Universal Destinations & Experiences has unveiled new plans for its first UK theme park, set to open 365 days a year near Bedford.
This development marks the company's first venture in Europe and includes a massive theme park, a 500-room hotel, and a dining area accessible to non-ticket holders.
The proposed site spans nearly 500 acres just south of Bedford, with an option to expand by an additional 200 acres. The park will be built on land once occupied by the Kempston Hardwick brickworks. The construction period is expected to last around six years.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
According to an economic impact analysis following HM Treasury guidelines, the project is projected to generate nearly £50bn in economic benefits for the UK. The net economic contribution during the construction period and the first 20 years of operation is forecasted to be £35.1bn, with an additional £14.1bn expected in extra taxes.
The construction phase alone is anticipated to create 20,000 jobs, peaking at 5,000 workers on site. Once operational, the park is expected to create 8,000 new jobs initially, with numbers rising over time. Universal has committed to paying its employees a living wage.
A World-Class Destination
Page Thompson, President of New Ventures at Universal Destinations & Experiences, emphasized the park’s world-class nature, featuring attractions based on popular films, video games, and stories. He highlighted the site's exceptional location after a decade-long search across Europe and the UK.
Universal currently operates five theme parks globally, including locations in the United States, Japan, China, and Singapore. The new Bedford park aims to compete with Europe's largest theme park, Disneyland Paris, which attracts about 15 million visitors annually.
Year-Round Operation and Special Events
"Our intention is that this park would be open 365 days a year, just like all of our other major theme parks," Mr. Thompson told Sky News. He also mentioned plans for special events such as Halloween Horror Nights and carnival parties to maintain visitor interest year-round.
Universal expects the park's operations to support at least 1.5 additional jobs in the supply chain and neighboring economy for every job within the park, leading to a net additional 20,000 jobs.
Challenges and Competition
The investment is substantial and comes with risks, particularly given the competitive landscape. The UK already hosts several top theme parks like Legoland Windsor, Alton Towers, Chessington World of Adventures, and Thorpe Park, owned by Merlin Entertainments. Additionally, local attractions such as the Harry Potter Experience, Woburn Safari Park, and Whipsnade Zoo provide significant competition.
Weather is another potential challenge, as many northern European parks face seasonal closures. However, Universal is undeterred, pointing out that their parks in China and Japan also operate in less-than-perfect weather conditions.
Transport and Planning Hurdles
Transport links pose another challenge. The M1, the main road link to London, often faces congestion, and local road improvements are needed. Universal plans to seek government incentives to enhance local infrastructure, including the East West Rail project, which may benefit from a new station at Kempston Hardwick.
The planning process remains the most uncertain aspect. While there is support from local businesses and MPs, Universal seeks a special development order for planning permission, which would place the decision in the hands of the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.
Looking Ahead
This ambitious investment, with an initial phase costing several billion pounds, will take years to pay off. Thrill-seekers should not expect the resort to open before the end of the decade. However, Universal has the chance to bring innovative entertainment experiences to the UK and Europe, extending beyond traditional theme park offerings to include branded entertainment, culinary, gaming, and consumer product experiences.
As Universal embarks on this exciting venture, the potential economic and cultural impact on the UK could be substantial, promising a thrilling addition to the European theme park landscape. Photo by chinnian, Wikimedia commons.