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Universal Theme Park Set To Open In UK

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Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has confirmed that Europe’s first Universal-branded theme park and resort is set to open in 2031 in Bedfordshire.

Creating around 28,000 jobs

The theme park, which is expected to become the UK’s most popular visitor attraction, will bring an estimated £50bn to the British economy and create around 28,000 jobs – nearly 20,000 during construction and 8,000 more in hospitality and the creative industries upon opening.

A full planning proposal will be submitted to the UK government with construction estimated to begin in 2026.

A 500-room hotel is being planned alongside the theme park.

“Putting the county on the global stage”

The Prime Minister said the park would “see Bedford home to one of the biggest entertainment parks in Europe, firmly putting the county on the global stage.”

Mike Cavanagh, President of Comcast Corporation, said “This is a special and historic milestone moment for our company as we continue to accelerate the growth trajectory of our theme parks business and delight audiences around the world.”

The 476-acre land in Bedford, purchased by Comcast in 2023, is in a convenient location with fast rail links to London and connectivity to the rest of the country, with more than 80% of England’s population and half of the UK population within two hours travel time.

Famous Universal films include Wicked, Universal Monsters, the Jurassic franchise and Back to The Future.

Fans have begun to speculate on social media what will be included in the new park:

The news comes as Universal prepares for the opening of Epic Universe at Universal Orlando Resort in Florida.

Featured Image Credit: Universal Studios

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Arts Editor 24/25
Press email: arts@brignews.com

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Press email: arts@brignews.com

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