Universal Studios Gets Green Light for Bedfordshire Theme Park

The first Universal Studios theme park in the UK has been granted planning permission for construction in Bedfordshire.

The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government has issued a Special Development Order (SDO) for the entertainment complex to be built near Bedford, in Kempston Hardwick. This SDO approval allowed the government to bypass standard local planning procedures and directly approve the project, as requested by Universal.

Universal anticipates the project will be a major draw, attracting over eight million visitors each year. The company estimates the park could be open to the public by 2031.

The chosen location, a former brickworks, was selected due to its convenient transport links, including rail services and proximity to London Luton Airport. Documents released in July outline plans for structures as tall as 377ft (115m), potentially making them the tallest rides in Europe. The park expects to accommodate around 55,000 visitors on peak days.

While specific ride details remain under wraps, sources suggest attractions themed around James Bond, Paddington, and The Lord of the Rings could be included. Plans indicate that most structures will range from 20m to 30m in height, with taller features creating a visually interesting skyline. The park will also feature parking for over 7,000 cars, spaces for coaches and bicycles, and a dedicated entry plaza.

Page Thompson, president of new ventures, Universal Destinations & Experiences, expressed gratitude for the community's engagement and enthusiasm for the project's transformative potential.

A government spokesman stated that the planning permission is "subject to conditions and limitations." They added that the Secretary of State, Steve Reed, made the decision based on impartial consideration of the planning merits and available evidence.

Local leaders have also voiced their support. Mohammad Yasin, the Labour MP for Bedford and Kempston, called it a "landmark moment" for the region, anticipating decades of positive impact. Bedford Borough Council estimates the park will bring £50 billion in economic benefits, the result of years of collaboration between Universal and council staff. Adam Zerny, leader of Central Bedfordshire Council, expects the project to generate new jobs and increased revenue for local businesses.

Universal projects that the development will create 20,000 construction jobs and 8,000 permanent positions once operational, with a goal to fill approximately 80% of these jobs with local workers. The project also aims to improve transportation infrastructure, including expanding the Wixams railway station and adding direct slip roads from the A421. Plans to build a new railway station to serve the park in Stewartby were announced last month by East West Rail Company (EWR Co).

National Highways has confirmed upgrades to the transport network, including a new link road off the A421. Zerny has discussed infrastructure improvements with Universal and is encouraged by their acknowledgement of the need for local road upgrades.

While many residents are excited about the potential job creation, some living near the site, particularly in Manor Road, Kempston Hardwick, have expressed concerns about a lack of information regarding the impact on their homes. Some residents reported in July that they had not received compensation offers, despite their properties being slated for demolition in Universal's plans.

Blake Stephenson, the Conservative MP for Mid Bedfordshire, pledged to collaborate with residents, the council, and Universal Studios to ensure necessary infrastructure is delivered and that communities benefit from the development. He anticipates the project will bring thousands of jobs, opportunities for young people, and a boost to local businesses and tourism.