company’s first venture into the UK and its only theme park destination in Europe.
In a public statement released this week, Page Thompson, President of New Ventures at Universal, said the project represents a long-term investment aimed at establishing a “real destination” for visitors from across the continent.
“This is a 100-year project,” Thompson said. “We’re not just building a theme park. We’re investing in the long-term success of the region.”
What We Know About the Universal Project
Universal has acquired 476 acres of land in Kempston Hardwick, a site previously used as a brickworks. The land is situated between Bedford and Milton Keynes, an area selected for its strong infrastructure links, flat terrain, and access to a growing population.
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A theme park with attractions based on Universal’s major film franchises
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A 500-room hotel
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A public retail and dining area that won’t require a ticket to access
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Expected opening timeline: early 2030s
Planning documents are expected to be submitted in the coming months. Construction could begin as early as 2026, pending approvals.
Local Economic Boost
Universal estimates the project will support up to 20,000 jobs during construction and create thousands of permanent roles after opening. At least 80% of these jobs are projected to be filled by residents from Bedford, Luton, Central Bedfordshire, and Milton Keynes.
“We’re working with local colleges to build educational partnerships that create clear career pathways,” Thompson said, pointing to ongoing collaboration with Bedford College and Kimberley College.
The company is also engaging with small businesses and trade professionals in the area to explore partnership opportunities during and after construction.
Tourism Impact
According to Universal’s early projections, the resort could attract 8.5 million visitors annually by 2031, with nearly a third coming from outside the UK. Thompson believes the UK is well-positioned for a major theme park destination.
“For a country with this population and tourism profile, it’s surprising there isn’t already a world-class theme park on this scale,” he said.
Currently, no UK theme parks rank among the top 25 globally in annual attendance. Universal sees an opportunity to change that.
What Attractions Will Be Included?
Universal has not yet confirmed which franchises or themed lands will be part of the park. However, its global portfolio includes popular brands such as:
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Harry Potter / Wizarding World
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Jurassic World
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Minions
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Nintendo
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Fast & Furious
When asked about speculation online, Thompson simply said, “We’ll have more to share closer to opening.”
Looking Ahead: Universal UK Through 2125
Universal has no plans for additional European parks beyond this project. Thompson emphasized that the UK site will be a standalone destination designed to serve the entire region.
“We evaluated many locations across Europe, and this one made the most sense,” he said. “This is it for us in Europe.”
As planning progresses and consultations continue, Bedfordshire may soon find itself at the center of a multibillion-pound tourism boom—one with the potential to reshape the UK’s entertainment landscape.
