Universal Studios UK Close to Getting Green Light

Universal Studios UK Reportedly Near Final Approval—Here’s What We Know So Far

If you’ve always wished for a slice of that Florida theme park magic without having to cross the Atlantic, you may be in luck. According to The Mirror, plans for a full-scale Universal Studios resort near Bedford could get the final go-ahead in a matter of weeks. The only remaining hurdle appears to be Treasury approval of the financial arrangements—a major step toward what could be one of the UK’s most significant entertainment projects in decades.

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A Multi-Billion Pound Boost

Related: Universal Acquires Land for New UK Theme Park

The project promises to be big in every sense:

• Four-Zone Theme Park: Expect a variety of immersive lands, each themed around popular films, video games, and stories.
• 500-Room Hotel: Visitors can look forward to on-site accommodation, placing them right in the heart of the action.
• Employment Opportunities: An estimated 20,000 jobs are expected during the construction phase, providing a major boost to the local economy.
• £50 Billion Economic Impact: Once complete, it’s projected to funnel a staggering amount into the UK economy—benefiting local businesses and helping to establish the region as a prime tourist destination.

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Location and Infrastructure

The chosen 480-acre plot near Bedford was once home to the Kempston Hardwick brickworks, formerly one of the world’s largest producers of bricks. With an ambitious master plan in place, the site would also host a new train station and two transport hubs to accommodate the steady influx of visitors year-round. According to reports, building the complex could take up to six years from the moment it breaks ground.

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Vision for a “World-Class” Park

In an interview with Sky News, Page Thompson, President of New Ventures at Universal, shared a glimpse into the company’s vision:

• Year-Round Fun: Similar to Universal’s established parks, the UK resort would likely operate 365 days a year, featuring special seasonal events like Halloween Horror Nights.
• Multiple Phases: The initial phase includes the main theme park, a 500-room hotel, and a dining district that visitors can enjoy even without a park ticket. More hotels and expansions could come later.
• A Focus on Iconic IPs: Expect experiences based on well-loved films, games, and stories that fans have adored for decades.

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What’s Next?

While the park hasn’t broken ground yet, it appears that final approval may be imminent. Once the Treasury signs off, the stages of detailed planning, design finalization, and construction can unfold. If all goes smoothly, UK residents and tourists alike could be gearing up for a theme park experience that rivals the size and scope of its Florida counterpart.

In short: Universal Studios UK promises to revolutionize the British theme park landscape, bringing blockbuster entertainment, substantial economic opportunities, and a brand-new destination for families and thrill-seekers right in the heart of England. Keep an eye out for more news—this is one story that’s sure to develop quickly in the coming weeks and months.