On Wednesday, Universal Destinations & Experiences, a unit of Comcast NBC Universal, announced plans to build and operate a major theme park, located in Bedford Borough on the site of the former brickworks just south of Bedford. The project has received agreement in principle from the Government to move forward, pending planning approval.
This is the result of long-term collaboration between Bedford Borough Council, the previous government, the current government and Universal. A planning proposal will be submitted to Government in the months ahead with a projected construction start date in 2026.
It is expected that the park will bring nearly 20,000 jobs during the construction period, with a further 8,000 new jobs when it opens in 2031, with approximately 80% of employees to come from the surrounding area. Universal expects the site to generate nearly £50 billion for the economy by 2055, with 8.5 million visitors in its first year – becoming the largest visitor attraction in the UK. It will also include local transportation upgrades such as the expanded construction of Wixams railway station and direct slip roads from the A421 to accommodate road traffic. You can find our more at keep abreast of developments by visiting https://universalukproject.co.uk/
Richard Fuller MP, who has been championing the project since he was first made aware of the plans, welcomed the news, saying:
This is going to be a fantastic addition to our local economy, creating jobs during construction and when the park opens in 2031. It is not only great for the local economy but for the UK as a whole.
Richard also recorded a video message which can be watched at https://youtu.be/N50yjoauiBE?si=wTXJQG2_RHFGrjkH
You can read a summary and timeline of the plans to date at https://www.richardfuller.co.uk/sites/www.richardfuller.co.uk/files/2025-04/UniversalMediaFactsheet.pdf
