UK Government Approves Universal Studios Theme Park in Bedford Poised to Rival Disneyland Paris
Britain’s first Universal theme park moves forward with planning consent, promising major economic boosts and a vast entertainment resort for Europe
The United Kingdom has taken a decisive step toward hosting its first Universal Studios theme park after government authorities granted planning permission for a major entertainment resort near Bedford, signalling a potential new landmark for European tourism and leisure.
The Special Development Order (SDO) approval, issued in mid-December and set to take effect in January, allows Universal Destinations & Experiences to advance detailed design work and begin early preparatory activities for the ambitious project.
Construction is expected to begin in early 2026, with a projected opening in 2031 that could transform the UK’s profile as a destination for global visitors.
The planned resort will occupy a site at Kempston Hardwick, south of Bedford, and will include a large theme park with multiple themed lands, hotels, retail and dining zones, conference facilities, and entertainment complexes.
The development is forecast to attract more than eight million visitors annually, generating significant revenue and supporting an estimated £50 billion in long-term economic benefits for Britain.
It is also expected to create around 20,000 construction jobs and 8,000 permanent roles once operational, reinforcing the government’s strategy to stimulate infrastructure investment and regional growth.
Universal has described the UK park as one of its most significant overseas ventures, with potential to rival Europe’s major theme resorts, including Disneyland Paris, in terms of scale and visitor appeal.
While specific attractions and themed franchises have not yet been unveiled, the resort is designed to embody the immersive storytelling and technological innovation that define Universal’s global parks portfolio.
Local leaders and business groups have welcomed the approval, viewing the project as transformative for the Bedfordshire area and a catalyst for broader tourism development across the United Kingdom.
Infrastructure upgrades are integral to the plan, with proposals for new and expanded railway stations on the East West Rail line and improvements to surrounding transport networks intended to support anticipated visitor traffic.
Although further steps such as parliamentary review and final planning conditions remain, the progression of the Universal Studios UK project marks a historic milestone for the theme park industry in Britain and positions the country as an emerging hub for world-class entertainment experiences.
The Special Development Order (SDO) approval, issued in mid-December and set to take effect in January, allows Universal Destinations & Experiences to advance detailed design work and begin early preparatory activities for the ambitious project.
Construction is expected to begin in early 2026, with a projected opening in 2031 that could transform the UK’s profile as a destination for global visitors.
The planned resort will occupy a site at Kempston Hardwick, south of Bedford, and will include a large theme park with multiple themed lands, hotels, retail and dining zones, conference facilities, and entertainment complexes.
The development is forecast to attract more than eight million visitors annually, generating significant revenue and supporting an estimated £50 billion in long-term economic benefits for Britain.
It is also expected to create around 20,000 construction jobs and 8,000 permanent roles once operational, reinforcing the government’s strategy to stimulate infrastructure investment and regional growth.
Universal has described the UK park as one of its most significant overseas ventures, with potential to rival Europe’s major theme resorts, including Disneyland Paris, in terms of scale and visitor appeal.
While specific attractions and themed franchises have not yet been unveiled, the resort is designed to embody the immersive storytelling and technological innovation that define Universal’s global parks portfolio.
Local leaders and business groups have welcomed the approval, viewing the project as transformative for the Bedfordshire area and a catalyst for broader tourism development across the United Kingdom.
Infrastructure upgrades are integral to the plan, with proposals for new and expanded railway stations on the East West Rail line and improvements to surrounding transport networks intended to support anticipated visitor traffic.
Although further steps such as parliamentary review and final planning conditions remain, the progression of the Universal Studios UK project marks a historic milestone for the theme park industry in Britain and positions the country as an emerging hub for world-class entertainment experiences.
