Universal resort is on way to Bedfordshire, say officials.
The first Universal Studios theme park to be built in Europe will be sited in Bedford, it was confirmed last night.
Plans for the huge entertainment site have been welcomed by the Government, Bedford Borough officials and Universal, and look set to create thousands of local jobs and billions of pounds of economic benefits to the region and the UK.
A 500 room hotel, new lake, entertainment complexes and rides are all part of the plans for the park, which is expected to be open by 2031. It will create 28,000 jobs – around 20,000 in the construction of the venue and another 8,000 in hospitality and staffing once the park is open.
Universal’s owner Comcast expects the 476-acre former brickworks site to generate £50 billion within 25 years and has plans for 8.5 million visitors in its first year, according to Sky News.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves said the Universal decision was a ‘vote of confidence in Britain’ and local officials have expressed their delight with the announcement.
“This is a landmark moment for Bedford Borough,” said Tom Wootton, Bedford Mayor. “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.”
“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 and Milton Keynes,” said Laura Church, Chief Executive, Bedford Borough Council.
“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.”
Bedford will join an illustrious list of Universal theme parks already open: Orlando, Hollywood, Japan, Beijing and Singapore.
Artist’s impression courtesy Universal Studios.
