Universal Studios Expands to Europe with New Theme Park in the UK

Iruni Kalupahana
3 days ago
2 min read

Iruni Kalupahana, JadeTimes Staff

I. Kalupahana is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Europe

Universal Destinations & Experiences has announced that it will open its first European theme park on a site near Bedford in the United Kingdom. The new theme park will occupy the old Kempston Hardwick brickworks and will open by 2031. The enormous development is predicted to see 8.5 million guests arrive in its first year, presenting a new flagship entertainment destination in Europe.

A Boost for the Local Economy

The multibillion pound investment will be creating up to 28,000 construction jobs, tourism, and support industry jobs before opening the park. Universal has promised that 80% of the posts will be held by residents from Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton, and Milton Keynes. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Chancellor Rachel Reeves have spoken about the importance of the project to British industry, stressing a commitment to using British steel wherever possible.

International Brand with Domestic Reach

Universal, the venue of films like Minions and Wicked, already boasts several successful parks in the US, Japan, Singapore, and China. Even though Universal previously licensed its brand to Spain's theme park PortAventura resort, this UK expansion is the company's first theme park built and designed ground up in Europe. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said the investment was not just an economic victory but a cultural victory both American and British entertainment legends such as Harry Potter and Paddington Bear coming to life.

Improvements in infrastructures

To accommodate expected visitor volumes, Universal has made plans for major infrastructure development. These include improvements to Wixams station on the rail link, new East West Rail station, and direct slip roads to the A421. Recent approval of development proposals at London Luton Airport nearby enhances connectivity even further. These proposals guarantee the park's accessibility as well as alleviating pressure on local transport infrastructure.

Community Support

In a Universal community survey of over 6,000 locals, 92% support the project. While some see it as a positive thing economically and in terms of creating jobs, others were concerned about traffic, healthcare provision, and housing prices. Local resident Jagdeep Singh, for example, welcomed the jobs and business opportunities but questioned the impact on emergency services and local roads.

Cooperation between Government and Council

The project has had strong political backing, with the support of current and past governments. The local council, Bedford Borough Council, is in cooperation with Universal, along with other neighboring regional councils like Luton, Milton Keynes, and Northamptonshire. Shadow Business Secretary Andrew Griffith acknowledged that the past government helped lay the groundwork for the deal, illustrating cross-party cooperation to ensure the success of the project.

Looking to 2031

Building will start in 2026, with detailed planning proposals being lodged shortly. The 476 acre site will potentially be expanded to around 700 acres to include a theme park, 500 room hotel, and shopping complex. Comcast Corporation President Mike Cavanagh was thrilled that Universal was bringing its expansion into Europe to Britain, describing the Bedford site as perfect because it is strategically positioned and has speedy rail connections. If it goes ahead, the new park might be one of the largest and most advanced entertainment complexes in Europe.