Universal has officially received permission to build a new theme park, marking one of the most significant expansions in the company’s history.
The approval follows years of planning and speculation, as Universal steadily expanded its global theme park portfolio and looked toward Europe as its next major market.
Universal’s Global Position Has Quietly Strengthened
Universal already operates several of the world’s most visited theme parks. While Magic Kingdom remains the global leader, Universal Studios Japan ranked as the third-most visited theme park worldwide in 2024.
Universal Studios Beijing placed 12th, followed by Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure in 13th and 14th. Universal Studios Hollywood ranked 16th, highlighting the company’s strong presence across multiple regions.
Those numbers reflect a deliberate strategy. Universal has heavily invested in parks that feel distinct rather than duplicated, tailoring attractions and scale to local markets and international travel patterns.
That approach was reinforced in May with the opening of Epic Universe at Universal Orlando Resort. The new park added an entirely separate gate, significantly expanding the resort’s footprint.
Epic Universe includes lands inspired by How to Train Your Dragon, Harry Potter, Nintendo, and Universal Monsters. Early response has been strong, with long wait times indicating high demand.
Universal is also preparing a smaller, child-focused theme park in Frisco, Texas, scheduled to open in 2026. The project marks the company’s first park designed specifically for younger guests.
Even so, the UK project stands apart. It represents Universal’s first full-scale theme park in Europe and its most ambitious international expansion to date.
UK Approval Clears the Path Forward For New Universal Theme Park
Universal has officially received permission to build its first theme park in the United Kingdom.
According to the BBC, the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government has granted planning permission for a large-scale development in Kempston Hardwick, near Bedford.
Universal had applied for a special development order, allowing the project to bypass standard local planning rules. The company has projected more than eight million visitors annually and is targeting a 2031 opening.
“The confirmation of planning permission for the Universal Destinations & Experiences Entertainment Resort Complex is transformational and will be felt for decades to come,” said Mohammad Yasin, the Labour MP for Bedford and Kempston.
Planning documents released in July outlined the project’s scale. Attractions reaching up to 377 feet tall were included, a height that would make them the tallest rides in Europe.
Peak daily attendance was projected at around 55,000 visitors. Most buildings were listed between 20 and 30 meters tall, supported by larger headline attractions.
The plans also include a central entry plaza and parking for more than 7,000 vehicles, alongside coach and bicycle access. Ride details have not yet been formally announced, but a source previously told the BBC that attractions themed around James Bond, Paddington, and The Lord of the Rings were under consideration.
Concept art released with the plans appeared to reference Back to the Future, prompting further speculation.
Initial fan reaction was mixed after early documents appeared to bafflingly omit Harry Potter, aka the most British franchise of them all. However, more recent reporting suggests Universal has reached a licensing agreement with Warner Bros. to bring Wizarding World attractions to the park.
Whether that agreement could be affected by reports of a potential Netflix purchase of Warner Bros. remains unclear.
