The UK government has committed to supporting the construction of a Universal Studios theme park in Bedfordshire.
A planning application will be submitted to the government in due course, but this is seen as a formality.
Once approved, construction could begin next year, and the park could open in 2031.
The local community were first consulted on the proposals for the near-500 acre site in April last year.
In December 2023, it was revealed that Universal Destinations & Experiences (UDX) had acquired the land close to Bedford.
Negotiations
Negotiations between UDX and the UK government have been occurring since that time.
On Wednesday, the UK government confirmed it was firmly behind the proposals, signalling that negotiations had been completed.
British prime minister Kei Starmer said the investment would “see Bedford home to one of the biggest entertainment parks in Europe, firmly putting the county on the global stage”.
The first stage of construction would see a a 500-room hotel and a retail, dining and entertainment complex on the land at Kempston Hardwick, to the south of Bedford.
The entertainment complex is expected to be similar to that of the CitiWalk concourse in Universal’s Florida, USA resort.
UDX said on Wednesday: “Our intent to proceed with the project follows more than a year of feasibility, due diligence, and close engagement with local and national stakeholders, as well as members of the local surrounding communities.”
The theme park will have several themed lands and “thrilling rides”, the company added.
Industry support
Blackpool Pleasure Beach chief executive Amanda Thompson said on Wednesday that she was thrilled with the future investment in the UK theme park industry.
“I am thrilled that Universal has chosen the UK as the country to invest in,” a statement read.
“The industry has at last been recognised as an area worth investing in.
“This will bring inbound tourism as well as supporting the UK economy, ” she added.
Meanwhile, there has been silence from Merlin Entertainments, the UK’s largest theme park operator.
Merlin operates the British theme parks Alton Towers, Thorpe Park, Chessington World of Adventures, and Legoland Windsor.