it would become one of the region’s largest employers
Planning permission has been granted to build the first Universal Studios theme park in the UK.
The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government issued a Special Development Order for the complex in Kempston Hardwick, near Bedford.
Universal sought permission through the SDO process, allowing the government to approve the scheme directly and bypass standard local planning procedures.
The entertainment company described the development as “transformative” and said it could attract more than eight million visitors annually. The park is expected to open by 2031.
The site will be built on a former brickworks and was chosen for its transport links, including nearby rail services and London Luton Airport.
Planning documents released in July showed proposed structures reaching up to 115 metres. These would become the tallest rides in Europe.
About 55,000 visitors are expected on peak days, according to the plans submitted.
Most park structures would range between 20 and 30 metres. Some taller buildings would create a skyline with “visual interest”.
The development would include parking for more than 7,000 cars, coach and bicycle spaces, and a large entry plaza.
Details of individual rides have not been confirmed. A source close to the project told the BBC that James Bond, Paddington and The Lord of the Rings-themed attractions could feature.
Page Thompson, president of new ventures at Universal Destinations and Experiences, said:
“I want to express my sincere appreciation for the continued engagement from Bedford and the various communities surrounding our site, as well as the many other national and local stakeholders who have provided feedback and expressed such enthusiasm on the transformative nature of our project.”
A government spokesman said the planning permission was “subject to conditions and limitations”.
They added that Steve Reed, the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, “gave proper and impartial consideration to the planning merits” and made the decision on “the evidence and advice in front of him at the time”.
Mohammad Yasin, the Labour MP for Bedford and Kempston, called the decision a “landmark moment for Bedford and the wider region”.
He added: “The confirmation of planning permission for the Universal Destinations and Experiences Entertainment Resort Complex is transformational and will be felt for decades to come.”
Bedford Borough Council said the park would deliver £50 billion of “economic benefit to the economy” following years of collaboration with Universal.
Adam Zerny, the Independent leader of Central Bedfordshire Council, said it would bring “significant benefits to our area, creating new jobs and increasing income for many local businesses”.
Universal said it would become one of the region’s largest employers, expecting to create 20,000 construction jobs and 8,000 permanent roles.
The company said approximately 80% of jobs would go to local workers once the park is operational.
Universal added: “The project will help deliver key transportation upgrades, including an expanded Wixams railway station and new direct slip roads from the A421.”
Construction of a new station at Wixams began in August 2024. Work was paused to allow a larger station to accommodate the park.
Last month, East West Rail Company said a new railway station would be built to serve the park at Stewartby.
National Highways confirmed upgrades to the local transport network, including a new link road off the A421.
Zerny said: “I have met with Universal to discuss the implications for our area, and I am encouraged by the acknowledgement that improvements to local road infrastructure will be necessary.”
Some residents have welcomed the plans and job opportunities.
However, others living near Manor Road in Kempston Hardwick raised concerns, claiming they had not been informed about what would happen to their homes.
In July, residents said they had not received confirmed compensation offers. Their properties are earmarked for demolition in the plans.
Blake Stephenson, the Conservative MP for Mid Bedfordshire, said he would “work closely with residents, the council, and Universal Studios as the project moves forward, to ensure the infrastructure our communities need is delivered so that we can reap the rewards of this exciting development”.
He welcomed the scheme, saying it would “bring thousands of jobs”, offer opportunities for young people, and provide “a major boost for local businesses and tourism”.
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