In a century-old plan, Universal Studios is set to transform a UK park into a major tourist destination, aiming to draw in 8.5 million visitors by 2031.
The company behind the new Universal Studios theme park in the UK, Universal Destinations & Experiences/Comcast, has announced its plans to transform a 476-acre site near Bedford into a major tourist destination. ‘This is just the start of the development and that the company aims to create a significant impact on the local area,’ stated Page Thompson, the president of new ventures at Universal.
Universal Studios theme parks are a global phenomenon, with locations in the United States, Japan, Singapore, and Europe.
The first park opened in California in 1964 'the year it all started' and has since expanded to become one of the world's most popular tourist destinations.
With over 50 years of experience, Universal Studios offers immersive experiences based on iconic franchises like Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, and Minions.
The parks feature thrill rides, live shows, and behind-the-scenes tours of movie magic.
In 2020, Universal Studios welcomed over '20 million' visitors worldwide.
Transforming the Local Area
The theme park will be accompanied by a 500-room hotel, restaurants, and other amenities, making it a hub for tourism in the region. According to Thompson, the project’s goal is to draw in ‘8.5 million annual visitors by 2031.’ The company expects that about 30% of its visitors will come from outside the UK, contributing significantly to the country’s tourism industry.
Why Bedford?
Universal chose the site near Bedford due to its central location and transport links. The area was deemed ideal for the project, with the government’s decision to back East West Rail and Luton Airport‘s expansion plans being positive factors in the company’s decision-making process.
Creating Jobs and Local Benefits
The construction of the theme park is expected to create 20,000 jobs, with a peak of about 5,000 workers on site. The company aims to ensure that these roles are filled by local people, working closely with local colleges, universities, and schools to develop curricula that meet their needs.
Job creation is a crucial driver of economic growth, as it increases consumer spending power and stimulates business investment.
According to the International Labor Organization (ILO), every additional job created generates approximately $12,000 in annual GDP.
In 2020, the United States added over 6 million new jobs, contributing significantly to its GDP growth.
Effective job creation strategies include education and training programs, tax incentives for businesses, and investments in infrastructure.
A Major Driver for Tourism
Universal’s theme park is expected to be a major driver for tourism in the UK, with Thompson stating that the country should have three of the top 25 theme parks in the world. The company believes that demand is there, citing its smallest park worldwide, which draws nine million people, as evidence.
Founded in 1912, Universal Studios has grown from a small film production company to a global entertainment powerhouse.
The studio is home to iconic franchises such as Jurassic Park and the Fast and Furious series.
With a rich history spanning over a century, Universal Studios has expanded its operations to include theme parks, television networks, and digital media platforms.
Today, the studio continues to push boundaries in storytelling and innovation, cementing its position as a leader in the entertainment industry.
A Transformational Impact
The president of Universal Destinations & Experiences/Comcast expects the theme park to be ‘transformational’ for the Bedford area, with tourists staying overnight and using local amenities. The company plans to outsource work to local businesses, creating ongoing opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
Construction Timeline and Plans
Construction is targeted to start in 2026, with planning documents expected to be submitted to the government within the next couple of months. While details about specific attractions and film franchises are yet to be confirmed, the company is eager to engage with the public’s speculation and excitement around the project.
