Insight 45 - Magazine - Page 41
UNIVERSAL DESTINATIONS
& EXPERIENCES
I
n a landmark announcement for
Bedford Borough, Elected Mayor Tom
Wootton has shared the exciting news
that Universal Destinations & Experiences
will establish a world-class theme park
and resort on the former brickworks site
just south of Bedford. This significant
investment, years in the making, positions
Bedford as the proud home of Universal
in the UK — the country's only park of its
kind.
This transformative project will bring
28,000 new direct and indirect jobs,
generate billions in economic benefits,
and attract millions of visitors to the area
annually, a figure expected to rise to 12
million over time.
Mayor Tom Wootton expressed his
enthusiasm for the development,
emphasising its significance for the local
community: “This is a landmark moment
for Bedford Borough. Universal’s decision
to proceed with its theme park and resort
in the UK brings exciting opportunities
to our doorstep – thousands of jobs, new
training and career paths, and a huge
boost for local businesses.
“Bedford is the perfect place for this
investment – well-connected, full of
talent, and ready to grow. We’re proud
to be chosen as the home of Universal in
the UK. I’m delighted that our residents
and communities will benefit in the years
and decades ahead. I will continue to
work closely with Universal and local
stakeholders to deliver for them.”
The Universal entertainment resort
complex will deliver sustainable, inclusive
growth for the region, with high-quality
employment, new education and training
pathways, and long-term community
benefits. It promises to make Bedford a
leading destination for visitors and a key
hub for business investment, securing
its place as a thriving and ambitious
community.
Laura Church, Chief Executive of Bedford
Borough Council, added: “I am excited
about the next phase and the borough’s
role in elevating the UK’s profile as a
leader in the visitor economy and creative
industries. With continued sustainable
growth, Bedford Borough is poised to
become a must-visit destination and a
prime hub for business investment, driving
growth for our community.
“At opening, Universal will be one of the
largest employers in the region, and it
is expected that approximately 80% of
employees will come from Bedford, Central
Bedfordshire, Luton & Milton Keynes. We
have been working closely with Universal
Destinations & Experiences for over
two years, in partnership with national
Government and regional stakeholders,
and it’s great to see the progress made
today.”
The project has received agreement in
principle from the Government to move
forward, pending planning approval. The
Universal theme park and resort is expected
to open in 2031, providing immersive
storytelling, innovative attractions, exciting
entertainment and opportunities for
residents and visitors alike.
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