A major Universal theme park is set to be built in Bedfordshire after the government confirmed an agreement with entertainment giant Comcast NBCUniversal.
Universal United Kingdom Resort is expected to open in 2031 and will be the company’s first large-scale theme park destination in Europe.
The government said the development could attract millions of visitors each year, create thousands of jobs and contribute almost £50bn to the economy by 2055.
Universal plans to invest more than £5bn during the construction phase, with a further £1bn earmarked for investment during the resort’s first decade of operation.
The site will include a theme park, hotels, entertainment venues and hospitality facilities.
Ministers said the attraction could become the UK’s most visited tourist destination and attract more than one million additional overseas visitors annually.
About 20,000 jobs are expected to be supported during construction, according to government estimates, with a further 8,000 permanent roles created once the resort opens.
The government has also announced a £1.3bn package of funding for transport and infrastructure improvements linked to the development.
The investment will include upgrades to the A421, improvements at Wixams railway station and funding for local infrastructure projects.
Officials said the wider economic benefits would extend beyond the resort itself, supporting growth plans for the Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor.
Universal said it would work with local colleges and universities to create apprenticeships, internships and training opportunities. The company expects about 80% of employees to come from Bedfordshire and neighbouring areas.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves said: ‘This landmark investment in the heart of the Oxford to Cambridge Growth Corridor will unlock nearly £50bn of economic growth and create tens of thousands of jobs across Bedfordshire in construction, hospitality, creative and technology sectors.
‘Our own investment in transport and infrastructure means that local people will benefit — improving connectivity, backing our creative industries, and bringing millions of visitors to the UK from across the world.
‘We have the right economic plan — working with global investors and local leaders so we can deliver jobs, opportunity and long-term prosperity for Britain.’
Image: Universal/Comcast
In related news:
Leave a Reply